Sensory Integration Education

My name is Kim Elter, I am an Australian Occupational Therapist, based in Sydney Australia. I am an Advanced SI Practitioner and have my MSC in Sensory Integration. I am currently working in a private practice, primarily with children and teens with neurodevelopmental differences such as autism, developmental trauma, and complex behaviour. The practice I work in is guided by two main theoretical frameworks – ASI and Polyvagal Theory, using a neurodevelopmental and relational approach.

My SI journey began about 10 years ago, when I began working in a child and adolescent inpatient unit, utilising sensory modulation strategies to support emotional regulation and distress tolerance. There had just been a big push to reduce and eliminate seclusion and restraint and we set up a sensory room, as well as ran a number of groups exploring sensory preferences and supports. Each role I found myself in after this, the idea of sensory processing differences and the potential benefit of utilising sensory-based strategies to support engagement. I had done a number of courses and training but really wanted to formalise my knowledge. This is when I began the SIE Modular pathway. Moving through the modular pathway allowed me to layer my sensory and neuroscience foundations with concepts around clinical leadership and service change.

The practice I work in is fortunate to be an SI gym so using an ASI lens in sessions and meeting fidelity is something that fortunately lends itself easily. My caseload is quite diverse but one common factor is always sensory processing differences. For both the young (infants) and older (teens with complex behavioural challenges) I also use sensory strategies to support self regulation and environmental adjustments.

I am passionate about supporting others on their SI journey because I see the benefit of ASI therapy in my practice and want other clinicians to feel empowered and have the foundational knowledge to incorporate SI in their practice too. I look forward to meeting you all as you move along your SI journey.