About this Treatment
The Wilbarger Therapressure Protocol (DPPT) and the Oral Tactile Technique (OTT) are specialised sensory integration techniques used to support children with sensory defensiveness — a condition where everyday touch, textures, grooming, and physical contact can feel irritating, painful, or overwhelming.
Children with tactile defensiveness may:
- Avoid certain clothing or complain about “itchy” or “scratchy” fabrics
- Become upset with toothbrushing, hair brushing, face washing, or nail cutting
- Resist unexpected touch, kisses, or cuddles
- Avoid messy play (sand, paint, slime, food textures)
- Be very ticklish or startle easily
- Prefer strong pressure (tight hugs) but dislike light touch
- Toe-walk or appear tense
- Become overwhelmed in busy environments
- Show irritability, emotional outbursts, or difficulty regulating
The Wilbarger Protocol uses deep-pressure brushing followed by joint compressions to help the nervous system feel safer, more organised, and better able to process tactile input. When the protocol is applied correctly, many children experience improved focus, reduced sensitivity, more consistent emotional regulation, and greater comfort with grooming and daily routines.
Why this treatment matters
Deep pressure and proprioceptive input can help “reset” how the nervous system responds to touch. Over time, this can:
- Reduce defensive reactions
- Improve sensory regulation
- Support calmer behaviour and better attention
- Increase participation in everyday activities
- Improve tolerance for clothing and hygiene tasks
- Strengthen body awareness and motor planning
Important Safety Note
The Wilbarger Protocol must only be introduced and trained by a qualified occupational therapist.
Correct pressure, brushing sequence, and timing are essential for safety and effectiveness.
Parents should never start this protocol from a video or online instructions.
Our Process
At Sensory Kids, we follow a structured, evidence-informed approach to ensure your child receives the right support and you feel confident applying the protocol at home.
Step 1 — Parent Interview
We meet with you to understand your child’s behaviours, sensory responses, and daily challenges. This helps us identify whether DPPT is appropriate and what type of sensory input your child needs. We also provide education to help you better understand your child’s sensory patterns.
Step 2 — Wilbarger Protocol & Sensory Diet Training
You attend a 1-hour parent training session where a trained OT teaches you:
- The brushing pattern and correct pressure
- The joint compression sequence
- How often the protocol should be completed
- Safety precautions
- How to combine DPPT with a personalised daily sensory diet
This ensures the protocol is used safely and effectively at home.
Step 3 — Treatment & Follow-Up
Deep-pressure brushing and joint compressions are completed according to your child’s schedule (often every 90–120 minutes, 8–10 times per day).
Our therapists provide:
- Follow-up phone calls
- Technique checks
- Adjustments to the sensory plan
- Ongoing support to monitor your child’s progress
This helps ensure the protocol remains safe, effective, and tailored to your child’s needs.
.webp)
