What is sensory integration therapy?

You may have heard a lot about sensory integration therapy. That’s because some researchers estimate that eight out of 10 children with autism have problems processing sensory input. For example, they can’t filter out background noise. Other signs of processing issues include:

• Problems with balance
• Problems with body position in space
• Oversensitivity to touch and the feel of certain types of clothing, such as socks with seams

With autism, social, behavioral, or attention problems can be partly a result of these sensory challenges.
Although more research is needed, OT can help with sensory integration and some of the related behavioral problems. Research suggests sensory integration therapy is less helpful in improving academic performance.
Examples of sensory integration therapy include:

• Being brushed or deeply touched and massaged
• Compressing elbows and knees
• Swinging
• Spinning on a scooter
• Wearing a weighted vest

How can someone obtain OT services for autism?

You can obtain occupational therapy services either privately, through a statewide early childhood intervention program, or at school. Public law requires schools to provide certain types of occupational therapy to those who need it. Private insurance also usually covers OT. In addition, Medicaid may cover occupational therapy for autism, even for families with higher incomes. School based OT tends to be more functional in nature. Typically, it works as an adjunct to educational goals, such as improving handwriting, so the child can keep up by taking notes. Private therapy will be more medically intensive.