Evidence review in progress · May be OAP-covered
Direct answer
Schoen et al. (2019) · Schaaf et al. (2014) · Verified 2026-08-20
Quick summary
In brief
Sensory Integration Therapy, Quick Summary
- This page is general information, not an individualized treatment recommendation.
- Evidence labels summarize the page sources and should not replace clinical judgment.
- Confirm provider credentials, coverage, goals, monitoring, alternatives, and fees before starting.
General information only, not a diagnosis, treatment plan, crisis service, or individual estimate. Confirm your next step with the linked source or a qualified professional.
At a glance
- Evidence level
- Evidence review in progress
- OAP funding
- Eligible under OAP core clinical services
- Typical cost
- Provider fees vary by setting; request a current written quote
- Typical frequency
- Individual plan varies; confirm the schedule with a qualified clinician
- Target age range
- Age suitability varies; confirm fit with a qualified clinician
OAP Coverage Note
OAP eligibility depends on current program rules, the funded service category, and the provider's credentials. Confirm coverage with AccessOAP or your service coordinator before committing to care.
Who provides this therapy
- Provider credential check
- Ask any prospective provider which of these credentials they hold, and confirm the credential with the relevant regulatory college before starting.
- Credentials listed for this therapy
- Occupational therapists (COTO-registered)
- Certified Sensory Integration therapists (ASI)
- Occupational therapy assistants (under OT supervision)
Understanding Sensory Processing in Autism
Sensory processing differences are extremely common in autism — the DSM-5 includes hyper- or hypo-reactivity to sensory input as a diagnostic criterion. These differences can manifest as distress from certain sounds, textures, or lights (hypersensitivity), limited response to pain or temperature (hyposensitivity), or an intense drive to seek specific sensory experiences like spinning, jumping, or deep pressure.
These sensory differences can significantly impact daily functioning, learning, and participation. A child who is overwhelmed by classroom noise may struggle to attend to instruction. A child who craves proprioceptive input may be in constant motion. Sensory integration therapy aims to help the nervous system process sensory information more effectively, reducing distress and improving participation in daily activities.
What Happens in Sensory Integration Therapy
Ayres Sensory Integration (ASI) therapy takes place in a specially equipped clinic with suspension equipment (swings, bolsters), climbing structures, tactile materials, and weighted items. The occupational therapist creates a "just right challenge" — activities that are challenging enough to promote neural adaptation but achievable enough to maintain engagement and build confidence.
Key principles include child-directed activity choice within a structured therapeutic environment, active sensory engagement rather than passive exposure, and targeting the integration of vestibular, proprioceptive, and tactile processing. A fidelity measure developed by Parham et al. (2011) ensures therapy sessions adhere to ASI principles. In Ontario, many pediatric OT clinics offer ASI in purpose-built sensory gyms, while others provide modified sensory strategies within standard clinic spaces.
Evidence and Clinical Considerations
The evidence base for sensory integration therapy is mixed. A 2019 systematic review by Schoen et al. found that ASI delivered with fidelity showed gains in individualized goals and sensory processing. Results were less consistent for broader outcomes. The 2014 Schaaf et al. randomized trial reported positive results for individualized goals.
Professional groups vary in their stance. Families should separate formal Ayres Sensory Integration therapy from sensory diets or sensory activities. ASI is clinic-based therapy from trained occupational therapists. Sensory strategies are day-to-day supports for regulation.
Evidence and sources
Schoen et al. (2019)
A systematic review of Ayres Sensory Integration intervention for children with autism. Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders, 49(1), 286-304.
Schaaf et al. (2014)
An intervention for sensory difficulties in children with autism: A randomized trial. Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders, 44(7), 1493-1506.
Before you commit
- Questions worth asking any provider
- What certification or regulatory college licenses you to deliver this therapy, and can I verify it?
- How will you measure progress, and how often will you share results with our family?
- What does a typical session look like, and can we observe one before committing?
- How does this approach get adjusted if it is not working after a few months?
- What happens to our data, our schedule, and our funding if you leave or the practice closes?
- Signs to slow down
- The provider cannot name a regulatory college or certifying body, or asks you not to check it.
- You are asked to sign a long-term contract before seeing a session or meeting the therapist.
- Progress is described only in general terms, with no way to see or measure it over time.
- The provider discourages you from getting a second opinion or asking about other approaches.
- Fees, cancellation terms, or what OAP funding covers are unclear or change after you sign up.
Frequently asked questions
Occupational therapy is covered under OAP core clinical services. Confirm whether sensory integration approaches and any equipment are included in your individualized plan by discussing with AccessOAP and your occupational therapist.
Ayres Sensory Integration (ASI) is clinic-based therapy delivered by trained occupational therapists using specialized equipment. A "sensory diet" is a home or school plan with scheduled sensory activities, such as jumping, deep pressure, or fidget tools. The two approaches differ in setting, delivery, and goals.
The evidence is rated limited-to-moderate. Research shows positive results for individualized goals and sensory processing when ASI is delivered with fidelity by trained OTs. However, large-scale RCTs are lacking, and results for broader outcomes like behavior and academics are inconsistent. It remains a widely used and valued approach within occupational therapy practice.
Where the waitlist stands
Families navigating autism services in Ontario face a documented multi-year wait. Here is the Ontario data — and a two-minute way to push back, when you are ready.
- Official provider list — snapshot of registered OAP providers. Ontario Autism Program (oapproviderlist.ca)
- Ontario Autism Program guidelines for Core Clinical Services and supports. Government of Ontario (2026)
Verified references and sources
Official Organizations
- [2025]Autism Spectrum Disorders Fact Sheet (updated September 17, 2025)World Health Organization (WHO) • Official • 2025-09-17
Peer-Reviewed Research
- [2010]Randomized, Controlled Trial of an Intervention for Toddlers With Autism: The Early Start Denver ModelDawson G, Rogers S, Munson J, et al. (Pediatrics) • Academic • 2010-01-01
- [2018]Early intensive behavioural intervention (EIBI) for young children with autism spectrum disorders (ASD)Reichow B, Hume K, Barton EE, Boyd BA (Cochrane Systematic Review) • Academic • 2018-05-09
About this page
Check the author’s context, review method, and how to report an error.