Methods and apparatuses for programming a neural prosthesis (e.g., a hearing prosthesis), and for fitting a speech processor and implantable cochlear stimulator by programming the speech processor are disclosed. A preferred method and apparatus for fitting a neural prosthesis to a sensorineural-impaired user includes the steps of presenting one or more neural stimuli to the user through the neural prosthesis for a user response to the one or more neural stimuli with each neural stimulus having an associated icon displayed by a user interface, obtaining the user response by monitoring user selection of the associated icon subjectively corresponding to a selected neural stimulus, and adjusting the neural prosthesis so that the user is enabled to optimally detect the neural stimuli.