Sensory Processing Support for Children and Youth in Halifax & Nova Scotia

At Thrive Therapy, we offer tailored Occupational Therapy and sensory processing support for children and youth experiencing sensory integration difficulties. Our experienced therapists serve families throughout Halifax, Bedford, Sackville, Dartmouth, Truro, and across Nova Scotia, offering compassionate, individualized care to help children thrive at home, school, and in their communities.

What is Sensory Processing Disorder?

Sensory Processing Disorder (SPD) occurs when the brain has difficulty receiving and responding to sensory information from the environment. This can affect how children process sounds, touch, movement, sights, and other sensory input — impacting their behaviour, attention, and ability to participate in everyday activities.

Signs of Sensory Processing Difficulties in Children and Youth

Children experiencing sensory processing challenges may show:

Over- or under-reacting responses to sensory input like noise, textures, or movement
Difficulty with coordination or motor skills
Trouble focusing or staying calm in busy environments
Avoidance of certain activities or strong emotional reactions

If you notice these signs in your child, early intervention with Occupational Therapy can make a significant difference.

Photo from Beacon House UK

How We Help Children with Sensory Processing Challenges

Our Occupational Therapists at Thrive Therapy use evidence-based approaches to assess your child’s unique sensory needs. We create customized therapy plans that may include sensory integration therapy, motor skills development, and emotional regulation strategies. Through play-based and functional activities, we help children build skills to better process sensory information and improve their overall daily functioning.

Serving Families Across Nova Scotia

We proudly offer sensory processing support in multiple locations, including:

Halifax
Bedford
Sackville
Dartmouth
Truro
Antigonish
Digby
And across Nova Scotia

Our flexible service options include in-clinic, home-based, and virtual therapy sessions to meet your family’s needs.

Why Choose Thrive Therapy for Your Child’s Sensory Needs?

Experienced Occupational Therapists specializing in pediatric sensory processing: We help children and youth appropriately integrate and respond to sensory input, allowing them to make sense of and feel safer in the world.
Family-centered, compassionate care tailored to your child’s strengths and challenges.
Collaborative approach to support your child’s success at home, school, and beyond

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How do I know if my child needs sensory processing support?
A: If your child struggles with sensitivity to sounds, textures, movement, or shows difficulty during self-care tasks or with coordination and focus, a sensory assessment can help identify specific needs.

Q: Do you offer virtual therapy sessions?
A: Yes, we provide both in-clinic, home-based, and virtual occupational therapy to support families across Nova Scotia.

Q: How can I book an assessment or therapy session?
A: Contact us through our website or call our Halifax clinic to schedule a consultation.

Ready to Support Your Child’s Sensory Journey?

Contact Thrive Therapy today to learn how our expert occupational therapists can help your child build confidence and skills through personalized sensory processing support in Halifax, Bedford, Sackville, Dartmouth, Truro, and across Nova Scotia.

Resources:

STAR Institute for Sensory Processing Disorder – More information related to SPD, treatment, and research. https://www.spdstar.org
Building Resilience in a Child with SPD https://www.spdstar.org/sites/default/files/file- attachments/Building%20Resilience%20Tip%20Sheet_0.pdf
Home Activities and General Guidelines https://www.spdstar.org/basic/home-activities
Profectum Foundation – Free webcasts about relating to children with sensory and communication-related disorders https://www.profectum.org
Sensational Kids: Hope and Help for Children with Sensory Processing Disorder by Lucy Jane Miller, Ph.D., OTR (2014)