A comprehensive communication evaluation is imperative to fit the correct communication system and treatment method to the individual who will utilize its capabilities.
Comprehensive AAC Evaluation
Many times, we witness a communication device or system being selected resulting from:
It was viewed on television
Another adult or child was seen using it
It’s an available app on the iPad
A presentation demonstrating a certain ACC system
A physician or company representative recommends an AAC solution
An evaluator recommends the same AAC system to each person without considering specific needs of that person
More often than not, this results in abandonment of the AAC system and approach. When this occurs we hear things from our clients like:
He or she is not interested in using the device.
We never take it out because we don’t really need it.
It doesn’t have the words needed for communication.
She or he gets upset when we use the AAC device.
No one else in their life uses the communication device with them.
This results because a good match was not achieved between the AAC system and the individual who can benefit from using it. Just as you would expect a fitted prescription from an evaluation for a pair of eyeglasses, an orthotic, or medical treatment, you should also expect a fitted prescription and treatment from a comprehensive AAC evaluation. This individualized match leads to better outcomes for the person using AAC.
A knowledgeable speech therapist experienced in AAC evaluations and versed in its many different available options will provide the best starting point for your AAC journey.
“We solicited support to provide input and training for our team, relative to a particular student who is using an augmentative communication device. The high levels of professionalism and competence proved invaluable to our team and, ultimately, all of our students with devices.”
Appointment Details
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We provide evaluations in our Naperville office.
We also work virtually if our office location is not convenient.
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Hours are by appointment only. We have appointments available Monday-Friday. Please call or contact us to schedule an appointment or a free consultation.
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At Use Your Words, we accept Blue Cross Blue Shield insurance. We are happy to work with you to help you understand your insurance benefits for speech and communication services.
We also offer a self-pay fee for communication services. For details, contact us at (630) 296-7377.
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The short answer is everyone! Our staff are licensed speech-language pathologists who also specialize in alternative and augmentative communication. We work with a range of verbal ability and diagnoses including Autism, Down Syndrome, Cerebral Palsy, and Cognitive Impairment, and many other conditions that affect communication and speech. See Who We Serve
Communication and speech challenges know no age limit. We see children, adolescents, and adults.
Take the First Step
on Your Journey With Us
Perhaps you have questions you would like to ask before you decide to become our client. We offer a complimentary 20-minute consultation to answer any questions you have to help determine if our approach is right for you.