Sensory profiling

What is Sensory Profile?



The Sensory Profile is a standardised assessment tool used to evaluate how individuals perceive and respond to sensory information in everyday life. It explores how the brain processes input across various sensory systems, including touch (tactile), movement and balance (vestibular), body position (proprioception), vision, hearing, smell, and taste. By identifying sensory processing patterns, the Sensory Profile helps to understand how sensory input influences a person’s participation in daily activities, behaviors, and overall functioning. Responses are interpreted through the Sensory Quadrants model, which categorises individuals into four patterns: Low Registration, Sensation Seeking, Sensory Sensitivity, and Sensation Avoiding. These patterns reflect how much sensory input a person detects, seeks, tolerates, or avoids. The assessment is available in different formats for infants, children, and adults and can be used in both clinical and educational settings to inform personalised intervention plans that support sensory needs and enhance engagement and well-being.


  • Purpose:
    The Sensory Profile is used to identify sensory processing patterns that may influence an individual's ability to engage with their environment. It supports the development of personalised strategies to improve comfort, participation, and performance in various settings.


  • Focus:
    The assessment focuses on how individuals respond to sensory stimuli—whether they are over-responsive, under-responsive, actively seek sensory input, or avoid it. These patterns are categorised using the Sensory Quadrants model.


  • Sensory Quadrants:
    The Sensory Profile identifies four key sensory processing patterns:


  • Low Registration: Individuals in this category may miss or take longer to notice sensory input. They often appear disengaged or unaware of environmental cues and may need more intense or repeated input to respond.


  • Sensation Seeking: These individuals actively pursue sensory experiences. They are often energetic, enjoy movement, and may appear constantly on the go, seeking stimulation through sound, touch, or activity.


  • Sensory Sensitivity: Individuals in this quadrant detect sensory input easily and may feel overwhelmed by stimuli such as loud noises, bright lights, or certain textures. However, they do not always avoid these stimuli.


  • Sensation Avoiding: These individuals are both sensitive to sensory input and take deliberate action to reduce or control their exposure. They may avoid crowded spaces, prefer routine, or be particular about clothing, food, or sounds.


  • Administration:
    The Sensory Profile is completed through caregiver or self-report questionnaires, depending on the individual’s age and ability. It can be administered in clinical, educational, or home environments and usually takes 15–20 minutes to complete.




     Price: £120

     Package price: FREE with any autism assessment


     What is included in the price:

  • Sensory Profile questionnaires sent to you, completed by parents, caregivers, or the individual (depending on age), then collated and analysed.

  • An online or face-to-face consultation with a qualified neurodevelopmental practitioner to discuss results.

  • A comprehensive Sensory Profile report outlining sensory processing patterns, with personalised recommendations and a support plan.

  • A follow-up post-assessment online session to explain the findings and answer any questions.

  • Access to relevant online webinars focused on sensory processing and strategies.


     Validity:

  • The Sensory Profile is a well-established, evidence-based tool used to understand how individuals respond to sensory input in everyday environments.


  • All assessments are conducted by a fully trained and qualified neurodevelopmental practitioner or a psychologist in training under supervision.


  • This assessment is not diagnostic in nature but can complement existing or future autism assessments by providing in-depth insight into sensory processing differences.


The report can be used for:


  • Informing educational support and classroom strategies

  • Supporting EHCP (Education, Health and Care Plan) applications

  • Contributing contextual understanding in the process of future diagnosis

  • Assisting GPs or specialists with referrals

  • Enhancing self-awareness or parental understanding of a child’s sensory needs


Please note: This is not a diagnostic assessment for autism. However, it can significantly support understanding of sensory processing, especially in individuals with neurodivergent traits, and includes tailored recommendations for daily support.      


 

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