The Tomatis Method Helps Adults With:

• Auditory processing issues

• Dyslexia, comprehension issues

• Stress and related issues

• Memory, low energy

• Adult autism, Alzheimer’s for memory

• Organization and directions

• Ear issues

• Reduce anxiety

In order to:

• Improve memory, word recall, name recognition

• Calm constant mental chatter

• Bring richness to their language

• Jump start imagination and nourish new ideas

• Strengthen self-motivation and self-esteem

• Establish a positive view of life, easing worries

Dr. Alfred Tomatis

The original Tomatis® Method is based on the work of Alfred A. Tomatis, MD (1920 - 2001). Dr. Tomatis, a French Ear, Nose and Throat physician, pioneered a multi-disciplinary science called Audio-Psycho-Phonology (APP) over 60 years ago. His work resulted from his curiosity about the vital influence of the human ear on a healthy mind, body and spirit. Tomatis noted that the ear is the first organ to grow in utero and as a result, a fetus begins to hear sound and learn language from its mother’s voice.

Tomatis concluded that overall human health sources from the health of one’s ear. He developed, researched and proved his theory: the voice only produces what the ear hears. His theory was independently confirmed at the Sorbonne in 1957 and became known as the Tomatis Effect.

Tomatis summarized his theories in three laws:

1. The voice only contains what the ear can hear.

2. If the hearing is modified, the voice is immediately and unconsciously modified; and

3. It is possible to durably transform phonation when auditive stimulation is maintained over a certain time (the law of duration or remanence).

“And yes! Now I understand how the ear grows the brain.”

— Don Campbell Preface to The Conscious Ear

Tomatis imagined re-training the ear to re-gain sounds that are either weak or lost in hearing, and he found a way to do it. These losses could result from a difficult pregnancy or birth, early childhood colds and illnesses, accidents, living near loud sounds, emotional trauma, or a myriad of experiences that alter how a person hears sounds. His curiosity led him to experiment with classical music and different ranges of sound. He discovered that listening problems are the root cause of many learning difficulties. Ultimately, Tomatis developed a highly effective technique to remedy learning concerns–the Tomatis Method–and proprietary equipment to provide auditory re-training.

Answers to most of these questions can be found throughout this website. 

Here are some short answers to frequently asked questions.

Q: How long does the average program take?

A: For most people, the process includes a minimum of 60 hours of listening in two-four listening intensive phases (up to 2 hours daily for 10-15 days). This is usually completed in less than 3 months. Most people benefit from a third listening phase, thus the standard program at MMM is a minimum of 3 listening intensive phases.

The listening intensive phase includes passive listening where the client simply listens to the individualized music program selected for his or her own ears.

Additional listening phases may be appropriate depending on the severity of the case and the individual's goals.

Q: What do we do in between the listening phases? 

A: In order to get the most out of the Tomatis Method®, we recommend that most of our client participate in active voice work using the ForBrain® during the listening breaks and for a short period after their entire listening program. The ForBrain® can be rented from MMM or purchased for your personal use as well.

Q: What do these ForBrain® ‘active sessions’ look like? 

A: Each client is given ‘active voice work’ recommendations based on their own profile.  Some recommendations include: wearing the ForBrain® for 10-20 minutes while reading out loud, singing, talking or listening to a parent read. 

Q: Do I have to sit still during the two hours of daily listening?

A: No.

Children may play, participate in OT activities, play games, do arts & crafts or simple non-reading based homework. 

Adults may do leisure activities, chores or simple work, if desired, although reading and use of screens (tv, phone, computer) is not promitted during the listening hours. 

Q: Where is the Tomatis Method available?

A: Mighty Minds and Muscles (Director: Padra Smith, MS, OTR/L, SIPT) is currently the only authorized provider in lower Manhattan and in Jersey City and Hoboken, NJ.

If there is not a provider in your area, please contact us for a consult regarding a possible home program through out distance program.

Q: What types of results are we likely to see?

A: Some of the concrete changes that may be seen include:

• A child with attention challenges may complete work in a more timely manner

• Greater resiliency

• A good student may reduce the number of hours spent on homework

• An active person begins to hear information the first time it is said instead of having it repeated

• A struggling adult may be better able to keep a job or cope better 

• Eye-contact during a conversation may be improved and more natural

• Decisions can be easier to make

• Recalling words and names may come more easily

• General communications improvements both at home and at work

• Overall daily energy is continuous throughout the day and into the evening

• Person may try a new sport or activity

• Self-esteem improvements and new ideas emerge

• One may be less anxious or less stressed 

• You are excited and motivated to take action

• People begin to believe again in possibilities

Q: Are the resulting changes lasting?

A: Once the program is completed, changes will typically last. Any future stress or trauma to the ear such as severe illness or an accident may result in changes to a person’s listening skills. This can be corrected with additional Tomatis programing.

Q: How do I start?

A: Call (917) 960-0250 or email info@mightymindsandmuscles.com to learn more about the program or to schedule your initial consultation.

Q: Does this process help hearing loss?

A: If there is neurological damage to the ear, the Tomatis Method® will not correct this loss. However, if there is loss without cause, there may be a chance to improve a person’s awareness and use of the their remaining hearing by doing this program. At present, we have no scientific evidence to support this, but many Tomatis Practitioners experience improvements with clients whose hearing has been affected.

Additionally, those with hearing loss may experience enhanced body awareness (due to the bone conduction delivery) and thus feel more grounded or see improvements in their balance, registration of movement or overall anxieties. 

Q: Can the Tomatis Method be combined with other therapies?

A: The Tomatis Method® works on the ear as a vital part of the body’s function. Many therapists, such as speech, occupational, and physical therapists, recommend the Tomatis Method® to their clients as complements to their programs. We may also recommend massage, reflex integration work, cranial sacral, and chiropractic therapies in conjunction with your Tomatis program.

When completed in-clinic at MMM the client also participates in traditional O.T. work, body work, meditation, mindfulness, yoga, and other activities. 

Q: Why does the program use the music of Mozart?

A: Mozart’s music is very complex, covering a wide range of sound in most pieces. A study done at UC Irvine found Mozart touches human brain activity, providing openings for learning. That is why Mozart's music has been proven to be so beneficial for learning and education. Dr. Tomatis found Mozart the most efficient for re-training the middle ear muscles.

Q: Can I just listen to Mozart on my IPOD with the same results?

A: Studies have shown that listening to Mozart supports learning skills; however, the Tomatis Method® uses patented technology and equipment that individualizes the listening experience and stimulates your ears through a personal program (via air conduction and bone conduction) that dramatically affects auditory processing in an enduring way.