This textbook presents a life-span approach to improving the lives of children and adults who have severe communication disorders due to autism, traumatic brain injury, intellectual disabilities, or sensory impairments. Step-by-step intervention approaches are offered, as well as thorough discussions of principles and procedures of assessment; planning and implementation of AAC intervention; symbol options; alternative access; message management; vocabulary selection; service delivery; This update of the widely-used and well-respected earlier editions offers more information on individuals with acquired disabilities and continues to emphasize putting the AAC user first.