FAQ — Sensory Profile Assessment | Openness With Therapy

Question 1

What is a Sensory Profile Clinical Assessment?

Accepted Answer

The Sensory Profile Clinical Assessment is a structured, evidence-based evaluation that examines how a person's nervous system processes sensory information — things like touch, sound, movement, taste, and visual input. The results reveal a person's unique sensory processing patterns and explain how those patterns shape behavior, attention, emotional regulation, and daily functioning.

Question 2

Who developed the Sensory Profile?

Accepted Answer

The Sensory Profile tools were developed by Dr. Winnie Dunn, an occupational therapist and researcher whose work on sensory processing has become foundational in the field. The assessments are grounded in decades of research and are widely used by clinicians working with children, adolescents, and adults.

Question 3

What ages can be assessed?

Accepted Answer

The Sensory Profile suite covers the full lifespan. There are tools designed specifically for infants (birth to 6 months), toddlers (7 to 36 months), children (3 to 10 years), adolescents (11 to 17 years), and adults (18 and older). Each version is tailored to the developmental stage and sensory demands of that age group.

Question 4

What does the assessment process look like?

Accepted Answer

The process typically unfolds over three to four sessions. It begins with a clinical interview to understand your history and concerns, followed by the completion of standardized questionnaires (by the individual, a caregiver, or both, depending on age). I then score and interpret the results and meet with you to review findings, discuss what they mean in everyday life, and outline practical strategies tailored to your sensory profile.

Question 5

What will I receive at the end?

Accepted Answer

You will receive a written report summarizing your sensory processing patterns, how they show up in daily life, and individualized strategies for working with — rather than against — your nervous system. The report is written in plain language and is designed to be a practical, lasting resource.

Question 6

How much does the assessment cost?

Accepted Answer

The full Sensory Profile Clinical Assessment is $600. This flat fee covers all sessions, scoring, interpretation, the written report, and a results review meeting. There are no hidden fees or per-session charges. A payment link will be sent by your provider once your assessment is scheduled.

Question 7

Do you accept insurance?

Accepted Answer

No. Openness With Therapy does not bill insurance for the Sensory Profile Assessment. This is an intentional choice — it allows me to work without the constraints that insurance often places on the depth, pacing, and scope of an evaluation. It also means your assessment records are not shared with insurance companies.

Question 8

Can I use my HSA or FSA to pay?

Accepted Answer

Possibly, but with an important caveat. HSA and FSA funds can generally only be used for expenses related to the treatment or diagnosis of a medical condition — which means the assessment would need to be connected to an existing diagnosis or a condition being evaluated by a physician. If you do not have a relevant diagnosis prior to scheduling, HSA or FSA funds likely cannot be applied. I recommend confirming eligibility with your HSA or FSA administrator and your physician before assuming you can use these funds.

Question 9

When is payment due?

Accepted Answer

A payment link will be sent by your provider once your assessment is scheduled.

Question 10

Who is the Sensory Profile Assessment for?

Accepted Answer

The assessment is for anyone who has ever felt like their nervous system responds differently than those around them — people who are easily overwhelmed by noise, light, or crowds; those who crave intense sensory input; individuals who struggle with transitions, routines, or unexpected changes; or anyone who has been told they are "too sensitive" or "not sensitive enough." It is also valuable for caregivers trying to better understand a child's behavior.

Question 11

Does my child need a diagnosis to be assessed?

Accepted Answer

No. A diagnosis is not required. The Sensory Profile Assessment is appropriate for anyone — diagnosed or not — who wants to better understand how their sensory system works. That said, the assessment can also be a helpful complement to existing diagnoses such as ADHD, autism, anxiety, or trauma-related conditions.

Question 12

Can adults benefit from a sensory assessment?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely. Many adults reach adulthood without ever having language for why certain environments feel unbearable, why they shut down under stress, or why they need more (or less) stimulation than others to feel regulated. A sensory profile can be genuinely clarifying — and often validating — for adults who have spent years wondering why they experience the world the way they do.

Question 13

Is this the same as an autism or ADHD evaluation?

Accepted Answer

No. The Sensory Profile Assessment is not a diagnostic evaluation for autism, ADHD, or any other condition. It specifically examines sensory processing patterns. While sensory differences are common in autism and ADHD, this assessment does not diagnose those conditions. If you are seeking a diagnostic evaluation, I am happy to discuss what that process looks like and provide referrals.

Question 14

Are sessions available in person or via telehealth?

Accepted Answer

Sessions are conducted via telehealth only. I am currently only able to serve clients located in Maryland.

Question 15

How do I get started?

Accepted Answer

The first step is to submit an appointment request through the Appointments page. I will follow up within one to two business days to confirm availability, answer any remaining questions, and walk you through next steps. If the site experiences technical issues with the form, please reach out to me directly at kelceemolen@opennesswiththerapy.com and include your name, phone number, email, and the service you are requesting.

Question 16

What if I have a question that is not answered here?

Accepted Answer

Please reach out through the Appointments page — I am happy to answer questions before you commit to scheduling. There is no obligation in asking. In addition, sometimes the site experiences technical issues with the form, in that case reach out to me directly at kelceemolen@opennesswiththerapy.com.

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