Communication needs can look very different from one child to another. Some children may need support expanding spoken language, while others may benefit from visual supports, picture-based communication, or an Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) system.
Our Communication & AAC Consultation services are provided by speech-language pathologists with extensive experience supporting children who use both low-tech and high-tech communication systems. Our clinicians have worked with AAC across a variety of environments, including the home, clinic, school, and community, and understand that successful communication requires more than simply selecting a device or system.
We focus on helping families create communication systems that are functional, accessible, and meaningful throughout everyday life. Whether your child is using pictures, communication boards, visual supports, a speech-generating device, or a combination of communication methods, our therapists can help identify practical ways to increase successful communication across routines and settings.
Consultations May Focus On
- Supporting a child who is minimally speaking or nonspeaking
- Increasing functional communication throughout the day
- Determining whether AAC may be appropriate
- Improving use of an existing AAC device or communication system
- Choosing meaningful vocabulary
- Helping caregivers model AAC more naturally
- Creating communication opportunities during everyday routines
- Using visual supports, choice boards, first/then supports, or communication boards
- Supporting communication across home, school, and community settings
- Troubleshooting barriers that may be limiting successful AAC use
Families will let us know the primary area of concern when scheduling so the therapist can prepare for the consultation.
Virtual Communication & AAC Consultation
Virtual consultations typically last approximately 45–60 minutes and include caregiver discussion, review of current communication strategies or AAC supports, and individualized recommendations.
Families may also submit short videos, photographs, or examples of current communication materials when helpful so the therapist can better understand how communication is currently being supported.
In-Home Communication & AAC Consultation
An in-home consultation allows the therapist to observe your child’s communication within everyday routines and environments. This can be especially helpful when determining where communication supports should be placed, identifying natural opportunities for communication, or helping caregivers incorporate AAC and visual supports throughout the home.
The therapist may provide recommendations related to device placement, communication opportunities, visual supports, routines, environmental setup, and caregiver strategies.
Let’s Get Started
Consultation services are not covered by insurance. Please complete the referral form under Let’s Get Started for additional information and a phone consultation with the director.
