SLP instructor, students support consumers at CDS

Elizabeth Nagler, M.A., CCC-SLP, part-time instructor for the Department of Speech, Language and Hearing Sciences in the College of Health and Human Services at Western Michigan University, has been visiting consumers at the Center for Disability Services for several semesters.

Nagler and her graduate students evaluate consumers who may need communication assistance. Once their assessment is complete, Nagler and the students may provide therapy to address deficits or seek augmentative/alternative communication (AAC) solutions, or both (by targeting basic skills in therapy through the use of iPads).

For many consumers, CDS programs may be the first to explore different technology options to help communicate effectively. AAC has improved significantly in the past 10-15 years. However, many consumers have language deficits that hinder their ability to use the technology to its fullest. This is where Nagler and her students come in. They work individually with consumers in an effort to help build language skills, independent communication and social skills.

In some instances, Nagler and her students advocate for the consumers so necessary AAC technology can be fully funded.