Sensory Integration
The American Occupational Therapy Association supports a full spectrum of approaches and interventions used in occupational therapy practice as part of an intervention plan that focuses on the participation of the client, including the appropriate use of sensory integration therapy (SIT).
AOTA has made considerable efforts to address issues such as insurance coverage, the need for further research, and public understanding of the use of SIT as part of occupational therapy. AOTA has also advocated in various state and federal contexts for appropriate recognition of occupational therapy, including the use of SIT, as an approach for particular diagnoses, such as autism. AOTA’s practice guidelines and official documents recommend that occupational therapy practitioners using an SIT approach collaborate and coordinate with educational and interdisciplinary teams and other professionals to maximize participation in daily environments.
AOTA also recommends that practitioners using an SIT approach use clinical reasoning, existing evidence, and outcomes to create a comprehensive, individualized approach for each client, rather than using isolated, specific sensory strategies. See the links below for more on AOTA’s educational and analysis materials on SIT and occupational therapy’s role in addressing sensory integration disorders.