Self-Regulation and Sensory Approaches for Mental Health
Presented by Stephen Nawotniak
This introductory course explores the intersection of sensory integration and mental health self-regulation. Participants will examine current evidence on sensory processing preferences in individuals with mental health conditions and learn practical strategies for incorporating sensory interventions into clinical practice. The course combines theoretical foundations with real-world applications, including firsthand accounts from individuals with lived experience managing mental health symptoms through sensory and self-regulation techniques.
Learning Outcomes
- Identify where sensory and self-soothing strategies fit within occupational therapy recovery plans for adults managing mental health conditions
- Differentiate sensory processing patterns identified by the Sensory Profile-2 (SP-2) from psychiatric diagnoses during occupational therapy evaluations
- Select 3 sensory-based self-regulation strategies to support occupational performance during episodic symptom flare-ups
- Outline the core components of a Wellness Recovery Action Plan (WRAP) for individuals experiencing mental health challenges
- Classify 3 practical ways to integrate WRAP strategies into client daily routines to facilitate functional self-regulation
Meet your instructor
Stephen Nawotniak
Stephen Nawotniak is a keynote speaker, occupational therapist, certified peer specialist, and award-winning author who combines professional expertise with his lived experience of bipolar disorder. Drawing from his work in mental health care and an eight-month volunteer trek down the East Coast, Stephen equips individuals…
Chapters & learning objectives
1. Overarching Concepts
This chapter establishes foundational concepts for understanding self-regulation in mental health treatment. Learners will explore how sensory and self-soothing strategies help soften symptoms and support the recovery journey. The chapter frames the role of sensory intervention within comprehensive mental health treatment planning.
2. Sensory Strategies
This chapter focuses on practical assessments and intervention tools for sensory-based mental health support. Learners will become familiar with the Adolescent/Adult Sensory Profile (A/ASP) and Sensory Profile 2 (SP-2) as standardized tools for identifying individual sensory needs. The chapter presents evidence-based sensory strategies and explores how practitioners can create individualized sensory plans to support self-regulation during episodic symptoms.
3. The WRAP Plan
This chapter introduces the Wellness Recovery Action Plan (WRAP), a structured framework for proactive mental health management. Learners will understand the key components of a WRAP plan, including the wellness toolbox, trigger identification, early warning sign recognition, and response planning. The chapter emphasizes practical strategies for incorporating WRAP concepts into daily routines and clinical practice with individuals managing mental health conditions.
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