Facilitated Communication Therapy

Facilitated Communication Therapy is a communication method used to help individuals with communication difficulties express themselves. In this article, we’ll break down what it is, its types, indications, contraindications, procedures, and potential side effects in plain and simple English.

Facilitated Communication Therapy (FCT) is a way for people who struggle with communication due to various challenges to express themselves. It involves a trained facilitator assisting the individual in pointing to letters, words, or symbols on a communication board, device, or keyboard to form sentences and convey thoughts.

Types of Facilitated Communication Therapy:

1. Letter Board: In this type, the individual points to letters on a board to spell out words and sentences.
2. Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) Devices: These devices include speech-generating devices, tablets, or computers with specialized software that help individuals communicate by selecting pre-programmed words or phrases.
3. Picture Exchange Communication System (PECS): PECS uses images or symbols to facilitate communication. Individuals select and exchange pictures to express their needs and thoughts.

Indications for Facilitated Communication Therapy:

Facilitated Communication Therapy can benefit individuals facing various communication challenges, including:

1. Autism Spectrum Disorder
2. Cerebral Palsy
3. Nonverbal individuals
4. Intellectual Disabilities
5. Traumatic Brain Injury
6. Speech Disorders
7. Selective Mutism
8. Rett Syndrome
9. Down Syndrome
10. Aphasia (language impairment)
11. Developmental Delays
12. Motor Neuron Disease
13. Alzheimer’s Disease
14. Parkinson’s Disease
15. Stroke Survivors
16. Brain Damage
17. ALS (Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis)
18. Multiple Sclerosis
19. Genetic Syndromes affecting speech
20. Severe Learning Disabilities

Contraindications for Facilitated Communication Therapy:

While FCT can be helpful, it may not be suitable for everyone, including those with:

1. Severe motor impairments preventing physical interaction with communication devices.
2. Extreme cognitive impairments making it challenging to understand or utilize FCT.
3. Unwillingness or discomfort with physical touch, as FCT often involves facilitator assistance.
4. A history of false or misleading communication using FCT, as it may lead to misunderstandings.
5. Severe behavioral issues that interfere with the therapeutic process.
6. Individuals who can effectively communicate using other methods.

The Facilitated Communication Procedure:

1. Assessment: A qualified speech-language pathologist or therapist assesses the individual’s communication abilities and needs.
2. Device Selection: Based on the assessment, an appropriate communication method, such as a letter board, AAC device, or PECS, is chosen.
3. Training: The individual receives training to use the selected communication method effectively.
4. Facilitator Training: If needed, a facilitator (trained person) is selected and trained to assist the individual in using the chosen communication method.
5. Communication Sessions: Regular therapy sessions are conducted, during which the individual and facilitator work together to express thoughts, needs, and emotions.
6. Progress Monitoring: The therapist assesses the individual’s progress and adjusts the therapy plan accordingly.
7. Independence Goals: The ultimate aim is to promote independence in communication, reducing reliance on facilitators over time.

Potential Side Effects of Facilitated Communication Therapy:

1. Miscommunication: There’s a risk of misinterpretation or miscommunication, as the facilitator may unintentionally influence the messages.
2. Frustration: Individuals may become frustrated if they cannot effectively convey their thoughts.
3. Overdependence: Some individuals may rely too heavily on facilitators, hindering their independence.
4. Limited Generalization: Communication skills learned in therapy may not always transfer to real-life situations.
5. Resistance: Individuals may resist or reject FCT, causing discomfort during sessions.
6. Ethical Concerns: FCT has faced ethical controversies, particularly when facilitators unknowingly guide messages.

Conclusion:

Facilitated Communication Therapy is a valuable tool for individuals with communication difficulties. It can help improve their quality of life by enabling them to express themselves. However, it’s crucial to assess the appropriateness of FCT for each individual and ensure proper training and supervision to maximize its benefits. As with any therapy, the goal is to empower individuals to communicate effectively and achieve greater independence.