Date: Tuesday, May 13, 2025 4:30 PM- Tuesday, May 13, 2025 5:30 PM
Location: RESNA 2025 @ RehabWeek Sheraton Downtown Riverside Chicago, IL
Lead/Instructor: Cassidy Laue, University of Wisconsin Whitewater

Abstract: The fundamental right to realize one’s highest possible level of physical and mental health extends to all individuals, including individuals with disabilities. Ninety-seven million individuals worldwide have a severe communication disability that results in the need to use augmentative and alternative communication. The focus of the current study is supporting the mental health needs of AAC users. Psychotherapy is a well-established method of supporting mental health, and the role of communication in psychotherapy is also well-established. Traditional methods of supporting, maintaining, and restoring mental health, such as psychotherapy, heavily rely on communication, thereby putting AAC users at a disadvantage. There is currently limited research related to the provision of psychotherapy to AAC users. This presentation will explore the current state of mental health support for AAC users and offer suggestions for current clinical practice and future research.

Learning Outcomes: Describe the current state of mental health services for AAC users. Discuss strategies mental health professionals can use to support AAC users. Explain future directions for research in the area of mental health support for AAC users.