Tomatis Method

The Tomatis Method is a program of listening training through sound stimulation.
Listening is the ability to use hearing in a voluntary and attentive manner.
It is linked to the mental interpretation of the sensory information that the ear transmits.
The Tomatis Method draws a critical distinction between
listening and hearing. Listening is a high level cognitive function connecting the ear to the brain.

Poor listening compromises the balance of the body and the vitality of the brain.
A Tomatis program aims to improve the quality of listening.

The Tomatis method offers a unique eva luation and treatment program based on a comprehensive theoretical foundation and the use of advanced patented technology.
The method was developed almost sixty years ago by
Dr.Alfred Tomatis (1920-2001) and is currently enjoyed by people of all ages worldwide.

Effective listening is the foundation for attention, learning and an enhanced quality of life. Tomatis sound stimulation exercises the muscles of the middle ear and stimulates the brain to improve listening, leading to better body control, communication, speech and language skills and behavior.

A Tomatis Listening Program promotes:

• learning
• reading and writing
• language comprehension and expression
• memory
• improved attention
• the ability to stay on task
• focus
• inter-personal and social communication skills
• creativity
• an improved quality of life

On the basis of the initial eva luation, the Tomatis consultant plans a personal program tailored to the individual's needs.
The program consists of intensivesound stimulation, follow-up listening tests and consultations. 
The Tomatis Method is applied by Certified Tomatis Consultants in over 400 centers worldwide. Tomatis consultants are experienced professionals in their own fields – medicine, psychology, communication and occupational therapy and education –
who have been trained and certified to use the Tomatis Method.


Where does the name "Tomatis" come from?

Dr.Alfred Tomatis (1920-2001), French Ear, Nose and Throat doctor and specialist in psychology and education founded the method which carries his name.

Dr. Tomatis emphasized the essential role of the ear and extensively researched the ear-brain -communication connection. Amongst his discoveries was what is known as "The Tomatis Effect".
In 1957 the French Academy for Science and Medicine accorded him recognition and gave him an award for this discovery.


The Tomatis Effect

1. The voice contains only those sounds that the ear can hear.
2. If the ear is given the opportunity to hear correctly, the voice
    spontaneously  and unconsciously improves.
3. It is possible to transform the voice by using a system of auditory
    stimulation over a given time.

The Initial eva luation

The aim of the eva luation is to discover and understand the listening difficulties
interfering with a person's capacity for meeting his or her potential.
A personally tailored program of listening training (auditory stimulation) is planned
on the basis of the eva luation results and the individual's goals.

The eva luation includes:
- The administration and interpretation of the Tomatis Listening test
- A questionnaire and a comprehensive interview
- Setting realistic goals and expectations

The Tomatis Listening test is an audiometric examination unique to the Tomatis Method which is used to eva luate an individual's style and quality of listening.

It is important to note that:
Even when hearing is normal, listening ability may be impaired!

The Listening Program

The intensive listening training is carried out at home thanks to the portable electronic ear called SOLISTEN TC – product of Tomatis Developpement SA (TDSA).

The core listening training program:
A core program includes 60 hours of listening training (sound stimulation) divided into
two units of 30 hours each.
A planned break of several weeks between the units allows for the integration of change and development aroused by the sound stimulation.

Periodic listening tests and consultations are scheduled during the training so that the consultant can follow progress, adjust the listening program accordingly and give support for change and development.
These meetings are an integral part of the Tomatis program.

To complete a 30 hour unit of listening training, the "listener" wears
the headphones for 2 hours a day.
While wearing the headphones, "listeners" are encouraged to engage in various activities: playing, drawing, doing puzzles, arts and crafts or to rest and relax.
The portable equipment is on loan for a period of 18 days.

Boosters:
Boosters are 16 or 20 hour units for people who want or need to go beyond a core program. As in the core program, listening tests and consultations are an integral part of the unit.  

For more information about our programs or to set up an
initial assessment please contact us:

Angela Ney-Goldenberg and Debby Klieger are experienced communication therapists and founding members of the IARCTC. They have been co-directors of MIkshevet Ltd. since 1999.