Columbus AAC Clinic
Columbus Speech & Hearing provides comprehensive services for children and adults who may benefit from Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC). Our AAC Clinic is specifically designed to help clients access their voice through AAC, and discover the right tools for their lifestyle and communication goals.
If you or a loved one is interested in scheduling an AAC evaluation, contact Columbus Speech & Hearing at (614) 263-5151 or fill out our online appointment request form.
What is AAC?
Alternative & Augmentative Communication (AAC) refers to all communication methods other than verbal speech. AAC can involve the use of tools from no tech to high-tech. Examples of AAC include:
- Cards with pictures on them
- Push buttons or switches that say a single message when pressed
- Tablets or iPads with communication apps
- Speech-generating devices (SGD), which are built specifically for AAC
AAC can be used as a primary method of communication or to supplement verbal speech. At Columbus Speech & Hearing, our AAC tools and strategies support individuals with complex communication needs, ranging from speech that is difficult to understand to individuals who are non-speaking.
Two million people in the United States use AAC to communicate, according to the United States Society for Augmentative and Alternative Communication. As many as 5 million Americans and 97 million people worldwide may also benefit from AAC.
The Benefits of AAC
Using AAC opens doors to connection, learning, and belonging. This tool can be life-changing for clients beyond expressing their basic needs. For example, many of our clients use AAC to tell jokes and advocate for themselves.
As our AAC Coordinator, Cara Falade, explains, “AAC supports equal access to opportunities and helps each person show their true personality and strengths. Ultimately, it gives individuals the power to participate fully in their world, on their own terms. I truly believe everyone has a voice — AAC is the amp to let it be heard.”
The benefits of using AAC have been studied since the 1970s. A research summary of several scientific studies shows that 89% of AAC clients with a developmental delay demonstrate gains in speech. Other benefits include:
- Improved communication and speech-language acquisition
- Strengthened social connections
- Boosted confidence
- Increased independence
- Reduced frustration and stress
- Improved literacy
- Increased participation in school and work
Who is Eligible for the AAC Clinic?
Our licensed Speech-Language Pathologists (SLPs) conduct thorough AAC evaluations to determine eligibility. Individuals who are not eligible for our AAC Clinic may still benefit from speech therapy. Our team will work with individuals and their caregivers to find the best treatment option for their communication needs.
For eligible individuals, we guide families and caregivers through the process of trialing AAC devices, selecting the most appropriate system, and exploring funding options.
The individual and Speech-Language Pathologist (SLP) will select a personalized system. AAC can be tailored for the user, such as customizing ways they can access the device (touching the screen, using eye movements, pushing a switch) and personalizing vocabulary. AAC needs may vary and change over time.
Our experienced and compassionate team of SLPs also offers hands-on education and support to caregivers, ensuring they feel confident in setting up, managing, and supporting the use of the AAC device with their individual.
Now Accepting Clients: Alternative & Augmentative Communication Clinic at Columbus Speech & Hearing
Columbus Speech & Hearing is central Ohio’s premier nonprofit for speech therapy and hearing loss treatment. We provide evaluations for individuals who are new to AAC, consults for existing AAC users, and therapy strategies to support AAC users and their loved ones.
Call Columbus Speech and Hearing at (614) 263-5151 for more information or to schedule an appointment.