AAC & Assistive Technology Services
Expert Speech-Language Services Since 2001
Empowering communication through cutting-edge technology and evidence-based AAC solutions. Every voice matters, every communication attempt counts.
Service Overview
What We Offer
Comprehensive AAC and Assistive Technology Services that help individuals communicate with confidence.
Who We Serve
AAC can benefit children and adults who have difficulty communicating using speech alone, whether their communication needs are temporary or lifelong.
How We Help
Our systematic approach ensures the right technology match for each individual's unique communication needs and abilities.
What We Offer
Comprehensive AAC and Assistive Technology Services that help individuals communicate with confidence.
Who We Serve
AAC can benefit children and adults who have difficulty communicating using speech alone, whether their communication needs are temporary or lifelong.
How We Help
Our systematic approach ensures the right technology match for each individual's unique communication needs and abilities.
Ready to learn more about how we can help? Our team is here to answer your questions and create a personalized plan.
Get Started TodayWhy Choose DTS for AAC & Assistive Technology
Transforming lives through innovative communication solutions
Communication Independence
AAC users develop the ability to express complex thoughts, needs, and emotions independently, leading to increased autonomy and self-determination.
Social Connection
Effective AAC use leads to stronger relationships, increased social participation, and reduced isolation for users and their families.
Precision Matching
Our expert assessment ensures the right technology fit from the start, reducing frustration and maximizing success with new communication tools.
Funding Success
We have extensive experience with insurance appeals and alternative funding sources, helping families secure necessary communication devices.
Ongoing Support
Our relationship doesn't end with device delivery - we provide continuous technical support, updates, and training as needs evolve.
Quality of Life
Effective communication through AAC significantly improves overall quality of life, reducing behavioral challenges and increasing participation in daily activities.
Communication Independence
AAC users develop the ability to express complex thoughts, needs, and emotions independently, leading to increased autonomy and self-determination.
Social Connection
Effective AAC use leads to stronger relationships, increased social participation, and reduced isolation for users and their families.
Precision Matching
Our expert assessment ensures the right technology fit from the start, reducing frustration and maximizing success with new communication tools.
Funding Success
We have extensive experience with insurance appeals and alternative funding sources, helping families secure necessary communication devices.
Ongoing Support
Our relationship doesn't end with device delivery - we provide continuous technical support, updates, and training as needs evolve.
Quality of Life
Effective communication through AAC significantly improves overall quality of life, reducing behavioral challenges and increasing participation in daily activities.
See These Benefits in Action
Experience the difference our evidence-based approach can make. Schedule a consultation to learn more.
Our AAC Implementation Process
From assessment to mastery - a systematic approach to communication success
Comprehensive AAC Assessment
2–3 SessionsOur comprehensive AAC assessment helps identify the communication system that best meets your child's or loved one's unique strengths, needs, and daily communication goals.
Device Selection & Trial
2–4 WeeksBased on the AAC evaluation, we'll recommend communication devices and provide hands-on trials to help determine the best fit for your child's or loved one's communication needs.
Device Programming & Customization
1–2 WeeksOnce the AAC device is selected, we'll personalize it to meet the individual's communication needs, daily routines, and preferences so it's ready to use in everyday life.
User & Communication Partner Training
4–8 WeeksWe provide individualized training to help the AAC user, family, caregivers, teachers, and other communication partners use the device confidently across everyday environments.
Follow-Up & Ongoing Support
OngoingCommunication needs change over time, and we're here to help every step of the way. We provide ongoing support to ensure the AAC system continues to meet the individual's communication needs.
Typical Implementation Timeline
From first contact to independent communication - what families can expect
Assessment & Selection
Comprehensive evaluation and device selection process
Setup & Initial Training
Device customization and basic training implementation
Integration & Mastery
Expanding use across environments and communication partners
Assessment & Selection
Comprehensive evaluation and device selection process
Setup & Initial Training
Device customization and basic training implementation
Integration & Mastery
Expanding use across environments and communication partners
AAC & Assistive Technology FAQ
Get answers to common questions about communication technology
Absolutely not! Research consistently shows that AAC actually supports speech development rather than hindering it. AAC reduces communication frustration, provides language models, and often leads to increased verbal attempts. Many AAC users develop better speech skills after starting with AAC.
Consider AAC if someone: has difficulty being understood by others, becomes frustrated when trying to communicate, has complex communication needs that exceed their current abilities, or could benefit from additional communication support alongside speech. AAC can be temporary or permanent based on individual needs.
Light-tech AAC includes communication boards, picture cards, and writing - tools that don't require batteries or electronics. High-tech AAC includes speech-generating devices, tablets with communication apps, and computer-based systems. Most successful AAC users benefit from a combination of both types.
Learning varies greatly depending on the individual's needs, abilities, and the complexity of the device. Basic communication often begins within days or weeks, while mastery of complex features may take months. The key is consistent practice and support from trained communication partners.
Many insurance plans cover AAC devices when they are deemed medically necessary. Coverage varies by plan and device type. We have extensive experience with insurance appeals and can help navigate the funding process, including appeals when initial requests are denied.
If your AAC device needs repairs, software updates, or technical assistance, the device manufacturer is typically the best resource for support. DTS can assist by providing clinical documentation, writing report addendums when needed, and communicating with the manufacturer or funding source on your behalf. We're here to help ensure you continue to have access to the communication tools you need.
Yes! Many AAC devices support multiple languages and can be programmed for bilingual users. This is especially important for families who speak multiple languages at home. We can help set up devices to support your family's linguistic needs.
Device selection considers multiple factors: cognitive abilities, motor skills, vision and hearing, communication needs, environmental demands, and personal preferences. We conduct comprehensive trials with different options to ensure the best match before making a final recommendation.
We provide comprehensive training for both AAC users and their communication partners (family, teachers, caregivers). Training includes device operation, communication strategies, troubleshooting, and ongoing support. We also provide resources for continued learning and skill development.
Absolutely! AAC devices can be integrated into educational and workplace settings. We work with schools and employers to ensure devices meet academic and professional communication needs. Many AAC users successfully participate in higher education and maintain professional careers.
Don't see your question here?
We're here to help with any specific questions about our services.
Ready to Explore AAC Options?
Our AAC specialists are here to answer your questions and help you discover the right communication solution.
Schedule AAC ConsultationReady to Discover Your Communication Voice?
Whether you're just exploring AAC options or ready to begin implementation, we're here to support your communication journey
Free discussion about communication needs
AAC Assessment
Comprehensive evaluation to identify the perfect communication solution for your needs
Insurance Support
Expert guidance through the insurance approval process for AAC devices
Technical Support
Ongoing support for current AAC users needing device updates or training
Ready to transform communication? Your journey starts with a single step.