Safe Place: Clinical Utility and Feasibility of a Multi-Disciplinary Intervention for Children with Sensory Processing Disorder and Complex Trauma - a Feasibility Study.

ABSTRACT

Issues of feasibility, acceptability, satisfaction, safety, and fidelity were examined in a single case program review as an initial step to assessment of the clinical utility of the SAFE PLACE program, a unique multi-disciplinary intervention program for children with complex trauma and sensory processing disorder. The feasibility of conducting a pilot intervention study was also examined. A mixed methods, single-case, program review was conducted. The intervention was the 12-week SAFE PLACE program with pre and post-intervention baseline periods. Random intervention sessions were assessed for fidelity. Post-program interviews and questionnaires were utilized to obtain qualitative and quantitative information on feasibility, acceptability, satisfaction, and safety. The SAFE PLACE fidelity measure demonstrated the intervention was safe and implemented with fidelity to the intervention model. The intervention was acceptable to the family with an average rating of 4.3 (between acceptable and perfectly acceptable) on a five-point scale. The family was very satisfied with the intervention and its outcomes with a rating of 4.75 (between satisfied and very satisfied). Numerous positive qualitative comments about participation in the program and outcomes of the intervention were spontaneously provided by the family. Staff satisfaction rating was 4.3. Scheduling, staffing and financial reimbursement feasibility challenges were identified. Preliminary outcomes of the intervention suggested positive results and provided guidance for selection of future clinical and research outcome measures. The SAFE PLACE intervention was found to be a safe, acceptable intervention with high caregiver satisfaction that could be delivered with fidelity. The program was deemed feasible for future research studies but scheduling, staffing and financial reimbursement challenges may inhibit implementation in routine clinical practice.