For some autistic non-speakers, limited communication access may be connected to challenges with motor planning and execution. When those motor differences are overlooked, behaviors may be interpreted as a lack of motivation, engagement, or interest in AAC rather than as signs that a different approach to communication support is needed.
In this course, Jessie Mewshaw, MS, CCC-SLP, introduces the BELIEVE Framework, a motor-informed approach for supporting autistic non-speakers with limited communication access. The framework centers mutual respect and trust while emphasizing exposure to age-appropriate content, moving away from compliance-based strategies, intentional motor coaching, multimodal expression, and education for the entire support team.
Through a year-long case study, Jessie illustrates how this approach can support meaningful changes in communication access and participation over time. You’ll also learn strategies for incorporating motor-informed support into clinical practice and helping autistic non-speakers access more ways to communicate and express themselves.
In this course, Jessie Mewshaw, MS, CCC-SLP, introduces the BELIEVE Framework, a motor-informed approach for supporting autistic non-speakers with limited communication access. The framework centers mutual respect and trust while emphasizing exposure to age-appropriate content, moving away from compliance-based strategies, intentional motor coaching, multimodal expression, and education for the entire support team.
Through a year-long case study, Jessie illustrates how this approach can support meaningful changes in communication access and participation over time. You’ll also learn strategies for incorporating motor-informed support into clinical practice and helping autistic non-speakers access more ways to communicate and express themselves.
