Complex Trauma in Children and Youth: A Scoping Review of Sensory-Based Interventions

Emerging evidence in neuroscience indicates exposure to complex trauma in children and youth affects brain development—particularly with the ability to process sensory information. This sensory processing challenge has been shown to negatively impact emotional and self-regulation. A developing area of trauma treatment utilizes sensory-based interventions to target these concerns. A scoping review of the literature indicates there is limited, although promising, evidence for the use of these interventions when used as part of an integrated treatment approach. Occupational therapy is in a unique position to contribute to this area of practice due to a background in sensory-based approaches.