Supporting Neurodivergent Individuals Through Immersive Experiences

At 7thSense, our mission is to help create transformative environments through immersive storytelling and cutting-edge technology. One area where this has profound impact is in supporting neurodivergent individuals. Those whose cognitive processing and sensory experiences differ from what’s typically expected, including individuals with autism, ADHD, dyslexia, dyspraxia, and other neurodevelopmental conditions.

7thSense’s Andy Bates recently explored this topic as part of his session at the TEA’s SATE 2025 conference in the UK.

Understanding Neurodivergence

Neurodivergence is not a deficit, but a difference. Neurodivergent individuals may experience the world in ways that are more intense, fragmented, or nuanced, often marked by heightened sensory awareness, unique communication styles, and alternative learning pathways. These differences can make traditional learning and social environments challenging, particularly when they lack flexibility or sensory sensitivity.

This is where immersive environments can offer a powerful solution.

Immersive experiences - rich with multi-sensory storytelling, visual engagement, tactile feedback, and spatial audio - create inclusive and adaptable environments that meet neurodivergent individuals where they are. These experiences:

• Reduce sensory overload by offering controlled and customisable environments.
• Support focus and engagement through dynamic, interactive storytelling.
• Foster communication and socialisation in low-pressure, curiosity-driven contexts.
• Enable experiential learning that aligns with different cognitive styles and preferences.

The D.R.E.A.M. Centre: An Immersive Case Study

A powerful example of immersive technology supporting neurodivergent individuals is the D.R.E.A.M. (Dynamic, Real, Experiential, Amazing, Magical) Centre at the Chailey Heritage Foundation in Sussex, UK. Designed for children and young adults with complex physical disabilities and sensory impairments (many of whom are also neurodivergent), the Centre is a state-of-the-art facility built to unlock experiences otherwise out of reach.

Developed in partnership with 7thSense and TEECOM, this multipurpose space integrates immersive projection, spatial audio, scent delivery, and tactile interactivity into flexible storytelling zones. The D.R.E.A.M. Centre enables:

• Simulated world travel for those unable to leave the facility, using 360-degree video, ambient soundscapes, and sensory effects.
• Accessible theatre performances where lighting, projection, and sound can be adapted in real time to individual needs.
• Rebound therapy and storytelling sessions that use trampoline integration and immersive narratives to promote physical and emotional well-being.
• Inclusive learning environments where students can explore at their own pace using touchscreen controls, hoist systems, and personalised settings.

In the D.R.E.A.M. Centre, neurodivergent young people have experienced everything from virtual bonfire nights (minus the overwhelming noise and crowds) to “Room on the Broom” story evenings, where visual, auditory, and tactile elements combined to enhance comprehension and emotional connection.

A particularly meaningful feature is that participants - not just carers or staff - can operate the technology. This agency helps neurodivergent users feel in control of their environment, building confidence, curiosity, and joy.

Designing for Neurodiversity

When designing immersive spaces for neurodivergent individuals, certain principles elevate accessibility and impact:

• Customisability: Adjustable audio levels, light intensity, and visual complexity help avoid overstimulation.
• Predictability: Clear cues, routines, and transitions reduce anxiety and cognitive load.
• Choice and Control: Interfaces that empower users to guide their own journey build engagement and trust.
• Collaborative Input: Involving neurodivergent individuals and their caregivers during design ensures fitting outcomes.

The potential of immersive technology to support neurodivergent individuals is only beginning to unfold. Whether in education, therapy, arts, or everyday experiences, immersive environments offer not just access, but transformation. At 7thSense, we’re proud to contribute our tools, expertise, and vision to inclusive design and neurodiverse empowerment.

To explore more about the D.R.E.A.M. Centre project, visit our project page or watch the video.