AAC assessment and support for meaningful communication
Augmentative and Alternative Communication, or AAC, includes ways of communicating beyond speech alone. Support is shaped around the person, their communication partners and the places where communication needs to work.
People first
Who this service may support
Children and young people
AAC supports children who need additional ways to understand, express themselves and participate.
Adults
Adults explore AAC when speech does not reliably meet communication needs in everyday life.
Communication partners
Families, educators and support workers can be included because partner knowledge and responsiveness are important.
In your own words
Common starting points
Expressing more than basic needs
Everyone needs a reliable way to share choices, ideas, feelings, questions and social messages.
Communication across settings
Useful AAC needs to be available and understood at home, learning, work or community activities.
Finding the right access method
Assessment considers language, vision, hearing, movement, sensory preferences and communication environments.
Meaningful progress
Everyday goals
- Expanding opportunities for the person to communicate meaningful messages.
- Identifying suitable low-tech or high-tech communication options for further trial.
- Building communication-partner confidence through modelling and practical guidance.
Individual and collaborative
What support may involve
- Communication assessment that considers current methods, strengths, access and participation needs.
- Trial and comparison of appropriate symbols, boards, books, devices or access approaches.
- Training and review with the person and communication partners in relevant environments.
A clear path
How to get started
Start with a conversation
Tell us about the person, their strengths, everyday routines and the goals that matter now.
Confirm the right next step
The team considers suitability, location, timing, fees and the most useful service or assessment.
Review support together
Recommendations and supports are reviewed as priorities, environments and participation change.
Funding and appointment access
AAC assessment often spans several sessions so options can be trialled properly.
Marsden Therapy is a Registered NDIS Provider and welcomes agency-managed, plan-managed and self-managed participants, as well as private clients. Plan coverage depends on individual circumstances.
Service suitability, delivery setting, timing, fees and availability are confirmed with the team before support begins.
Clinic, home, school, community, telehealth, day care and child care options are considered when appropriate for the person, service and goals.
Useful to know
Frequently asked questions
Will AAC stop someone from developing speech?
AAC is used to expand communication access. The speech pathologist explains how options complement speech and other communication methods.
Does AAC always mean an electronic device?
Not at all. AAC can include gestures, pictures, communication boards, books, speech-generating devices and combinations selected for the person.
Why are communication partners included?
Partners help make AAC available and responsive in everyday situations, so their understanding and participation can be important.
Where to find us
Available locations
Next step
Ready for the next step?
Choose booking when you are ready, or contact the team if you would like to ask about suitability, funding or availability first.