Hearing Therapists Association of New Zealand (Inc)

Hearing therapists assist people to manage the impact of hearing loss.

Hearing Therapists Association of New Zealand (Inc) (HTANZ) is the professional organisation through which hearing therapists can be represented and the profession of Hearing Therapy be developed.

What a Hearing Therapist Does

Hearing therapists carry out a communication needs assessment to help a person to identify where their hearing loss is causing the most impact.

They work with a person (and their family/whanau) to find new strategies to cope and manage in their everyday lives - at work, at home and socially.

This may include:

Assistance to build communication skills:
practising new tactics/new ways to interact
speech-reading exercises to maximise benefit from visual cues
building confidence/learning positive communication habits
auditory training to make the most of residual hearing/hearing aids
A hearing test and onward referral if this is indicated (at the person's request)
Learning to get the best out of hearing aids or cochlear implants
Demonstration of assistive devices - amplified phones, headsets for TV, visible/vibrating alerts for doorbells, baby monitor, smoke alarms etc
Providing information on:
audiological and other relevant local services
funding options for hearing aids, amplified and alerting equipment
tinnitus and ways to manage it

When To See a Hearing Therapist

Hearing loss affects approximately one in six New Zealanders. It's never too early - or too late - to see a hearing therapist.

You will be provided with free, independent, confidential advice and support.

Why You Should See a HTANZ Hearing Therapist

Hearing therapists who are Accredited Assessors for Hearing Assistive Technology, funded by the Ministry of Health, or who work with ACC clients, are required to be members of HTANZ.

They must work within the HTANZ Scope of Practice, are bound by a Code of Ethics and must fulfil continuing education requirements.

Find a HTANZ Hearing Therapist

To find a hearing therapist go to: http://www.hearingtherapists.org.nz/findaht.html

People may refer themselves or may be referred by other services, including their doctor, audiologist or Ear, Nose and Throat Specialist.

Hearing therapists will provide a comprehensive report of their findings or onward referral to a health service in consultation with the person.

Qualifying to be a Hearing Therapist

Hearing Therapists who work in New Zealand gain a National Diploma in Hearing Therapy (Level 5) or hold a recognised overseas equivalent qualification.

To become a Full Member and be entitled to identify themselves as a Member of HTANZ (MHTANZ), hearing therapists must hold a National Diploma in Hearing Therapy (Level 5) or overseas equivalent recognised by HTANZ. They must meet requirements regarding post qualification experience and professional development.

Others within the Hearing Health Care Industry who have a direct involvement with hearing therapy, such as audiology or audiometry, may have the opportunity to become Associate Members.

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