Sensory Processing Assessment

We are fortunate to have two occupational therapists on our multidisciplinary team with expertise and experience in Sensory Processing Assessments. A sensory processing assessment can be completed in office, home, or daycare/school and explores how a person processes and responds to sensory information, and how it impacts everyday function. This information comes through the five senses (sight, hearing, touch, smell, taste) as well as the vestibular system (balance and movement) and proprioceptive system (body position and movement).

Sensory Assessments typically involve:

Observation: Watching the individual in different environments to see how they respond to sensory input.

Questionnaires: Parents, teachers, or caregivers completing questionnaires about the individual's sensory behaviours.

Standardized tests: Using specific tools to measure sensory processing skills.

Clinical interviews: Talking to the student, caregivers, and teachers to gather information about their sensory behaviours.

Sensory processing difficulties can affect a person's ability to participate in daily activities, learn, and interact with others.  An assessment can help identify specific sensory challenges and develop strategies to address them.

Common signs of sensory processing difficulties include:

• Over-sensitivity or under-sensitivity to sensory input

• Challenges with social interactions

• Difficulties attending and focusing

• Emotional or behavioural regulation

• Difficulties with eating or sleeping