We know that autism is a complex condition with very diverse presentations. When considering sensory-based interventions, we also know that there are many different approaches that vary widely in both scope and implementation. Therefore, it is not possible or appropriate to provide a single treatment summary that addresses sensory-based interventions for autism. Whereas sensory-based interventions have historically been spoken of as a combination of distinct approaches, it is difficult to pinpoint which interventions can be credited with positive outcomes. Given this, data for specific interventions that emerge are worthy of review and ASAT’s Treatment Summaries, derived from different sensory-based theoretical approaches, will be more focused in nature.
As listed below, individual treatment summaries have been prepared for a number of specific interventions (e.g., Ayres Sensory Integration, weighted vests, brushing). At the same time, we are also reviewing published research articles that address sensory intervention as part of our ongoing series of Research Synopses. These synopses will highlight the state of evidence for these interventions and identify the level of available empirical support. We hope that this approach will more effectively help our readers navigate treatment decisions regarding sensory interventions and promote understanding of the state of evidence for applying it individually to those in their care. Please return to this page often as we continue to expand our offerings.
Treatment Summaries
- Ayres Sensory Integration®
- Is there science behind that?: Brain Balance
- Is there science behind that?: Sensory diets
- Weighted Vests
- Wilbarger Brushing Protocol
Other Related Articles:
- Relevant ASAT Articles for Occupational and Physical Therapists
- Putting a dead horse in a weighted vest: Another review of sensory integration training
- Underwater basket weaving therapy for autism: Don’t laugh! ……It could happen
Related Interviews:
- Related services in an ABA setting: An interview with 3 members of the BACA team
- Occupational Therapists Discussing Their Journeys with ABA: Part I
- Occupational Therapists Discussing Their Journeys with ABA: Part II
Related Clinical Corner Articles:
- Clinical Corner: Is a BCBA the right professional to help with my child’s sensory issues?
- Clinical Corner: Multidisciplinary collaboration in the establishment of oral hygiene habits
- Clinical Corner: How can occupational therapy benefit my child’s ABA program?
- Clinical Corner: What are some ethical and practical considerations when collaborating with nonbehavioral service providers?
Related Article and Book Reviews:
- Article Review: Collaboration between behavior analysts and occupational therapists in autism service provision: Bridging the gap
- Article Review: ABAI’s Interprofessional collaborative practice between behavior analysts and speech-language pathologists
- Article Review: Applied behavior analysis, autism, and occupational therapy: A search for understanding
- Article Review: Identification, evaluation, and management of children with autism spectrum disorder (Part 1 of 2)
- Article Review: Identification, evaluation, and management of children with autism spectrum disorder (Part 2 of 2)
Related Research Synopses:
- Research synopsis: An intervention for sensory difficulties in children with autism: A randomized trial
- Research synopsis: Environment enrichment as treatment for autism: A randomized controlled trial
- Research synopsis: Effects of weighted vests on the engagement of children with developmental delays and autism
- Research synopsis: Effectiveness of sensory integration interventions in children with autism spectrum disorders: A pilot study
- Research synopsis: The use and the efficacy of weighted vests
- Research synopsis: Comparison of behavioral intervention and sensory-integration therapy in the treatment of challenging behavior
Related Media Watch Letters:
- Media Watch: ASAT responds to Khaleej Times The Doris Duan-Young Autism Center: Changing lives one at a time.
- Media Watch: ASAT responds to ScienceCodex.com’s Making sense of sensation in autism.
- Media Watch: ASAT responds to US News story doubt cast on usefulness of ‘sensory’ therapies for autism.
- Media Watch: ASAT responds to Contra Costa Times Story ‘Swinging the outcome.’
- Media Watch: ASAT responds to Boston.com’s Could sensory integration disorder be the primary problem?
- Media Watch: ASAT responds to Good Housekeeping’s Costco is hosting sensory-friendly shopping hours for people with autism
#OTs #Multidisciplinary #PTs #Researchers
