Eight conversations

1. Describe what it means to be child-led.
2. Identify ways to establish safety and trust with clients using a sensory integration-based framework.
3. Define the ‘just-right’ challenge
4. Identify when a therapeutic activity requires modification.

The relationship between client and therapist is the cornerstone on which all occupational therapy interventions are founded. When client-therapist relationships are strong and center on trust, mutual respect, empathy, and shared goals, outcomes are positive.

Dr Ingolia explores the dynamics of the therapeutic relationship and its multifaceted role within Ayres Sensory Integration® (ASI®); serving as a foundation for intervention, and as a means by which therapeutic change occurs.

Our speaker-mentor shares strategies for building rapport, establishing a safe environment, setting therapeutic intentions, and founding and maintaining a therapeutic alliance throughout the intervention process.

Deciding where to begin OT intervention is a complex and multifaceted process. The therapist’s must synthesize information gathered from evaluation, apply theoretical and scientific frames of reference, hypothesize which areas of dysfunction contribute to problems, predict how behavior will change due to intervention, and skillfully implement a well-constructed intervention plan.

Dr Smith Rowley will discuss SI theory and applying clinical reasoning to practice in ASI®.

Specific focus will be given to choosing what to target first in therapy.

Motivation, engagement, and fun are important components of any child-centered occupational therapy intervention. Research indicates that intervention is most successful when therapy activities are intrinsically motivating, and that when clients perceive therapy as fun, they are more likely to engage in therapy activities, practice new skills, and make progress towards their goals.

Our speaker-mentor Sarah Sawyer discusses the critical roles of motivation, engagement, and fun in ASI®, among features that distinguish this method from other sensorimotor approaches. Sarah discuss factors that influence client participation in ASI® and shares strategies to promote motivation, engagement, and fun, with an emphasis on the role of play and use of playfulness as a therapeutic tool.

Being 'child-led' refers to a therapeutic approach that recognizes the child as an active participant in their own therapy, empowering them to take ownership of their sensory experiences and developmental progress.

Our speaker-mentor Anne Trecker explores the concept of being 'child-led' in ASI® and its significance in optimizing therapy outcomes. Anne emphasizes the therapist's role in following the child’s lead and discusses the essential skills and qualities necessary for a child-led approach. She shares insights on active listening, observation, flexibility and creativity, reflective practice and more.

The just right challenge plays a crucial role in effective ASI® intervention. Our speaker-mentor Dr Mailloux shares insights into the essential skills that therapists use to successfully create the just right challenge, including assessment, goal setting, communication, scaffolding and grading.

Gain valuable insights into important considerations for therapists looking to achieve this delicate balance in therapeutic practice. Dr Mailloux will provide you with a deeper understanding of the just right challenge and empower you to better support individuals on their sensory integration journey.

Within ASI® co-regulation is a dynamic process of interaction, where sensory experiences and emotional states converge.

Join speaker-mentor Julie Robinson as she explores the intricate relationship between sensory integration and emotional regulation. Julie delves into the concept of co-regulation, highlighting the significance of co-regulation in supporting individuals facing sensory processing challenges.

Gain a solid understanding of co-regulation as a catalyst for emotional well-being within this framework, focusing on the balance between sensory input, physiological responses, social connection, and emotional states. Don't miss this opportunity to deepen your insights into this therapeutic art!

The intricate dance of facilitating skillful transitions between activities and their crucial role in ASI®, is more than a simple shift from one task to another; it's an art that requires a deep understanding of sensory needs, client responses, and the therapeutic environment.

Join speaker-mentor Dr May-Benson as she provides an in-depth exploration of transitioning between sensory activities with finesse for a seamless and purposeful flow. Delving into client-centered approaches, how to customize transitions to individual sensory profiles, taking into account modulation, arousal states, and sensory preferences and examining the impact of the therapeutic environment, highlighting the role of sensory-rich spaces in facilitating smooth movement between activities.

Ultimately, Teresa emphasizes how skillful transitions contribute to achieving therapeutic goals, promoting enhanced self-regulation, attention, and overall functional skills.

Making choices about stopping therapy involves a thoughtful and skillful approach. We'll navigate through the factors that influence this decision, with a focus on understanding sensory integrative dysfunction and its impact on daily functioning.

Join speaker-mentor Stacey Szklut as she delves into the complexities of deciding when it's the right time to conclude therapeutic interventions. Stacey explores the importance of determining therapy benefits, setting realistic goals, and transferring acquired skills from clinic to daily life. She covers intervention duration, plateau periods, and strategies for clients and caregivers. Additionally, she emphasizes the importance of setting clear expectations, explores the role of ongoing consultation after discharge, and discusses strategies for optimizing the journey to independence.