What is one goal of counseling included in aural rehabilitation programs?

One of the primary goals of counseling in aural rehabilitation programs is to support emotional well-being. Individuals with hearing loss may experience a range of emotional challenges, including frustration, isolation, or a decreased sense of self-worth. Counseling within the context of aural rehabilitation focuses on helping patients cope with these emotional responses, empowering them to adjust to their hearing loss and navigate the social and psychological impacts it might have on their lives. This emotional support is crucial in fostering a positive attitude toward hearing aids or other assistive devices and can help improve overall communication effectiveness.

In contrast, while maintaining hearing aids is essential, technical aspects like hearing aid maintenance do not fulfill the emotional and psychological aspects of counseling. Similarly, mental health counseling and speech development play important roles in rehabilitation but are not the primary focus of counseling aimed at addressing the emotional implications of hearing loss. Emotional support addresses the holistic needs of individuals, making it a vital component of aural rehabilitation programs.