Kath Smith
Kath Smith was a leading figure in the field of Sensory Integration (SI) in 2015. She served as a Director at the SI Network and was pursuing doctoral studies at Falmouth University. As a Consultant Occupational Therapist at MBB Connections, Kath played a pivotal role in advancing the understanding and application of Ayres Sensory Integration (ASI) for both children and adults.
Her work focused on integrating sensory processing theory into occupational therapy practices across diverse populations, including individuals with autism and mental health challenges. Kath contributed significantly to the development of new courses, tools, and resources aimed at enhancing clinical practice and education in sensory integration. She also placed strong emphasis on building an evidence base for ASI through research, publications, and presentations at both national and international conferences.
In 2015, Kath chaired the European Sensory Integration Congress (ESIC) and held key leadership roles within the SI Network, including Director of PR, Marketing, Membership, and Learning and Development. She was instrumental in advancing sensory integration for adult mental health, a pioneering area of practice in the UK and Ireland at the time. Her innovative contributions, including patented resources and teaching materials, were widely shared within the global SI community, fostering collaboration and growth in the field.
Précis of Kath Smith’s 2015 Presentation
Kath Smith’s 2015 presentation, “Sensory Processing and Sensory Integration: What’s the State of the Evidence?”, provided an in-depth exploration of sensory processing challenges and the application of Ayres Sensory Integration (ASI) within occupational therapy. Focusing on both children and adults, the presentation highlighted the importance of sensory integration in supporting participation and functional performance in everyday life.
Key points included:
- Overview of Sensory Integration Theory: A comprehensive explanation of the hierarchical processing of sensory input and its impact on motor planning, attention, and emotional stability.
- Evidence on Autism and Sensory Processing: A review of research identifying sensory modulation difficulties, atypical responses, and motor challenges in autism, with a focus on tailored interventions.
- Effective Interventions: Insights into structured ASI approaches, demonstrating improvements in goal attainment, self-care, and socialisation for individuals with sensory difficulties.
- Application Across the Lifespan: Advocacy for the relevance of sensory integration in occupational therapy beyond paediatrics, highlighting its adaptability for adult mental health and neurodevelopmental conditions.
- Innovations and Best Practices: Practical recommendations for collaborative consultation, environmental modifications, and specific strategies such as sensory ladders, weighted tools, and sensory-enriched activities.
The presentation underscored the value of sensory integration as a foundational framework for occupational therapy, supported by emerging evidence and practical applications, while encouraging further development of evidence-based practices in the field.
