A Global Gathering – Research and Evidence for Sensory Integration in Practice
For occupational therapists working in sensory integration, there’s an exciting opportunity coming up—the International Sensory Integration Congress (ISIC) 2024. Whether you’re deeply embedded in the world of Ayres Sensory Integration® (ASI) or just beginning your journey, ISIC 2024 promises to be an event where you can expand your knowledge, connect with peers, and engage with the latest research.
Dates: October 28-30, 2024
Location: Sydney, Australia, with online virtual attendance option – live-streamed and recorded for viewing in your own time
This year’s theme, “Elevating Evidence-Based Practice in ASI,” is all about using the latest research to enhance clinical practice. With both in-person and virtual options, ISIC 2024 is accessible no matter where you are, offering the flexibility to learn in the way that suits you best.
Why Attend ISIC 2024?
The congress brings together some of the brightest minds in sensory integration, offering presentations that span cutting-edge research, practical workshops, and insightful case studies. Here’s a glimpse of what’s on offer:
- Dr. Roseann Schaaf will deliver a keynote on “Evidence for Ayres Sensory Integration with Autism.” Roseann’s work in this field is widely recognized, and she’ll be sharing the most recent research on how ASI can support individuals on the autism spectrum.
- Dr. Zoe Mailloux will lead a session titled “Why Assess? How Comprehensive Assessment Can Elevate Practice Around the Globe.” Her talk will focus on the importance of thorough, nuanced assessments in enhancing therapeutic outcomes. This is a must-attend for anyone who wants to strengthen their clinical reasoning and assessment skills.
- Dr. Shelly Lane will explore the fascinating topic of interoception with her keynote on “The Neurology of Interoception,” offering insights into how understanding this lesser-known sense can enhance our approach to sensory integration.
- Katie Crowfoot and Kath Smith will present their research on ASI Care Pathway Development for Adult Mental Health within the NHS. Their session will highlight how ASI is being applied in mental health services, with a focus on developing care pathways that integrate sensory approaches into mental health care—an area that continues to grow in relevance and demand.
But it doesn’t stop there. ISIC 2024 offers a diverse range of sessions aimed at improving practice, whether you’re working with children, adolescents, or adults.
Valeria Isaac and the Power of Interoception
Another highlight of the congress is Valeria Isaac from Chile, who will present on “Assessing and Interpreting Interoceptive Awareness in Adolescents Using the Multidimensional Assessment of Interoceptive Awareness for Youth (MAIA-Y).” Interoception, the internal sense of body signals like hunger, thirst, and emotion, is an emerging area in sensory integration research. Valeria’s session will delve into practical assessment tools and how we can better understand interoception in young people, especially those with sensory integration challenges.
Valeria will also lead a workshop on the “Administration and Interpretation of the Multidimensional Assessment of Interoceptive Awareness (MAIA),” providing hands-on learning for therapists interested in developing their interoception assessment skills. This is a great opportunity to bring a fresh and much-needed dimension to your sensory integration practice.
Workshops, Research, and Posters: Practical Learning for Everyone
One of the unique features of ISIC 2024 is the range of practical workshops. You’ll have the opportunity to get involved with hands-on sessions that bring ASI theory to life. For example, Dr. Susanne Smith-Roley will present a keynote on “ASI Intervention – What Works and Why?” offering practical insights into interventions that make a real difference. If you’re focused on pediatric therapy, you’ll find this particularly useful.
The congress will also feature a poster presentation session, where researchers and practitioners will showcase their work. This is a great way to stay informed about the latest studies and innovations in sensory integration. Here’s a sneak peek at some of the posters:
- “Occupation-Based Outcomes: Understanding Participation Challenges in Maltese Children with Autism through Ayres Sensory Integration” by Ruth Cutajar, Malta
- “Integrating Occupational Therapy in ADHD Diagnostics: Enhancing Assessment and Intervention” by Erin Hernandez, USA
- “Sensory Integration: Bridging Theory to Practice in Entry-Level Occupational Therapy Programs” by Erin Hernandez, USA
- “Sleep, Sensory Integration and Processing, and Autism: A Scoping Review” by Shelly Lane, Marco Leao, and Virginia Spielmann, USA
- “Somatodyspraxia in Children with Idiopathic Toe-Walking” by Teresa May-Benson, USA
- “The Intricate Relationships Between Early Attachment Styles, Anxiety, and Interoceptive Awareness” by Paola Solano, Chile
- “The Concept of Playfulness in Adult Therapy: Challenges and Fidelity in Sensory Integration Therapy” by Rachel Johnson and Lucy Basing, UK
- “Creating a Sensory Pathway within a High Secure Setting” by Tracey Woodall, UK
These posters span a range of topics, from the application of ASI in autism to the challenges of applying sensory integration in practice across the lifespan. Whether you’re interested in research, clinical practice, or education, you will find something that resonates with you.
A Global Community, Accessible to You
One of the best things about ISIC 2024 is its global reach. With the option to attend virtually, you can learn from experts and connect with like-minded therapists from around the world without leaving your home. You’ll have access to live-streamed sessions, as well as recordings of all the keynotes, workshops, and presentations. This flexibility makes it easier to fit learning into your schedule, even if you’re balancing a busy caseload or other responsibilities.
Why You Should Be There
ISIC 2024 is more than just a conference—it’s a chance to be part of a global community that’s committed to advancing sensory integration practice. Whether your focus is on autism, mental health, or sensory processing challenges, you’ll gain practical tools and evidence-based insights that you can bring back to your practice.
And let’s not forget the networking opportunities. Whether you attend in person or virtually, you’ll be able to connect with professionals from across the globe who share your passion for sensory integration. These connections can lead to collaborations, mentorship opportunities, and a deeper sense of belonging in the sensory integration community.
How to Get Involved
If you’re ready to be part of this exciting event, you can register and learn more details here. With both in-person and virtual attendance options, it’s easier than ever to participate in ISIC 2024, no matter where you are.