Sensory Integration Education

My Journey into Sensory Integration

My journey into SI first began in 2013. Prior to this, I was working with a wide variety of children with differing diagnosis including DCD, ASD, and ADHD. Many of the families reported very similar challenges that their children were having. I researched about sensory processing disorder and found that many of these children were presenting with traits of this condition. I embarked on the first SI module in Birmingham in 2013 and continued through the modular pathway. I qualified as an Advanced Practitioner in Sensory Integration and went on to conduct my own MSc research project entitled “Exploring the correlation between sensory processing difficulties and self-care skill difficulties in school aged children with ASD”. I graduated from Ulster University with a Master of Science in Sensory Integration in 2016.

How I use SI in my practice

I am currently working as a full time Occupational Therapist in a service for children with physical disabilities. I use Ayres Sensory integration principals on daily basis in my current practice. since completing the SI training, I have enhanced my knowledge and understanding in the areas of clinical reasoning, practice knowledge, and assessment of children with sensory processing difficulties. I use the specialist assessment skills that I learned during the pathway to assist me in identifying clusters of difficulties which then informs my treatment planning for clients. I feel empowered to pass on new research evidence to staff and families and I feel better equipped to describe sensory processing difficulties and the clinical reasoning behind it.

Why I am committed to supporting others to study SI

I am excited about supporting student’s online learning as I want to share my expertise in SI. I have been through this modular pathway myself, so I can relate to students and share practical advice. Learning new skills as a therapist is extremely rewarding and I am enthusiastic about helping others to achieve their goals which will develop their clinical skills further. I am committed to being part of the training of clinicians in SI as I feel it is a professional responsibility to do so. In this way, there will be more trained therapists practicing in a safe manner. As a result of the SI training, I now have a greater knowledge and understanding of Ayres Sensory Integration and I have a passion to share this with other therapists.