Treatment of Adult Psychiatric Patients Using the Wilbarger Protocol

This pilot study examined the effect of the Wilbarger brushing and joint compression protocol and sensory diet on symptoms associated with Sensory Defensiveness among 3 women with histories of self-injurious behaviors. Data were collected through interview, the 50-item Sensory Defensiveness Screening for Adults, and patient journals. Treatment lasted approximately 1 month. Symptoms and patterns of role engagement and self-injury were compared before and nine months after treatment. At follow-up all participants were re-engaged in valued roles with no incidents of self-injury. Respective items endorsed by participants on the Sensory Defensiveness Screening for Adults dropped from 58% to 54%, 43% to 18%, and 72% to 36%. This treatment approach appeared to have some positive influence on Sensory Defensive symptoms. Results suggest that it may be useful in treating women with a history of self-injurious behavior and they indicate the need for further investigation of this treatment approach.