The story of student X

I would not know as much as I do about my amazing client without the use of his device.

The story of student X

As a speech and language therapist, I am fully aware of the benefits that AAC can bring to every aspect of a client’s life and when I met student X for the first time, I just knew AAC was worth trailing.

Student X came to me when he was 18 years old and had not used any low tech or high tech AAC before. His participation in class and in social settings was incredibly limited; I was able to explain to his communication partners that AAC focuses on encouraging and providing communication and therefore can reduce the psychological stress of individuals regarding the necessity or pressure of speaking.

Student X now has a device and can now demonstrate his understanding of his life and circumstances. For example, he is able to tell me about the girl he has taken a shine to and wants to get to know more. We are working on developing conversational skills so that he is able to get to know her more during our lunchtime social club.

Using speech alone has been rather personality crushing for Student X, I truly believe he is thriving whilst using his device. He told me recently that speech therapy makes him feel brave and that he loves watching YouTube shows where celebrities compete to see what their ‘hot wing’ spice tolerance is.

I would not know as much as I do about my amazing client without the use of his device.

Student X can now tell me who he really is and I am completely, wholeheartedly ready to listen.