Counseling Adults With Sensory Processing Disorder: An Exploratory Study

Abstract

Sensory processing disorder (SPD) is a neurological disorder impacting up to 20% of the global population. The majority of SPD research has been conducted outside the counseling profession and typically examines the presentation of SPD in youth. Therefore, counselors often have limited awareness of this disorder. The purpose of the present study was to conduct an exploratory qualitative thematic analysis (N = 89) examining the primary concerns of adult counseling clients with SPD, as reported by their counselors. Results include 12 themes that were organized into three categories: biological, psychological, and social. Thus, the results reflected the biopsychosocial model, originally outlined by G. L. Engel, as it pertains to SPD. Researchers provided implications for mental health counselors’ practice and suggestions for future research.