Communication Enhancement Clinic and Augmentative Communication Lab
The Communication Enhancement Clinic provides comprehensive assessment and intervention for individuals with complex communication needs. These individuals may have little or no functional speech, and may require alternative devices and strategies to communicate. Also referred to as Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) these services are available for both children and adults and include evaluation for speech generating devices (handheld computers), adaptive software, and non-electronic communication books and picture boards. The Communication Enhancement Clinic has a full range of state-of-the-art AAC options and computer access technology in its Augmentative Communication Lab.
Who Would Benefit?
There are more than two million Americans who may benefit from Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) devices and strategies. These include adults who have had a stroke, Traumatic Brain Injury, Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (Lou Gehrig’s Disease) or other neurological conditions. Children who have limited verbal skills due to developmental disabilities such as autism, cerebral palsy, or cognitive impairments are also excellent candidates for AAC assessment and support. AAC allows individuals to develop communication independence for all settings: home, school, community and work. Click here to read an article about one of our patients who has benefitted from augmentative and alternative communication.
Will AAC Interfere with Speech?
Families often worry that AAC supports may interfere with natural speech development/improvement. It is important to note, that research has shown that this is not the case. In fact for some individuals, AAC has been shown to facilitate the development of speech and language and can be bridge to independent speech and language.
Referral
A physician’s referral is necessary to set up an initial assessment and/or treatment. Please contact The Therapy Center front desk at 979-680-5420 for inquires regarding billing and insurance.
Other Services Available
- AAC consultation for school, work, and community settings
- In-service trainings and workshops for area therapists, rehabilitation staff, teachers, parents, and caregivers
- Assistive Technology assessment for written language, and computer access.
To learn more about speech/language pathology and the other types of speech therapy offered at College Station Medical Center, click here.
For additional information or questions about the Communication Enhancement Clinic, contact the Speech-Language Pathology Department at 979-764-5122