Multilingual Augmentative and Alternative Communication for the Monolingual Therapist

Purpose: The purpose of this article is to discuss strategies that speech-language pathologists (SLPs) can use when supporting augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) users and their caregivers who speak a language different than their own. In the AAC field, there are several challenges to providing culturally and linguistically inclusive services. Such challenges often include a lack of available off-the-shelf bilingual AAC systems, lack of culturally and linguistically accessible materials and training, and language differences between the client and their family and the service provider. Method: A culturally inclusive mindset will be discussed as a method for assessment and intervention of culturally and linguistically diverse AAC users. A case example will be presented to illustrate these points. Conclusions: SLPs hold an ethical obligation to provide culturally and linguistically relevant care to all individuals. Practicing cultural humility and cultural responsivity can aid SLPs in meeting the needs of AAC users and their families. The “translingual” therapist incorporates family-centered practice and provides services, trainings, and materials that are culturally and linguistically accessible.