Augmentative and Alternative Communication
Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) supports people who cannot or can barely communicate verbally. It encompasses all strategies, aids and techniques that supplement or replace speech – from signs and picture cards to electronic speech-generating devices.
What is AAC?
AAC is not a replacement for speech – it is an extension of all existing communication options. Everyone communicates: through gaze, facial expression, gesture, sounds or touch. AAC builds on these natural means of expression and supplements them with systematically selected aids tailored to the individual.
The goal of AAC is always to maximise communication participation in everyday life.
Who benefits from AAC?
AAC supports people with a wide range of diagnoses:
- Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)
- Childhood Apraxia of Speech (verbal developmental dyspraxia)
- Down syndrome and other genetic syndromes
- Selective mutism
- Severe speech and language development disorders
- Acquired communication disorders (e.g. after stroke, ALS, locked-in syndrome)
AAC tools overview
AAC uses unaided, low-tech and high-tech means:
- Unaided: gestures, facial expression, gaze, signs (e.g. Makaton, BSL)
- Low-tech: picture cards, PECS® (Picture Exchange Communication System), communication books
- High-tech: speech-generating devices (SGDs), tablet apps (e.g. Proloquo2Go), eye-tracking systems
Selective mutism
Selective mutism is an anxiety-based communication disorder in which children (or adults) do not speak in certain social situations – e.g. at school or with strangers – even though they can speak in familiar settings.
Therapy requires a specific approach: building anxiety-free communication and graduated exposure to feared speaking situations. Our practice director Paula Kasischke holds a specialist certification in DortMuT®, an evidence-based selective mutism therapy programme.
Our approach
We begin with a communication assessment: what can the person already do? Which modalities are available? What are the goals in everyday situations?
We work systemically: family, school, kindergarten and care settings are involved so that AAC is used across all areas of life – not just in the therapy session.
Therapy process
- 1Communication assessment and needs analysis
- 2Joint selection of AAC tools and, where applicable, device application (insurance)
- 3Introduction and training of the communication system
- 4Transfer to daily life, kindergarten, school
- 5Training and counselling for carers and family
- 6Regular system review and updates
Frequently asked questions
Does AAC prevent speech from developing?
No – this is a widespread myth. Research shows that AAC tends to promote rather than inhibit spoken language development. When communication needs are met, pressure decreases and motivation to speak increases.
My child has autism – is AAC suitable for them?
AAC is one of the best-researched approaches for minimally verbal individuals with autism. Whether a child would benefit and which tools are appropriate is something we determine together in an individual initial consultation.
Does health insurance cover speech-generating devices and AAC apps?
Electronic AAC devices (SGDs) are classified as assistive devices under statutory health insurance and can be applied for with a quote and a doctor's prescription. We support you through the application and provision process.
What is DortMuT® and how does it relate to selective mutism?
DortMuT® is an evidence-based selective mutism therapy programme developed at TU Dortmund. It uses graduated exposure in real-world situations and actively involves the social environment. Our practice director Paula Kasischke is a certified DortMuT® therapist.
Ready for the next step?
Book your first appointment online or get in touch with our practice in Erding.