Kelly Mahler 2025 - Interoception, the 8th Sense: The Science of How We Each Uniquely Feel

Kelly Mahler 2025 - Interoception, the 8th Sense: The Science of How We Each Uniquely Feel

Interoception is one of the hottest topics in neuroscience and has shed light on the value of connection to our body signals and understanding the messages they send us. How connected are you to your inner self? How connected are your clients? Research shows that interoceptive awareness is foundational to regulation, self-advocacy and communication and this interoception science has encouraged a shift forward towards more neuro-affirming supports. Come take an inner selfie as we explore the lived experience and science of this important topic.

Learning Outcomes:

1. Generate a description of interoception, the 8th sense that can be used with clients and/or their families.

2. Describe the connection between interoception and understanding/communicating how you feel.

3. Plan at least one strategy that they can use to support the interoception growth in clients of all ages.

About The Presenter:

Kelly Mahler is an award-winning occupational therapist, author, and interoception groupie known for her boundless curiosity and fondness for crunching pinecones. Holding a Doctorate in Occupational Therapy, she has served school-aged children and adults for over 22 years. Kelly is author of 12 resources including The Interoception Curriculum, now used in over 30 countries worldwide. She enjoys speaking internationally on interoception, neuro affirming practices, and playful strategies for inner exploration using a lens of curiosity, validation and empathy.