Interoception, the 8th Sense

Dr. Kelly Mahler, OTD, OTR/L, is an occupational therapist with over 20 years of experience, specializing in interoception, self-regulation, trauma, and autism. She earned her Doctorate in Occupational Therapy from Misericordia University in Dallas, PA, and serves as an adjunct faculty member at both Elizabethtown College and Misericordia University. Dr. Mahler has received multiple accolades, including the 2020 American Occupational Therapy Association Emerging and Innovative Practice Award and a Mom’s Choice Gold Medal.

Dr. Mahler has authored several resources and these publiciations provide practical tools for enhancing interoceptive awareness and self-regulation. In addition to her clinical work and writing, Dr. Mahler is actively involved in research projects focusing on interoception, emotion, trauma, neurodiversity, anxiety, and mental health. She collaborates with various researchers to explore these topics and apply findings to support individuals in their daily lives. She is an international speaker and shares her passion to inspire people to think differently, dig deeper, and discover the root causes of behaviors. She emphasizes the importance of understanding human behavior, asking the right questions, and honoring each person’s unique inner experience. Her approach nurtures regulation, safety, self-understanding, social connection, and meaningful life engagement. Her workshops are designed to provide practical, evidence-based strategies and often include first-person accounts from individuals with autism, trauma, and other conditions. Dr. Mahler’s contributions as an international speaker have significantly influenced the understanding and application of interoception in various fields, promoting better support for individuals with diverse sensory and emotional experiences.