Online Gestalt Language Processing & AAC Consultations
At Access to Communication Speech and Language Therapy, we provide specialist online support for children who are Gestalt Language Processors (GLPs) or who use AAC (Augmentative and Alternative Communication). Our service is based in South Devon, and because consultations are delivered online, we are able to work flexibly with families, schools, and care teams wherever they are.
What to Expect
1. Background Information
We begin by gathering a full picture of your child’s communication journey. This helps us understand their individual strengths, needs, and everyday environments.
2. Everyday Communication Examples
Families and supporting adults are invited to share short video or audio recordings of the child communicating in different contexts, such as at home, in school, or out in the community. These recordings help us see the richness of your child’s communication in their natural environments.
3. Online Consultations
We meet with parents, caregivers, and where appropriate, members of the education or care team via secure video call. These sessions are collaborative, valuing the insights of everyone who knows the child best.
4. Understanding Communication Development
Using the information gathered, we identify your child’s stage of language development, whether they are moving through the stages of Gestalt Language Processing or developing communication through AAC.
5. Team Approach
Once we have a clear understanding, we create a plan that involves the whole team around your child, including family, educators, and carers. Our focus is on building environments and relationships that support meaningful communication and connection.
6. Coaching and Ongoing Support
Support does not stop after an assessment. Through regular online video consultations, we coach and empower the adults around the child to put strategies into practice. Coaching is practical, supportive, and responsive to your child’s needs and interests.
Between sessions, families and teams can access additional support through email or telephone contact with our speech and language therapists. This person-centred approach ensures that you always feel supported, listened to, and equipped to respond to your child’s communication.
Natural Language Acquisition Therapy
All of our practitioners have completed additional training in Gestalt Language Development and draw on Natural Language Acquisition (NLA) therapy in their practice. NLA recognises that children who are Gestalt Language Processors progress through distinct developmental stages, beginning with the use of whole phrases and scripts, and moving towards flexible, self-generated language.
Our approach honours each child’s communication style and follows their lead. Targets are created in line with NLA principles and are focused on developing robust, well-rounded communication skills. We aim to nurture communication that is natural, empowering, and meaningful for each individual child.
Our Approach
We are committed to neurodiversity-affirming practice in every aspect of our work. This means we respect, value, and celebrate the different ways children communicate. We do not try to change who a child is or how they communicate, but instead work to understand them, amplify their voice, and create environments where they can thrive. Our role is to walk alongside families and teams, offering strategies and coaching that fit naturally into daily life.
Why Choose Online Support
- Flexible scheduling to suit families, schools, and teams
- Easy access for people in different locations
- Support based on real communication in everyday environments
- Ongoing coaching with additional email or telephone contact between sessions
- Specialist expertise in Gestalt Language Development and AAC delivered directly to your team