Understanding your sensory needs
What is sensory processing?
Sensory processing is how your brain makes sense of information from your body and surroundings. This includes sound, light, touch, taste and smell, as well as movement, balance, body position and internal signals such as hunger or thirst.
We all have sensory preferences. Some sensations help us feel comfortable, focused or energised; others can feel distracting or unpleasant. When sensory experiences affect your daily activities, understanding your needs can help you make informed choices about your routines, surroundings and support.
How might sensory differences affect me?
You may recognise some of these experiences:
- Sound: background conversations, sudden noises or busy places make it difficult to concentrate or feel comfortable.
- Light and visual surroundings: bright lighting, glare or visually busy spaces feel overwhelming.
- Touch: clothing seams, certain fabrics, unexpected touch or personal care activities feel uncomfortable.
- Taste and smell: particular food textures or strong smells affect eating, cooking or spending time in certain places.
- Movement and body awareness: you seek movement, prefer to stay still or find some movement sensations uncomfortable.
- Internal body signals: you find it difficult to notice or interpret hunger, thirst or other signals from your body.
You might experience some sensations very strongly, notice others less readily, or seek particular sensations because they feel helpful. Your needs may also change with sleep, stress, health and the demands of your day.
Signs an assessment may help
A sensory assessment may be helpful if you:
- Feel overwhelmed or drained by everyday environments.
- Avoid activities or places because of how they feel.
- Find it difficult to concentrate when there is competing sensory information.
- Need considerable recovery time after busy or demanding situations.
- Want to understand which sensations help you feel comfortable and engaged.
- Find it difficult to explain your sensory needs to other people.
You do not need to recognise every example. The focus is on how your experiences affect you and the things you want to do.
Do I need a diagnosis?
No. You can explore your sensory needs with or without an existing diagnosis.
Sensory differences can occur alongside conditions such as autism, ADHD and dyspraxia. However, having sensory differences does not, on its own, mean you have one of these conditions.
Our sensory assessment focuses on understanding your experiences and identifying practical support. It does not diagnose autism or ADHD.
What happens in a sensory processing assessment?
£360 online | Questionnaire, one-hour follow-up call and personalised report
Before your call
You complete a questionnaire about your sensory experiences. Your occupational therapist reviews your responses to identify patterns and areas to explore together.
During your one-hour call
We discuss the findings in the context of your everyday life. We explore what feels difficult, what already helps and what you would like to make easier—at home, at work or in activities you enjoy.
Your written report
You receive a personalised explanation of your sensory profile, how it affects everyday activities and practical recommendations. These may include changes to your surroundings, routines or the way you approach particular tasks.
How can understanding my sensory needs help?
Understanding your sensory needs can help you recognise patterns, explain your experiences and make choices that support your wellbeing and participation.
Together, we explore ways to reduce unnecessary discomfort and make more room for the activities that matter to you.
Not sure whether a sensory assessment is right for you? Contact Herts Beds OT to discuss your needs.