I work with students who are nonverbal/slightly verbal through very verbal. Each student is different and is treated as such. Therefore the treatment plan/approach/materials/strategies will be different. For a student with (or without) CAS, we start with words that are used every day, and elicit close approximations as quickly as possible using highly motivating materials/toys. This is to make the child(and parent) feel positive about their improved production right away. I am PROMPT® trained for 20 years. Some other techniques/strategies is the use of Kaufman cards, signing, gestures, music, movement, assistive communication, humor, toys, and “equipment” like megaphones, microphones, audio/video recording, etc. The materials/words/sounds depend upon the child’s sound inventory, what is important/functional for home/school, what the child likes, and what will bring success quickly. Parents are in my sessions to provide input, observe, and participate (videos are also done if the parents cannot come). Suggestions are provided that are
fun/easy for home. Therapy is always conducted in a context of play, fun , and natural social interactions. Depending upon the severity of the student, I will see a student 1-2-3 times weekly combined with home practice. I also communicate with school therapists/teachers/ABA instructors to provide a consistent, collaborative approach across persons, settings, and tasks.