Sangha Unity Network, Inc., (SUN) with funding from The Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Disabilities brings "The Power of Communication" to 6 cities in Georgia.
The Power of Communication is designed for the people who work with and support individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities and will be led by
Michelle Schwartz, M.Ed. CCC-Sp, and Katie Chandler, LCSW.
Michelle Schwartz, M.Ed. CCC-Sp, and Katie Chandler, LCSW.
Participants will be encouraged to “shift” their work practices and will discuss ways to assist people in creating their “life well lived” by enhancing their functional communication skills. If we are to skillfully use person-centered approaches and practices in our daily work supporting people with intellectual and developmental disabilities, we must have an understanding of who people are and the knowledge and skills to communicate effectively.
Participants will enhance their knowledge of how to listen with intent and how to understand and use a variety of communication methodologies to enhance communication efforts of the listener and the speaker. We will discuss augmentative alternative communication techniques and participants will design and leave with a communication board with specific vocabulary for at least one person they support. Communication boards will use picture symbols and will reflect individualized, relevant vocabulary based on identified language and functions needed. Participants will also leave with a list of resources to assist them in continuing the development of communication supports.
Participants are encouraged to register early as capacity is limited to 50 participants at each workshop.