Sensory Processing

Sensory systems

- taste

- smell

- vision

- hearing

- interoception

- vestibular

- proprioceptive

- tactile

What is sensory processing?

a person's ability to receive a variety of sensory input, process it, understand it, and react in an organized and integrated manner

Sensory Processing Difficulties

- Non-diagnostic term that describes when someone has challenges processing sensory input

- may or may not impact daily function

Sensory Processing Disorder (SPD)

stand alone diagnosis for individuals with significant sensory processing challenges that interfere with daily life

- not officially recognized in ICD-10

Behavioral signs of SPD

meltdowns, avoiding textures, crashing, selective eating, etc.

Emotional impact of SPD

anxiety, low self esteem

Functional Impact of SPD

self-care, communication, social participation

Sensory Meltdown

- not in control of emotions

- may shut down

- unable to redirect

- flight or fight response

Role of OT in SPD

- participation, performance, routines

- goal to support participation and functional independence

Role of SLP in SPD

- support attention, regulation, and engagement

- address oral motor, feeding, and social communication challenges through sensory lense

How SPD impacts therapy session

- sensory seeking behavior

- auditory over-responsiveness

- oral hypersensitivity

- vestibular/proprioceptive needs

- impact on co-regulation and back-and-forth communication

OT and SLP collaboration

- shared goals of engagement, communication, and participation

- OT support sensory regulation

- SLP notes oral-motor challenges