Sensory Needs and Autism: Finding Support in the UK

Sensory differences are a common part of autism, but they vary from person to person and can change over time. They can affect sleep, eating, dressing, school, work and social life. Support aims to understand the person’s own sensory profile and make daily life more comfortable, not to change who they are. Autism assessment and diagnosis are separate; see our ADHD and autism guide.

• Occupational therapists can assess sensory needs and suggest changes to routines and surroundings at home, school or work, such as quiet spaces, equipment or planned breaks. Some have extra training in sensory integration approaches; ask what evidence and goals they use.
• Speech and language therapists support communication in all its forms, including spoken language, signs, symbols and communication aids, and can help with eating and drinking difficulties.
• Psychologists can contribute to autism assessments and help with anxiety, emotional regulation and wellbeing, adapting their approach for autistic people.
• Play therapists, music therapists and other arts therapists can offer support that does not rely on talking.

Before you book, look the practitioner up yourself on the official register. Psychologists, occupational therapists, physiotherapists, speech and language therapists, dietitians and arts therapists must be on the HCPC register to use those titles. Counsellors and psychotherapists are usually on a register accredited by the Professional Standards Authority, such as BACP, UKCP, BPC or NCPS. Psychiatrists are doctors on the GMC register. Our guide to checking a register shows how. On Therapist Circle, each practitioner’s register and number is shown on their profile so you can check it too.

For children, speak to a GP, health visitor or the school SENCO, who can refer to NHS children’s therapy or neurodevelopmental services; in England you can also ask your council about an Education, Health and Care needs assessment. Adults can ask a GP. Waits vary widely. The National Autistic Society has free information and advice.

Private sensory assessments and reports are often priced separately from sessions; ask for a written quote. Ask about experience with autistic children or adults, how they involve the person and family in setting goals, whether they visit school or work, and how they respect the person’s own preferences. See questions to ask a private allied health professional.

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