top of page

Sensory Therapy

 

What Are Sensory Processing Needs?

Sensory processing refers to how the nervous system receives, organizes, and responds to information from the senses. This includes touch, movement, body awareness, sight, sound, taste, smell, and balance. When a child has sensory processing challenges, their brain may have difficulty interpreting this information in a way that supports calm, organized, and purposeful behavior.

​

At REACH Pediatrics Therapy Services, we understand that sensory needs can look very different from one child to another. Our approach is compassionate, individualized, and grounded in helping children feel safe, regulated, and confident as they engage in daily activities.

​

​

How Sensory Processing Challenges May Show Up

Children with sensory processing needs are not “misbehaving” or “overreacting.” Their nervous systems may simply be working harder to process the world around them.

Sensory challenges may look like:

  • Sensitivity to sounds, lights, textures, or clothing

  • Avoidance of messy play, grooming, or certain foods

  • Constant movement, crashing, jumping, or spinning

  • Difficulty sitting still or focusing on tasks

  • Emotional outbursts, meltdowns, or shutdowns

  • Difficulty with transitions or changes in routine

  • Poor body awareness or coordination

​

These challenges can impact participation at home, school, and in social settings—but with the right support, meaningful progress is possible.

​​

​

Who Can Benefit from Sensory Processing Therapy?

Sensory-based occupational therapy can benefit children who struggle to regulate their bodies, emotions, or attention due to sensory processing differences.

Your child may benefit if they:

  • Become easily overwhelmed or overstimulated

  • Seek constant movement or pressure

  • Have difficulty calming down or self-regulating

  • Struggle with attention, transitions, or routines

  • Avoid certain textures, sounds, or activities

  • Have difficulty participating in play, school, or daily tasks

​

Sensory processing therapy is commonly used to support children with:

  • Sensory Processing Disorder (SPD)

  • Autism spectrum disorder

  • ADHD

  • Developmental delays

  • Anxiety related to sensory input

  • Challenges with emotional regulation

​​

​

Our Sensory Therapy Approach at REACH​

At REACH Pediatrics Therapy Services, our mission is to provide the highest quality of care through trusting relationships, family-centered collaboration, and innovative therapy approaches. Families across North Alabama trust REACH for the best sensory needs therapy in the region.

​

Our sensory therapy approach is:

  • Child-centered and play-based, meeting children where they are

  • Individualized, based on thorough evaluation and ongoing assessment

  • Intentional, using sensory input to support regulation and participation

  • Compassionate and supportive, creating a safe environment for growth

​

We focus on helping children develop the skills they need to feel more organized in their bodies and more confident in their daily lives.

​​

​

Sensory Integration Therapy

Sensory integration therapy helps children better process and respond to sensory information so they can feel more regulated, confident, and engaged in daily activities.

 

At REACH Pediatrics Therapy Services, our occupational therapists use sensory integration strategies to support children who struggle with sensory sensitivities, sensory seeking behaviors, attention, emotional regulation, or participation in everyday routines.

Both of our clinics feature a calming sensory room, thoughtfully designed to provide a safe, supportive environment where children can explore movement, touch, and body awareness at their own pace. These spaces allow therapists to tailor sensory input to each child’s needs—helping them learn to self-regulate, improve focus, and build the skills needed for success at home, school, and in the community.

​

Our sensory integration approach is individualized, play-based, and rooted in family-centered care, ensuring that therapy is not only effective but also comforting and empowering for every child we serve across North Alabama.

​

 

What to Expect During Sensory Therapy Sessions

Sensory processing therapy sessions are active, engaging, and tailored to your child’s unique sensory profile.

​

Sessions may include:

  • Movement activities (swinging, climbing, jumping)

  • Deep pressure and proprioceptive input

  • Tactile exploration through play and hands-on activities

  • Calming and alerting strategies to support regulation

  • Skill-building for transitions, attention, and emotional control

​

Parents and caregivers are an important part of the process. Our therapists provide education and strategies you can use at home to support carryover and long-term success.

​

How Sensory Therapy Supports Daily Life

Sensory processing therapy is not just about managing behaviors—it’s about improving participation and independence.

​

With sensory-based occupational therapy, children may improve:

  • Emotional regulation and coping skills

  • Attention and focus

  • Tolerance for daily routines (dressing, bathing, eating)

  • Participation in school and play

  • Confidence navigating new environments

​

Our goal is to help children feel more comfortable in their bodies so they can engage more fully with the world around them.

​

Family-Centered Care You Can Trust

At REACH Pediatrics Therapy Services, we believe families are essential partners in a child’s progress. We take time to listen, educate, and collaborate so you feel informed and supported every step of the way.

​

We work closely with caregivers, teachers, and other providers when appropriate to ensure therapy goals align with real-life needs.

​

Locations Offering Sensory Processing Therapy

Sensory processing therapy is available at our:

  • Decatur, Alabama location

  • Muscle Shoals, Alabama location

​

We proudly serve families throughout North Alabama, providing high-quality pediatric occupational therapy in a welcoming and supportive environment.

​

Is Sensory Therapy Right for My Child?

Every child’s sensory needs are unique. Our occupational therapists complete comprehensive evaluations to determine how sensory processing may be impacting your child’s daily life and whether sensory-based therapy is appropriate.

If you have concerns about your child’s sensory needs, we’re here to help guide you through the next steps.

​

Schedule an Occupational Therapy Evaluation

If you’re looking for a therapy team that values compassion, collaboration, and innovation, we would be honored to support your child.

Contact REACH Pediatrics Therapy Services today to schedule an occupational therapy evaluation and learn how sensory processing therapy can help your child thrive.

bottom of page