Sensory & the Scope of the SLP
Today I want to share about one of my favorite topics: sensory and the scope of the SLP.
I get A LOT of questions and comments when I talk about the SLP’s role in sensory:
"Is that in your scope of practice??"
"That's what OTs do..."
"Why should SLPs learn about sensory when they can consult with OTs?"
And my response is usually this: the greatest most respected sensory experts in the world believe that sensory should be understood by everyone. This means not just OTs but also teachers, other professionals, and parents.
There is room for everyone at the sensory table.
I’ve consulted with Dr. Winnie Dunn, the author of the Sensory Profile, on several occasions and every time I speak with her it’s just so validating.
Dr. Winnie Dunn is a guest lecturer in my Sensory Certificate Course for SLPs and we have also co-authored an article together for ASHA. You can check out that article here: Is Your Client an Avoider or Seeker? Sensor or Bystander?
I am so passionate about sensory processing that I enrolled in the Ayres Sensory Integration Training from USC-Chan. This certification is meant for OTs. And there was some chatter about me, an SLP, taking this certification. So I asked my professors if I really could do this and they all said, “yes!”.
I am wholeheartedly a firm believer in collaboration.
SLPs using sensory strategies in our sessions is NOT a replacement for OT.
OTs are using sensory strategies for very different reasons than SLPs.
As SLPs, we are focusing on regulation so that we can build authentic connections and increase engagement in order to get our clients communicating. That is the goal.
Using sensory strategies is just like any other specialty in our field. You need to be trained.
You wouldn’t provide feeding therapy without any feeding training. The same is true for sensory.
That is why I created the Sensory Certificate Course for SLPs because there was no other sensory training out there for SLPs.
If you are an SLP interested in learning more about how to use sensory strategies in your speech session, click here to learn more about the Inside Out Sensory Certificate Course for SLPs.
Ultimately, using sensory strategies helps us get our clients regulated so they can have more effective sessions and build their language more. And then we can help them understand their sensory systems so they can advocate for themselves and their needs.
Link to the show on Sensory and the Scope of the SLP:
