No End Date In Sight (We Can Give A Time Frame)
Unless you are in a Tibetan monastery, schools are not known for their quiet. Dave, Michelle and Skylar all had difficulty with listening in a noisy environment. They all began sound therapy. Michelle satisfactorily completed the protocol in 9 weeks. Skylar finished in 12 weeks. While Dave took a little, longer finishing after 5 months.
Why did Dave take so much longer?
Michelle was 7 years old, Skylar was 9 years old and Dave was 16 years old. Because Dave was significantly older than Michelle and Skylar treatment takes longer. This is due to decreased neuroplasticity.
What is Neuroplasticity?
Neuroplasticity is how quickly a person’s brain can learn new habits. Anyone who has ever tried changing a habit can understand how easy it is to fall into old patterns. The more entrenched the pattern the harder it is to break. Think eating healthfully, exercising, etc. Neuroplasticity is how easily new neural networks are created when someone engages in a new habit. This differs from person to person. Similar to how metabolism would play a role in how quickly a diet is effective in losing weight, someone who is more flexible will have an easier time establishing new listening habits. While neuroplasticity differs from person to person there is a general truth that people have better neuroplasticity the younger they are. This what is reflected in the idea that “you can’t teach an old dog new tricks” and referring to someone as “set in their ways”. Neuroplasticity research has taught us this is not true. However, it is more difficult the longer you wait.
How Much Is Too Much?
Your professional should be able to demonstrate progress within the first few weeks.
You should be able to observe obvious and significant progress within 3 months.
If you are concerned that neuroplasticity may be a factor you can give the protocol 5-6 months at most. At that time revisit your goals and your progress and make an informed decision as to whether you are getting substantial benefit or need to try a different protocol or practitioner. Don’t let years pass by before realizing you don’t have much to show for it.
So, don’t delay schedule today.