Sensory Integration Education

My Journey into Sensory Integration

I qualified as an occupational therapist in 2011. Since then I have been working as a paediatric occupational therapist at an academic hospital in South Africa. I treat a broad range of age groups and diagnoses within my practice. I became interested in sensory integration while researching current trends in occupational therapy for children with Autism Spectrum Disorder. I then extended my research into sensory integration and noted that it had been used successfully in a number of populations (including many of the populations in my caseload). I started Sensory Integration module one in 2020 and I have not looked back since.

How I use SI in my practice

I have started a specific sensory integration clinic within my practice where children from different disciplines can be referred to access sensory integration therapy services. I use the theory of sensory integration and its principles in assessment and treatment of a wide range of different populations. This allows me to view each child more holistically and guides my clinical reasoning. My knowledge of sensory integration theory has also allowed me to support other staff members in considering whether children in their caseloads may be experiencing sensory integration challenges, to ensure that appropriate referrals are made.

Why I am committed to supporting others to study SI

I have seen first-hand the benefit sensory integration can have in a child’s life as well as the positive impact of this on the family as a whole. I am also passionate about helping students develop their clinical knowledge and skill to better serve the children they treat. I really enjoyed the group discussions during my sensory integration training as it often gave me a new perspective that I had not previously considered. I am so grateful for the opportunity to support others on their sensory integration journey.