Autism & AAC
Speech Therapy and AAC for Autistic Children
Every autistic child communicates, and our job is to help them do it in ways that work for them. Fisher-Jost Therapy provides speech, language and AAC support for autistic children, at home, at our Frankfort and Manteno home therapy spaces, and on-site at Elevated Therapeutics, our ABA partner.
Communication that works for your child
Whether your child is building first words, using a communication device, or working on conversation, therapy starts with what motivates them and builds from there.
Depending on your child's needs
How speech therapy supports autistic children
- Building first words, gestures or signs
- Requesting, protesting and making choices
- Understanding language and following directions
- Play, turn-taking and joint attention
- Conversation and social communication (see social language therapy)
- Picky eating and sensory-related feeding challenges (see feeding therapy)
AAC: communication devices and systems
Augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) includes picture boards, sign, and speech-generating apps or devices. Research shows AAC does not stop children from learning to talk, and for many children it supports speech. We help families choose a system, set it up, and use it in everyday routines.
Working alongside ABA and your child's team
With your permission, we coordinate with your child's ABA team, teachers and doctors so everyone works toward the same communication goals. For children at Elevated Therapeutics, that coordination happens on-site.
Where sessions happen
In your home, at our home therapy spaces in Frankfort and Manteno, on-site at Elevated Therapeutics, or online.
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No. Autism is diagnosed by a developmental pediatrician, psychologist or other qualified specialist. We can evaluate your child's communication and share our findings with the professionals who diagnose.
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No. Research shows AAC does not hold back speech, and it often helps.
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Yes, and we provide speech therapy on-site at Elevated Therapeutics.
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No. We grow our team as needed so families can start without waiting.
Autism and AAC FAQs
Related: Social language therapy · Apraxia · Bourbonnais
Ready to talk about your child?
Book a free screening. We'll listen, answer your questions, and help you decide on next steps.