For many of the youth supported at Seven Hills Behavioral Health, traumatic life experiences such as physical or sexual abuse, neglect, family and domestic violence, and other forms of trauma have contributed to mental health struggles. Many struggle to safely process and express their emotions and experiences. In those cases, the use of Multi-Sensory Environments alongside traditional therapy can significantly improve a child’s ability to replace trauma-related behaviors with healthier responses. Sensory rooms have been proven to help youth learn to self-regulate, feel grounded, repair relationships, understand emotions, and recreate healthy brain patterns.

"We are thrilled with all our new sensory equipment. Clients love when they can use the space, and clinicians have access to high-quality, unique materials that enhance client care. These tools offer sensory experiences that help kids regulate, such as deep pressure, calming visual images, and tactile feedback. We are so grateful for the generous donations that made our sensory spaces possible!"
–Betsy Cheyne, PsyD Sr. Director of Outpatient Services, Seven Hills Behavioral Health

Through the generosity of the donors of the Lori Lajoie Charity Golf Tournament in 2023 and the bequest from the Jean Trayer McDonough estate, Sensory Rooms have been installed or enhanced at our Worcester, Southbridge, and Milford outpatient clinics. Also, at the Worcester clinic, funding allowed for a “Zen Den” space for clinicians – who also carry the weight of these trauma histories during treatment – to decompress and remain focused on providing the best possible care for their clients.