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Praactical AAC

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Not sure where to start with AAC? Or, struggling to make consistent progress?

AAC ALLY will show you the step-by-step process I use to find the optimal AAC system and vocab targets for learners. You'll help them start making progress with communication today.

Do you have students on your caseload who have been sitting on a waitlist for months to get an AAC assessment?


Maybe you're not sure how to approach AAC assessment, let alone get everyone on board with your recommendations.


Or maybe you work in Early Intervention and you're worried that your kiddo may need AAC, but you're not sure where to start. 



SPOILER ALERT: You don't have to wait to help kids start using technology for communication. 



Whether you're in-person, hybrid model, or fully distance-learning, in a school or private practice, your students, parents, and colleagues need your communication expertise. 


Not sure where to start?


You're not alone. My inbox is full of messages from SLPs telling me this. 



You may feel stuck and overwhelmed at the thought of AAC assessment because you're not an "AAC expert." 



You may have scoured the ASHA Practice Portal, read articles on AAC blogs, and joined AAC Facebook groups, or even paid memberships. 


You found answers for some specific questions, but struggle to piece together a cohesive plan to find the right technology for your students. 


I looked too, and honestly couldn't find anything to fill this gap... 


So I streamlined a process that SLPs of all skill levels could implement immediately. 


1) You don't need to be an AAC specialist to start trialing lite-tech or high-tech AAC with a student. 


2) It's never too early to intervene (actually the earlier the better!) 


3) ALL CHILDREN can benefit from remote/asynchronous collaboration tools (even in-person)... for both treatment and assessment!


In fact, most of my clients make more progress when I incorporate asynchronous tools. Why? Because I can effectively coach team members on how to use the AAC system. Work smarter, not harder!


The silver lining of the Pandemic?

You were forced to learn remote tools. Some things are always better in person, but I'll show you how you how to use my favorite technology to collaborate and plan activities in less time, so you can maximize your time and energy.

  • Stop wasting time with inefficient email threads and long meetings.

  • Empower parents and team members to get involved from day one, no matter where they are (location-wise, and emotionally).

  • Be the 21st century clinician your students, colleagues, and parents love to work with!

Best practices in a clear, digestible format.

Lauren S. Enders, SLP and AAC expert

For many SLPs and educators, the task of trialing AAC systems and training communication partners can be daunting. When you factor in a pandemic that forces us to provide these AAC services remotely, the process can become overwhelming. I’m thrilled to have found Rachel Madel’s AAC Ally course that takes SLPs and educators through best practices with a specific focus on providing these services remotely. Not only does Rachel provide thorough and easily digestible tips, suggestions, and resources, she does so in a clear, enthusiastic and incredibly supportive manner. The content Rachel provides in her AAC Ally course is sure to be helpful for both new and seasoned professionals.

Don't sleep on this one!

Emily B Speech

As a clinician working with AAC users during school closure, this course taught me everything I needed to know about virtual AAC assessment. The course is broken up into modules which are organized and each module is so helpful. The course goes over so much helpful information such as data collection, assessing skills, trialing devices, and most importantly, involving the entire team throughout the process. Rachel shows real, raw footage with a client and parent and you are able to watch her as she goes through the assessment process. Seeing the process in real time, the type of feedback and coaching Rachel was doing, and how she emphasized what to focus on during the process was incredibly helpful. She also provides forms (which you can copy and share with your own team members) which are invaluable. If you work with AAC users or want to help more individuals communicate, and are working through telepractice, or have team members who are, take this course!! You won’t regret it!

Outstanding Resource!

Rachael Langley, Reach Language, LLC - AAC Consultant

There is so much to glean from this course! Rachel compiles dozens of tips, resources, and video examples as she walks through each step of a remote AAC assessment and trials. I love that she emphasizes the role of parent coaching and gathering input from team members. You don't have to be an "AAC expert" to walk through this process with a family. But even people experienced in AAC will learn from this and walk away with new resources. I know I did!

Practical Tools!

Cara Walton (AAC specialist)

"This course was great! Rachel not only gives ideas of what to do, but provides valuable knowledge on HOW to do it, and then she shows you through video. I would recommend this not only to those doing AAC assessment via teletherapy, but new to aac assessment in general."

Amazing!

Sarah Gregory, SLP & AT consultant

This course was so informative and as well as fun and engaging to watch! The material is well organized and easy to consume as you can space out the modules as needed. Rachel shares free resources to collect data and share information from families. All of the practical tips will definitely make my next AAC assessment go more smoothly. The information and resources will be beneficial for both new and seasoned clinicians.

Great course with immediately applicable ideas!

Kaitlin Mulcahey, M.S. CCC-SLP

Rachel's AAC ALLY course was extremely informative. Being a primarily AAC SLP, I did find some of it to be review, however, it was still very helpful and would be great for someone who may not have as much AAC experience. Beyond that, after module 1, ideas were immediately applicable for me and based on real-life activities and not just contrived, screen-based materials. I learned a lot and the supplemental materials that come with the course are amazing. I highly recommend this course!

Whether you're a seasoned SLP, or a new graduate, the information in this course is extremely valuable and the strategies can be used immediately.

Kristen Powell

The AAC Ally course has been a gamechanger in how I conduct remote AAC trials and evaluations. Rachel gives you a road map on how to complete AAC assessments and device trials with confidence and ease. The checklists and inventories have been extremely helpful when working with families and school staff.

I know what you're thinking...


  • AAC is hard enough, let alone coaching communication partners. Is this really possible without adding time and stress?


  • Where do I even start with early intervention and AAC? 


  • How do you tell parents that their child needs AAC?


  • How do you trial different AAC options, and select the right one? 


  • How do you collaborate virtually to get generalization across school and home?


  • What about customizing AAC for students who are demonstrating signs of gestalt language processing


  • How do you get team buy-in so that a student's AAC is being used throughout the day?


  • What if my student can't use fine motor skills for direct selection on AAC?


  • All my students are so different... Is there a way to simplify my process for all skill levels and AAC systems?


  • How do you translate assessment results to meaningful therapy targets? 


I know it can all be overwhelming... 


That’s why I created AAC ALLY!

 

I originally presented this course live for UNC-Chapel Hill with a focus on tele-AAC. That was at the height of virtual learning. Since then, I realized asynchronous collaboration tools save time and stress in any setting. 


In this course, I give you the exact tools, resources, forms, and step-by-step processes you need to provide an evidence-based assessment (virtual or in-person) and treatment planning for your clients with complex communication needs.


AND get the whole team working together to make the biggest impact in less time. 

Get Instant Access To:

  • 14 Self-Paced Learning Modules that allow you to go at your own pace.

  • 3 Downloadable Digital Forms I use to get a child's entire team on board.

  • 8 Parent Coaching Videos that show you exactly how I do it.

  • 14 Downloadable Bonus Resources that you can use for assessment and therapy.

  • This is the LAST cohort with Lifetime Access to revisit material at anytime.

  • 3.0 CMH hours + over 3.0 hours of bonus content (including AAC report writing, gestalt language processing and parent coaching) + a personalized certificate!

  • 2 Bonus Modules Diving into Gestalt Language Processing and Alternative Access

More than 3,500 AAC Allies have taken the course!

Here's what they're saying:



Enormous Value!

Karen Fahey, Recent Graduate in Communicative Disorders

This course is FULL of practical tips and resources. As a recent graduate, this course was the perfect way to kick off my Clinical Fellowship Year. Although the course centers around virtual AAC assessment, many of the topics discussed can be applied to any AAC assessment, AAC treatment, and virtual and in-person treatment more generally. The value of this course is enormous, because beyond direct instruction, Rachel also leaves you with countless takeaways (handouts, links, google sheets, etc.) that can be adapted to your own needs and clinical setting. Needless to say... I highly recommend!

Comprehensive and Informative

Gia Adornetto, SLP

Rachel's AAC Ally course is incredibly informative and relevant. Many strategies and resources shared during this course can be applied to our practice whether remote or in person. The course flows beautifully and is easy to access. The video demonstrations embedded throughout the course make this presentation top-notch! Thank you for continuing to share your knowledge with us, Rachel!

A Crash Course in Doing an AAC Assessment via Telepractice

Loren Alexander

Rachel's course fills in the gaps in the knowledge that many SLPs, like me, have about AAC assessment via telepractice. I appreciate how she showed us different ways to model high tech AAC devices while working via telepractice. I loved the fillable forms and resources (like app recommendations) included in the course. I love speech therapy via telepractice and am doing all that I can to embrace it and to grow my skills so I can offer AAC assessments via telepractice in the future. Thank you, Rachel!

The Perfect Resource!

Sheri Jahner

There are so many things I LOVE about this course! To start, the module setup is great because it allows you to revisit a specific area that you want to watch again. Next, Rachel is always generous with the resources she has created and researched sharing them in this course. Finally, we have access FOREVER....even to the new content she adds!!! Thank you Rachel for sharing your knowledge to help us all become better and do better!!
5 star rating

Great course for SLPs new to AAC and seasoned clinicians

Lauren Chahalis

As an SLP who is new to AAC, it can be very overwhelming. This course laid out the foundation in a way that was clear and easy to digest. I am left with coun...

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As an SLP who is new to AAC, it can be very overwhelming. This course laid out the foundation in a way that was clear and easy to digest. I am left with countless resources to implement every step of the way. The course increased my confidence in how to begin AAC with a client as well as how to approach introducing a parent AAC.

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5 star rating

Courtney Burnett, SLPA

Courtney Burnett

As a mom of an AAC user and an SLPA, I am always looking to learn more about AAC devices and implantation. Even though I don't give AAC evaluations as an SLP...

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As a mom of an AAC user and an SLPA, I am always looking to learn more about AAC devices and implantation. Even though I don't give AAC evaluations as an SLPA, I do help collect data of clients/students, and knowing more about the process helps me be a better SLPA. I work in a home health setting so learning more about the AAC evaluation process allows me to help families. I give AAC ALLY a five-star review. Rachel knows her stuff and shares her knowledge in a down-to-earth way inside this course. She is an advocate for SLPs and families. Inside AAC ALLY, she helps providers see parents' concerns and worries and approach these with kindness and understanding.

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5 star rating

Amazing!!!

Sarah Chapin

This was so comprehensive and informative! Can all courses be this functional?

This was so comprehensive and informative! Can all courses be this functional?

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5 star rating

Great Course!

Amy Black-Ryel

Valuable, practical information you can apply today in your practice.

Valuable, practical information you can apply today in your practice.

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5 star rating

Awesome!

Londa DeRouchey

This was a great course. I love Rachel's advice for talking to parents and other team members. She offered great resources!

This was a great course. I love Rachel's advice for talking to parents and other team members. She offered great resources!

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5 star rating

Excellent

Thomas Kearns

Excellent

Excellent

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5 star rating

Very Helpful!

Amy Moore

This course is well laid out, and easy to follow. It is full of so much helpful and relevant information. This course is a must for everyone working with stu...

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This course is well laid out, and easy to follow. It is full of so much helpful and relevant information. This course is a must for everyone working with students who use AAC!

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5 star rating

Thorough and Superb!

Cici Fritts

Thank you for putting together such a thoughtful and detailed resource. I will continue to go back to the videos and handouts for more information and rewat...

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Thank you for putting together such a thoughtful and detailed resource. I will continue to go back to the videos and handouts for more information and rewatch as needed! I'm excited to share with new SLPs and others in our field. Again, thank you!

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5 star rating

The Perfect Resource!

Sheri Jahner

There are so many things I LOVE about this course! To start, the module set up is great because it allows you to revisit a specific area that you want watch...

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There are so many things I LOVE about this course! To start, the module set up is great because it allows you to revisit a specific area that you want watch again. Next, Rachel is always generous with the resources she has created and researched sharing them in this course. Finally, we have access FOREVER....even to the new content she adds!!! Thank you Rachel for sharing your knowledge to help us all become better and do better!!

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5 star rating

The information presented is exactly what was described i...

Helen Carter

She has SO much information, I will be looking at these PPTs forever! I really enjoyed her knowledge and the case study child was very helpful in demonstrati...

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She has SO much information, I will be looking at these PPTs forever! I really enjoyed her knowledge and the case study child was very helpful in demonstrating what she's talking about.

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5 star rating

Excellent Course for AAC Assessment

Tiffany Ng

Rachel does an excellent job of creating a course that is packed full of practical ideas and resources for best practice in AAC assessment. The case study vi...

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Rachel does an excellent job of creating a course that is packed full of practical ideas and resources for best practice in AAC assessment. The case study videos were also helpful, to see the AAC coaching and assessment in action. The tips can be applied to both telepractice and in-person assessments. I loved learning that it is not about finding the perfect AAC system, but providing the caregiver with coaching strategies and supports needed to help the child communicate successfully. I am so thankful that I took this course and I'm excited to apply what I've learned to the private practice setting.

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5 star rating

I am an AAC Ally

Jenny Treen-Smith

Thank you so so much for your course. I loved it. Lots of really useful tips, ideas and encouragement to use AAC online. No more shying away from online work...

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Thank you so so much for your course. I loved it. Lots of really useful tips, ideas and encouragement to use AAC online. No more shying away from online work, it can be done! So from all the way across the pond a massive thank you for all your time and effort to put together a fantastic 'I can do it too' AAC online course. Thank you Rachel

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5 star rating

I love love LOVE this course.

Mary Curtis

The energy and knowledge that Rachel brings to this course is inspiring for me. I love how she encourages me as an SLP to take charge in incorporating all d...

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The energy and knowledge that Rachel brings to this course is inspiring for me. I love how she encourages me as an SLP to take charge in incorporating all different team members in the evaluation process to determine what AAC device is the most appropriate one for my students and their families. This is information you won't learn in graduate school! Thank you, Rachel!

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5 star rating

Easy to Follow, Easy to share

Krista Ghaman

As an AT Specialist who conducts AAC assessment and supports implementation in a large school district, I am ALWAYS looking to improve my practice and give m...

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As an AT Specialist who conducts AAC assessment and supports implementation in a large school district, I am ALWAYS looking to improve my practice and give my students the best opportunity for functional, independent communication. Rachel's resources and podcast are one of my favorite sources of tools and strategies and the AAC Ally course was no exception. I actually changed some of my assessment practices and report writing after watching these modules. I especially loved the videos of Rachel coaching a parent to start small and pick something that she could easily and consistently MODEL for her child as they worked on implementing AAC at home. I have incorporated this message into my coaching with parents and have started getting them to buy in a little bit more where before they seemed overwhelmed and not sure about HOW to get started. I highly recommend this course to any school-based service provider who works with a child that uses AAC as part of their communication system!

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5 star rating

Great practical ideas for AAC Assessments

Tanya Mallan

This was a helpful course with some great videos to demonstrate techniques and concepts discussed during the course. There were wonderful resources shared a...

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This was a helpful course with some great videos to demonstrate techniques and concepts discussed during the course. There were wonderful resources shared as well. Thank you for sharing your experience and knowledge with the AAC community!

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5 star rating

LOVED this course!

Lauren Sakoda

This course really helped me to deep dive into AAC assessment. The content was relevant to telepractice but I honestly think that Rachel's approach to assess...

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This course really helped me to deep dive into AAC assessment. The content was relevant to telepractice but I honestly think that Rachel's approach to assessment can be carried over to in-person. Plus all the additional resources at the end are just so generous and incredibly useful. I am looking forward to more courses from her!

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5 star rating

Great professional development webinar for AAC Team Approach

Kathleen Mehosky

I will definitely be using this material to help with assessment.

I will definitely be using this material to help with assessment.

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5 star rating

INtro

Heather Riccardi

loved the videos on how to coach parents! appreciate the free forms for data collection, collaborator input and coaching!

loved the videos on how to coach parents! appreciate the free forms for data collection, collaborator input and coaching!

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5 star rating

I truly appreciated all the information provided by Rache...

Linda Kelly

5 star rating

For Anyone Who Services Individuals with CCN

Daniel Adler

As I work with older students, I was unsure if this course would be a good fit for me. It was great! I think that anyone working with students who have comp...

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As I work with older students, I was unsure if this course would be a good fit for me. It was great! I think that anyone working with students who have complex communication needs will gain from this course. It was full of great tips, resources, and ideas. Thanks, Rachel!

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Hi, I’m Rachel…

I've been in private practice in Los Angeles since 2014 where I specialize in supporting clinicians and families with AAC. You might also know me as the co-host of the "Talking with Tech Podcast" which has more than 200 episodes and over half a million downloads. Each week, I interview AAC users, thought leaders, and researchers to share the latest evidence-based practice in AAC. I’ve presented both nationally and abroad to teach over 20,000 clinicians and educators like you how to simplify the AAC process while creating a lasting impact for the clients you serve.

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Course Information

Here's what's included with AAC ALLY

AAC may seem intimidating—you may be worried about what tech to use and how to set your student up for AAC success. 


Or maybe you're afraid that your early intervention kids need AAC, but you don't know how to start the process and get parent buy-in...


That's exactly what I'll teach you in this course. 


This course is not about using formal assessments to find the perfect device. 


Instead, you'll learn how to trial paper-based AND high-tech solutions and coach communication partners simultaneously to make an impact with ANY AAC system.


Is this course for me? 


This course was built for all SLPs and educators looking to support their students with complex communication needs. 


You don’t have to be an AAC specialist to benefit from the information I’ll be sharing.


I've had clinicians fresh out of grad school take this course as well as AAC experts! The results they've been getting have been really incredible.


This course will be even more beneficial if you're interested in becoming an AAC specialist. AAC-ALLY was built with the aspiring AAC-SLP in mind. 


If you have a student who you think would benefit from AAC but are not sure where to start--- I’ll give you a framework on how to start thinking like an AAC specialist.


Watch Intro Video

Preview the Course!

Feel more Confident with AAC Clients

This course gives you the roadmap to get parent & team buy-in, optimize your time, conduct dynamic assessments, select optimal AAC systems, and expand vocabulary with ready-made resources and activities.

  • Save time and overwhelm by using the same tools I use everyday to streamline a successful AAC practice.

  • Feel confident knowing how to coach communication partners (parents, teachers, everyone!)

  • Walk away with TONS of ideas, resources, and practical forms and tools. You can download forms and activities to your computer and use anytime!

  • Get the whole team on the same page (and take the pressure off yourself)

  • See ACTUAL videos of me conducting an AAC assessment and coaching multiple parents—in person and remotely!

What You'll Learn

How to assess, treatment plan, and coach for communication success

In this self-paced course, I guide you through real-life video examples and show you my exact process for finding an optimal AAC system for a student. 


Plus, I included over an hour of Early Intervention content - so you'll learn the 9-step framework I use to implement AAC without overwhelming parents (hint: I don't say "AAC").


AND I share the tools and forms that will help you automate the process to save time so that you can focus on what you do best: working with students. 


Whether you're in person, hybrid, or virtual, you'll have timeless tools that make assessment and treatment a breeze. 


We’ll review technical details relating to telepractice, such as screen mirroring, annotation features, and establishing a 2-participant view of a student. These tools are just as useful if you work in-person when you're trying to get the whole team on board and provide actionable home practice.


You’ll learn how to create automated shared resources within multidisciplinary teams to collect assessment data efficiently


Rather than lots of theory, this course is taught primarily through case studies; highlighting video footage of both virtual and in-person AAC assessments I've conducted. 


Heavy emphasis is placed on a team approach to assessment utilizing the SETT Framework and communication partner training to achieve optimal results trialing various AAC options remotely.     


I've also added a new bonus module all about gestalt language processing and AAC. How can we take what we know about gestalt language processing and combine it with what we know about AAC best practices?


Rachel’s Course Makes Navigating AAC Assessment So Much Easier!

Felice Clark, The Dabbling Speechie

Rachel's AAC Ally course provides a practical framework for how to approach a virtual AAC assessment. Many of the information and strategies can also be used for in-person AAC assessments as well. She keeps the training engaging with real videos throughout the steps of the process for doing a virtual AAC assessment, so you get a clear idea of how to do it with your own students. Each module is broken down into smaller segments, so you can watch in chunks on your lunch break or do the course in one day during a professional development session. I have a background in AAC therapy, but having someone coach you along the way was really helpful in making teletherapy a little less overwhelming. You don't have to be the AAC specialist in your district to benefit from the information in this course!"

Amazing!

Hannah Foley (AAC User/PRC-Saltillo Ambassador, Assistive Technology Professional Student)

This course is filled with rich and insightful information about all things AAC! Rachel is so tech-savvy and her course offers innovative ways to engage clients and their helpers in tele-therapy while still covering “traditional” AAC basics. Fantastic course!

If you support individuals who use AAC, it's a must!

Chris Bugaj, AT specialist, co-host of Talking with Tech

A fresh take on how to make decisions about AAC focusing on team collaboration! The course shares a practical approach in a fun and engaging style. If you support individuals who use AAC, its a must!

Excellent Investment!

Lauren Greenlief

If you are working with students who use or need AAC this course is a must! Rachel does such an excellent job of walking through assessment, talking with families, and using your team to support the process! Bonus all these strategies can be used virtually or in person. Rachel is so knowledgeable and I am positive you will learn so much from this course! It also comes with LOTS of resources to get you started!

BONUSES

Forms, videos, and resource bundles to keep you on point from your first session to goal completion!

  • Assessment Forms

    Customizable assessment forms, assessment templates, AAC checklists and tech tools I use to streamline and automate data collection and synthesis. See how I write up my findings with my sample assessment skeleton.

  • Parent Coaching Videos

    Watch ACTUAL videos of me coaching parents through vocabulary strategy, handling difficult emotions, and getting team buy-in. + New video just added!

  • AAC Vocabulary, Formulating with GIFS, Communicaton Board & AAC Assessment Bundle ($40 value)

    Optimize treatment for engagement and impact with my 3 most popular treatment resources and my brand new assessment resource. Easily download these as PDFs so you can use them on any computer!

  • WORK AT YOUR OWN PACE: 3.0 CMH hours of content packaged into 14 short modules (2+ hours of bonus content), taking you from an initial meeting with parents to making lasting progress with AAC. You get lifetime access, so you can take the course all at once, or take your time. This is the LAST cohort to receive lifetime access so don't miss out!

  • CLEAR ACTION ITEMS: A step-by-step process that teaches how to set up the necessary tech (for telepractice or in-person), assess a student's communication skills, and successfully teach and coach communication partners.

  • BONUSES TO KEEP YOUR THERAPY ON POINT: Videos of me actually working with clients! Free tools I use every day to simplify everything from scheduling to data tracking. Pre-made assessment forms to streamline and automate. Bonus resources you can use with your entire caseload.

Course Curriculum

(Click to to see what's inside!)

  • 1

    Introduction

    • What You will Learn in This Course

    • Getting Started: How to Navigate Around the Course

    • Download the Course Handout

  • 2

    AAC Assessment

    • Module 1: Introduction to AAC

    • Module 2: Getting Started with Telepractice

    • Module 3: Virtual Assessment Considerations

    • Module 4: Gathering Information From Parents

    • Module 5: Coaching the Team

    • Module 6: Remote Device Trialing

    • Module 7: Tools to Optimize Virtual Assessments

  • 3

    Early Intervention & AAC

    • Module 8: Course Handout

    • Module 9: Indicators & Strategies for Early AAC

    • Module 10: Early AAC Research & Clinical Considerations

    • Module 11: Getting Parent Buy-In & the Importance of Modeling

    • Module 12: What AAC Tools To Trial With Young Children

    • Module 13: Early Intervention & AAC Treatment Ideas

    • Module 14: Early Intervention Case Study

    • Closing

  • 4

    Course Certificate

    • CMH Course Breakdown

    • Downloadable Certificate of Completion

  • 5

    Bonus Alternative Access Module

    • Download the Alternative Access Handout

    • Alternative Access

  • 6

    Bonus AAC & GLP Module

    • Download the AAC & GLP Handout

    • AAC & Gestalt Language Processing

  • 7

    AAC Ally Q+A

    • Q+A Recording from my presentation at UNC-Chapel Hill February 26, 2020

    • Early Intervention Q+A October 14, 2020

    • LIVE Q+A February 3, 2021

    • LIVE Q+A May 12, 2021

    • LIVE Q+A January 12, 2022

    • LIVE Q+A May 2022

  • 8

    Bonus Content

    • Kaleo Assessment

    • Parent Coaching: Using AAC to Support Literacy

    • Parent Coaching: Adding New Words as a Teaching Moment

    • Parent Coaching: Moving Beyond the "I Want" Phrase

    • Parent Coaching: Avoiding Double Demands

    • Parent Coaching: Specifying Requests through Sabotage

    • Parent Coaching: Attributing Meaning to a Child's Words

    • Parent Coaching: How a Verbal Child Can Benefit from AAC

    • AAC Assessment Report Writing

  • 9

    AAC Assessment Resources

    • Alternative Access One Sheet

    • PECS: Myths and Evidence Handout

    • Resource: Printable AAC Video Handout Made by Lauren Enders

    • Resource: AAC Vocabulary Bundle

    • Resource: Early Communication Checklist

    • Resource: Communication Board Bundle

    • Resource: Formulating Sentences with GIFs Powerpoint

    • Resource: iPad Apps Feature Matching Wheel (CALL Scotland)

    • Resource: AAC Additional Resources

    • Resource: AAC Formalized Assessment Measures

    • Resource: AAC Assessment Report Checklist

    • Resource: AAC Relevant Research

    • AAC Team Input Forms

    • Core Word Choices Bundle

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Who is this course for?

    Any clinician or educator who’s interested in providing a road-tested assessment, parent-coaching, and treatment process for clients with complex communication needs. CFYs all the way to AAC experts will gain valuable insights to streamline their AAC process, with a focus on team coaching/collaboration and device trialing and problem-solving.

  • Who is this course NOT for?

    People who only want dense theory with no practical application. This is a practical framework to quickly get your student set up trialing different AAC options. This course was not initially intended for parents, however, it could give valuable ideas on how to create a more connected multidisciplinary team for your child.

  • Does this work for any environment (in-person or remote), and any AAC system (low or high-tech)?

    Yes! Even if you're completely back in-person, I'll show you how to streamline your workload using the remote collaboration tools I use every day. We’ll also cover low and high-tech systems and considerations for each. If your student doesn’t have an AAC system yet, no problem! We’ll cover how to trial devices, select the best type, and how to set up at home-practice to make sure the device is being supported in all environments.

  • Will I receive ASHA CEUs for this?

    You will receive a certificate certifying 3 continuing maintenance (CMH) hours when you complete this course! ASHA requires 30 Certification Maintenance Hours (CMH). CEUs are a type of CMHs. ASHA Continuing Education Units (CEUs) will fulfill that because they have already been registered with ASHA. The benefit of going through a CEU provider is that they can submit your participation directly to your CE registry for you. However, you don’t have to use CEUs for your hours. Any other continuing education activity you do will be considered a CMH but ASHA will allow you to get all 30 of your hours as CMH if you prefer. You simply have to check a box that says you did them at the end of your maintenance interval. You also need to hold onto your certificates in case you get audited. Summary: The only difference is that we will not be submitting hours to the CE registry. However, you can manually submit them. LEARN MORE at this link: https://www.slpsolution.com/what-are-asha-cmhs-and-do-i-have-to-get-ceus/

  • Is this really worth $97?

    It's true you can find a lot of great AAC content online for free. With AAC Ally though, I truly saw a gap when it comes to a one-stop resource for team collaboration, early intervention, and device selection - for teletherapy and in-person. And all this information is only valuable if it's well organized, you invest in it, and apply it to your situation! This course takes everything I know from interviewing literally hundreds of AAC experts, speaking at national conferences, and working in AAC private practice for a decade—and distills it into an easy-to-navigate AAC roadmap. So you save hours of time and headache by having everything at your fingertips. PLUS, the bonus resources alone are sold for $50 on my website. PLUS, this is the last cohort to get lifetime continual free updates every time I add content to this course! Put them together, and you get the exact step-by-step process to start making progress with AAC tomorrow. Basically, you’re downloading about 10 years of AAC knowledge (+ everyone I’ve interviewed for Talking with Tech) into your brain. Because we all support each other as AAC Allies! I used to hate paying for courses, until I realized that the good ones are an investment in my peace of mind. How much that's worth is up to you :)

  • I'm doing in-person therapy, is this course for me?

    Yes! In this course, you'll learn an effective framework that can be applied to any setting (schools/private practice) and can be utilized in-person or remotely. The principles of this course will streamline any AAC assessment and teach you how to get the entire team behind the AAC decision-making and implementation process.

  • Do you offer group rates?

    Yes, for groups of 10 or more! If you'd like to give this course to everyone in your organization or private practice, I offer a significantly discounted group rate. Please email [email protected] if you're interested.

  • Is this self-paced? Will I get Lifetime Access and a certificate?

    This is the last cohort to get lifetime access! The next time the course opens it will be for a year license. The course is 3 CMH hours broken up into 14 bite-sized modules. You also get 30+ minutes of bonus content and materials you can download, and use for the rest of your career! Once you complete/click-through 100% of the course materials (including bonus materials), you will see the option to download a personalized certificate for your accomplishment. Some people prefer to take the course all at once, and others over the course of a week or two. As a busy SLP, you can revisit the material anytime you need a refresher if you get in now!

If you try this course for 30 days and show that you completed the course, but are not satisfied, I will give your money back, no questions asked. Just email my team at [email protected] 

The work you do matters and positively impacts the clients and families you serve.

You don't need to be an AAC specialist to create better outcomes tomorrow. All you have to do is click that button below to get started - see you inside!

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5 star rating

EXCELLENT and INFORMATIVE!

Meghan Cosmik

Rachel Madel presents information on AAC in a clear manner. My confidence has improved with implementing AAC because of Rachel Madel! Thank you, Rachel for...

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Rachel Madel presents information on AAC in a clear manner. My confidence has improved with implementing AAC because of Rachel Madel! Thank you, Rachel for your compassion in the field of speech-language pathology!

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5 star rating

Wow!

Hannah Zimmerman

AAC Ally was an awesome course! Usually when it comes to resources and courses, free is my favorite price, so at first I was hesitant to sign up. This was ab...

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AAC Ally was an awesome course! Usually when it comes to resources and courses, free is my favorite price, so at first I was hesitant to sign up. This was absolutely worth every cent (and probably more😊)! I have some AAC experience, but still learned so much from your practical approach through the videos of you doing parent coaching and how you broke down the steps of how you structure assessments! Thank you for so generously sharing so many wonderful resources on top of the presentation and for all the time and effort that went into this incredible presentation!

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5 star rating

So great!

Tracy Quandt

This course provided a lot of real life examples and addressed many scenarios that have been seen during therapy sessions. I loved the portion regarding AAC ...

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This course provided a lot of real life examples and addressed many scenarios that have been seen during therapy sessions. I loved the portion regarding AAC and Early Intervention. I appreciated the suggestion that any AAC is better than no AAC. Rachel also provided a great deal of information regarding parent coaching and gaining caregiver buy-in. The resources are great and presented in a way that they are easy to access.

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5 star rating

finally, a practical look at remote AAC assessment!

Jenna Williams

There has been many resources and supports shared during stay-at-home and physical distancing orders, but this presentation proved to be the most helpful! Fo...

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There has been many resources and supports shared during stay-at-home and physical distancing orders, but this presentation proved to be the most helpful! Following along with Rachel's assessment afforded the listener practical tips and valuable insight into the important relationship between the evaluator and the family. I am empowered by what I've learned and cannot wait to use these ideas!

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5 star rating

Empowering!

Jennifer Polan

School closures has brought an array of challenges as an SLP working with AAC students. We do not have easy access to our students and devices as we would d...

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School closures has brought an array of challenges as an SLP working with AAC students. We do not have easy access to our students and devices as we would during regular school operations. However school closures has provided us as clinicians a unique opportunity to have a greater impact on the student and IEP team as a whole. This course is broken down into bite sized modules you can complete at your own pace. Modules cover multiple themes from data collection, parent coaching, device and program determinations to team implementation and considerations for tele practice. Rachel provides course participants with a plethora of resources covering the wide range of topics she touches on. She even considers Mac and PC when suggesting telepractice components! I found the case study to be one of the best parts of the course as you are able to see parent coaching and considerations in real life situations. The way in which Rachel works with her parents and students is all about empowering the user and team buy-in. As a SLP working with AAC users I know the importance of team buy-in and once communication partners learn how to empower their AAC user, that's where the magic happens. AND we are lucky enough to witness it in Rachel's case study! Highly recommend this course for both seasoned and new SLPs. I would even recommend this for other IEP team members!

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5 star rating

Great course with immediately applicable ideas!

Kaitlin Mulcahey

Rachel's AAC ALLY course was extremely informative. Being a primarily AAC SLP, I did find some of it to be review, however, it was still very helpful and wou...

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Rachel's AAC ALLY course was extremely informative. Being a primarily AAC SLP, I did find some of it to be review, however, it was still very helpful and would be great for someone who may not have as much AAC experience. Beyond that, after module 1, ideas were immediately applicable for me and based on real-life activities and not just contrived, screen-based materials. I learned a lot and the supplemental materials that come with the course are amazing. I highly recommend this course!

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5 star rating

So much great information!

Ariella Ives

Terrific for beginner and seasoned SLPs alike who need a roadmap for AAC teletherapy assessments. Rachel includes so much valuable information including vid...

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Terrific for beginner and seasoned SLPs alike who need a roadmap for AAC teletherapy assessments. Rachel includes so much valuable information including videos of actual assessment and coaching sessions. If you're confused about where to start with AAC teletherapy assessment, you have found your solution!

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5 star rating

A Definite Must Take!

Jasmin Davoodi

This course was absolutely amazing! It's usually extremely difficult for me to sit, listen, and watch a course; but this was SO well-organized and MOTIVATING...

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This course was absolutely amazing! It's usually extremely difficult for me to sit, listen, and watch a course; but this was SO well-organized and MOTIVATING to see! Not only did I learn how to assess, conduct, and write AAC trials remotely, I loved learning about effective language to coach communication partners. This course has shaped the way I will do AAC assessments virtually and in-person! The BEST part is all the amazing apps/tools for tele-assessment. I'm so so impressed with the literacy, cause + effect, and alternative access tools (the good stuff! I have treatment ideas for days now as well.) As an SLP that specializes in working with individuals with complex communication needs, this course gave me a ton of new insight. Rachel, this course is a gem; THANK YOU!

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5 star rating

Game-changer!

Lauren Nitta

This course was wonderful!! Telepractice for AAC seemed so daunting to me but Rachel helped guide me through by showing both what to do and how to do it. Th...

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This course was wonderful!! Telepractice for AAC seemed so daunting to me but Rachel helped guide me through by showing both what to do and how to do it. The course is broken down into modules which helped me absorb the information and prevented me from feeling overwhelmed. It really helped ensure that my AAC clients would not only retain skills but continue to make progress despite going virtual during school closures.

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5 star rating

Fantastic!

Katelyn Kelps

So much great information and LOVED the modules. It made it easier to process, and made it easier to take breaks

So much great information and LOVED the modules. It made it easier to process, and made it easier to take breaks

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5 star rating

AAC Ally - all modules

Mary Dahler

excellent power point slides and videos and resource materials; I can use your material to begin AAC assessment and therapy immediately

excellent power point slides and videos and resource materials; I can use your material to begin AAC assessment and therapy immediately

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5 star rating

Become an AAC ALLY!!

Courtney Rockhill

Rachel's course is amazing!! She is quick and to the point, which is awesome. Embedded in the course is one case study which really helped me grasp the conte...

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Rachel's course is amazing!! She is quick and to the point, which is awesome. Embedded in the course is one case study which really helped me grasp the content I was learning. She provided so many handouts and resources to use right away. I may not be the one completing AAC assessments in my district, but I know have the knowledge to begin the conversation with parents, trial devices before recommending an AAC evaluation, and implement functional therapy using an AAC device. This course is needed by every SLP, whether you are in early intervention, schools, private practice, or with adults!

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