List of Leaders in SPD

Hello there! My intention with this post is to introduce you to a few big names in SPD research and education (if you are not already familiar with them). This is certainly not a comprehensive list; there are many more amazing people out there doing SPD research, educating others, and helping people with their daily sensory challenges. I just wanted to throw a few big names out there to get you started, if you are new to SPD. Feel free to add more names of SPD researches, educators, etc. in the comments! It would be great to have a list of names people can refer to when searching for information on SPD! 

A. Jean Ayers, Ph.D, OTR, FAOTA (1920-1989)

• The first to identify sensory integration dysfunction (now referred to as sensory processing disorder)
• She published books on sensory integration dysfunction, created assessments to identify sensory processing issues, and created the first treatment approach to sensory integration dysfunction
• Her book called Sensory Integration and the Child provides a comprehensive look at her theories on sensory integration and her interventions for sensory integration dysfunction
• Learn more about Dr. A. Jean Ayers by clicking this link

Winnie Dunn, Ph.D, OTR, FAOTA

• Professor and chair of the Department of Occupational Therapy Education at the University of Kansas Medical Center
• Her research focuses on how people respond to sensory experiences in their everyday lives
• She is the author of the "Sensory Profile", a widely used assessment tool that helps individuals (children, adolescents, and adults) determine how they process sensory information
• Dr. Dunn's book called Living Sensationally helps people understand their sensory challenges and helps them learn their sensory type (Seeker, Avoider, Bystander, or Sensor)
• Learn more about Dr. Winnie Dunn here
• Check out her Facebook page!

Lucy Jane Miller, Ph.D, OTR

• Founder of the SPD Foundation, a world leader in research, education, and advocacy for sensory processing disorder
• She has worked to gain widespread recognition of SPD and to have SPD included in diagnostic texts like the Diagnostic Manual for Infancy and Early Childhood
• Dr. Miller has created seven different nationally recognized tests that are used to assess and diagnose SPD and other developmental disabilities
• She is the author of Sensational Kids: Hope and Help for Children with Sensory Processing Disorder, which educates readers on the signs of SPD, the diagnosis and treatment of SPD, and strategies to help people with SPD thrive
• Learn more about Dr. Lucy Jane Miller here
• Check out her treatment and research center!