Factsheet: Augmentative and Alternative Communication

What is Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC)?

Augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) refers to all measures that enable people with no or severely limited spoken language to communicate. The aim is to create access to language—using gestures, symbols, communication books, or technical aids such as speech computers. AAC enables participation in everyday life, at school, at work, or in care facilities.

Who is UK relevant for?

UK is used for people with mental, physical, or neurological impairments—for example, children with autism or Down syndrome, as well as adults who have suffered a stroke or have ALS. The limitations are very individual—as are the ways of communicating.

What do participation advisors do?

Specialists in UK participation counseling support affected individuals, relatives, and institutions in the selection and use of communication aids. They advise, train, and adapt aids to specific needs in collaboration with the individual's environment. The focus is not on the product, but on the individual and their communication goals.

The work is mobile and organized on a regional basis. Participation consultants work closely with therapists, schools, residential homes, and care facilities, often on behalf of specialized medical technology companies or assistive device providers.

Why is this interesting for speech therapists and therapists?

Many speech therapists, language therapists, and occupational therapists are well aware of the needs of non-verbal people, but have only used AAC selectively up to now. Working in AAC participation counseling opens up a completely new and meaningful career path: moving away from the rigid schedule of individual sessions toward individual counseling, systemic support, and greater effectiveness in everyday life.

In addition, there are reliable working conditions such as regular working hours, no accounting obligations, modern work equipment, a company car for private use, and training opportunities in the field of assistive technologies and communication.

Who is suited to this job?

Ideal candidates are professionals with a therapeutic background and experience in working with people with complex support needs—for example, speech therapists specializing in AAC, speech therapists with a neurological focus, or occupational therapists with experience in interdisciplinary settings. Special education teachers with an interest in communication aids will also find an exciting new field of work here.

Consulting & application via Kontrast Personalberatung GmbH

Kontrast Personalberatung GmbH specializes in placing skilled workers in the healthcare sector, medical technology, and social services. We are currently looking for dedicated UK participation advisors in Saarland and other regions for a nationwide company in the field of assisted communication.