Augmentative and Alternative Communication, or AAC, includes the many ways people communicate beyond—or in addition to—spoken language. AAC can support children, adolescents, and adults who have difficulty reliably expressing their thoughts, needs, ideas, and personalities through speech alone. AAC does not replace speech. It provides additional ways to communicate while supporting language development, connection, independence, and participation in everyday life.
What Is Multimodal Communication?
Everyone communicates in different ways. Multimodal communication may include:
Spoken words and vocalizations
Gestures and facial expressions
Sign language
Pictures and communication boards
Writing or typing
Speech-generating devices
Tablet- or computer-based communication applications
Eye gaze or alternative-access methods
There are no prerequisite skills someone must demonstrate before being introduced to AAC.
Who May Benefit From AAC?
AAC may support individuals with:
Autism
Developmental or language delays
Motor-speech disorders
Cerebral palsy
Down syndrome
Neurological conditions
Acquired brain injury
Progressive medical conditions
Speech that is difficult for others to understand
AAC can be helpful for individuals who do not use spoken language as well as those who speak but need additional support communicating in certain situations.
AAC Evaluations
An AAC evaluation considers the whole person—not just a device or application. We explore each client’s strengths, communication needs, motor and sensory access, environments, communication partners, and personal goals.
An evaluation may include:
Current communication methods
Receptive and expressive language abilities
Symbol and vocabulary needs
Access methods such as touch, typing, or eye gaze
Device and software features
Communication needs at home, school, work, and in the community
Trials with appropriate AAC systems
Input from family members, caregivers, educators, and other professionals
Our Approach
AAC support is individualized, strengths-based, and focused on meaningful communication. We help clients develop the skills needed to communicate for many different purposes—not simply to request preferred items.
Therapy may focus on expressing opinions, asking questions, sharing information, refusing, advocating, connecting socially, and participating more independently.
We also coach families, caregivers, educators, and other communication partners to model AAC and create more consistent opportunities for communication across everyday environments.
Interested in AAC Support?
Schedule a complimentary consultation call to discuss you or your child’s communication needs and determine whether an AAC evaluation or therapy may be the right next step.