A qualitative pilot study of adult AAC users' experiences related to accessing and receiving mental health services

There is currently limited research related to mental health supports for individuals who use AAC, particularly about the actual lived experiences of AAC users who receive mental health services. There may be alterations to mental health services for individuals who use AAC. The aim of this study was to gain the perspectives of AAC users on accessing and receiving mental health services. Three participants who used AAC and received mental health services shared their experiences related to receiving mental health services. Data were analyzed using an inductive approach in which themes were based on participants' experiences. Five major themes were generated: (a) Time, (b) Communication Partner Skills, (c) Advocacy, (d) Means of Expression, and (e) Diagnosis. Participants described factors that positively or negatively impacted their experiences. Participant experiences were examined in light of Bronfenbrenner's Ecological Systems model. The findings of this study provide insights into the perspectives of individuals who use AAC in accessing mental health services, uncovering various barriers and facilitators within the patient-psychotherapist microsystem. Factors such as time constraints, communication partner skills, advocacy, means of expression, and diagnosis-related challenges significantly influenced the quality of interaction between patients using AAC and their mental health provider. The study also reveals the broader impacts of AAC on interactions within the meso-, exo-, and macro-systems, suggesting the need for improved involvement of speech-language pathologists and policy changes to support effective communication and accessibility for individuals using AAC in mental health settings. Ultimately, future research should involve participants of varying ages, diagnoses, and backgrounds and should include a variety of stakeholders.