Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) 101 for the Non-SLP presented by Lori Cochran MS, CCC-SLP and Theresa Jones, M.S., CCC-SLP
January 09, 2024 7:00 PM - 8:30 PM EST
Webinar description
Over 2 million individuals are empowered to communicate with the use of AAC (alternative augmentative communication). A successful AAC user benefits from a collaborative approach, where families and rehabilitation professionals work hand-in-hand. Physical and occupational therapists can be key members of a child's AAC team, including playing an important role in device selection, advocacy, and carryover. This presentation is designed to a give a thorough introduction to clinicians and support staff who are new to AAC. We will guide you through immediate-use strategies and family-centered information.
Course Objectives:
1) Explain different levels of technology for augmentative/alternative communication;
2) Differentiate between 3 major access methods;
3) Implement 3 basic cueing strategies to use with patients;
3) Identify children who are good candidates for AAC in order to make referrals.
About the presenters
Lori Cochran MS, CCC-SLP is the speech-language program coordinator at Cook Children's Medical Center in Fort Worth, Texas. She primarily treats children with cleft palate/VPI, apraxia, and voice disorders and also loves training and mentoring other professionals in these areas. She presents frequently at the state and national level on a variety of clinical and professional development topics. Lori serves on the executive council of the Texas Speech-Language-Hearing Association, and on the ASHA SIG 5 Professional Development Committee.
Theresa Jones, M.S., CCC-SLP is a pediatric speech-language pathologist located in Fort Worth, TX. She has a passion for working closely with families to improve their child’s skills affected by childhood apraxia of speech, dysphagia, delayed language, and social skills challenges. Theresa has a special interest working with children who benefit from alternative augmentation communication (AAC) and advocating for those that learn differently. She has completed extensive continuing education in AAC, CAS, social skills, and dysphagia. She is currently employed at Cook Children’s Hospital.