What is sensory processing?
Sensory processing is how the brain receives and responds to information from the senses — touch, sound, sight, movement and the body's internal signals. For many autistic people, this processing works differently: some sensory input can feel overwhelming (sensory sensitivity), while other input might be under-registered, leading to seeking out more of it (sensory seeking).
When sensory processing differences make everyday environments — a classroom, a supermarket, a family gathering — difficult to tolerate or navigate, it can affect participation, learning, behaviour and emotional regulation. This is where occupational therapy comes in.
What does a sensory assessment involve?
An OT sensory assessment builds a picture of how a person responds to different types of sensory input, across different environments. This typically includes:
- Structured questionnaires and standardised sensory profiling tools completed with the person and/or their family
- Observation in relevant environments — home, school or community settings
- Identifying specific sensory triggers and patterns of response
- Understanding how sensory factors connect to behaviour, mood and daily participation
The assessment results in a "sensory profile" and a set of practical strategies tailored to the individual — not a generic checklist, since sensory needs vary significantly from person to person.
Need a sensory assessment? Our OTs complete sensory assessments for children and adults at home, with no waitlist. Sensory assessments →
What does OT sensory support look like in practice?
Depending on the person's needs and goals, ongoing OT support might include:
- Sensory diets — a personalised schedule of sensory activities designed to help regulate arousal levels throughout the day
- Environmental modifications — practical changes to reduce sensory overload at home, school or work (lighting, noise, seating, layout)
- Self-regulation strategies — tools and techniques the person can use independently to manage sensory overwhelm as it happens
- School liaison — working with teachers and school staff to implement classroom modifications and support plans
- Equipment recommendations — weighted items, noise-cancelling headphones, fidget tools or other sensory equipment, where appropriate
Sensory support and physical activity often work well together. Movement-based activities can play a role in sensory regulation for many people. Where relevant, Exercare's OT and exercise physiology teams coordinate on this — for example, an EP-led movement program can complement an OT's sensory regulation strategies as part of the same overall plan.
How is this funded under the NDIS?
Sensory processing support from an OT is typically funded under Capacity Building — Improved Daily Living Skills (Support Category 15) in your NDIS plan. No GP referral is required — you need relevant funding in your plan and an OT provider to work with. Your support coordinator can help confirm what's available.
OT sensory support at Exercare
Exercare provides occupational therapy including sensory processing assessments and support for NDIS participants across south-east and eastern Melbourne.
Who else benefits from sensory-informed OT support?
While autism is the most common reason people seek sensory processing support, OT sensory strategies can also help people with ADHD, intellectual disability, acquired brain injury and other conditions where sensory regulation affects daily function.
Next steps:
Sensory assessment → · Paediatric OT → · What is a sensory diet? →
Frequently asked questions
Is a sensory assessment the same as a diagnostic assessment for autism?
No. An OT sensory assessment looks at how sensory processing affects daily function and participation — it's a functional assessment, not a diagnostic one. A separate diagnostic assessment (usually through a paediatrician, psychiatrist or psychologist) is needed to confirm an autism diagnosis.
Do I need a diagnosis to access OT sensory support under the NDIS?
You need to be an NDIS participant with relevant funding in your plan. Your sensory processing needs and goals — not the diagnosis itself — determine what OT support is appropriate.
Can sensory support happen at school?
Yes, where appropriate. Exercare's OT can liaise directly with school staff and, where it supports the goals in your plan, attend school settings as part of the assessment or ongoing support.
This article was written by the Exercare team. Exercare provides occupational therapy for NDIS participants across south-east and eastern Melbourne. Start your OT intake →