The challenges that neurodivergent people experience due to incompatible sensory environments are often misinterpreted or overlooked by others. My Sensory Experiences Tool (MYSET©) is a card-sort tool that uses photographic representations to support conversations with neurodivergent people about their sensory experiences in everyday environments such as schools, workplaces, and shopping centres.

The tool aligns with neurodiversity-affirming principles. Rather than perceiving deficits to be a fault that resides within the individual, a neurodiversity-affirming paradigm recognises that challenges may be the consequence of a mismatch between the person and their environment. As a neurodiversity-affirming approach positions the neurodivergent person as the ‘expert’, the person’s voice in identifying what they consider important for a meaningful life is central to the MYSET© process.

The picture-based format and simplicity of MYSET© makes it accessible to a diversity of neurodivergent people including children as young as 5 years and people with mild intellectual disability. Caregiver versions are also available to support very young children and people with more significant cognitive and language challenges.

During the MYSET© process and with the support of a professional facilitator such as a therapist or teacher, participants sort photo cards through three structured phases:

Phase A: Sensitivities and Preferences (e.g., "Loud fireworks" → “I love this”, “This is OK”, or “I hate this”)
Phase B: Sensory Seeking and Self-Stimulatory Behaviours (e.g., "Rocks back and forth” → “I don’t do this much” or “I do this a lot, I need this”)
Phase C: Sensory Awareness and Interoception (e.g., “Hunger and thirst” → “I don’t notice this and this can be a problem”, “This is OK”, or “I notice this a lot and this can be a problem”)

Participants then use a 10-point Impact Rating Scale to evaluate how problematic sensory experiences affect their daily functioning and identify whether they have effective strategies in place. In collaboration with a facilitator, they co-develop tailored accommodations and strategies using MYSET©’s Strategy and Support Planning framework. This may include learning how to communicate sensory needs to family members, educators, or employers.

The course also highlights the importance of user-friendly reports that translate MYSET© insights into practical supports for key environments such as home, school, community, and the workplace.

Backed by qualitative research - including focus groups with 18 professionals and semi-structured interviews with 5 neurodivergent individuals and 4 family members - MYSET© has proven effective in diverse settings such as schools, therapy, behaviour support, mental health services, employment services, and supported accommodation. Findings reveal that neurodivergent participants value being heard and understood, leading to improved self-awareness, empowerment, and meaningful support.

Key Highlights

MYSET© is a photographic card-sort tool designed to support neurodivergent individuals in exploring their sensory experiences across everyday environments like schools, workplaces, and community settings.
With guidance from a professional (e.g., therapist or teacher), participants sort cards to reflect sensory preferences and challenges, rate their impact using a 10-point scale, and collaborate to develop tailored strategies using MYSET©’s structured planning process.
Research shows that neurodivergent individuals value the opportunity to express their experiences and guide others in understanding their sensory needs. The highly individualised insights gathered help practitioners tailor support to fit the person’s lifestyle.
MYSET© has demonstrated effectiveness across a variety of settings, including schools, therapy, positive behaviour support services, mental health and employment services, and supported accommodation.