What is AAC?
AAC is the use of any communication tool that is not verbal speech. Most often, tablet devices are used with an app that helps the user express themselves. Someone may be a full time or part time user depending on their needs. Paper versions of communication boards can also be used for someone to communicate. The goal of AAC is for the user to say what they want, when they want, to whomever they want – all the time.
Learning to use AAC takes time and dedication from the family and caregivers to use it daily. “Having an AAC device does not make someone an effective communicator any more than owning a piano makes someone a musician”. The AAC user needs their family, teachers and therapists to all model on the device showing them how to use it regularly and in all areas of their life.
Who Am I?
Hi, I’m Shelley Anderson, MT-BC—a music therapist, Certified Assistive Technology Specialist, and LAMP Professional with additional training in Lingraphica. I’m passionate about helping individuals with complex communication needs and the people who support them, building a strong community where everyone feels confident and empowered in their AAC journey.
I love working alongside families—whether you’re a parent navigating the world of AAC for the first time, a sibling wanting to connect more deeply, or a caregiver looking for ways to encourage independence and communication. I also support professionals to boldly recommend assistive technology and collaborate across therapy disciplines to create meaningful change.
Whether you’re an AAC user, a family member, or a professional looking to learn more about how to best utilize AAC in sessions, I’m here to provide personalized support and guidance. If you’re feeling unsure, overwhelmed, or just need someone in your corner—I’d love to connect. Let’s work together to make communication accessible for all!
Mainstay’s AAC Services & Resources
1:1 Consultations
Meet with Shelley for supervision or individualized support for AAC and assistive technology. Get new ideas, learn more techniques, best practices, trouble shoot, or whatever may be helpful for you.
shelley@mainstaymusictherapy.com
Parent/Caregiver Trainings
Our parent trainings are designed to provide you with the knowledge, tools, and confidence to integrate AAC into everyday life. We offer a range of options to meet your family’s needs.
Waiver Funded Trainings
Mainstay’s FCAR AAC Training Program, is funded through the Indiana Medicaid waiver. It is designed to empower families, and caregivers with the knowledge and skills needed to support AAC users effectively.
Parent/Caregiver Trainings:
I have had the pleasure of supporting many families on their AAC journey. Unfortunately most families are not given any training with the app that is chosen for their loved one to use. That sets everyone up for hardship. Many families tell me things like:
“I was told to try an app on my phone, I downloaded it but it was so overwhelming for us both that we don’t use it.”
“I was given this and no one set it up so I tried my best but it’s not working well.”
“I was told to personalize it but I don’t know how to add anything.”
“They hate using it and I don’t know how to help them.”I hear these time and time again and each time I feel for the parents and am so glad that we get to work together. I can help solve little trouble shooting things, give ideas for how to use it with their loved one, help understand how the app is set up and everything in between! Parents in the program often comment that the group trainings are super helpful and give them new ideas of things to try! They also say that they “don’t know what they don’t know” but after talking to me they have questions that can be answered and more understanding of AAC. Sometimes you just need a little boost! If this sound helpful for you or you have more questions reach out! These meetings are available through our 1:1 Consultation (private pay) service, and our Waiver funded FCAR Training Program.
Email Us for more information: Shelley@MainstayMusicTherapy.com
