OT Practice

Stereotypy vs. Stimming: Restricted & Repetitive Behaviors in Autism (ASD) | Occupational Therapy Interventions

This article will use identity-first language based on the community’s preference for such language in accordance with the APA’s recommendations. Introduction Restricted and repetitive behaviors (RRBs) are one of the core symptoms of autism spectrum disorder (ASD). The other core symptoms of autism include deficits in communication and social interaction. RRBs include stereotyped behaviors such … Read more

Autistic and Neurotypical Valued Occupations Model (ANVOM): A Proposed Model for Occupational Therapy Practice

Purpose The purpose of this article is to propose a model of practice for occupational therapy based on research that includes the voices of those who are Autistic, including Autistic adults with the lived experience of autism combined along with their neurotypical counterparts, e.g., parents, caregivers, and society. Language Based on a majority of the … Read more

Big List of Examples of Heavy Work Activities for Occupational Therapy

Heavy work interventions in occupational therapy can involve activities that provide deep pressure (proprioceptive) stimulation to the body, which can help to regulate the nervous system and improve overall body awareness and sensory processing. The purpose of heavy work interventions in occupational therapy is to provide sensory input to the body and improve overall body … Read more

Weighted Blanket Precautions Contraindications | Death-Related Product Recall

Introduction Occupational therapists often recommend weighted blankets for their patients. Research is not definitive about the effectiveness of this modality for certain uses such as sleep. Older research reports improvement in anxiety for 63% of study participants in an exit survey for a 30-pound weighted blanket. 76% reported this modality being more effective than no … Read more

Which Side to Face Bed, Chair and Place Objects After Stroke for Occupational Therapy

After a stroke, patients may experience decreased awareness of their side, such as the left side of either themself or their environment. One way to increase awareness, which is quite intuitive actually, is to place objects, environment, basically stimuli (this includes sounds, lights, etc.) on the side of their deficit. This is often their left … Read more

Sensory-Based Strategies Are Not the Same as Ayres Sensory Integration

Incorrect Use? Sensory strategies are often incorrectly used with sensory integration interventions. One way to distinguish sensory integration methods involve active client participation, whereas sensory strategies involve passive sensations. Sensory integration treatment is based on sensory integration theory which was proposed by Dr. Jean Ayres. The core theory was built on what Ayres new at … Read more

Overview of Social Skills Interventions for Autism in Occupational Therapy

Introduction Social skills interventions are designed to address barriers in social skills for clients with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). These social skills interventions can be facilitated by the occupational therapist or educator and may involve training peers to interact with those who have ASD to improve their social skills. Furthermore, social skills training may be … Read more

Visual Activities for Sensory Modulation Regulation Relaxation and Stress Management in Occupational Therapy

The visual system significantly contributes to the ability for occupational therapy clients to see and has a powerful influence on other sensory systems and how they feel. Visual techniques have been used as a method for relaxation in the research. Overall, visual activities can be used as a method either alone or in conjunction with … Read more

Sensory Room vs Seclusion Rooms for Occupational Therapy

A sensory room is a specially designed space that is used to provide a variety of sensory experiences to individuals who may benefit from their use. The purpose of a sensory room is to promote relaxation, self-regulation and overall well-being for anyone, not just those who may be agitated or dysregulated. These rooms typically includes … Read more