Developing functional speech in non-verbal clients with autism can be one of the biggest challenges for speech pathologists and behavior analysts alike, especially when clients do not respond to traditional verbal modeling approaches or present with challenging behaviors.

This course presents a systematic approach to developing functional speech with individuals who are non-verbal or non-imitative. It is a comprehensive program that combines the principles of Applied Behavior Analysis with Oral Placement Therapy. For behavior analysts, the course demonstrates the importance of using specific techniques within hierarchies to develop the oral placement skills needed for speech and feeding.

For speech-language pathologists, the course demonstrates techniques developed within the Applied Behavior Analysis field to maximize learning of functional speech using reinforcement-based procedures.

Participants are guided through this complete program from developing cooperation through to functional vocabulary, with videos shown throughout the presentation to demonstrate each technique. This course benefits speech-language pathologists, behavior analysts, teachers, parents, and others working with non-verbal individuals with autism.

• Describe how the science of Applied Behavior Analysis, in conjunction with oral placement and tactile therapies, can be used to teach non-verbal or non-imitative clients with autism to speak.
• Identify the prerequisite skills necessary to teach vocal speech, and apply 3-4 techniques from applied behavior analysis research that have been used to develop vocalizations.
• Describe the sequential steps of developing functional communication, beginning with motivation, reinforcement, motor imitation, and specific shaping strategies that maximize learning of functional speech.
• Explain how many non-verbal clients with autism have underlying oral motor and motor planning deficits that should be addressed.
• Apply specific task-analyzed techniques to assist the therapist in applying TalkTools hierarchies to individuals with autism.
• Identify the connection between oral placement skills and the motor aspects of speech.
• Apply specific sequential techniques to transition oral placement skills to functional speech for clients not responding to traditional verbal modeling and shaping techniques.