Sensory Integration Education

My Journey into Sensory Integration

In 2004 I completed Module 1 of SI Network training. I was working in the NHS with children with dyspraxia and I found this knowledge very useful when assessing and particularly as a means of explaining behaviour to parents. In 2008 I left the NHS and moved to the Witherslack Group; soon after I completed Module 2. I worked for 6 years as part of a diagnostic team, as well as providing OT to students within some of our schools. My SI knowledge was extremely valuable as part of the process of assessing and diagnosing a complex cohort of children. In October 2013 I re-embarked on the modular training, completing my SIPT training and becoming an Advanced Practitioner in Sensory Integration in May 2015.

How I use SI in my practice

I am based within a specialist primary school in the North West of England; I work with children with social, emotional and mental health needs, as well as those with communication difficulties, including Autism and Asperger’s Syndrome. I have recently acquired facilities to provide Ayres’ Sensory Integration within the school, which is proving extremely effective; it is fascinating to see how these children are realising what sensory input they need to be able to manage their own behaviour so they can learn and achieve! Equally as important, the teachers and other staff are also increasing their understanding of how sensory processing difficulties affect the behaviour of the children, and how they can support them. I provide regular training to all the staff, as well as specific advice regarding certain children.

Why I am committed to supporting others to study SI

As Lead Occupational Therapist in the Witherslack Group, I supervise the other OTs based within our schools around the country. I really enjoy supporting them as they start their journeys into SI, helping them to analyse and understand the behaviours that they are seeing and supporting them in establishing whether a young person’s difficulties are the result of atypical sensory processing, and how they can help them if this is the case.

I continue to be excited about being part of the Module eMentor team; I am passionate about Occupational Therapy and SI, and believe this is an excellent opportunity to enable more professionals to gain a fuller understanding of their clients and how to help them reach their potential.