Watch Facilitator Program Training Video
Foundations Training - teaches the foundational principles for Facilitated Communication (FC) to inform those who want to become Facilitators or are just interested in understanding the method better.
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What is Facilitated Communication?
Facilitated Communication (FC) is an alternative form of Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC). Like AAC, FC addresses the needs of people who cannot speak, or whose speech is minimal or ineffective. For many AAC users, access to devices for communication is challenged by movement differences and this is true for FC as well.
Facilitated Communication (FC) is a support strategy that assists individuals in using their hands to access communication targets. Facilitated Communication training involves providing physical support—typically a backward, resistive pull on the communicator’s arm—to help them more effectively and reliably use a communication device, such as a letterboard, keyboard, or iPad.
Wellspring Guild teaches Facilitators/Communication Partners, Coaches and Trainers to responsibly and effectively use the method to develop communication, according to the guidelines of best practice. The long-term goal for FC is independence, and that goal is uniquely connected to individual profiles, needs, and having a committed support team (family, staff, teachers, therapists).
What does a Facilitator/Communication Partner Do?
A Facilitator/Communication Partner provides support that is:
- Physical - backwards resistance to slow/stabilize the arm, prevent impulsive pointing, and fade support as motor skills develop.
- Emotional – provide encouragement and demonstrate presumption of competence.
- Communicative – scaffolding communication to engage with age appropriate questions and curiosity.
Together, this support combines to enable the authentic expression by the Communicator. The candidacy of an individual can be determined through a process of Assessment. Training and Coaching provided through Wellspring Guild and their experienced team, has yielded successful communication and over the years opened many Communicators to a richer life through access to social interaction, academics and participation in inclusive schools and communities.
Meet the Facilitator Teaching Team
Specific personnel may vary from class to class.
Foundations Training Course
An online course for learning the principles of Facilitated Communication / Supported Typing
The course meets over 5 consecutive weeks
This course, given over a five-week period, is for those who are brand new to the method of Facilitated Communication (FC), as well as for those who are supporting someone who currently uses the method and is working to expand their circle of support to new facilitators.
Those who use Facilitated Communication are the best teachers of the method and therefore a vital part of the teaching team. Throughout the course, you will have opportunity to learn from the trainers through video and interact with them during live Q & A sessions. The course overall gives you a full understanding of what FC is, how it benefits those who either cannot speak or are considered minimal speakers and how to get started with someone you know.
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The Online Course Includes:
- Pre-recorded video trainings each week prepared by Marilyn Chadwick, Communication Specialist/Trainer and video trainings prepared by members of the Typers Teaching Team.
- Four Live Zoom Q & A Sessions co-lead by a Wellspring Guild acredited trainer and a member of the Typers Teaching Team.
- Exercises: To do at home in conjunction with the videos to help solidify skills and understanding of core principles
- Handouts: Materials to help you get started practicing and learning to properly provide facilitated communication using best practices.
Interested In Becoming a Facilitator?
Every Typer deserves to have a team of effective Facilitators so that they can communicate throughout their week. The Foundations Training Course is designed to build a network of effective support around each Communicator. Team members may be parents/siblings, staff, teachers or therapists who are committed to learning this method. Whether you are getting started as an individual or as part of a whole team, this course will be beneficial. Click on the link if you are interested.
Let us know you're interested in becoming a facilitator >
