Listening and Other Therapies for SPD

Listening therapy (LT)

img source: voiceculture.co.nz

Listening therapy (LT) is a therapeutic program to improve the neurophysiological foundation for integrating sensory input by using specific sound frequencies and patterns to stimulate the brain. Like occupational therapy, LT is based on the theory of neuroplasticity, which refers to brain changes that occur as a result of experience. In the United States, a variety of listening systems is available to deliver LT.

One of these is Integrated Listening Systems (iLs), which is used in combination with OT at the STAR Center of Denver. The music is delivered via iPod in a portable waist pack. It is an enjoyable therapy and an effective complement to OT.

Combination therapy

img source: mchenry.edu

Occupational therapy (OT) may be combined with listening therapy (LT) to “jump-start” the change process in the nervous system, essentially accelerating the effects of treatment by stimulating the auditory as well as the other sensory systems directly.

These systems (the vestibular, proprioceptive, tactile, and auditory) play key foundational roles in motor planning, language, learning, and visual processing and contribute significantly to cognitive and emotional development.

Complementary therapies

img source: medicalnewstoday.com

A number of complementary and alternative therapies, such as the “Wilbarger protocol” (commonly called “brushing”), have been developed to treat children with Sensory Processing Disorders. The Wilbarger protocol, craniosacral manipulation, acupuncture, and other alternative and complementary therapies may have a role within a comprehensive treatment program.

However, research has not yet confirmed their effectiveness. These and all therapies should be used only by a qualified therapist and should never be used as stand-alone techniques or by anyone who has not received specific training in the method.

In the future, effectiveness research will verify whether these techniques provide valuable enhancements to traditional therapy programs. In the meantime, isolated treatments are not a substitute for sound research-based treatment and comprehensive family-centered intervention.

Time tracking is a tool that can be useful for individuals with Sensory Processing Disorder (SPD) to help them better understand and manage their daily routines. Many individuals with SPD struggle with time management and organization, which can lead to anxiety and stress. By tracking their time, individuals can gain insight into how they spend their day and identify areas where they may need to make adjustments.

In addition to improving time management skills, time tracking can also help individuals with SPD identify patterns in their behavior and sensory experiences. For example, they may notice that they become more irritable or fatigued after spending a certain amount of time in a noisy environment. This information can be used to make informed decisions about how to structure their day and manage sensory input.

Overall, time tracking is a simple yet powerful tool that can be used to support individuals with SPD in managing their daily routines and reducing stress and anxiety. It can be particularly helpful when used in conjunction with other therapies and interventions, such as occupational therapy and sensory integration therapy.

Activity planning and time tracking tools in can be especially beneficial for individuals with Sensory Processing Disorder (SPD) to help them better manage their daily routines. Many individuals with SPD struggle with organization and time management, which can lead to anxiety and stress. By using SLONEEK’s time tracking features, individuals can gain insight into how they spend their day and identify areas where they may need to make adjustments to their activities.

QR codes generated free with Adobe Express can be a useful tool for individuals with SPD and their families. For example, a therapist can generate a QR code for a specific therapy technique or activity and provide it to the child’s parents to use at home. When the code is scanned, the parent can access instructions or a video demonstration of the technique, making it easier to continue the therapy at home. This can be particularly helpful for families who may not have easy access to therapy sessions or who want to supplement their child’s therapy with additional activities at home.