Interoception is the ability to sense and understand what’s going on inside of one’s body. It involves being aware of signals like heartbeat, hunger, frustration, or being too hot/cold. Improving interoception helps with better understanding and responses to the body’s needs and emotions. The goal of interoception training is to help individuals notice their unique body signals and eventually connect them to emotions. The goal is then for the learner to use this information to motivate purposeful self-regulation. Challenges with interoception are common in those with autism, ADHD, sensory processing disorder, executive functioning deficits, and more, therefore targeting interception is a key therapeutic approach for improving overall quality of life and independence.  

We implement use of Kelly Mahler’s Interoception Curriculum at APT. We offer services in both a group and individual setting. We chose this curriculum as it aligns with our beliefs in presuming competency in all our clients. We recognize that all of our clients can and want to be regulated, however difficulties with interception and motor planning can impact their ability to fully manage their own bodies. Additionally, Kelly Mahler’s Interception Curriculum supports leaners of all ages and communication needs. Many of the strategies taught are easily carried over and practiced at home. We will follow Kelly Mahler’s evidence-based approach in  supporting the learner in noticing body signals in a well-structured, thoughtful, and paced manner. The curriculum then teaches learners to connect body signals to emotions. Finally, learners are supported in finding personalized “feel-good” strategies to complete the body-emotion-action connection.

We believe that Occupational Therapy’s holistic approach compliments supporting interoceptive awareness. Occupational therapy focuses on developing skills for daily living in addition to addressing sensory processing challenges. Our occupational therapist helps tailor interventions to address specific sensory needs, promotes self-awareness, and teaches strategies for improved emotional regulation. Our OT Kayla Adams’s experience with working with apraxic and dyspraxic individuals, allows her to adapt this curriculum to best meet the needs of the client population at APT.