A: Thanks for reaching out! There are a few different options to filter noise: Noise Reduction Headphones; Hamiltonbuhl Noise-off Headset; and B-Calm with audio tracks for relaxation and concentration.

This short video on auditory sensitivity shares several strategies from Ilana Danneman, PT at Fun and Function.

Additional tools that support concentration include weighted lap pads,  seating cushions, hug tees and weighted vests, chews and fidgets. 

A:  We wish you a swift recovery from your surgery, and hope everything goes as smoothly as possible.  Our therapists suggest several sensory tools that may be helpful – see list below. In addition, they recommend walking and moving since it can help alleviate the stress and biting.  Though it may be difficult at the start, given the surgery, even small movements can be helpful. We’d love to hear what helped you the most so we can share with others facing similar challenges.

• - Noise Reduction Ear Muffs to minimize the extraneous noise but still allow you to hear nearby conversations
• - Calming Weighted Comforter to provide calming pressure. Use at night or during the day as a lap pad.
• - The Mozart Effect or other soothing music can provide calming auditory input
• - Fidgets such as Digi Squeeze Balls or Scented Putty  or Marble Maze
• - Alternative things to bite such as Chewy Pencil Toppers or Bangle Bracelets or Chew Necklace
• - Weighted Cap for calming pressure and to help keep you from banging your head

A: Fortunately there are a growing number of companies that want to increase the ranks of this overlooked talent pool. Some like EY (formerly Ernest & Young) have neurodiversity programs to recruit and hire people with different cognitive abilities. Others like Ultra Testing primarily hire people with autism. Check out the resources at Spectrum that highlight leading companies as well as helpful ideas, such as practice interviews with avatars.

A: While it's a personal decision whether you feel comfortable sharing that, you do want to sincerely apologize and take steps to prevent a repeat. For example, you could work with a coach or trusted friend to role play responses to frustrating situations. Also, try practicing relaxation techniques, and use noise cancelling earphones to filter out surrounding noises. And ask for regular constructive feedback from colleagues so you can become more aware of your tendency to react impulsively.

A: A ball chair or a quiet fidget for the feet does wonders for concentration. A lap pad can provide sensory input under the cover of your desk. A pocket gel fidget is great for short breaks. You can also experiment with seating cushions that support movement while you work, such an inflated tactile cushion, a gel cushion or a wedge.

A: Thanks for reaching out! There are a few different options to filter noise: Noise Reduction Headphones; Hamiltonbuhl Noise-off Headset; and B-Calm with audio tracks for relaxation and concentration.

This short video on auditory sensitivity shares several strategies from Ilana Danneman, PT at Fun and Function.

Additional tools that support concentration include weighted lap pads,  seating cushions, hug tees and weighted vests, chews and fidgets.