Able Kids Foundation, Inc.

Established as a 501(c)(3), Able Kids Foundation opened the clinic in 2006 to continue the work in CAPD that began at Colorado State University over 50 years ago. The Foundation specializes in the diagnosis and management of central auditory processing disorder (CAPD). Located in Fort Collins, Colorado, the Foundation has evaluated over 4,000 individuals from all 50 states and 32 countries around the world. Initially recognized for its work with children, the Foundation is now recognized for serving clients of all ages, with adults becoming one of the largest age groups evaluated each year. Research and data are the heart of the Foundation's testing and management plan. The comprehensive test battery provides objective evidence and understanding of one's central auditory processing challenges. Drs. Locke and Wisdom have had the honor of being invited speakers at local, national, and international conferences on central auditory processing disorder.

Individuals with CAPD typically have great hearing and often times, an assumption is made that if one's hearing is normal, then the auditory system is efficient. This is not always true (many individuals with CAPD easily pass a hearing test). After the auditory system detects or hears the presence of sound, it then has to assign meaning and filter/prioritize sounds. Hearing, understanding, and filtering are three different responsibilities of the auditory system. When a person has difficulty understanding and/or filtering background noise, they may have a condition known as central auditory processing disorder (CAPD). 

Central auditory processing disorder often coexists with ADD/ADHD, anxiety disorder, autism, dyslexia, hearing loss, misophonia, sensory processing difficulties, speech and language delays, traumatic brain injuries, and/or visual processing challenges. CAPD can occur in gifted, twice-exceptional, and neurodivergent individuals. Whether CAPD exists as a comorbidity or an isolated condition, CAPD should be identified and properly managed.

Commonly reported symptoms that may indicate the presence of central auditory processing disorder include sensitivity to sounds (loud and soft), being easily distracted by noise, mishearing, having difficulty following auditory directions, feeling exhausted or emotionally sensitive at the end of the day, and/or experiencing anxiety. Controlling conversations, talking loudly, and/or making noises (excessive talking, humming, etc.) are also frequently reported.

Central auditory processing disorder can impact academic and work performance, participation in extracurricular activities, self-esteem, relationships, overall well-being, and quality of life. It may also influence how individuals feel in noisy environments. Expectations for a person with CAPD can be unfair, even unrealistic if proper support is not implemented. Individuals with CAPD have also been observed to have difficulty performing to their full potential and can be seen as underachievers.