Let’s practice
Sensory Friendly Healthcare
Our Sensory Friendly Healthcare Program is designed to support healthcare providers across Central Virginia in creating more inclusive, accessible, and sensory-friendly environments.
This program equips providers with training and resources to better support patients with autism, ADHD, anxiety, and other sensory challenges. These individuals often face barriers to care — such as communication differences, sensory sensitivities, and anxiety around medical visits — that can lead to poor health outcomes.
The Sensory Friendly Healthcare Program is an extension of ASCV’s Autism Friendly Communities program.
Program Training Process
At the core of this initiative is our interactive training, “Introduction to Neurodiversity: Creating Sensory Friendly Healthcare.” This session helps healthcare teams better understand neurodiversity and equips them with practical tools and strategies to reduce barriers to care.
Through case-based learning and guided discussion, participants will:
- Gain foundational knowledge of autism and neurodiversity
- Recognize the diverse ways autism may present
- Learn respectful, effective approaches to support individuals in moments of distress
- Explore sensory accommodations that improve comfort and communication
Request Access to Virginia Healthcare Practitioners Autism Training
This continuing education training provides an introduction to understanding the characteristics of autism and offers practical strategies for effective communication and interaction with autistic patients. It also highlights best practices for creating successful and supportive office visits.
Upon completion, participants may download a Certificate of Attendance.
Sensory Friendly Healthcare Programs
Certificate Program
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Includes initial meeting with leadership team, as well as:
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Includes staff training (up to two sessions) Introduction to Neurodiversity: Creating Sensory Friendly Healthcare
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On-demand virtual Creating Sensory Friendly Healthcare module for onboarding
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Resource toolkit and sensory audit checklist
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Vaccination Sensory kits (e.g., shot blocker, fidget, headphones)
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Customizable social stories and intake form templates
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A final report with tailored recommendations
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Website recognition
Designation Program
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Includes all services, trainings and resouces in Certificate Program, as well as:
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Resource development (i.e. social story, sensory map, webpages, etc.)
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Support in implementing accommodations and resources including follow up training and support needs
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Sensory audit and facilities review at office location(s) with feedback and recommendations report
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Custom sensory kits for each office location (Buzzy Bee's, wipeable weighted lap pads, visuals, communication cards)
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Official “Autism Friendly Communities Designation,” with electronic & physical badges to display
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Endorsement by the ASCV to include social media recognition, listing with contact information and live link on the ASCV website, and a press release announcing endorsement
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We provide ongoing technical assistance with quarterly check-ins, and the organization is committed to ensuring all staff receive initial training as well as annual refresher training.
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Organization listed in ASCV Resource Library on our website
Join Our Autism Friendly Community
Please email Community Engagement Director, Debra Holloway at [email protected] to learn more about how the Sensory Friendly Healthcare program can benefit your business.