Hey, it’s Emily! If we’re meeting for the first time, here’s what you need to know about me. I’m a school-based SLP specializing in Autism & AAC. I manage The SLP Library which is a collection of my favorite brand of books paired with tips for development and targets for speech therapy for you to shop or get for free.
I’m a mom constantly amazed by my toddler’s above average language development & I’m married to my high school sweetheart.
I just shared with you that I was an AAC SLP, but I have a confession to make. I started working in this field like most SLPs do — with absolutely no education or training on complex communication needs or assistive technology. In 2015, I took over a caseload of students I had no clue how to treat. I constantly questioned my evaluations, my IEP goals, my interventions, and my knowledge about AAC. I wasn’t “learning on the job” either. I was failing.
From grant writing, to lending libraries, to workshops and everything in between I somehow managed to take control of my caseload and fall in love with AAC.Â
I know from experience how it feels to know nothing about devices, have zero staff buy-in, and no time to train teachers and paraprofessionals. I also know that it’s possible to change and stop letting AAC scare you and stress you out. I share about what’s worked for me because I believe it can work for you, too.Â
