Hierarchy of the senses therapy

Hierarchy of the senses therapy is a form of alternative treatment for autism based in the Van Soest therapy, also known as Psychomotor Patterning, the Doman-Delacato Technique, the Doman Method, the Delacato Method, or Patterning therapies is an alternative therapy that originated in the 1950s and 1960s, developed by Glenn Doman and Carl Delacato. It is designed to treat neurological disorders, including autism, by stimulating brain development through a series of physical exercises and sensory experiences. The method is grounded in the concept of "neurological organization," which posits that proper physical and sensory activities can promote brain development and function.

It emphasizes the importance of replicating early childhood developmental stages, such as crawling and creeping, to stimulate brain growth. There is no scientific evidence supporting the effectiveness of the Doman-Delacato Technique for autism. Most of the claims are anecdotal. The underlying theories of the method, particularly the concept of ""neurological organization,"" are not widely accepted in mainstream neuroscience. The program is highly intensive and requires significant time and effort from both the child and caregivers.

The physical exercises can be demanding, and there is concern about the physical strain on both the child and the caregivers performing the patterning exercises. Critics argue that the repetitive and forced nature of the exercises could be distressing or harmful to some children and that investing time and resources in unproven therapies could divert attention from evidence-based treatments.