We are all affected by hearing loss at some time in our lives, in either ourselves or in someone that we love. From infancy to geriatrics, general estimates are that one out of every ten people has a hearing loss, affecting approximately 30 million Americans, yet 75% of people with hearing loss go untreated. It’s highly likely that therapists have clients with some hearing loss and never know it, and so are unaware that there is a reduction of communication and an impaired therapy alliance.
The psychological issues surrounding hearing loss are profound. Hearing loss leads to social withdrawal, heightened frustration and anxiety and/or depression. Infant and child hearing loss significantly affects emotional development and attachment. Clinically, clients may not present with concerns about hearing loss but it is essential to assess how much of an impact hearing loss has on their lives, present and past.