Gestalt Language Processors

Augmentative and Alternative Communication

GLP + AAC Support

Who this is for

This page is for families whose children:

  • Use or may benefit from AAC (speech-generating devices, communication apps, etc.)

  • Are gestalt language processors (GLP) or use scripts/phrases to communicate

  • Are minimally speaking or have difficulty using language flexibly

  • Have been in therapy before but progress has felt limited or unclear

Services at Speech in Bloom are informed by specialized training in Natural Language Acquisition (NLA) and advanced support for gestalt language processors who use AAC.

A different approach to communication

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A different approach to communication *

  • Communication does not need to look one specific way to be meaningful.

    Therapy is grounded in a neurodiversity-affirming approach that respects each child’s communication style, autonomy, and pace of development. Rather than focusing on compliance or isolated skills, sessions prioritize connection, regulation, and authentic communication.

  • Sessions are individualized and child-led, with a focus on:

    • Supporting natural language development for gestalt language processors

    • Modeling and expanding language in meaningful contexts

    • AAC implementation, programming, and caregiver training

    • Building flexible, functional communication across environments

    • Collaborating with caregivers to support carryover at home

  • Intervention is individualized and targets the child’s current stage of development, building on existing strengths while supporting progression to the next stage.

    Therapy focuses on:

    • Expanding gestalts across a variety of communicative intents (e.g., requesting, commenting, protesting, engaging socially)

    • Supporting the progression from scripts and echolalia toward more flexible language

    • Modeling language in meaningful, natural contexts

    • Helping children break down and recombine language into more original, self-generated expressions over time

  • Gestalt language development occurs in stages, as children move from using whole phrases (gestalts) toward more flexible, self-generated language over time.

    You do not need to understand each stage to support your child—therapy is designed to meet your child where they are and guide progression step-by-step.

    If you’re interested in learning more, additional information can be found through:

    • Meaningful Speech (Natural Language Acquisition resources)

    • Marge Blanc’s work on gestalt language development

    • The Natural Language Acquisition (NLA) framework

  • AAC (Augmentative and Alternative Communication) is a valid and meaningful form of communication. Therapy supports children in developing functional communication using their AAC system across environments.

    Sessions are individualized and may include:

    • Language modeling using the child’s device or system

    • Supporting communication across a variety of communicative intents (e.g., requesting, commenting, social interaction)

    • Building more flexible, generative language over time

    • Caregiver collaboration to support carryover in daily routines

    Experience includes working with a range of AAC systems and programs, including LAMP Words for Life, TouchChat, TD Snap, and Snap + Core First, among others.

    AAC is supported alongside speech development and does not prevent children from developing spoken language. Children do not need to demonstrate specific skills before beginning to use AAC.

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