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Sensory Processing

Sensory Processing Disorder

Sensory Processing Disorder , also known as sensory integration dysfunction,  is a condition caused by sensory signals being misdirected and disorganized leading to inappropriate responses.  In a sense, a blockage occurs in parts of the brain which does not allow for the proper interpretation of sensory information.  If this disorder is not treated, clumsiness, depression and behavioral problems are some of a few issues that can affect daily life.  A person can be extremely sensitive to light or sound alone, or in combination.  Another can be affected by touch, where a feather against the skin will be unbearable, or in reverse, where extreme hot or cold to the skin will cause no reaction.  Most commonly, children are diagnosed and treated for this disorder, but it can affect adults as well.

Treatment focuses on Occupational Therapy combined with Sensory Integration.  The therapist initially challenges the child in the therapy setting but gradually involves the family to extend the learning and adaptation to the home and outside environment.

 

When to pursue therapy for Sensory Processing Disorder

Infants and toddlers

  • Unable to calm self
  • Does not like playing with toys
  • Rigid body
  • Does not like to be held
  • Unable to sleep or eat well
  • Uncomfortable in clothing

Pre-schoolers

  • Constantly moving
  • Unaware of personal space
  • Weak, clumsy, uncoordinated
  • Unusually sensitive to touch, smell and noise
  • Having trouble making friends
  • Unable to dress or perform daily tasks properly

Grade schoolers

  • Constantly moving, fidgety, unfocused
  • Easily overwhelmed
  • Does not feel pain
  • Unusually sensitive to touch, smell and noise
  • Has trouble with fine motor activities
  • Unable to be social

Adolescents and adults

  • Constantly moving, fidgety, unfocused
  • Unable to complete tasks, afraid of failure
  • Low self-esteem
  • Unusually sensitive to touch, smell and noise
  • Has trouble with fine motor activities, clumsy

Contact Us

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Lutz

17718 Hunting Bow Circle
Lutz, FL 33558

New Tampa

2241 Green Hedges Way
Wesley Chapel, FL 33544

Contact Info

p. 813-973-1033
f. 844-495-7168

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FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are a few questions that we've gotten over the past 10+ years of empowering kids to bloom and succeed through therapy.  For a full list of FAQ, click here.

What happens during our first visit?
Please plan to arrive 10 minutes early for your first appointment. You may download forms online, under "Resources" on the homepage of this website or by clicking here. These forms are password protected, so you will need to contact the office to obtain access. Your therapist will come out to greet you in the waiting room. Your child will be asked to remove his/her shoes, and he/she may choose a pair of socks to wear throughout their visit. This is to keep a healthy, clean environment for everyone and for the safety of the mats in the gym (yes, even the parents please!). Your therapist will then ask background questions and establish rapport in a playful manner. Your child will be put at ease immediately--this is a comfortable, fun, and playful place to be!
Will my insurance cover an evaluation and/or therapy?
Most often, insurance will cover at least a portion, if not all of an evaluation. Coverage for therapy services will depend on the individual insurance plan, and it is often determined by medical necessity. It is each family's responsibility to verify insurance benefits prior to receiving services. We will take a copy of your insurance card to verify your benefits; however, it is ultimately the family's responsibility to research as well.
How long will my child need therapy?
Typically, a treatment plan is established over 6-month increments. Your child will have his/her initial evaluation completed with treatment goals established to be achieved within a 6-month period. Sometimes therapy can extend for longer periods of time depending on progress, diagnosis, and severity of the disorder. Individual treatment plans are established, and parents play an integral role in treatment planning. You can expect that your child will participate in a re-evaluation every 6-9 months to determine if therapy goals need to be revised and to monitor progress. Your insurance may require more frequent documentation, in which case, it is your responsibility to notify your therapist what is required.
What insurance plans do you currently accept?

We are currently in-network for Advent Health, Aetna, Aetna Better Health, Allied, BCBS, CHAMPVA, Cigna, CMS, Coventry, Health First Health Plan, Humana, Meritain, Molina, Multiplan, Simply Health, Staywell, Straight Medicaid, Sunshine, Sunshine Healthy Kids, Tricare Select and Prime, UHC, and UMR.   Although we are out of network with some insurance companies at this time, you may still be eligible for coverage depending on your plan. In addition, being in-network does not always guarantee coverage for disorders that are developmental in nature. Please call the office to discuss your options.