Training

Facilitated Communication Training (FCT) is a process that begins with learning the foundational concepts as well as how to get started and continues through a period of skill building and working toward independence. The Institute provides this continuum of training through workshops, monthly skill sessions, and an annual summer institute. Additionally, the Institute provides referral to trainers for assessments, individual skills  building consultations and technical assistance. _____________________________________________________________________

Levels of Learning

Many people who express an interest in learning about the method have in mind someone who is currently facilitated or who might benefit from the method. They come to training ready to support someone as a facilitator. This initial level of learning is best served through
1) an introductory workshop, Click here for description, flyer, and registration form
2) follow-up support for the getting started process, contact us for follow up support
3) connection to a network of new and experienced facilitators. Contact us for networking
Introductory training begins with a two-day workshop, but the entire getting started process can take several months of consistent, guided effort. See Training Opportunities for a calendar of events.
Skill building and independence training are developed through practice, guidance of experienced facilitators, coaches or trainers, and networking. Click here for skill building opportunities.

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As facilitators build their skills in working with an individual, they may feel ready to work with others who use the method, introduce the method to prospective candidates or teach others to be facilitators. These facilitators can elect to become a communication coach. A communication coach can help to increase the number of facilitators for an individual AAC/FC user, provide follow up in the getting started process, and provide solutions to daily communication situations.
Beyond the levels of facilitator and communication coach, facilitators may elect to become a trainer. A trainer is able to handle the responsibilities of the communication coach as well as give group instruction, organize and teach workshops. The trainer works with facilitators and AAC/FC users at all levels of training.
The highest level of learning is that of master trainer. A master trainer is skilled in all aspects of the method, including the fading of physical support and the development of message passing skills. Additionally, a master trainer is knowledgeable of related disciplines that support the effective use of the method (i.e. sensory integration strategies) and the working toward independence. The Institute awards a certificate to those who achieve the level of master trainer.
See Training Programs for details for the communication coach, trainer and master trainer programs.

Introductory Training

This two-day workshop covers the foundational concepts of the method and teaches the basic set of skills necessary to become a facilitator. This workshop is for parents and professionals who support an individual who currently uses the method, or those who are interested in exploring the method with a prospective candidate. We strongly encourage teams to attend together.
Topics for the introductory workshop include:

• Definition and candidacy
• History of facilitated communication
• Conceptual framework
• Elements of training
• Independence
• Determination of Authorship
• Best practice

The workshop is highly interactive and is taught by master trainers and skilled AAC/FC users. Attendees will meet and talk with experienced users of the method and their facilitators. Throughout the two days, activities and simulations will focus on the learning of:

• The general nature of support
• How to give physical support
• Feedback and monitoring
• Independence training
• Documentation of communication skills

The institute provides training in Syracuse and other locations around the United States, Canada as well as other countries. Staff members work with families, school districts and agencies with a commitment to quality training and effective application of the method.

Click here for a sample agenda of a two day introductory workshop.

Fees: One day.... $75          Two Days.... $125

        Click for a Flyer and Registration Form.

 Skill Building
 

Offered in Syracuse area, the Saturday Series is designed as a means for AAC/FC users and their facilitators to get together, support each other and continue their learning of effective application of the method. Whereas the introductory training is geared toward learning for facilitators, the Saturday Series encourages AAC/FC user s to attend with their facilitators in order to learn together and to get the support from coaches and trainers as well as others who present on a variety of topics. Click here for dates and topics of upcoming monthly meeting