Stand-Alone Sensory Assessments Available

You do not need to be an existing Occupational Therapy client to access a Sensory Profile or Sensory Processing Assessment.

Many families, schools, Support Coordinators, General Practitioners and other health professionals refer specifically for sensory assessments to gain a clearer understanding of how sensory processing may be influencing everyday functioning.

Following the assessment, participants and families receive practical recommendations that can be shared with schools, childcare providers, support workers and other members of their support team where appropriate.

Some families also choose to continue Occupational Therapy following the assessment, while others use the recommendations within their existing supports.

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What Is a Sensory Profile or Sensory Processing Assessment?

A Sensory Profile or Sensory Processing Assessment is a specialised Occupational Therapy assessment that explores how a person receives, interprets and responds to sensory information throughout everyday life.
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Rather than asking whether sensory responses are "right" or "wrong", the assessment aims to understand each person's unique sensory processing patterns and how those patterns influence participation in meaningful daily activities.
The assessment may explore responses to sensory input including:

• Touch
• Movement
• Balance
• Sound
• Vision
• Taste
• Smell
• Body awareness
• Internal body sensations

The Occupational Therapist then considers how these sensory experiences may influence everyday activities such as:

• Learning
• Play
• Self-care
• Emotional regulation
• Attention
• Social participation
• Sleep
• Eating
• School participation
• Community access
• Independence

This information helps build a comprehensive understanding of the person's sensory processing profile and guides recommendations that support participation across different environments.

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Sensory Processing Is Different for Everyone

Every person experiences the world differently.
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Some people naturally enjoy busy, noisy environments.
Others prefer quiet, predictable spaces.
Some seek movement throughout the day.
Others feel overwhelmed by fast movement or unexpected touch.

​These differences are a normal part of human diversity.

For some individuals, however, sensory processing differences may significantly influence their ability to participate comfortably in everyday activities.

An Occupational Therapy Sensory Assessment helps identify these patterns and understand how they may be affecting daily life.

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Sensory Processing Is Not About "Good" or "Bad"

At Belong Health, we take a neurodiversity-affirming approach to sensory processing.

We recognise that sensory differences are not behaviours that need to be "fixed."
Instead, sensory processing differences represent the unique ways individuals experience and interact with the world around them.

The goal of a sensory assessment is to understand these individual patterns and identify practical strategies that may support participation, wellbeing and quality of life.

Recommendations may include environmental adjustments, routines, sensory supports or Occupational Therapy strategies that help individuals participate more comfortably in the environments that are important to them.

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Who May Benefit from a Sensory Processing Assessment?

Sensory Profile and Sensory Processing Assessments may be beneficial for children, adolescents and adults who experience differences in how they respond to sensory information.
Families, educators and health professionals often seek an assessment when they notice someone who:

• Becomes overwhelmed in busy or noisy environments.
• Avoids certain clothing, textures or food.
• Frequently seeks movement or physical activity.
• Has difficulty sitting still or maintaining attention.
• Experiences emotional dysregulation in particular environments.
• Finds transitions challenging.
• Has difficulty participating in school or childcare.
• Appears unusually sensitive to sounds, lights or touch.
• Frequently bumps into objects or people.
• Seeks deep pressure or heavy work activities.
• Has challenges with self-care routines such as dressing, grooming or eating.

A sensory assessment may also be appropriate when sensory processing differences are affecting participation at home, school, work or in the community.

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Sensory Processing Differences Can Occur With or Without a Diagnosis

Sensory processing differences are commonly associated with neurodevelopmental conditions such as Autism and ADHD.

However, sensory processing differences are not exclusive to Autism and do not automatically indicate that a person is autistic.
Sensory differences may also occur alongside:

• ADHD
• Developmental Coordination Disorder (DCD)
• Developmental Delay
• Intellectual Disability
• Acquired Brain Injury
• Neurological conditions
• Mental health conditions
• Learning difficulties

Some individuals may also experience sensory processing differences without having a formal diagnosis.

An Occupational Therapy assessment helps understand how sensory processing affects the individual rather than focusing solely on diagnostic labels.

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Why Families Choose a Sensory Assessment

Families often tell us they have noticed behaviours or challenges but are unsure why they are happening.
A sensory assessment can help answer questions such as:

• Why does my child avoid certain clothing?
• Why do they become overwhelmed in shopping centres?
• Why do they constantly seek movement?
• Why are transitions so difficult?
• Why do some environments seem much harder than others?
• Why is eating certain foods so challenging?
• Why is bedtime becoming increasingly difficult?
• Why do teachers notice different behaviours than we see at home?

​Understanding sensory processing does not provide all the answers, but it can provide valuable insight into how sensory experiences influence everyday participation and help guide practical, individualised strategies.

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Understanding Sensory Processing

Every second of every day, your brain receives information from both your body and the environment around you.

This information is constantly being filtered, organised and interpreted to help you understand what is happening and decide how to respond.
This process is known as sensory processing.

Most of the time, sensory processing happens automatically without us thinking about it.
For example, your brain may:

• Notice someone calling your name in a busy classroom.
• Ignore the feeling of your socks while walking.
• Adjust your balance while climbing stairs.
• Recognise when you're becoming hungry.
• Help you judge how much force to use when picking up a glass.

These processes occur continuously and allow us to participate in everyday life.

​When sensory processing differences are present, some environments, activities or sensory experiences may require significantly more effort to manage.

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What Is Sensory Processing?

Sensory processing is the way the nervous system receives, organises and responds to information from both the environment and the body.
Rather than being a single skill, sensory processing involves many systems working together.
These systems help us:

• Move safely.
• Pay attention.
• Maintain balance.
• Recognise where our body is in space.
• Respond appropriately to our surroundings.
• Regulate emotions.
• Participate in school, work and community activities.
• Complete everyday self-care tasks.

When these systems work together efficiently, everyday activities often feel more manageable.

​When processing sensory information is more challenging, individuals may develop unique ways of responding to their environment.

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Sensory Processing Is Different for Everyone

No two people experience the world in exactly the same way.

Some people naturally enjoy busy environments full of movement, conversation and activity.
Others prefer quieter environments with fewer competing sensory demands.
Some people enjoy trying new foods and textures.
Others have strong preferences regarding clothing, food or physical touch.
These differences are a normal part of human diversity.

Occupational Therapists are interested in understanding how sensory processing influences participation, rather than judging whether one way of experiencing the world is better than another.

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Understanding the Eight Sensory Systems

Many people learn about the five traditional senses:

• Sight
• Hearing
• Touch
• Taste
• Smell

While these are important, Occupational Therapists also assess three additional sensory systems that play a major role in everyday functioning.
Together, these eight systems help us interact with the world around us.

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Visual System (Sight)

The visual system allows us to interpret information we see.
It supports:

• Reading
• Writing
• Recognising faces
• Navigating environments
• Judging distance
• Tracking moving objects

Some individuals may become overwhelmed in visually busy environments, while others may seek visual stimulation through lights, movement or patterns.

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Auditory System (Hearing)

The auditory system processes sounds within our environment.
It helps us:

• Understand speech.
• Listen in classrooms.
• Recognise warning sounds.
• Enjoy music.
• Filter background noise.

Some people are highly sensitive to loud or unexpected sounds, while others may require additional auditory input before noticing important information.

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Tactile System (Touch)

The tactile system helps us interpret information received through our skin.
This includes:

• Temperature
• Pressure
• Pain
• Texture
• Vibration
• Light touch

Touch plays an important role in:

• Dressing
• Grooming
• Eating
• Handwriting
• Social interaction
• Personal care

Some individuals may avoid certain clothing fabrics or grooming activities, while others may actively seek deep pressure or tactile experiences.

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Gustatory System (Taste)

The gustatory system allows us to experience different tastes.
This influences:

• Food preferences
• Trying new foods
• Mealtime participation
• Nutrition

Taste preferences vary greatly between individuals and may interact with other sensory systems such as smell and touch.

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Olfactory System (Smell)

The olfactory system detects smells within the environment.
Smell influences:

• Food enjoyment
• Safety
• Memory
• Emotional responses

Some individuals are particularly sensitive to perfumes, cleaning products or food smells, while others may notice smells less readily.

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Vestibular System (Movement and Balance)

The vestibular system is located within the inner ear and helps us understand movement, balance and changes in head position.
It supports:

• Balance
• Coordination
• Postural control
• Eye movements
• Navigating uneven surfaces

Some people actively seek movement through swinging, spinning or climbing, while others may avoid these activities because they feel uncomfortable or overwhelming.

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Proprioceptive System (Body Awareness)

The proprioceptive system helps us understand where our body is without needing to look.
It allows us to:

• Judge how much force to use.
• Lift objects.
• Climb stairs.
• Catch a ball.
• Sit upright.
• Coordinate movements.

Many Occupational Therapy strategies use proprioceptive input to support regulation and body awareness.

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Interoception (Internal Body Awareness)

Interoception refers to our ability to recognise signals coming from inside our own body.
Examples include recognising:

• Hunger
• Thirst
• Fullness
• Needing the toilet
• Pain
• Temperature
• Fatigue
• Stress
• Anxiety
• Increased heart rate

Interoception plays an important role in emotional regulation, self-awareness and recognising our body's needs.

​Growing research has highlighted the importance of interoception for many neurodivergent individuals, making it an important consideration during Occupational Therapy assessment.

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How the Sensory Systems Work Together

Although we describe each sensory system separately, they rarely work in isolation.
For example, when preparing breakfast, a person may simultaneously use:

• Vision to find ingredients.
• Touch to hold utensils.
• Proprioception to control movement.
• Vestibular processing to maintain balance.
• Smell and taste while preparing food.
• Interoception to recognise hunger.

Occupational Therapists consider how these systems interact to influence participation in everyday activities rather than assessing each sense independently.

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Sensory Processing Influences Everyday Participation

Sensory processing differences may influence many areas of daily life, including:

• Learning
• Play
• School participation
• Emotional regulation
• Attention
• Friendships
• Community access
• Self-care
• Sleep
• Eating
• Motor skills
• Organisation
• Independence

Every person experiences sensory information differently, and these differences may change depending on the environment, the activity and the individual's level of stress, fatigue or wellbeing.

This is why Occupational Therapy assessments explore sensory processing across multiple environments rather than relying on a single observation.

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How Occupational Therapists Assess Sensory Processing

Every individual experiences sensory information differently.

Rather than relying on a single observation or checklist, Occupational Therapists combine interviews, standardised assessments, clinical observations and professional reasoning to develop a comprehensive understanding of how sensory processing influences everyday life.

The aim is not to label behaviours as "good" or "bad", but to understand why they occur and how they affect participation at home, school, work and in the community.

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What Is the Sensory Profile?

The Sensory Profile is one of the most widely used Occupational Therapy assessment tools for understanding sensory processing patterns.
It is a standardised questionnaire that explores how an individual typically responds to sensory experiences encountered in everyday life.

Rather than measuring intelligence or diagnosing a condition, the Sensory Profile helps Occupational Therapists understand:

• Sensory preferences
• Sensory processing patterns
• Responses to different environments
• Everyday participation
• Functional strengths
• Areas where additional support may be helpful

The results are interpreted alongside clinical observations, interviews and other assessment findings to develop practical recommendations tailored to the individual.

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What Does the Sensory Profile Assess?

The Sensory Profile explores how a person responds to sensory experiences across a wide range of environments and daily activities.
Depending on the version used, it may explore responses to:

• Auditory input
• Visual input
• Touch
• Movement
• Body awareness
• Taste and smell
• Activity level
• Emotional responses
• Attention
• Social participation

The assessment provides valuable insight into how sensory processing may influence everyday functioning.

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Understanding Dunn's Four Sensory Processing Patterns

One of the strengths of the Sensory Profile is that it helps Occupational Therapists understand four common sensory processing patterns described within Dunn's Model of Sensory Processing.

Every person demonstrates aspects of each pattern.

​The assessment simply helps identify which patterns are more noticeable for that individual.

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Sensation Seeking

Some individuals actively seek additional sensory experiences throughout the day.
They may:

• Enjoy movement.
• Prefer active play.
• Seek deep pressure.
• Fidget while concentrating.
• Enjoy climbing, jumping or swinging.
• Frequently touch objects around them.

Seeking sensory input is not necessarily problematic.

For many people, seeking movement or other sensory experiences helps support attention, regulation and participation.
Occupational Therapists explore whether opportunities for safe and appropriate sensory input may support everyday functioning.

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Sensory Avoiding

Some individuals actively avoid certain sensory experiences because they feel overwhelming, distracting or uncomfortable.
Examples may include:

• Avoiding loud environments.
• Disliking certain clothing textures.
• Becoming overwhelmed in shopping centres.
• Avoiding messy play.
• Preferring predictable routines.
• Leaving busy social situations.

Avoiding sensory input is often a strategy that helps individuals manage overwhelming environments.
Understanding these patterns allows Occupational Therapists to recommend practical environmental modifications and supportive strategies.

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Sensory Sensitivity

Some individuals notice sensory information more quickly or intensely than others.
They may:

• Be easily distracted by background noise.
• Notice clothing labels.
• React strongly to unexpected touch.
• Become overwhelmed by bright lighting.
• Find strong smells unpleasant.
• Experience discomfort in busy environments.

Sensitivity does not necessarily mean someone avoids all sensory experiences.
Instead, it reflects how readily sensory information is detected and processed.

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Low Registration

Some individuals require more sensory input before noticing what is happening around them.
They may:

• Miss verbal instructions.
• Appear unaware when their name is called.
• Seem less aware of pain or temperature.
• Need additional movement to stay alert.
• Take longer to respond to environmental changes.

Understanding low registration can help explain why some individuals appear inattentive in certain environments despite wanting to participate.

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Understanding the Sensory Processing Measure (SPM-2)

In addition to the Sensory Profile, Occupational Therapists may also use the Sensory Processing Measure (SPM-2) where clinically appropriate.
The SPM-2 provides information about how sensory processing affects participation across multiple environments.
Depending on the version used, questionnaires may be completed by:

• Parents
• Teachers
• Early childhood educators
• Support workers
• The individual themselves (where appropriate)

Comparing information from different environments helps Occupational Therapists understand whether sensory processing patterns remain consistent or vary depending on the setting.

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What Does the Sensory Processing Measure Assess?

The SPM-2 explores several important areas of everyday functioning, including:

• Social participation
• Vision
• Hearing
• Touch
• Body awareness
• Balance and movement
• Planning and motor skills (praxis)
• Overall sensory processing

Because the assessment gathers information across different settings, it can provide valuable insight into how sensory processing influences participation at home, school and within the community.

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Sensory Profile vs Sensory Processing Measure (SPM-2)

Families often ask which assessment is "better."
The answer depends on the individual and the purpose of the assessment.

​The Sensory Profile focuses on identifying a person's sensory processing patterns and preferences across everyday life.
The SPM-2 provides additional information about how sensory processing influences participation in different environments, such as home and school, and includes a strong focus on social participation and praxis (motor planning).

Occupational Therapists select assessment tools based on the individual's age, presentation and assessment goals.
In some cases, more than one assessment may be used to provide a more comprehensive understanding.

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Clinical Observations Are Just as Important

Standardised assessments are only one part of the assessment process.
Occupational Therapists also complete detailed clinical observations.

Depending on the person's age and goals, this may include observing:

• Play skills
• Fine motor activities
• Gross motor activities
• Classroom participation
• Self-care routines
• Emotional regulation
• Social interaction
• Attention
• Transitions
• Movement patterns
• Responses to different sensory experiences

These observations provide valuable context that cannot always be captured by questionnaires alone.

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Bringing the Information Together

Once all assessment information has been gathered, your Occupational Therapist carefully analyses the findings.
This includes considering:

• Standardised assessment results
• Clinical observations
• Parent or caregiver interviews
• Teacher feedback
• School information
• Medical history
• Developmental history
• Functional participation
• Individual goals

Rather than focusing on isolated behaviours, the Occupational Therapist develops a comprehensive understanding of how sensory processing influences everyday participation across different environments.

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What Happens After the Assessment?

Following the assessment, your Occupational Therapist prepares an individualised report that explains the assessment findings in clear, practical language.
Where appropriate, the report may include recommendations relating to:

• Home strategies
• School supports
• Environmental modifications
• Emotional regulation
• Sensory strategies
• Assistive equipment
• Occupational Therapy intervention
• Goal setting
• Capacity building
• Further assessments where indicated

​The report can be shared with parents, schools, Support Coordinators and other members of the participant's support team to promote consistent understanding and practical implementation across different environments.

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How Sensory Processing Can Affect Everyday Life

Sensory processing influences far more than how someone responds to sounds, lights or touch.

Because sensory information is constantly being processed by the brain, differences in sensory processing may influence many aspects of everyday life, including learning, communication, relationships, emotional regulation, self-care and participation in the community.
The impact varies from person to person.

Some individuals experience only minor differences that require small environmental adjustments.
Others may experience sensory processing differences that significantly affect their ability to participate comfortably in everyday activities.

​An Occupational Therapy Sensory Assessment helps identify these individual patterns so practical, person-centred recommendations can be developed.

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Sensory Processing and Emotional Regulation

Sensory processing and emotional regulation are closely connected.

When sensory input becomes overwhelming, unpredictable or difficult to process, some individuals may experience increased stress, frustration or emotional dysregulation.

For example, someone who is highly sensitive to noise may find a busy shopping centre exhausting, while another person may become overwhelmed by bright lights, crowded classrooms or unexpected physical touch.
These responses are not simply a matter of behaviour or choice.
Often, they reflect the way the nervous system is processing sensory information in that environment.

Occupational Therapists explore how sensory experiences influence emotional regulation and work with individuals and families to develop practical strategies that support participation while respecting sensory preferences and needs.

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Sensory Processing and Attention

Paying attention requires the brain to filter important information while ignoring background sensory input.
When sensory processing is different, this filtering process may become more challenging.

For some people, background conversations, fluorescent lights or movement within a classroom may compete with the information they are trying to focus on.
Others may require additional movement or sensory input to maintain alertness and concentration.

Understanding sensory processing patterns can help explain why attention may vary between different environments and activities.

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Sensory Processing and Learning

Sensory processing plays an important role in learning.
Children learn through movement, play, interaction and exploration.
If a classroom environment is overwhelming or does not meet a child's sensory needs, learning may become significantly more difficult.

Sensory processing differences may influence:

• Listening during lessons
• Following instructions
• Remaining seated
• Participating in group activities
• Completing written work
• Organising materials
• Transitioning between tasks
• Participating in physical education
• Managing playground environments

Understanding these influences allows Occupational Therapists to recommend practical classroom strategies that support participation rather than simply expecting the child to adapt to every environment.

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Sensory Processing and School Participation

School places many sensory demands on children.
A typical school day may involve:

• Busy classrooms
• Playground noise
• Bell sounds
• Group work
• Bright lighting
• Unexpected changes
• Long periods of sitting
• Transitions between activities
• Social interactions

​For some children these experiences are manageable.
For others, they may require significant effort throughout the day.

Occupational Therapy recommendations may include:

• Environmental adjustments
• Classroom seating strategies
• Movement opportunities
• Visual supports
• Sensory regulation strategies
• Individualised routines
• Collaboration with teachers and education staff

The aim is to support participation while recognising each student's unique strengths and sensory profile.

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Sensory Processing and Sleep

Sleep is influenced by many factors, including sensory processing.

Some individuals may find it difficult to settle because they remain highly aware of sounds, light, clothing textures or movement.
Others may seek additional sensory input before feeling ready for sleep.

A Sensory Assessment does not diagnose sleep disorders, but it may identify sensory factors that contribute to bedtime routines or sleep participation.

Where appropriate, Occupational Therapists may recommend practical environmental or routine-based strategies that support healthy sleep habits.

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Sensory Processing and Eating

Eating is one of the most sensory-rich activities we perform.
Meals involve:

• Taste
• Smell
• Texture
• Temperature
• Appearance
• Movement
• Sound
• Social interaction

Some individuals enjoy a wide variety of foods.
Others have strong preferences relating to texture, temperature or flavour.

A sensory assessment explores whether sensory processing may be contributing to mealtime participation and helps guide recommendations where appropriate.

Where feeding difficulties are complex, collaboration with Speech Pathologists or other health professionals may also be recommended.

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Sensory Processing and Self-Care

Everyday self-care activities involve multiple sensory systems working together.
Sensory processing differences may influence:

• Dressing
• Showering
• Bathing
• Hair washing
• Tooth brushing
• Nail cutting
• Grooming
• Toileting

Understanding the sensory experiences associated with these activities can help Occupational Therapists recommend strategies that improve comfort, participation and independence.

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Sensory Processing and Play

Play is an essential occupation of childhood.
Through play, children develop:

• Social skills
• Problem-solving
• Motor skills
• Creativity
• Confidence
• Emotional regulation

Sensory processing differences may influence the types of play a child enjoys, avoids or seeks.

Occupational Therapists assess play within the context of the child's individual interests, strengths and developmental stage rather than comparing them to a single "ideal" way of playing.

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Sensory Processing and Motor Planning

Sensory information plays an important role in planning and coordinating movement.
Some individuals experience challenges with:

• Learning new motor skills
• Coordinating movements
• Sequencing activities
• Using playground equipment
• Ball skills
• Handwriting
• Dressing
• Using tools

Where appropriate, Occupational Therapists may also assess motor planning (praxis) and consider whether a Developmental Coordination Disorder (DCD) assessment or intervention would be beneficial.

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Sensory Processing and Executive Functioning

Executive functioning refers to the thinking skills we use to plan, organise and complete everyday activities.
Sensory processing differences may interact with executive functioning in a number of ways.
For example, an individual who becomes overwhelmed by sensory input may find it more difficult to:

• Begin tasks
• Stay organised
• Follow routines
• Transition between activities
• Solve problems
• Manage time
• Complete multi-step activities

Understanding this interaction helps Occupational Therapists develop strategies that support participation while recognising the combined influence of sensory and executive functioning differences.

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Sensory Processing Across the Lifespan

Although sensory processing is often discussed in relation to children, sensory differences continue throughout adolescence and adulthood.
Adults may notice sensory processing differences in:

• Work environments
• Parenting
• Relationships
• Community participation
• Driving
• Shopping
• Household management
• Leisure activities

Older adults may also experience changes in sensory processing following neurological conditions, injury or age-related health changes.

Occupational Therapy assessment can help individuals understand how sensory processing continues to influence participation across different stages of life.

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Sensory Processing Is Not Exclusive to Autism

One of the most common misconceptions is that sensory processing differences only occur in autistic individuals.
While sensory processing differences are common in Autism, they may also occur in people with:

• ADHD
• Developmental Coordination Disorder (DCD)
• Intellectual Disability
• Learning Difficulties
• Acquired Brain Injury
• Neurological conditions
• Anxiety
• Mental health conditions

Some individuals experience sensory processing differences without meeting the diagnostic criteria for any specific condition.

This is why Occupational Therapists focus on understanding the individual's functional participation rather than making assumptions based solely on diagnosis.

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Why Choose Belong Health?

At Belong Health, we understand that sensory processing is deeply personal.

​Our goal is not to change who someone is, but to better understand how they experience the world and identify practical strategies that support meaningful participation in everyday life.
Our Occupational Therapists provide sensory assessments that are:

• Neurodiversity-affirming
• Person-centred
• Family-focused
• Evidence-informed
• Strengths-based
• Individualised
• Practical

We work collaboratively with participants, families, educators, Support Coordinators and other health professionals to develop recommendations that are realistic, meaningful and tailored to each individual's goals.

Whether you're seeking answers for yourself, your child or someone you support, we're here to help you better understand sensory processing and its impact on everyday life.

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Ready to Learn More About Sensory Processing?

If you or someone you support experiences sensory processing differences that are affecting everyday life, a comprehensive Occupational Therapy Sensory Assessment may help provide greater understanding and practical recommendations.

Belong Health offers Sensory Profile and Sensory Processing Assessments for children, adolescents and adults across Perth, Mandurah, Rockingham, the Peel Region and wider Western Australia.

To learn more or book an assessment, contact our friendly team today.

Call 08 9586 3934 , submit an online enquiry or speak with your GP, paediatrician, psychologist, school or Support Coordinator about arranging a Sensory Processing Assessment with Belong Health.

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Related Occupational Therapy Assessments

Depending on the assessment findings, your Occupational Therapist may also recommend:

Functional Capacity Assessments
A comprehensive assessment of everyday functioning across the NDIS functional domains.

Cognitive Assessments
Explores memory, attention, executive functioning and other cognitive skills that may influence participation.

Activities of Daily Living (ADL) Assessments
Assesses independence with personal care, household tasks and everyday routines.

Home Safety Assessments
Identifies environmental factors that may support sensory regulation, safety and participation within the home.

Assistive Technology Assessments
Explores equipment or sensory supports that may assist participation in everyday activities.

Falls Risk Assessments
Where balance, movement or neurological conditions contribute to safety concerns, additional assessment may be appropriate.

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Frequently Asked Questions About Sensory Profile & Sensory Processing Assessments

Understanding Sensory Processing

What is sensory processing?
Sensory processing is the way the brain receives, organises and responds to information from the body and the environment. It allows us to interpret sights, sounds, touch, movement, body awareness and other sensory experiences so we can participate in everyday activities.

What is a sensory processing assessment?
A sensory processing assessment is an Occupational Therapy assessment that explores how sensory processing influences participation in everyday life. It helps identify sensory patterns, understand how these affect daily activities and develop practical recommendations to support participation.

What is a Sensory Profile assessment?
A Sensory Profile assessment is a standardised Occupational Therapy assessment that explores how an individual typically responds to sensory experiences encountered during everyday life. It helps identify sensory processing patterns and guides individualised recommendations.

Is a Sensory Profile the same as a sensory processing assessment?
Not exactly.
The Sensory Profile is one assessment tool that Occupational Therapists may use as part of a broader sensory processing assessment.
A comprehensive assessment also includes interviews, clinical observations and professional interpretation.

What is the Sensory Processing Measure (SPM-2)?
The Sensory Processing Measure (SPM-2) is a standardised Occupational Therapy assessment that examines how sensory processing affects participation across different environments, such as home and school.

What is the difference between the Sensory Profile and the SPM-2?
Both assessments explore sensory processing but have different strengths.
The Sensory Profile focuses on sensory processing patterns and preferences.
The SPM-2 also examines how sensory processing influences participation across different settings and includes information about social participation and motor planning.
Your Occupational Therapist will determine which assessment is most appropriate.

Sensory Processing

Does everyone process sensory information differently?
Yes.
Every person has unique sensory preferences and processing patterns.
Differences in sensory processing become clinically relevant when they significantly affect participation, comfort or independence in everyday life.

Does having sensory processing differences mean someone is autistic?
No.
Although sensory processing differences are common in autistic people, they are not exclusive to Autism and do not automatically indicate an Autism diagnosis.

Can someone have sensory processing differences without a diagnosis?
Yes.
Some individuals experience sensory processing differences without meeting the diagnostic criteria for any specific condition.

Is sensory processing disorder an official diagnosis in Australia?
Occupational Therapists commonly assess sensory processing differences and their impact on everyday functioning.
If you have questions about diagnosis, your Occupational Therapist or treating medical practitioner can discuss how sensory findings relate to your individual circumstances.

The Eight Sensory Systems

What are the eight sensory systems?
Occupational Therapists commonly consider eight sensory systems:

• Vision
• Hearing
• Touch
• Taste
• Smell
• Vestibular (movement and balance)
• Proprioception (body awareness)
• Interoception (internal body awareness)

Together, these systems influence how we participate in everyday life.

What is the vestibular system?
The vestibular system helps us understand movement, balance and changes in head position. It supports activities such as walking, climbing stairs, maintaining posture and coordinating movement.

What is proprioception?
Proprioception is our awareness of where our body is in space. It helps us judge force, coordinate movement and complete everyday activities without constantly looking at our body.

What is interoception?
Interoception is our awareness of internal body sensations such as hunger, thirst, needing the toilet, temperature, pain, fatigue and emotional changes.

Children and Sensory Processing

What are some signs a child may benefit from a sensory assessment?
Some children may benefit from an assessment if they:

• Become overwhelmed by noise.
• Avoid certain clothing.
• Seek constant movement.
• Have difficulty with transitions.
• Avoid particular food textures.
• Experience emotional dysregulation.
• Struggle in busy environments.
• Have challenges participating at school or childcare.

These experiences can occur for many reasons, so an assessment helps understand the individual's unique sensory profile.

Can sensory processing affect learning?
Yes.
Sensory processing may influence attention, participation, organisation, classroom engagement and learning.
Occupational Therapists consider how sensory processing affects school participation and recommend practical strategies where appropriate.

Can sensory processing affect handwriting?
Yes.
Sensory processing may influence posture, body awareness, motor planning and attention, all of which can affect handwriting.
Where appropriate, the Occupational Therapist will also assess fine motor skills and other contributing factors.

Can sensory processing affect friendships?
It can.
Sensory processing differences may influence participation in group activities, playground interactions, shared interests and social environments.

Can sensory processing affect play?
Yes.
Children may have preferences for particular types of play or avoid certain activities based on how they process sensory information.
Occupational Therapists assess play within the context of the child's strengths, interests and developmental stage.

Emotional Regulation and Behaviour

Can sensory processing affect emotional regulation?
Yes.
Sensory processing and emotional regulation are closely connected.
Some individuals become overwhelmed when sensory input exceeds their capacity to comfortably process it.
Understanding sensory processing can help explain these experiences and guide practical support strategies.

Does sensory processing cause behaviour?
Behaviour is influenced by many factors.
Sensory processing may contribute to how someone responds in particular environments, but Occupational Therapists consider the whole person, including communication, emotions, health, routines and environmental factors.

Can sensory processing affect attention?
Yes.
Some individuals may find it difficult to filter sensory information, while others may seek additional sensory input to remain alert and engaged.

Everyday Life

Can sensory processing affect sleep?
Yes.
Sensory preferences may influence bedtime routines, comfort and the sleep environment.
Occupational Therapists consider sensory factors alongside other influences on sleep.

Can sensory processing affect eating?
Yes.
Sensory processing may influence responses to food textures, smells, temperatures and flavours.
Complex feeding concerns may also involve Speech Pathologists and other health professionals.

Can sensory processing affect dressing?
Yes.
Some individuals have strong preferences regarding clothing textures, seams, tags or temperature.
Occupational Therapy assessment helps identify practical strategies that support participation in dressing routines.

Can sensory processing affect toileting?
It can.
Some individuals may experience sensory differences that influence toileting routines, body awareness or recognition of internal body signals.

Can sensory processing affect community participation?
Yes.
Busy shopping centres, sporting events, public transport and other community environments may present different sensory demands.
Occupational Therapists explore strategies that support comfortable participation.

Autism, ADHD and Other Conditions

Is sensory processing common in Autism?
Yes.
Many autistic people experience sensory processing differences, although every autistic person has their own unique sensory profile.

Is sensory processing common in ADHD?
Yes.
Many people with ADHD experience sensory processing differences that may influence attention, emotional regulation and everyday participation.

Can sensory processing occur with Developmental Coordination Disorder (DCD)?
Yes.
Some individuals with DCD experience sensory processing differences alongside motor planning and coordination challenges.

Can adults have sensory processing differences?
Absolutely.
Sensory processing differences continue throughout adulthood and may influence work, relationships, parenting, leisure and community participation.

Can older adults benefit from sensory assessment?
Yes.
Where appropriate, Occupational Therapy sensory assessment may assist older adults following neurological conditions or changes affecting everyday participation.

Occupational Therapy Assessment

What happens during a sensory assessment?
The assessment may include:

• Interviews
• Standardised questionnaires
• Clinical observations
• Functional assessment
• Review of participation at home, school or work
• Preparation of an individualised report

How long does a sensory assessment take?
Assessment time varies depending on the individual's age, goals and complexity.
Additional time is required for scoring questionnaires, interpreting results and preparing the report.

Will my child need to complete tests?
Not always.
Many sensory assessments involve observation, play-based activities and questionnaires completed by parents, teachers or caregivers.
The assessment process is tailored to the individual's age and needs.

Can teachers contribute?
Yes.
Teacher input often provides valuable information about how sensory processing influences participation within the school environment.

Will I receive a report?
Yes.
Following the assessment, you will receive a comprehensive report outlining the assessment findings and recommendations.

What recommendations might be included?
Recommendations may relate to:

• Home strategies
• School supports
• Environmental modifications
• Emotional regulation
• Sensory strategies
• Occupational Therapy intervention
• Capacity building
• Further assessments where appropriate

NDIS and Funding

Can a sensory assessment support NDIS applications or reviews?
Where appropriate, sensory assessment findings may contribute to broader Occupational Therapy reports or Functional Capacity Assessments that support NDIS planning and evidence gathering.

Is a sensory assessment the same as a Functional Capacity Assessment?
No.
A Functional Capacity Assessment evaluates everyday functioning across multiple life domains.
A sensory assessment specifically explores sensory processing and how it influences participation.

Can a sensory assessment be completed on its own?
Yes.
Many people access a sensory assessment as a stand-alone Occupational Therapy service.

Do I need a referral?
Not usually.
However, some funding pathways or organisations may request one.

Do you provide assessments at schools?
Yes.
Where appropriate, Belong Health can complete assessments in schools, childcare settings, homes, clinics or community environments.

Do you offer telehealth sensory assessments?
Some components of a sensory assessment may be completed via telehealth where clinically appropriate.
Your Occupational Therapist will discuss whether telehealth is suitable for your situation.

How much does a sensory assessment cost?
Costs vary depending on the assessment requirements, travel and reporting needs.
Please contact our friendly team for an individualised quotation.

​Referrals to Belong Health
We are Medicare and Private Health fund registered for Occupational Therapy and Speech Pathology.

EPC/Team care arrangements/Chronic disease (CDM) or GP management plans and self-referrals are all acceptable.

WA NDIS Registered Provider  

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Medicare
You can get a referral from your/your child’s GP for OT on a Chronic Disease Management (CDM) plan this gives you 5 sessions for OT per calendar year with a $53 rebate available on each session or a Helping Children with Autism/PDD/ or an eligible disability package (20 sessions between allied health professionals, as set up by a Paediatrician/Psychiatrist) which gives your child under 16 years a $75 rebate per session for the 20 sessions, you can use up to 10 sessions per Health Professional (up to 10 for OT) and you will need a separate referral letter from your child’s Paediatrician for each Allied Health Professional you are seeking services from. 

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Private Health
Your Private Health fund may cover up to 75% of the cost of OT sessions if this is included in your cover, be sure to call them or check your policy for details.

No referral or self referral
You do not require a referral for accessing OT

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NDIS Registered Provider
We are an NDIS Registered Provider
Whether you or your child have NDIS funding that is NDIS Managed, Third Party Plan Managed or you are Self-Managing your funds, you are able to use your funding to cover the full cost of therapy services plus travel costs. You will need provide us with your/your child’s NDIS number and plan details ahead of your first session. Once you have booked a session or contacted us, our team will be in touch to discuss our service agreement and provide you with our services price list. 

Let's Work Together

Accessing our Perth services

OFFICE HOURS:         MONDAY TO FRIDAY 8:30am - 4:30pm

13 Littleton st, Falcon

Phone: 08 9586 3934

EMAIL US

BELONG HEALTH'S Paediatric Occupational Therapy SERVICES FOR Perth region

A: Alexander Heights, Alfred Cove, Applecross, Applecross North, Ardross, Armadale, Ascot, Ashby, Ashfield, Attadale, Atwell, Aubin Grove, Aveley
B: Balcatta, Balga, Ballajura, Banjup, Banksia Grove, Baskerville, Bassendean, Bateman, Bayswater, Beaconsfield, Beckenham, Bedford, Bedfordale, Beechboro, Beeliar, Beldon, Belhus, Bellevue, Belmont, Bennett Springs, Bentley, Bibra Lake, Bicton, Booragoon, Boya, Brabham, Brentwood, Brigadoon, Broadway Nedlands, Brookdale, Bull Creek, Burns Beach, Burswood, Bushmead, Butler
C: Canning Vale, Cannington, Carabooda, Carine, Carlisle, Carramar, Caversham, Champion Lakes, Churchlands, City Beach, Claremont, Clarkson, Cloverdale, Cockburn Central, Como, Connolly, Coogee, Coolbellup, Coolbinia, Cottesloe, Craigie, Crawley, Currambine
D: Daglish, Dalkeith, Darch, Darlington, Dayton, Dianella, Dog Swamp, Doubleview, Duncraig
E: East Cannington, East Fremantle, East Perth, East Victoria Park, Eden Hill, Edgewater, Ellenbrook, Embleton
F: Ferndale, Floreat, Forrestdale, Forrestfield, Fremantle
G: Gidgegannup, Girrawheen, Glen Forrest, Glendalough, Glengarry, Gnangara, Gosnells, Greenmount, Greenwood, Guildford, Gwelup
H: Hamersley, Hamilton Hill, Hammond Park, Harrisdale, Haynes, Hazelmere, Heathridge, Helena Valley, Henderson, Henley Brook, Herdsman, Herne Hill, High Wycombe, Highgate, Hilbert, Hillarys, Hilton, Hocking, Hovea, Huntingdale
I: Iluka, Inglewood, Innaloo, Jandabup, Jandakot, Jane Brook, Jindalee, Jolimont, Joondalup, Joondanna
K: Kallaroo, Karawara, Kardinya, Karragullen, Karrakatta, Karrinyup, Kelmscott, Kensington, Kenwick, Kewdale, Kiara, Kings Park, Kingsley, Kingsway, Kinross, Koondoola, Koongamia
L: Landsdale, Langford, Lathlain, Leederville, Leeming, Lexia, Lockridge, Lynwood
M: Maddington, Madeley, Mahogany Creek, Maida Vale, Malaga, Manning, Marangaroo, Mariginiup, Marmion, Martin, Maylands, Melaleuca, Melville, Menora, Merriwa, Middle Swan, Midland, Midvale, Millendon, Mindarie, Mirrabooka, Morangup, Morley, Mosman Park, Mount Claremont, Mount Hawthorn, Mount Lawley, Mount Nasura, Mount Pleasant, Mount Richon, Mullaloo, Munster, Murdoch, Myaree
N: Nedlands, Neerabup, Nollamara, Noranda, North Beach, North Coogee, North Fremantle, North Lake, North Perth, Northbridge, Nowergup
O: O'connor, Ocean Reef, Orange Grove, Osborne Park
P: Padbury, Palmyra, Parkerville, Parkwood, Pearsall, Peppermint Grove, Perth, Piara Waters, Pinjar, Queens Park, Quinns Rocks
R: Red Hill, Redcliffe, Ridgewood, Riverton, Rivervale, Roleystone, Rossmoyne, Rottnest Island
S: Salter Point, Samson, Sawyers Valley, Scarborough, Seville Grove, Shelley, Shenton Park, Sinagra, Sorrento, South Fremantle, South Guildford, South Lake, South Perth, Southern River, Spearwood, St James, Stirling, Stoneville, Stratton, Subiaco, Subiaco East, Success, Swan View, Swanbourne
T: Tamala Park, Tapping, The Vines, Thornlie, Treeby, Trigg, Tuart Hill
U: Upper Swan
V: Victoria Park
W: Wangara, Wanneroo, Warwick, Waterford, Watermans Bay, Wattle Grove, Wattleup, Welshpool, Wembley, Wembley Downs, West Leederville, West Perth, West Swan, Westfield, Westminster, White Gum Valley, Whiteman, Willagee, Willetton, Wilson, Winthrop, Woodbridge, Woodlands, Woodvale, Wungong
Y: Yangebup, Yokine​