What Is OMST (Optometric Multi-Sensory Training)?
OMST is a therapeutic approach designed to help the brain (especially subcortical / bottom-up systems) learn or relearn how to filter, integrate, and modulate multiple sensory inputs (vision, hearing, motion, tactile, etc.). In essence, OMST helps improve the brain’s automatic ability to manage sensory information so that higher-level cognitive functions (thinking, learning, attention) can operate more efficiently and without overload.
Optometric Multi-Sensory Training (OMST)
Who Can Benefit
OMST is used to support individuals in a variety of cases, including:
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Children with sensory processing delays (autism, ADHD, anxiety, etc.)
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People recovering from mild traumatic brain injury / concussion
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Cases involving balance / coordination difficulties, behavioral regulation, learning difficulties, sensory integration deficits
Because OMST works at a foundational (subcortical) level, it is often considered as a complement to more “top-down” therapies (vision therapy, occupational therapy, cognitive therapies, tutoring).
​How OMST Works
Passive (non-cognitive) approach: The therapy works at a level below conscious effort; the patient doesn’t “think through” most of what’s happening during sessions
Multisensory stimulation: A controlled, safe clinical environment presents combinations of:
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Color / light stimulation (optometric phototherapy)
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Vestibular / motion stimulation
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Auditory / sound input
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Somatosensory / tactile inputs
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Vision therapy tasks (eye-tracking, convergence, etc.) integrated with the above
Phased program structure:
1. In-office phase: often 12 consecutive days of therapy sessions.
2. Home phase:18 days of home-based activities using a light or other instrument. 3. Follow-up / booster sessions as needed.
Neuro-retracking / retracing: Some participants may temporarily re-experience past symptoms (e.g. discomfort, imbalance, emotional responses) during the process. This is considered part of the brain revisiting prior recovery patterns and is typically short lived.
Clinical Outcomes and Success Rates
92% of parents report noticeable improvements in their child’s focus, balance, reading fluency, and confidence
96% of concussion patients report improvement within 38 days and the majority experience greater than a 50% reduction in symptoms such as headaches, dizziness, and visual fatigue.