Understanding Sensory Processing Disorder: How Telehealth Occupational Therapy Can Help

Sensory Processing Disorder (SPD) is a condition where the brain has difficulty organizing and responding appropriately to information received from the senses. This can affect how someone reacts to sights, sounds, textures, smells, and movement. For individuals with SPD, everyday experiences—like getting dressed, trying new foods, or hearing loud noises—can feel overwhelming or even distressing.

Occupational therapists (OTs) play a key role in helping individuals with SPD develop strategies to process and respond to sensory input more effectively. And thanks to telehealth, this support is now more accessible than ever.

A young child in a yellow shirt and red pants plays with corn kernels in a plastic tub on grass, surrounded by colorful fabric pom-poms.

What Does SPD Look Like?

SPD can present in many ways, including:

• Oversensitivity to touch, sound, tastes, smells, textures, or movement

• Sensory seeking behaviors, such as jumping, crashing, or chewing

• Avoidance of certain activities, like hair brushing or playground equipment

• Difficulty with transitions or new routines

• Challenges with focus, self-regulation, or emotional control

These behaviors are not just “acting out”—they’re often signs that a person is trying to manage or make sense of sensory input that feels too much or too little.

Child wearing orange sweater and green overalls presses hands over ears, eyes shut tight, with a pink headband. Plain white background.

How Occupational Therapy Helps

Occupational therapists help individuals with SPD by providing:

• Sensory-based strategies tailored to individual needs

• Movement and play activities to improve regulation and body awareness

• Environmental adaptations for home, school, or community settings

• Support for daily routines like dressing, mealtime, or bedtime

• Education for parents and caregivers to better support sensory needs

The goal is to help individuals build comfort, confidence, and independence in daily life.

Two kids in gray shirts happily brush teeth at a bathroom sink. Orange and blue cups are beside a silver faucet. White shelves in background.

Telehealth OT: Support at Home, Where It Matters Most

At Bright Telehealth, we specialize in providing high-quality occupational therapy via telehealth—making it easier for families to get the support they need without leaving home.

Through secure video sessions, our therapists:

• Observe sensory behaviors in the child’s natural environment

• Demonstrate and guide sensory activities using everyday items

• Coach caregivers in real time to support skill development

• Customize treatment plans based on real-world routines and challenges

• Offer ongoing support, encouragement, and home program ideas

Telehealth allows therapy to happen in the exact settings where sensory struggles often occur—making progress more practical and relevant.

Child plays with blue kinetic sand on a tray, building with colorful molds. Bright, playful setting. Hands focus, no visible text.

Why Telehealth Works Well for SPD

• Familiar Environment: Children and adults often feel more regulated and open to learning in their own space

• Flexible Scheduling: Therapy fits into your day, with no travel or waiting rooms

• Parent Empowerment: Caregivers are actively involved, learning strategies they can use on a daily basis

• Meaningful Outcomes: Goals are targeted to real-life situations—meals, transitions, bedtime, playtime, and more

  
  

Final Thoughts

Sensory Processing Disorder can impact daily life in many ways—but with the right tools and support, individuals can learn to navigate their sensory world with greater ease and confidence. At Bright Telehealth LLC, we’re here to guide you every step of the way with compassionate, evidence-based care delivered through telehealth.

If you or your child are experiencing sensory challenges, reach out to us to learn more. Help is just a video call away—and it starts with understanding, support, and a plan that works for your life.