Please can you explain to me what multi-sensory therapy is and what it does?

Multi-sensory therapy is a relatively new therapy. It is closely related to the ideas behind sensory stimulation therapy, the concept developed in the Netherlands in the 1960s in the area of learning disabilities.

Many conventional therapies are unsuitable for people experiencing severe multiple physical and mental limitations. This is because certain therapies often put expectations on the patient to attempt to achieve something that they are incapable of.

People with severe and multiple disability also experience very little psychological and sensory stimulation. Multi-sensory therapy was developed as a leisure resource for people with learning disabilities. It is designed to be both relaxing and stimulating.

Multi-sensory therapy has now been extended to other disciplines throughout the world, including adult learning, dementia, children with special needs, paediatrics, maternity, management of chronic pain, adult psychiatry, and stroke and traumatic brain injury.

Multi-sensory therapy usually takes place in a quiet room with special lighting. The therapist will use props to stimulate and engage different primary senses. Props used include lights, a mirror ball, colour wheel, a projector, music and sounds, shapes, textures and an aroma diffuser. Centres may also have a soft play room or use a Jacuzzi. The room usually has dim lighting and a trusting and relaxing atmosphere. Variation of stimulation is extremely important component of multi-sensory therapy.

The benefits of having regular sessions with a qualified practitioner include relaxation, stimulation, confidence building, rapport building, improved motor skills, increased learning capacity, improved mood and behaviour and reduction in pain and agitation.

Always consult your GP before starting any new regime or self treatment. The contents of this article are for information purposes only and are not intended to prevent, diagnose or cure any medical conditions. If you would like a question covered, contact The Clinic of Complementary and Natural Medicine, Kiltartan House, Forster St., Galway on 091- 568804.

Dr H Bhatti is the President of the Association of Naturopathic Practitioners and can be contacted at his clinics at Kiltartan House, Forster Street, Galway on 091-568804 or at The Village Nursing Care Centre, Ballygarriff, Craughwell on 091-777700.

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