Communication Tools & AAC Support
Northside Speech provides an AAC service for nonspeaking individuals and their families living in north Canberra.
Who is eligible?
- Individuals: Nonspeaking individuals or those who can’t consistently communicate through speech, of any age
- Diagnosis: Those with conditions affecting their ability to speak (e.g., autism)
- Support Teams: Caregivers and support teams wanting to learn strategies for effective communication
- Goals: Individuals, families, and support teams with specific goals they wish to achieve
- Location: Available for those in north Canberra (Inner North, Gungahlin, and Belconnen regions) or via telehealth
Note: This service does not offer drop-off/pick-up, childminding, or support work activities.
How does it work?
Our AAC service:
- Delivery: Offered through home visits or telehealth
- Focus: Builds the capacity of caregivers and support teams to support effective communication
- Strategies: Emphasises practical strategies for long-term success
- Support: Works with you to integrate strategies into daily routines and achieve specific goals
What happens during an appointment?
During an appointment, you can expect:
- Progress Review: The speech pathologist will ask about any progress towards your goals
- Strategy Discussion: You’ll discuss what strategies you’ve tried and what has or hasn’t worked
- Strategy Adjustment: The speech pathologist will help adjust or add new strategies to meet your goals
- Practice: You’ll learn and practise these strategies
- Implementation: The speech pathologist will help you apply these strategies in a way that fits your situation
Our AAC services focus on practical strategies for long-term communication development. We are happy to collaborate with educators and support workers as part of your support team to implement AAC strategies.
How to access the service
- NDIS: We accept NDIS participants as well as individuals not using NDIS.
- Booking: Schedule appointments online.