Augmentative/Alternative Communication Program

Overview

Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) is a specialty area of clinical practice in speech language pathology that assists individuals with severe expressive communication disorders (ASHA). In the WWRC Augmentative and Alternative Communication Program, a unique team works together to assess the communication needs of clients with severe speech impairments that limit an individual’s ability to be understood and subsequently employed. The interdisciplinary team is headed by a speech-language pathologist and may include an occupational therapist and/or physical therapist.

Both low and high assistive technology solutions are applied to provide clients with the most appropriate communication system to meet communication needs. Specialized training in using the systems in daily functional settings is incorporated into all clients’ programs.

Who typically needs the service?

• People with speech impairments that alter the effectiveness of their communication.
• People who need effective communication to be more employable.
• People who are not able to communicate all daily needs (such as presence of pain, desire for food, care needs, and social interaction) through their present communication modes.

FAQs about AAC evaluations: Expand All Collapse All