We recognize that hearing loss and the need for improved hearing is a medical condition that has significant psycho-social impact. Hearing loss has an individual, family, work, friend, neighbor impact.
We offer The Hidden Impact of Hearing Loss Program to encourage hearing rehabilitation, enhances communication skills, to manage the sense of loss that may accompany decline in hearing.
This program was developed by Cathy Kooser, a licensed independent social worker, over 20 years ago. Cathy also has a severe to profound hearing loss and she incorporates her personal journey into this workshop.
This unique program is not a hearing aid sales presentation. Rather, it provides information and encouragement to the audience. Those who attend the workshop note that it is worth their time to learn about hearing loss and coping strategies in a fun setting.
There is no charge for the workshop and registration is required. We encourage you to reserve your spot early as the sessions fill quickly. Please consider bringing a significant other. Call for upcoming dates and locations. (937) 424-8519
Cathy Berry (Kooser), MSW, LISW
The Hidden Impact program is run by the founder of the program, Cathy Kooser. Cathy is a licensed social worker who has a severe sensorineural hearing loss. She developed this program in 1999 as a result of her hearing loss challenges and successes.
Cathy is a genuine and dynamic speaker who effectively provides insight into the human element of hearing loss and coaches participants on options for better hearing. She engages her audience with her personal stories and victories, as well as class interaction.
About the Program
During the Hidden Impact program, Cathy will cover the following topics:
- Audiograms, hearing instruments and communication devices
- Putting yourself in the shoes of the person with hearing loss
- Solutions to communication breakdowns
- Coping behaviors
- Communication styles
- Creating understanding in relationships
- Loss, grief and acceptance
- Seeing the positive in the negative
- Hearing Loss in the workplace
The program is offered in a one- or two-day format. The one-day workshop is from 8:00am – 4:00pm and the two-day format consisting of two half-day classes. Each half day class is four hours long. Attending both half day classes are required to complete the program. The days and times are varied so please view the schedule below.
Real-time captioning is provided at each workshop for those who may need assistance.
2024 Workshops
Friday, March 15: 8am – 4pm
HH&BC – Centerville Office
Friday, May 17: 8am – 4pm
Miami Valley Hospital North
Fridays, July 12 & 19:
12:30pm – 4:30pm
Attend both sessions to complete class.
Sycamore Medical Center
Friday, September 13: 8am – 4pm
HH&BC – Centerville Office
Friday, November 8: 8am – 4pm
Miami Valley Hospital North
Program Locations
The program is offered at the following locations:
North
Miami Valley Hospital North, formerly Good Samaritan North Health Center
Education Center
9000 N. Main Street
Dayton, OH 45415
South
Sycamore Medical Center
POB Conference Room, 4th Floor
4000 Miamisburg-Centerville Rd.
Miamisburg, OH 45342
Hillcrest Hearing and Balance Center (“HH&BC – Centerville”)
2nd floor, Training Room
6601 Centerville Business Parkway
Centerville, OH 45459
Ample parking is available at each location. Both Miami Valley North and Sycamore Medical Center offer valet parking if needed.
General Class Information
We ask that you arrive 15 minutes before the scheduled start time to check in and receive your book. Light refreshments and coffee, tea and water are supplied at each workshop. We do not provide lunch during the one-day sessions so you will be on your own and will have about an hour.
Pre-registration is required. Contact Program Director Cathy Berry (Kooser) at cberry@soents.com, by phone (937) 424-8519 or fill out the form below to register.
