Social isolation is arguably the most devastating consequence of aphasia, yet most approaches to aphasia rehabilitation address social communication only indirectly. Supported communication intervention (SCI) is an approach to aphasia rehabilitation that emphasizes the need for multimodality communication, partner training, and opportunities for social interaction. This self-study video provides SLPs with practical instruction on why and how to incorporate the WHO International Classification of Functioning, Disability, and Health (ICF) with SCI to put into practice an intervention program that targets both functional and social communication for individuals with aphasia. The three essential elements of SCI are highlighted: incorporating augmentative and alternative communication, training communication partners, and promoting social communication, including participation in an aphasia group.

Learning Outcomes
You will be able to:

• summarize the goals and essential elements of SCI
• enumerate the components of a comprehensive assessment and intervention plan using SCI
• use the ICF to describe the communication disabilities of individuals with aphasia, and formulate treatment goals related to social communication activities, restrictions and barriers for individuals with aphasia
• identify appropriate methods to measure and monitor the progress of the individual with aphasia and their communication partners

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