Talk Therapist And Going Deaf

[Recovery4Me]

I am engaging in talk therapy and have ran into a snag. I am legally deaf in one ear and getting there in the other. Does anyone know what methods therapist can offer to the deaf? I will ask in the future as the one I saw today didn't quite understand the phrase..."I can't hear you." *Not blaming the T, just frustrated.

This is not intended as a joke although, I am shaking my head at this impasse. Any help or direction would be appreciated. Thanks.:shy:

 

[joeylittle]

Are you using hearing aids, or are you past the point where they can work?

My going-deaf friend (also Meniere's) says he couldn't get through therapy without them, even though he's transitioning most of the rest of his life over to ASL. I'd encourage you to be very direct, make sure your therapist understands that you are partially deaf, and you need them to face you fully and speak clearly - making sure they finish their words, people tend to drop final consonants in casual speech. You will probably be able to incorporate lip reading a bit, if you aren't already.

I don't know where the ADA comes down on having support for access interpreters (in terms of providing vs. you needing to pay), or whether you are learning ASL - this must be a lot to process, and perhaps if you haven't set up an appointment with an audiologist in your area, that might be a solid first step.

 

[Recovery4Me]

@joeylittle Thank you ((((hugs))). I was told by an audiologist in the other state that an implant may work on the one, but I did not have the insurance to 'try'. I will adventure into procuring another exam and ask about a hearing aid for the better ear. I appreciate the direction. Also, as with your friend, I suppose it is transition time for ASL as well. I will ask the health center to direct me to a group and the new T this week on options if I can not hear his voice.

Thanks again for your offer.

 

[joeylittle]

Live captioning is also an option, if you need assistance before you have a longer-term solution. I do not think they are cheap (to hire), but you wouldn't need to know anything other than spoken/written English.

Thinking of you.

 

[Recovery4Me]

You are the best teacher, staffer, & friend ever! Thanks!

*Maybe they have one in the clinic...it could happen!:whistling::tup: Thinking of you as well.:hug: