An Occupational Therapist’s Guide to Sensory Integration and Adult Mental Health

Gaining knowledge of sensory integration is key for any occupational therapist to bette runderstand and support those they work with. In mental health settings, sensory approaches have been shown to aid de-escalation, promote development of healthy coping strategies, and decrease restrictive practice. However, there are a lack of resources available for adult patients, and many practitioners find it difficult to adapt existing paediatric guidelines.

This book provides a reference manual for occupational therapists working in mental health and aiming to use a range of sensory approaches with adult patients. Structured according to diagnostic group and area of mental health, each chapter distils the relevant evidence and literature, commonly identified areas of sensory processing difficulty, ideas and approaches for that client group, and additional considerations in view of risk and health status.

Occupational therapists will also benefit from the additional downloadable content available, including sensory strategy group plans, support plans, sensory assessment reports, and training presentations.

Rebecca Matson is a lecturer in occupational therapy at the University of Liverpool. She previously worked in in-patient mental health units, covering rehabilitation, personality disorder, and eating disorders. She is also a clinical mentor for those undergoing Sensory Integration training with Sensory Integration Education, and is a regular speaker at conferences.