Can Occupational Therapy Assess Sensory Processing Differences in Autism?

PostedDecember 17, 2025

UpdatedDecember 17, 2025

ByMy Patient Advice

Author: Hannah Smith, MSc | Reviewed by: Dr. Rebecca Fernandez, MBBS

Occupational therapy for sensory differences in autism is an effective approach to identifying and managing sensory processing challenges. Sensory sensitivities are common in individuals with autism and can significantly affect their ability to engage in daily activities. An OT assessment is often the first step in evaluating sensory processing differences, helping to identify specific needs and create personalised intervention plans that offer functional support.

Occupational therapists (OTs) specialise in assessing how sensory sensitivities affect an individual’s ability to function in everyday settings, such as at home, in school, or in the workplace. By conducting a thorough OT assessment, they can determine which sensory stimuli may be overwhelming or underwhelming and how these sensory differences impact daily routines and tasks.

How Occupational Therapy Assesses Sensory Processing Differences

Here’s how occupational therapy for sensory differences in autism can assess and support sensory needs:

Comprehensive OT assessment

An OT assessment typically includes a combination of observations, interviews, and standardised tests to evaluate sensory sensitivities, motor skills, and other factors affecting daily function. The assessment identifies how sensory issues impact activities like dressing, eating, and social interactions.

Sensory integration techniques

Based on the results of the OT assessment, OTs can implement functional support strategies such as sensory integration techniques, which help individuals process sensory input in a more organised way, improving their ability to perform daily tasks.

Tailored intervention plans

Following the assessment, OTs create personalised intervention plans that may include recommendations for environmental adjustments, coping strategies, and sensory-friendly tools to help manage sensory overload.

Visit providers like Autism Detect for advice on OT assessment and developing functional support for sensory challenges.

For a deeper dive into the science, diagnosis, and full treatment landscape, read our complete guide to Sensory Processing Differences.

Hannah Smith, MSc

Author

Hannah Smith is a clinical psychologist with a Master’s in Clinical Psychology and over three years of experience in behaviour therapy, special education, and inclusive practices. She specialises in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA), Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), and inclusive education strategies. Hannah has worked extensively with children and adults with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), ADHD, Down syndrome, and intellectual disabilities, delivering evidence-based interventions to support development, mental health, and well-being.

All qualifications and professional experience stated above are authentic and verified by our editorial team. However, pseudonym and image likeness are used to protect the author's privacy.

Dr. Rebecca Fernandez, MBBS

Reviewer

Dr. Rebecca Fernandez is a UK-trained physician with an MBBS and experience in general surgery, cardiology, internal medicine, gynecology, intensive care, and emergency medicine. She has managed critically ill patients, stabilised acute trauma cases, and provided comprehensive inpatient and outpatient care. In psychiatry, Dr. Fernandez has worked with psychotic, mood, anxiety, and substance use disorders, applying evidence-based approaches such as CBT, ACT, and mindfulness-based therapies. Her skills span patient assessment, treatment planning, and the integration of digital health solutions to support mental well-being.

All qualifications and professional experience stated above are authentic and verified by our editorial team. However, pseudonym and image likeness are used to protect the reviewer's privacy.