Sensory assessment and modulation with young people in an EPPIC service
Poster A94, Thursday, October 20, 11:30 am - 1:00 pm, Le Baron
Melissa Pane1, Jennifer Butler1; 1Orygen Youth Health
The Early Psychosis and Intervention Centre (EPPIC) provide early intervention services to young people aged 15 to 25 years who have experienced a First Episode Psychosis (FEP). This poster presentation will focus on reviewing the evidence on using the Adolescent/ Adult Sensory Profile (Dunn, 2002) as an assessment measure and sensory modulation as a tool in practice. It will also look at the ways in which sensory assessment and intervention is currently being utilised in an EPPIC service in Melbourne, Australia. One of the ultimate goals of recovery for young people who have experienced psychosis is to re-engage in meaningful occupations and roles. Research describes the impact that an individual’s sensory profile can have on their capacity to participate in activities of daily living. Currently there is limited research looking at the use and effectiveness of sensory modulation in community settings with our population group. At EPPIC we have been trialling the use of sensory assessment and sensory intervention to reduce the barriers associated with experiencing a FEP and increase a young person’s ability to self-regulate with the aim of decreasing anxiety, the distress related to positive symptoms and increase arousal in young people experiencing negative symptoms. Ultimately aiming to increase the young person's opportunity to participate in meaningful activities skilfully, confidently and competently. At EPPIC, we are currently providing in-service training and secondary consultation to the wider multidisciplinary staff group, client education, administration of the Adolescent/Adult Sensory Profile, exploration of sensory modalities and environmental considerations for clients.
Topic Area: First Episode Psychosis