29 | Getting an AAC Device & Evaluation Process | Lydia McKay & Staci Dover

If your child is non-speaking or experiencing speech delays, you may have heard about AAC (Augmentative and Alternative Communication) but wondered how families actually obtain a communication device. In part two of this three-part AAC series, host Brian Keene is joined by Phoenix-area speech-language pathologists Lydia McKay and Stacey Dover to walk parents through the real-world process of getting an AAC device. They explain how families can begin the evaluation process, what steps are involved, and how a team determines the best communication system for each individual. From navigating insurance and Arizona's Department of Developmental Disabilities (DDD) services to understanding the role of therapists and medical providers, this episode offers practical guidance for parents who want to explore AAC for their child. The conversation also highlights the importance of matching a device to a child's unique needs, including motor abilities, access methods, and family preferences. Parents are active partners throughout the process, helping ensure the selected system truly supports meaningful communication in everyday life. If AAC is something you've been curious about for your child, this episode helps demystify the evaluation process and explains what families can expect along the way. Topics Covered • What AAC is and why it can support communication at any age • Common myths about AAC and speech development • How families begin the AAC evaluation process • Navigating Arizona DDD services and insurance pathways • Why AAC evaluations involve both communication and motor specialists • How the "feature matching" process helps identify the best device • What happens after the evaluation and how devices are approved Timestamps 00:00 Introduction to the AAC series and episode overview 02:45 Understanding AAC and common myths 05:00 How families begin the AAC device process 11:40 The AAC evaluation team and their roles 13:20 The "feature matching" process explained 20:30 Paperwork, prescriptions, and insurance approval 22:30 Loaner devices and training for families Memorable Quote "AAC makes sure that anyone, anywhere, at any time can say anything." About the Guest Lydia McKay and Staci Dover are Arizona-based speech-language pathologists who specialize in Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC). They work with individuals and families across home and school environments and are involved with Northern Arizona University's AAC Evaluation and Training Program. Their work focuses on helping individuals access meaningful communication through evidence-based AAC systems and family-centered support. Resources Mentioned • Northern Arizona University AAC Evaluation & Training Program • Arizona Speech-Language Hearing Association (ArSHA) • Arizona Department of Developmental Disabilities (DDD) About the Host Brian Keene, OTD, OTR/L, is the host of the Autism Family Resource Podcast and founder of Pure Hearts Therapy in Phoenix, Arizona. Pure Hearts Therapy provides neurodiversity-affirming pediatric therapy services that support children and families through compassionate, individualized care. Subscribe & Connect If this episode resonated with you, please consider sharing it with another parent who might benefit from this conversation. Listen and subscribe to the Autism Family Resource Podcast: https://pod.link/1591840956 Explore more resources for families at: https://pureheartstherapy.com