What Is a Sensory Profile? Understanding Sensory Regulation and Occupational Therapy in Shoalhaven and Illawarra

Sensory tip

Does your child cover their ears at loud noises, avoid certain textures, or struggle with busy environments? Maybe they’re constantly seeking movement, touching everything, or finding it hard to sit still. These are all signs of differences in sensory processing—and understanding them is the first step toward supporting your child’s wellbeing.

At South Coast Therapy & Support Group, we use tools like the Sensory Profile to help children and adults across Shoalhaven and Illawarra better understand how their brains and bodies respond to the world around them. With this insight, we create personalised sensory regulation strategies to support learning, behaviour, and emotional wellbeing.

What Is Sensory Processing?

Sensory processing is the way the brain receives and responds to sensory input from the environment and the body. This includes:

• Touch (tactile)

• Sound (auditory)

• Sight (visual)

• Taste and smell (oral and olfactory)

• Movement (vestibular)

• Body awareness (proprioception)

Some individuals are hypersensitive (over-responsive) and may become overwhelmed, while others are hyposensitive (under-responsive) and may seek extra input. These patterns can impact behaviour, attention, learning, and participation in daily life.

What Is a Sensory Profile?

A Sensory Profile is a standardised assessment completed by an occupational therapist, often with input from parents, teachers, or support workers. It helps us understand how a person responds to different sensory experiences and environments.

There are several versions depending on age:

• Infant and Toddler Sensory Profile (0–3 years)

• Child Sensory Profile 2 (3–14 years)

• Adolescent/Adult Sensory Profile (15+ years)

This assessment guides intervention and support planning, especially for individuals with autism, ADHD, trauma backgrounds, or sensory processing disorder.

What Happens After the Assessment?

Once the Sensory Profile is completed, we’ll provide a report and feedback session to explain the results and develop a plan for sensory regulation.

Sensory strategies may include:

• Calming activities: deep pressure, rhythmic movement, noise-cancelling headphones

• Alerting strategies: jumping, spinning, fidget tools, bright visuals

• Environmental adjustments: classroom seating, lighting, access to sensory breaks

• Home routines: sensory circuits before school, quiet corners, sensory diets

We tailor recommendations to each individual and provide training for parents, carers, teachers, and support workers where needed.

Who Can Benefit from a Sensory Profile?

Sensory Profiles are helpful for:

• Children with autism, ADHD, or developmental delays

• Adults experiencing sensory sensitivities or sensory seeking behaviour

• NDIS participants seeking supports related to regulation, behaviour, or emotional wellbeing

• Schools and early educators needing insight to adjust classroom environments

• Support coordinators gathering evidence for therapeutic supports in NDIS plans

NDIS and Sensory Reports

If you’re an NDIS participant, Sensory Profile assessments and reports are typically funded under Improved Daily Living. The reports can:

• Provide evidence for therapeutic supports

• Guide therapy sessions

• Justify the need for sensory equipment (e.g. weighted blankets, chewable jewellery)

• Support positive behaviour support planning

• Assist educators and support workers

Our team at South Coast Therapy & Support Group regularly prepares NDIS-compliant sensory reports with clear, goal-based recommendations.

Where We Offer Sensory Support

We deliver Sensory Profile assessments and follow-up services across:

• Shoalhaven: Nowra, Bomaderry, Berry, Ulladulla

• Illawarra: Shellharbour, Kiama, Albion Park, Wollongong

Sessions can take place in our clinics, at home, in school settings, or via telehealth depending on your preference and location.

Let’s Support Sensory Success—Together

Understanding sensory needs can be life-changing. It allows children (and adults) to feel safe, regulated, and empowered in their environments. If you’re seeing signs of sensory challenges or want a better understanding of regulation strategies, we’re here to help.

Contact South Coast Therapy & Support Group today to book a Sensory Profile assessment or find out more about sensory regulation support across Shoalhaven and Illawarra.