New Sensory Room Transforms Trauma and ASD Therapy for Students
Solstice RTC is proud to announce the launch of its sensory room, clinically designed to support students with trauma histories and those with Level 1 Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). Developed in collaboration with Ellie Pugmire, a PhD candidate in Occupational Therapy at Widener University, this innovative space transforms students' access to sensory-based emotional regulation techniques on campus.
A Safe Space for Healing
The sensory room is carefully designed to help students calm their nervous systems and de-escalate emotional dysregulation in a structured, clinically sound environment. Equipped with tools such as dim lighting, weighted blankets, and bilateral stimulation aids, the room offers a therapeutic haven for students after challenging sessions or during moments of emotional intensity.
“Trauma is often stored in the body, and addressing sensory needs can help students process their experiences more effectively,” said Jane Peterson, Executive Director. “Even for students without a sensory disorder diagnosis, targeted sensory interventions can make a significant positive impact as part of their treatment plan.”
Expert Collaboration and Design
The sensory room results from a two-year collaboration between Ellie and Solstice’s Jane Peterson. Ellie meticulously designed the space, selected the equipment, and developed a five-week training program to ensure staff members are equipped to use the room effectively and ethically.
"For my capstone project, I wanted to focus on sensory-related emotional regulation," Ellie explained. "There are significant gaps in clinical research on this topic, particularly within residential programs, but it's crucial to include in treatment. Often, when observing children's behaviors, it’s not immediately clear that they stem from sensory issues—and it’s important to recognize that it’s not their fault."
Impact in Action
Ellie developed a five-week training program for selected staff members at Soltice, focusing on the basics of sensory processing, practical strategies, and hands-on training in the sensory room. This training equips staff with the skills to support students in de-escalating and down-regulating their emotions using sensory tools. The staff are also learning to identify when sensory needs are driving behaviors, ensuring interventions are purposeful and effective.
Since its launch six weeks ago, the sensory room has made a significant difference for students working with Ellie directly. Starting next week, trained staff will begin working with students to maximize the benefits of this resource. Sessions are brief, goal-oriented, and carefully monitored to maintain the room’s therapeutic purpose.
Extending Support to Families
To help families better understand sensory regulation, Ellie led a 30-minute psychoeducation session at the program's latest family seminar. This session introduced sensory concepts and offered practical tips for adapting these strategies at home, allowing families to continue supporting students beyond therapy sessions.
Data-Driven Care
Ellie has also implemented a comprehensive documentation system to track the sensory room’s effectiveness. By recording behaviors, interventions, and outcomes, this data helps the clinical team refine care plans and ensure evidence-based practices are followed.
Looking Ahead
The team at Solstice is excited about the sensory room’s potential to create lasting benefits for students and their families. Guided by expert training and data-driven strategies, this initiative reflects the organization’s commitment to providing innovative tools that promote healing and growth.
For more information about the sensory room or to schedule a tour, please contact the admissions team at admissions@solsticertc.com
About Solstice RTC:
Solstice RTC is a residential treatment center for teen girls and teens assigned female at birth that has helped hundreds of struggling families on their journey to solving issues like trauma, depression, anxiety, and mood disorders. Solstice RTC, located in Layton, Utah, offers a specialized, clinically intensive program based on the specific needs of each student. At Solstice RTC, teens discover their full potential. For additional information on Solstice RTC, please visit solsticertc.com or call 866-278-3345.