We interviewed Sally Brockett about Berard Auditory Integration Training (AIT), which can improve focus, attention and learning. You can watch the replay below. Please note that you will be asked to enter your email address at the 30-minute mark to finish viewing the video.
What Is Auditory Integration Training?
AIT (Auditory Integration Training) is a type of auditory therapy that can improve symptoms in children with Auditory Processing Disorder, which is common in children with neurodevelopmental disorders such as:
Children with auditory and sensory processing problems may have difficulty interpreting daily experiences because the capacity to hear and communicate is compromised. Your child may benefit from AIT or other types of auditory therapy if they experience:
- Poor attention
- Slower thinking and processing
- Difficulty listening, understanding, and remembering
- Incorrectly understanding and following directions
- Low tolerance for distractions
- Brain “traffic jams” when processing sensory information
- Hindered ability to put ideas in sequence
- Sound hyper (over-sensitive) and hypo-sensitivity (tuned out)
The Berard method of Auditory Integration Training (AIT) helps reorganize the brain to improve auditory and sensory processing capabilities so the brain no longer gets overloaded with disorganized information. Language, learning and social abilities develop more normally, and children are better able to excel as a result.
This method of auditory training was originally developed by Dr. Guy Berard – a French ear, nose and throat physician – who successfully used this technique with thousands of people in Europe. The Berard system of AIT has since become regarded as the most effective approach available for enhanced listening skills, language, learning and sound tolerance.
In This Expert Interview
Key Discussions
Definition and Scope of Berard Auditory Integration Training (AIT)
The conversation focused on explaining what Berard AIT is: an educational intervention designed to balance the auditory system to prevent sensory overload and disorganized information processing. AIT aims to enhance overall sensory processing, not cure medical conditions. It influences not only auditory but also vestibular and visual systems, thereby impacting broader cognitive and behavioral functions.
Application, Accessibility, and Protocol of AIT
The discussion explored how Berard AIT is administered, practitioner training, equipment used, minimum age requirements, and accessibility worldwide. AIT is widely accessible through trained practitioners globally. Sessions are center-based, require specialized equipment, and involve 10 hours of listening for individuals aged 3 and up, with no upper age limi.
Sensory Integration, Neuroplasticity, and Broader Impact
One concept discussed was the effect of AIT on neuroplasticity, sensory integration, and its influence beyond targeted functions, improving academic, social, and motor abilities. AIT leverages the brain’s neuroplasticity; by reducing sensory overload and reorganizing brain processing, it fosters improvements in learning, attention, self-confidence, and behavioral regulation.
Research and Evidence of Effectiveness
Several points were raised, including clinical and neuroscientific research findings, pre- and post-intervention measurement, and real-world outcomes for different populations. Empirical studies show AIT produces positive behavioral and physiological changes, such as improved brain activity symmetry, reduced sensory processing difficulties, and enhanced academic performance across diverse populations, including those with autism and learning challenges.
Broader Application and Candidate Suitability
A key theme that emerged was the evolving understanding of who benefits from AIT, moving beyond special needs to optimizing performance for all learners, and the criteria for candidacy. While AIT has historically been used for children with special needs such as those with autism, ADHD and Sensory Processing Disorder, current practice and research highlight its benefits for typical learners, adults, and even those seeking peak performance, indicating its wide applicability beyond diagnostic labels
Timestamped Overview
00:00 Finding Berard AIT practitioners
09:51 Auditory system improvements over time
14:01 Identifying good candidates for AIT
18:10 Using sensory stimulation for calm
25:24 Predicting learning difficulties
30:29 Auditory and visual integration conference
36:12 Tracking eye movement patterns
41:42 Neuroscience training for autism study
46:14 Expanding Berard AIT Applications
53:42 CAPD vs hearing loss explained
58:04 Impact of AIT on children
01:06:28 Feedback from grateful parents
01:12:21 Starting AIT and biomedical together
01:15:33 Understanding sound sensitivity in children
01:23:18 Using techniques beyond autism spectrum
01:28:24 Improving focus and energy
01:30:26 Encouraging donations and replay info
About Sally Brockett MS
Sally Brockett is the founder and director of the IDEA Training Center in North Haven, Connecticut, and is one of the foremost Berard AIT experts in the world. Sally learned the Berard method of AIT directly from Dr. Berard and worked closely with him to develop program standards and excellence.
A former Teacher of the Year, Sally Brockett is a certified International Instructor of Berard AIT. Her qualifications include Connecticut Professional Educator certification with a Master’s degree in Handicapped Preschool Education, Comprehensive Special Education certification, and a Bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education.
Sally is a contributing author to several books about autism treatment. She was invited to provide the chapter about Berard AIT in Autism Spectrum Disorder: Neuromodulation, Neurofeedback and Sensory Integration Approaches to Research and Treatment. The Official Autism 101 Manual by Karen Simmons also contains a chapter about Berard AIT written by Sally. Ken Siri and Tony Lyons, editors of Cutting-Edge Therapies for Autism, invited Sally to contribute a chapter about Berard AIT. Sally is also a co-author of Hearing Equals Behavior.
Disclaimer
This expert interview is not a substitute for medical advice, treatment, diagnosis, or consultation with a medical professional. It is intended for general informational purposes only and should not be relied on to make determinations related to treatment of a medical condition. Documenting Hope has not verified and does not guaranty the accuracy of the information provided in this expert interview.
Still Looking for Answers?
Visit the Documenting Hope Practitioner Directory to find a practitioner near you.
Join us inside our online membership community for parents, Healing Together, where you’ll find even more healing resources, expert guidance, and a community to support you every step of your child’s healing journey.
Sources & References
Porges, S.W., et al. Reducing auditory hypersensitivities in autistic spectrum disorder: preliminary findings evaluating the listening project protocol. Front Pediatr. 2014 Aug 1;2:80.
Porges, S.W., et al. Respiratory sinus arrhythmia and auditory processing in autism: modifiable deficits of an integrated social engagement system? Int J Psychophysiol. 2013 Jun;88(3):261-70.
Schoen, S., et al. A Pilot Study of Integrated Listening Systems for Children with Sensory Processing Problems. Journal of Occupational Therapy Schools & Early Intervention. July 2015. 8(3):256-276.
Stephens-Sarlós, E., et al. The efficacy of the sensorimotor training program on sensorimotor development, auditory and visual skills of schoolchildren aged 5–8 years. Child & Youth Care Forum. 2024 Aug;54(2):323-352.
