Interoception, Our “Inside” Senses

How we process our “inside senses” has a major impact on both our physical AND emotional health. Identifying these differences is the first step towards learning how to improve the regulation of our physical & emotional needs.

Individuals with interoception differences might have difficulty with managing:

  • Hydration needs

  • Need for food

  • Need for Sleep or Rest

  • Toileting needs

  • Energy level

  • Emotional Regulation

  • Need to care for Injury or Sickness

Who is most likely to have interoception differences?

Autistic Individuals

Interoception is just one area of sensory difference. Autistic individuals are more likely to have interoception differences, just as they are with other sensory areas.

There isn’t enough research to understand the full extent within the autistic community, but from our experience, we have yet to meet an autistic person without interoception differences.

Those with sensory differences

Other individuals with sensory differences are also more likely to have interoception differences, as it is one area of sensory processing.

Individuals with a history of trauma

Individuals with early relational trauma or attachment issues have a much greater chance of having interoception differences.

Trauma experienced in later childhood or adulthood can also lead to interoception differences, as it may not feel safe to be “in your body,” or alternatively, you may experience perpetual hypervigilance to body-based signals.

Really, understanding interoception differences shines a light on ALL areas of mental health.

“Interocpetion is a pervasive underlying marker for every single mental health diagnosis there is.”

-Kelly Mahler (OT, Interoception researcher, and author of the Interoception Curriculum)

Free Community Info Session on Interoception!

May 17th 2:00-3:00

*New date

Reserve your spot.

Think you or your child might have interoception differences?

Take a look at our guides for the common signs.

Signs of Interoception Differences in Children

Signs of Interoception Differences in Teens & Adults

Work with one of our Occupational Therapists to learn more about your interoception differences & strategies for managing your physical & emotional health.

Check out our free infographic!

Consultative Services Offered for:

  • Parents work with our clinicians to understand & develop strategies for their child’s differences.

  • Both teens & their parents work with our clinicians to develop better understanding & strategies.

  • Adults work directly with our clinicians to consult on their interoceptive differences. Another support person may join if desired.

  • Interoception is the most important word most health professionals have never heard of. We can help train you on the basics and the areas most important to your specialty.

Contact us.