Occupational Therapists (OT’s) can help individuals with sensory processing differences develop strategies to support their sensory experiences, enable greater participation in activities and improve their quality of life. However, this should be done with a neuro-affirming approach.
What is sensory processing?
Sensory processing is the way a person perceives, processes and organises the information they receive through their senses. In addition to the 5 commonly known senses (sight, sound, touch, taste and smell), there are also additional sensory systems that impact an individual’s sensory processing – the vestibular system, proprioceptive system, and the interoceptive system.
Sensory systems explained:
- Vestibular system - sense of movement and balance
- Proprioceptive system - sense of muscle and joint position
- Interoceptive system - internal bodily sensations, such as hunger, thirst or pain
Sensory information from the environment is processed in the central nervous system and the brain, so the person can make an appropriate response to the situation.
Understanding sensory processing differences
Sensory processing differences can create difficulties when there is a mismatch between the individual’s sensory needs, the activity and the environment. For some Autistic people, sensory experiences can feel confusing, distressing or overwhelming at times. Family members can also be confused about what their loved one might be feeling, and why they might be responding or behaving in a particular way. Understanding these experiences can be powerful first step.
People with sensory processing differences may experience heightened sensitivities (hypersensitivity) or, in some cases, a lack of responsiveness to sensory input (hyposensitivity) depending on the individual and the specific sensory modality involved. As a result, Autistic people may avoid or feel overwhelmed by sensory experiences that they are hypersensitive to, or they may seek out sensory experiences if they are not getting enough sensory input. Many Autistic people experience a combination of sensory hypo- and hyper-responsivity, and this can fluctuate depending on the situation or environment that they are in.
An individual’s sensory differences can also provide opportunities for self-regulation, pleasurable experiences and engagement. It’s also worth noting that what one person finds overwhelming, another may perceive as sensory delight.
Why a neuro-affirming approach matters
Supporting an Autistic person’s sensory processing differences using a neuro-affirming approach involves recognising the individual's neurological and sensory differences as a difference, not a deficit, and focusing on providing information, support and accommodations as opposed to remediation.
Practical ways to provide support:
Respect autonomy
Empower the individual to make choices about their sensory preferences and sensory supports, whenever possible. Ask them to share information about how they experience the world. Respect their autonomy and involve them in the development of sensory strategies and accommodations that help them to engage in the activities and environments that they want and need to participate in.
Individualised Sensory Support Plan
An OT can work alongside the individual and their support network to understand the specific sensory differences and supports needed. This includes evaluating how the person responds to sensory experiences in their home and other settings and may include a standardised assessment, such as a Sensory Profile-2. The sensory assessment and plan will include what supports are already working well in those spaces, and how to implement the strategies and additional supports.
Sensory-friendly environments
Create sensory-friendly environments, both at home and in other settings, such as schools or workplaces, where possible. This may involve reducing sensory triggers or providing quiet spaces or sensory tools that help the individual self-regulate. It may also involve advocating for the Autistic person in the workplace or school to make accommodations, such as dimming lights or wearing noise-cancelling headphones.
Strength-based approach
Celebrate the individual's strengths and sensory preferences. Encourage activities and environments that align with their sensory preferences to promote sensory joy and well-being.
Sensory self-regulation
Support the development of self-regulation techniques and coping strategies to manage times of sensory overload. This may include strategies to help the person prepare for a situation/know what to expect ahead of time; plan when they visit a particular place or how long they stay for; and what they can do afterwards to help them feel more regulated again.
By adopting a neuro-affirming approach, individuals can manage sensory differences and embrace their sensory experiences as a part of their identity. This approach fosters self-acceptance, empowerment and improved overall well-being.
References:
- Kaundinya, A., & Kaku, S. M. (2025). Sensory responses in autistic individuals—A narrative review. Sensory Neuroscience, 1(3), e70018. https://doi.org/10.1002/sen2.70018
- Sibeoni, J., Massoutier, L., Valette, M., Manolios, E., Verneuil, L., Speranza, M., & Revah-Levy, A. (2022). The sensory experiences of autistic people: A metasynthesis. Autism, 26(5), 1032-1045. https://doi.org/10.1177/13623613221081188
- Dallman, A. R., Williams, K. L., & Villa, L. (2022). Neurodiversity-affirming practices are a moral imperative for occupational therapy. The Open Journal of Occupational Therapy, 10(2), 1-9. https://doi.org/10.15453/2168-6408.1937
Excerpts of this blog originally appeared in Australian Health and Aged Care Magazine.
