Rhythmic Sensorimotor Play
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Rhythmic Sensorimotor Play (RSP) is a clinically-informed therapeutic framework designed to build self-regulatory capacity in children through structured, relationally-held sensorimotor play. The method is organized around oscillation as its core clinical principle: rhythm and movement are used not to calm the nervous system but to move it, building the child's capacity to traverse arousal states and return reliably to baseline.
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RSP is designed for children whose presenting concern, whether behavioral or anxiety, seems to have a basis in sensory processing difficulties. These children often fall below diagnostic thresholds to receive OT or school-based support. They are often children who are dysregulated, often mislabeled behaviorally, and arriving in mental health settings because their parents notice something is just “not quite right”. The method is not designed for children whose treatment targets are primarily rooted in trauma, or whose primary diagnosis is Autism Spectrum Disorder, though it may be used as a helpful conceptual lens for the therapist in those contexts.
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RSP is a play therapy method, not a sensory integration protocol. It is appropriate for licensed mental health clinicians — LPCs, LCSWs, LMFTs, psychologists — working with children. It does not require OT training and does not attempt to perform sensory integration therapy. The target in RSP is the child’s perceived competence to manage activation, not sensory integration. Training will address referring to OT partners when indicated.
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Training in RSP follows a developmental pathway model. Your first step is to attend Basics of RSP, a live course that will introduce you to RSP and allow you to decide if it seems like a good fit for you and your practice. Our next live class will be Thursday, May 14, 2026 at 5:00pm CST.