In the United States, an estimated 5% to 16.5% of the general population have sensory processing issues. Both children and adults are affected.
However, certain populations are more affected than others. In particular, individuals with neurodevelopmental disabilities like:
- Autism spectrum disorder (ASD)
- Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)
- Intellectual and learning disabilities (e.g., Down syndrome and dyslexia)
Furthermore, other specific populations experience SPD and benefit from therapy. People with mental health conditions, neurological issues, and TBI are among them.
Fortunately, their experiences are brought to light rather than being hidden away. The increasing public awareness boosts the demand for trained SPD professionals and educators. Their expertise enables individuals affected by these challenges to overcome them, especially in daily life.
If you’re interested, consider online sensory integration certification programs. You’ll receive high-quality and accessible training to provide occupational support.
Not only will you make a positive impact on others, but you’ll also earn well. Occupational therapy assistants (OTAs), for example, earn an average of $67,531 per year. Experienced OTAs can earn up to $76,000/year.
Are you ready to enjoy these benefits? Read on and learn the best online sensory integration certification programs.
Related:
- What Is a Sensory Integration and Occupational Support Specialist?
- How to Become a Specialized Early Childhood Therapist
- Top Certification Programs for Early Childhood Therapeutic Specialists
- Montessori Certification: Embrace a Unique Teaching Philosophy
What Is Sensory Integration and Occupational Support?
Sensory integration is the neurological process wherein the brain processes sensory information. The sensory information itself can come from the following:
- Body, such as muscle tension and joint position
- Environment like sound, light, and temperature
Sensory integration issues have a wide range of negative effects. Even daily life can be challenging, such as motor coordination issues.
Occupational therapy (OT) helps individuals to build and/or restore daily living skills. In relation to sensory integration, specialized techniques are used (e.g., brushing protocols). These enable individuals to process sensory inputs, which in turn improve their daily lives.
Many online sensory integration certification programs welcome diverse learners, including:
- Teachers
- Paraprofessionals and classroom aides
- Occupational therapy assistants (OTAs)
- Parents and caregivers
The bottom line: Stay open to the possibilities of SPD and OT certification.
Why Earn Certification in Sensory Integration or OT Support?
Here are the reasons why you should keep an open mind.
- Build your professional skills and improve support for children with sensory challenges.
- Improve your employment opportunities in special education, therapy, and early intervention.
- Gain up-to-date tools for more effective management of behavior, attention, and learning environments.
- Meet continuing education requirements for OT professionals or educators
- Enhance collaboration with licensed OTs or clinical teams
Earning an occupational therapy support certification online isn’t easy. You’ll spend time and money on it. But these benefits are reason enough to earn it.
What to Look for in an Online Certification Program
Online sensory integration certification programs are a dime a dozen. Keep these tips in mind so you’ll get the best value for your time and money.
- Check for accreditation and CEU approval.
- Look for programs with an evidence-based curriculum that covers sensory theory and practical interventions.
- Consider the instructors’ qualifications and the quality of instruction. Experts include occupational therapists (OTs) and child development specialists.
- Choose from programs with self-paced or asynchronous learning (i.e., flexibility).
- Look for hands-on learning experiences (e.g., case studies, fieldwork, and video observations).
- Consider the availability of networking opportunities and post-completion support services.
Take your time when considering different programs. Remember that it isn’t only CEUs that you’ll earn – you’ll also learn things that will improve your practice.
Top Online Sensory Integration and OT Support Certification Programs
University of Southern California Chan Division – Sensory Integration Certification Program
The program provides advanced training for licensed occupational therapists (OTs). Learners will appreciate the flexibility of the hybrid program. Courses are available on-campus and online.
Length/Format: 4 sequential courses
Audience: Licensed OTs, but speech therapists and physical therapists are welcome (limited slots)
Accreditation/CEU Status: ACOTE and NBCOT/10 CEUs
Tuition and Accessibility: $3,300 total
Key Features:
- Global reach
- Evidence-based curriculum
- Expert-led instruction
STAR Institute for Sensory Processing – Online Professional Education Courses
These provide intensive sensory integration training for educators, occupational therapists (OTs), and mental health professionals. Learners gain new knowledge and skills via multiple CEU-approved modules.
Length/Format: Differs depending on module/Online, self-paced
Audience: OTs, teachers, SLPs, physical therapists, parents and caregivers
Accreditation/CEU Status: Proprietary credentials/CEUS recognized by AOTA and ASHA
Tuition and Accessibility: Subscription-based ($49/year to $199/year and above)
Key Features:
- 24/7 access via SPD University
- Wide variety of topics
- Experts teach the courses
PESI – Sensory Processing Masterclass Series
Complete the certified sensory processing courses online and earn corresponding CEUs. The program emphasizes a trauma-informed approach.
Length/Format: Varies in duration/Live webinars, DVDs, and virtual seminars
Audience: OTs, psychologists, social workers, SLPs, and teachers
Accreditation/CEU Status: NBCC, APA, and NASW, among others/ Up to 18 CEUs
Tuition and Accessibility: Discounted rates available
Key Features:
- Unlimited access to learning materials
- Practical tools and techniques
Sensory Integration Education (UK) – Online SI Practitioner Certificate
If you want an internationally recognized, evidence-based certification, consider it. You can choose from different progressive levels, from intro to practitioner.
Length/Format: 18 months, part-time; Online
Audience: Teachers, OTs, SLPs, and physiotherapists
Accreditation/CEU Status: Sheffield Hallam University and CPD Standards Office/ CEUs issued
Tuition and Accessibility: Competitive pricing (i.e., about $1,500-$3,600)
Key Features:
- Comprehensive curriculum in three modules
- Completion of clinical practice hours
- Mentorship support
Future Horizons – SPD Online Training Courses
These courses are excellent sensory support certification for teachers and are parent-friendly. Dr. Lucy Jane Miller and other top SPD experts teach the courses.
Length/Format: Sessions last for 1-6 hours; Online self-paced
Audience: Teachers, school staff, parents and caregivers of children with SPD, and OTs
Accreditation/CEU Status: AOTA-approved. Many courses offer CEUs
Tuition and Accessibility: $25-$150/course
Key Features:
- Long-term or lifetime access upon registration
- Evidence-based practical strategies
CEU-Hub/OccupationalTherapy.com – Online OT Continuing Ed
This offers quality online occupational therapy assistant training programs. The provider offers subscription-based access to multiple sensory and occupational therapy (OT) support courses. Check it out if you’re looking for ongoing professional development opportunities.
Length/Format: 1-2 hours/course. Live webinars, text-based courses, and mobile access
Audience: OTs and OTAs
Accreditation/CEU Status: AOTA and NBCOT/CEUs awarded after completion
Tuition and Accessibility: $129/year; global access
Key Features:
- Wide range of topics
- Regular updates
National Association for Child Development – Neurodevelopmental Approach Certificate
NACD offers accredited sensory integration programs that emphasize holistic brain-based sensory support. The certificate is useful for both educators and caregivers.
Length/Format: Varies in duration; Online
Audience: Teachers, OT professionals, parents and caregivers
Accreditation/CEU Status: None/No CEUs awarded
Tuition and Accessibility: Subscription-based ($49/year to $199/year and above)
Key Features:
- 24/7 access to course materials
- Expert-led instruction
- Interdisciplinary topics
University of St. Augustine – CEUs in Pediatric OT and Sensory Integration
OTs and OTAs looking for occupational therapy continuing education online must consider it. The courses are designed to be evidence-based and practice-focused.
Length/Format: Varies by course, Online and in-person
Audience: OTs and OTAs
Accreditation/CEU Status: WSCUC / CEUs awarded
Tuition and Accessibility: Fees vary by course
Key Features:
- Expert faculty
- Specialized topics
EdApp / Coursera – Introductory Sensory Processing Courses
EdApp and Coursera offer free or low-cost entry-level SPD (sensory processing disorder) certification courses. Parents and professionals are welcome.
Length/Format: Varies / Online
Audience: Parents and professionals
Accreditation/CEU Status: Regional accreditation for colleges/ CEUs issued
Tuition and Accessibility: Varies by course
Key Features:
- Flexible schedules
- Strong fundamentals in SPD
Autism Certification Center – OCALI Sensory and Autism Online Learning Modules
ACC offers the best online programs for sensory and OT support, too. Practical tools and techniques are emphasized.
Length/Format: Varies/Online
Audience: Educators, aides, and early childhood staff
Accreditation/CEU Status: NASW and others/Grants CEUs
Tuition and Accessibility: Free and subsidized fees for certain regions
Key Features:
- Tailored modules for different types of learners
- Real-life video examples
Tips for Succeeding in Online Sensory Integration Training
- Set a consistent learning schedule (e.g., daily and weekly study targets).
- Complete assignments on time.
- Be active in discussion forums and peer groups.
- Watch video case studies or simulations more than once.
- Apply learned strategies in your practice as you learn them.
- Keep a log of progress for CEUs or certification tracking.
Career Applications and Continuing Education Pathways
Earning certifications is a continuous learning process. Learn, unlearn, and relearn because the SPD field is in constant flux.
Certifications also lead to many career growth opportunities.
- Increased competitiveness for support roles in schools, therapy centers, or early intervention programs.
- Continued study toward more advanced credentials (e.g., OT, OTA, or special education).
- Increased credibility and skill set for more advanced roles.
- Enhanced practical knowledge of the sensory process, a trait that employers value.
Conclusion
In conclusion, now is the time to capitalize on the growing demand for trained sensory and occupational therapy professionals. You’ll enjoy career-boosting benefits and make a positive impact.
Start by choosing from among the best online sensory integration certification programs. Choose online learning because of its flexibility, quality, and value.
When selecting an online program, consider your background and career goals. What is your current knowledge and skills? What new ones do you want to add? What are your certification-related goals?
Take the next step today. Tomorrow, you can make a real difference in your clients’ lives. Explore the featured accredited online programs now.
