Sensory Processing Differences or Sensory Processing Disorder?

In recent years, the term Sensory Processing Disorder (SPD) has gained traction among parents, educators, and therapists. It’s often used to describe children who experience their senses in an extreme way. That may be a very low threshold where they notice every touch and sound or a high threshold where they constantly seek out movement and touch. But, despite it’s increasingly widespread use Sensory Processing Disorder is not recognised as a standalone diagnosis in the DSM- 5 -TR  or ICD -11 and as such there are no criteria by which to diagnose it. Because of this, here at Psychology Associates, we do not recognise the diagnosis but we do recognise that many people live with Sensory Processing Differences that make life significantly more challenging for them; for which they need support and adaptation to live their fullest life.

So, what does that mean for families and professionals trying to support children with sensory challenges?

Sensory Processing refers to how the brain gathers, processes and interprets information from the difference sensory systems (touch, sight, sound, movement, balance, taste, smell and internal sensations) and then uses this information to interact with the world.

Those who experience their senses on the more extreme of the spectrum might be:

• Over-responsive(e.g., distressed by loud noises or tags in clothing)
• Under-responsive(e.g., not noticing pain or temperature)
• Sensory-seeking(e.g., constantly moving, crashing into things)

While our OT’s support and champion the needs of those who experience difficulties with their sensory processing, where we stand in 2025 there is no diagnostic criteria for Sensory Processing Disorder and as such we cannot diagnose it. However; even without a formal diagnosis, individuals with sensory processing differences can benefit from:

• Occupational therapy with a sensory integration approach
• Sensory interventions — personalised activities that help regulate the nervous system (includes Sensory Attachment informed interventions where appropriate).
• Environmental adaptations — like noise-cancelling headphones, movement breaks, or alternative seating
• Understanding and validation from others around them who recognise their needs

In fact, there’s even an argument that Sensory Processing Differences is a better term.

It’s more inclusive: Sensory differences are common in many neurodivergent profiles — not just those with autism or ADHD, but also in those with anxiety or trauma histories.

Avoids pathologizing: Sensory differences aren’t necessarily problematic. Some people simply experience the world in a more intense or unique way. Framing it as a “difference” rather than a “disorder” respects neurodiversity.

It encourages individualised support: Instead of focusing on a diagnosis, using the term “differences” shifts the focus to understanding an individual’s unique sensory profile and adapting environments and expectations accordingly.

Sensory processing differences are real, impactful, and worthy of support — even if they don’t come with a diagnostic label. By shifting our language and approach, we can better meet the needs of those who experience the world in beautifully unique ways.

ASI-Wise has recently published their thoughts on this, find them here; https://sensoryproject.org/2025/05/22/clarifying-our-position-on-spd-a-response-from-asi-wise-sensory-project/