Clinic
Connect is an Independent Occupational Therapy Service based in the East Riding of Yorkshire
Our specialist clinic and sensory-friendly environment are also an important part of what makes Connect different. We have intentionally created a space that feels welcoming, flexible and neurodiversity-affirming rather than traditionally clinical. Many of the children and young people who access our service spend significant amounts of time navigating environments that can feel overwhelming, unpredictable or simply not designed with their needs in mind. We wanted Connect to feel different — somewhere children and young people can feel safe, explore, move, regulate, connect and, most importantly, be themselves.
The environment has been developed with sensory processing, regulation, emotional safety, movement, predictability, choice and individual differences in mind. We recognise that meaningful engagement looks different for every child.
One young person may need movement before they are ready to talk, while another may need a quieter environment with fewer sensory demands. Some children communicate more comfortably while playing or taking part in an activity rather than sitting opposite a professional. Others may need time to explore the environment, develop familiarity and build trust before assessment or intervention can meaningfully begin. Wherever possible, we adapt the environment and our approach around the child rather than expecting the child to adapt to us.
Our clinic also includes specialist Sensory Integration assessment and therapy facilities, enabling appropriately trained Occupational Therapists to undertake comprehensive assessment and intervention using specialist equipment and clinical reasoning. These spaces give our therapists opportunities to explore sensory processing, movement, motor planning, postural control, regulation and participation within a carefully considered therapeutic environment. However, our sensory spaces are much more than rooms filled with specialist equipment. Activities are selected and adapted according to the individual child’s presentation, assessment findings, interests and therapeutic goals. Play, movement, curiosity, choice and connection can all become meaningful parts of the therapeutic process.