1. Snoezelen Room
By Iliana Alfaro

2. History
Developed in the Netherlands, in the late 1970 by two dutch therapists Jan Hulsegge and Ad Verheul
Experimented with a sensory tent and was a success with clients who has learning disabliites
Used all over the world, especially Germany
Snuffelen (to seek out) and doezelen (to Relax)
"Snoezelen" is a registered trademark of an English company Rompa which sell equipment for these rooms.
Other names: Multi-sensory room, Multi-Sensory Environments (MSE), white room

3. What is it?
Multi sensory environment that helps individuals adapt their responses to sensory stimulation.
Usually filled with items that stimulate the visual, auditory, tactile, olfactory, gustatory, proprioception, and vestibular system.
Stage it to multi-sensory or use single sensory focus
May be non-verbal and non-intellectual
Often used for Dx such as: Autism, Dementia, TBI, PTSD, and other developmental disability

4. Non-Directive approach
Free to make their own choices, free from control, and regulations
Controlled by the client, not the therapist
detached from all medical and known limitations
Provide a FAILURE FREE experience

5. Using the snoezelen Room for therapy
Expect differences in sensory regulation styles.
Keep activities experience-based and meaningful.
Be Flexible, but seize the opportunities for spontaneous interactions.
Work at the client's developmental level.
Focus on independence, not perfection.
Base sensory comfort level on client.

6. Benefits Improves moods decrease disruptive behaviors
Decrease anxiety and fear
Improves communications
enhances interpersonal interactions

7. Videos
Sensory Cave
Sensory Cave-Rave
Dementia

8. References
Adapted World. (2014, September 17). Retrieved April 6, 2015, from Champagne, T. (2006, December). Creating sensory rooms: Environmental enhancements for acute inpatient mental health settings: Mental Health Special Interest Section Quarterly, 29 (4), History of Snoezelen MSE Therapy. (n.d.). Retrieved April 5, 2015, from 'Snoezelen' Room. (n.d.). Retrieved April 6, 2015, from Snoezelen Approach to Sensory Therapy. (n.d.). Retrieved April 6, 2015, from What Are The Benefits Of A Multi-Sensory Environment (MSE)? (n.d.). Retrieved April 6, 2015, from