Sensory Processing & Neurology: Observation Skills and Intervention (Self Paced))

Course overview

To emphasize the importance of occupational therapy practitioners to utilize and reflect on their own sensory experiences and strategies to assist in client-centered, trauma informed interventions. The course will continue to explore easily accessible sensory strategies suitable for various practice settings and diverse client populations, while taking cultural backgrounds and individual experiences into account. Participants will briefly review the role of nervous system function, trauma, disability, and physiological factors to consider in development of effective sensory based interventions. The limbic-system bottom-up approach, understanding client triggers, the importance of gathering the background of the client and understanding sensory based trauma are concepts emphasized throughout the course. Collaboration with caregivers and teams will be emphasized as vital components of evaluation and treatment, highlighting the importance of understanding the client's story to provide context for neurological and sensory processing. The importance of embedding naturally occurring, occupation-based strategies throughout the clients day in natural settings rather than on an enforced schedule will be included in content with examples. Roles of attunement and co-regulation as part of therapeutic use of self in intervention is discussed. Populations that may not be successful with Top down language-based, self-awareness and mindfulness approaches will be considered. Learners will be given resources to further explore and use. Target Audience: Occupational therapists, occupational therapy assistants, occupational therapy students. This occupational therapy continuing education course uses the following instructional methods: visual aides (ie slides), discussion board, guided note taking, and learning, and practice opportunities. Presented by: Joanna Blanchard, MOTR/L