Neuroaffirming AAC Support for Autistic Communication, Participation and Autonomy

AGOSCI is partnering with ARATA to share part two of their "Autism and Assistive Technology" webinar series. 

AGOSCI members have access to ARATA member priced tickets. Please click to link below for further information and to register via the ARATA website: 

Register here

Webinar overview 

This webinar will explore autism through a neuroaffirming lens and provide practical guidance for selecting, trialling and utilising assistive technology (AT) used for alternative and augmentative communication (AAC). 

Participants will gain an understanding of sensory processing differences, common barriers experienced by autistic people, and factors that influence successful AT used for AAC outcomes. The session will discuss a range of assistive technology AAC options relevant to autistic children, adolescents and adults, that promote independence and community participation. Drawing on speech pathology principles and practical examples, this webinar will provide attendees with a framework for considering when assistive technology used for AAC may be beneficial, how to match AT for AAC to individual needs, and how to avoid common pitfalls in AAC selection.

Target audience

Occupational therapists, Speech pathologists, Allied Health Educators and teacher aides, Support coordinators, Specialist support coordinators, Behaviour support practitioners, Disability support workers, Allied health students, Parents, carers and family members of autistic people, Professionals working within the NDIS, disability, education and community sectors.

Webinar date

Thursday 29 October 2026

Webinar start times

VIC/NSW/ACT/TAS: 12pm 

QLD: 11am

SA: 11:30am

NT: 10:30am

WA: 9am 

Presenter

Christina Schmidt (she/her) is a Black American-Australian, multicultural and multidialectal AuDHD woman who proudly embraces her identity across all facets of her work and advocacy. As the owner of Free to Be Me Speech Therapy, she provides neuroaffirming support to paediatric and adult clients in ways that honour each person’s unique communication needs, strengths and ways of being. Her approach is transformative - grounded in deep presence, cultural integrity and lived/living experience. Whether she’s guiding fellow speech pathologists, connecting meaningfully in client sessions, or presenting to captivated audiences around the world, she weaves together her personal and professional experience to create a resonant, lasting impact. Christina lives, works, plays and creates on the unceded lands of the Wurundjeri Woi-wurrung People of the Kulin Nation in Naarm (Melbourne, Victoria, Australia). Her work is rooted in justice, joy and the ongoing commitment to amplifying diverse voices and stories - always with the belief that we all deserve to be seen, heard and free to be.

AGOSCI members have access to ARATA member priced tickets. Please click to link below for further information and to register via the ARATA website: 

Register here