Psychosocial SENS
Sensory Integration
Sensory Integration Therapy (SENS) is an intervention designed to help individuals with sensory processing problems, which are common in Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD).
Developed by occupational therapist Anna Jean Ayres, SIT is based on the principle that difficulties in processing and integrating sensory information can lead to challenges in daily functioning, behavior, and social interactions. The goal of SIT is to enhance the brain ability to process sensory information from the body and the environment, enabling individuals to respond to sensory stimuli more appropriately.
Developed by occupational therapist Anna Jean Ayres, SIT is based on the principle that difficulties in processing and integrating sensory information can lead to challenges in daily functioning, behavior, and social interactions. The goal of SIT is to enhance the brain ability to process sensory information from the body and the environment, enabling individuals to respond to sensory stimuli more appropriately.
In the context of ASD, SENS involves a variety of activities designed to stimulate the sensory systems (vision, touch, smell, taste, hearing, vestibular, proprioceptive) in a structured and repetitive manner. These therapies can include techniques such as auditory integration training (AIT) and other sensory-based activities tailored to meet the specific needs of each individual.
Number of meta-analyses
- Preschool (0-5): 6 meta-analyses
- School-age (6-12): 4 meta-analyses
- Adolescents (13-17): no meta-analysis
- Adults (18+): no meta-analysis
One meta-analysis per outcome and age group, shown in the Intervention explorer.
See its evidenceSensory Integration
- OT-ASI Occupational therapy using Ayres Sensory Integration The Ayres model to fidelity - child-directed sensory and motor activity at the just-right challenge. The Ayres model is active, child-led and multi-sensory, at the just-right challenge. It is not the same as applying a sensory input to a passive child, or on one channel only - which the model defines itself against. Delivered by A professional Teaching style Embedded, child-led - Purely responsive
- Other programmes may be studied under the same label.
Occupational therapy using Ayres Sensory Integration
The Ayres model to fidelity - child-directed sensory and motor activity at the just-right challenge.
The Ayres model is active, child-led and multi-sensory, at the just-right challenge. It is not the same as applying a sensory input to a passive child, or on one channel only - which the model defines itself against.
Delivered by A professional Teaching style Embedded, child-led - Purely responsive
Techniques identified in published trial reports and programme documents
8A name opens its description
A Setting up the moment
Antecedent - arranging things before
B Teaching & helping the child
Teaching - what the adult does in the moment
D Connection, feelings & the body
Regulation & relationship