Sensory processing evaluations & individual mental health therapy services with expert OTs.

Individuals with sensory processing disorder (SPD) respond and process incoming sensory stimuli differently from the average person. Typically, they are either much more or much less sensitive to sensory information. People with known or suspected sensory processing differences, whether or not they have a formal SPD diagnosis, would benefit from a comprehensive assessment of their sensory needs and an evaluation of how well their environment fits their sensory needs and preferences.

A study conducted in 2017 revealed that up to 16.5% of the general population has sensory processing differences, and this number is even higher among individuals with ADHD and autism (Miller et al., 2017). Therefore, a comprehensive sensory processing evaluation would be beneficial for all autistic and/or ADHD individuals, as well as their caregivers, regardless of their age.

Sensory processing has a strong impact on self-regulation, behavior, and executive functioning. Misunderstanding an individual's sensory profile can lead to ineffective, harmful, or even traumatic behavioral strategies. Therefore, a sensory processing evaluation would benefit all children and teenagers with current or previous behavioral concerns at home or school.

Compared to the general population, gifted students have a harder time processing intense sensory stimuli. This can result in social-emotional and mental health issues that may persist throughout life if left unaddressed. Therefore, a comprehensive sensory evaluation would benefit gifted and 2e students.

Dysregulation of the nervous system affects all other forms of regulation. Chronic stress, anxiety, or burnout can cause our sensory systems to work in overdrive, negatively impacting our ability to manage emotions and make sound decisions. This can lead to difficulty in living a functional, balanced life. Whether you have a formal anxiety diagnosis or feel like you are constantly "on edge," a sensory evaluation would likely be helpful.

The best way to help a dysregulated child, partner, spouse, or client is to be a regulated adult. While it is impossible to always be regulated, as a caregiver, therapist, teacher, or parent to someone with sensory processing differences, it is important to understand your own sensory processing needs. To achieve successful self-regulation and co-regulation, consider scheduling a sensory assessment for yourself today.

Individuals with a history of trauma or those who have been diagnosed with PTSD often experience sensory processing differences and sensory modulation dysfunction. When left unaddressed, these differences can result in poorer long-term outcomes related to emotional and behavioral issues. To prevent adverse outcomes, a thorough sensory processing evaluation would be helpful.

Sensory processing differences that are left untreated, ignored, or unaddressed, as well as long-term mismatches between an individual's environment and their sensory needs, can have a significant impact on all areas of their life, including their relationships (both personal and work-related) and overall participation in daily activities. If you experience relationship chaos or major life imbalance, it may be a sign that something deeper is happening, and a sensory evaluation is recommended.