What is the Tomatis® Method?
A neurosensory listening programme for both children and adults that uses specially modified music to support the brain’s capacity for attention, language, emotional regulation and motor coordination.
Delivered as a home-based programme, available through appointments both in person or online anywhere in the world.
Why Tomatis®?
Tomatis® is safe, non-intrusive, and scientifically researched. With 60+ years of experience and efficiency, coupled with proprietary tech, the Tomatis® Method transforms lives. Read more to learn why.
The Science
Most of our brain's stimuli comes from the ear. Tomatis® capitalises on the ear as the portal to the brain, employing neuroplasticity to rewire and retrain the brain.
Your Listening Programme
Think of our listening program as aerobics for the ear. It works because it does not simply address signs; it focuses on the relationship between the ear, brain and voice.
How the Tomatis® Method works
Developed by French doctor and researcher Alfred Tomatis, the method works with one of the most powerful sensory systems in the body: the ear.
More than 80% of the stimulation the brain receives comes through the auditory system. By using specially filtered and modified music — delivered through professional-grade headphones — the Tomatis® Method trains the ear and nervous system to process sound more effectively, supporting lasting change across a wide range of developmental areas.
The science is grounded in neuroplasticity. With the right input, the brain can build new pathways — and that is what Tomatis® is designed to do.
It can be used at any age, and works alongside most other therapeutic or educational support.
Watch: What is the Tomatis® Method?
Areas of Application
Maximizing auditory training with the Tomatis® Method
The Tomatis® Method contributes to improving Auditory Processing Disorder (APD) and Sensory Processing Disorder (SPD). It is through auditory processing that speech, language, and language-based academic skills such as reading, spelling, and writing are learned. Conditions like Autism, ADD/ADHD, Speech disorders, etc often have overlapping symptoms with APD and SPD, for example, difficulty focusing or reading, anxiety, or inability to understand what is being said. The Tomatis® auditory training addresses these signs, which helps many different conditions.
Studies have proven that the Tomatis® Method improves auditory-sensory functions and communication abilities. Since the ear influences language, reading, speech, and motor skills, it is no surprise that those using the Tomatis® Method have been able to focus soundly, read better, understand better, and communicate more effectively.
As a complementary tool to most therapeutic or pedagogical support, the Tomatis® Method makes it, possible to multiply the effects achieved, reducing the time required to complete a conventional treatment or medical plan, regardless of one’s age (children, adults, or seniors).
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Auditory Processing
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Learning and under-achievement
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Language development and communicaton
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Emotional regulation
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Sensory processing difficulties
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Autism
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ADHD
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Motor skills and coordination
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Attention and concentration
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Learning foreign languages
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Public Speaking
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General wellbeing and stress/anxiety
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Voice & Music
How it is delivered
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changes families and schools notice
The Tomatis® programme is home-based. Specialist headphones and equipment are provided, so families can take part from anywhere in the world without traveling to a clinic. If not restricted by age or ability, a Tomatis® listening test in person is recommended for anyone who is able to come to the Map & Compass clinic in Coleraine, Northern Ireland and/or home visits can be arranged in some circumstances.
For children and adults with sensory, social or communication difficulties, families and friends may notice changes at home, at school, at work and in wider social situations.
The programme aims to support nervous-system regulation, which may help with learning, social interaction, transitions and coping with the unexpected.
Mother of 9 year old with Autism and limited speech
“He has had an explosion of words and language since we started. Before we started Tomatis, most of the time he would take my hand and drag me to what he wanted. Now he is using words to tell me "
Middle aged woman with attention, brain-fog and anxiety
“I realised I was coping with daily life without feeling so overwhelmed and I'm remembering everyday details I would have usually forgotten. It shocked me when I realised this was happening because I've lived like that for so long. ”
Mother of 8 year old with challenges in social life & anxiety
"He is more affectionate, happier and more connected to us at home...he's engaging with us more. It feels like we are getting our wee boy back. He is generally more at ease and not as fearful. "
Research
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Resources
There is a wealth of information on the Tomatis® website. Please explore the website to learn more.
For published research and more information about areas of application, visit:
Tomatis® and other programmes
Tomatis® is often used alongside INPP reflex integration. For people with complex needs, combining programmes may address different aspects of the difficulties they experience. A free enquiry call is an opportunity to discuss which approach, or combination of approaches, may be suitable.
Tomatis® is a registered trademark of Tomatis Développement S.A. Map & Compass Neurodevelopmental Therapy is an authorised Tomatis® consultant practice.