Cerebral Palsy
Helping people with cerebral palsy express themselves, connect with others, and live more empowered lives through expert, compassionate therapy.
At Berry Therapy, we support people of all ages with cerebral palsy to develop meaningful communication. Whether your client has no functional speech, uses some words inconsistently, or faces complex physical access challenges, we provide highly specialist therapy that meets them where they are and builds from there.
How We Help
We work with clients across the full spectrum of cerebral palsy presentations, including those with:
- No or limited speech
- Motor impairments requiring adapted access (e.g. switch scanning, eye gaze)
- Hearing or vision challenges
- Co-occurring cognitive or learning difficulties
- Specialist software tools, such as Grid 3, PODD books, symbol libraries, and eye gaze access
- Autism alongside CP
Our therapy is grounded in the belief that everyone has potential, even when communication is severely impacted. We always presume competence and build trust, motivation, and communication step by step.
We use a wide range of approaches, including:
- Symbol-based communication systems (e.g. PODD books, pragmatic displays, aided language boards)
- Electronic devices with specialist software (e.g. Grid 3, TD Snap)
- Alternative access methods like eye gaze or partner-assisted scanning
- Paper-based systems for modelling and low-tech backup
- Family, school and team training to embed AAC strategies into everyday life
We understand that introducing a communication system isnât a âquick fixâ. It takes time, partnership, and the right support and weâre here for that full journey.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is AAC?
AAC stands for Augmentative and Alternative Communication. It includes any method that supports or replaces speech from simple tools like picture symbols or communication books to high-tech devices with specialist software.
AAC helps children and adults with conditions such as brain injury, cerebral palsy, autism, or other neuro and complex communication needs to express themselves and take part in everyday life.
At Berry Therapy, we specialise in AAC assessment and therapy, making sure each person has the right tools to communicate with confidence.
Does AAC work for people with cerebral palsy who still use some speech?
Yes. Many of our clients with CP have some spoken language but can’t rely on it across all settings. AAC can offer a backup, reduce pressure, and allow for fuller self-expression especially in unfamiliar, noisy or high-pressure environments.
Do you work on speech as well as AAC?
Absolutely. Many people with cerebral palsy use a combination of speech and AAC. We assess how speech can be supported through targeted therapy, improved breath support, or speech clarity techniques while also ensuring that thereâs always a robust backup way to communicate. Itâs not either/or. We support the full range of communication.
What types of AAC do you offer?
We tailor AAC systems to each person. This may include:
- Paper-based tools like PODD or symbol boards
- High-tech devices with eye gaze or touch access
- Apps like Grid 3, TD Snap, or Proloquo
- Multimodal communication using signs, vocalisations, gestures and more
Will a communication device fix things straight away?
No -and it shouldnât have to. Communication is a skill that takes time, practice and motivation. We support families, education teams and support workers to model and embed AAC in real-life contexts, so that over time, communication becomes natural and meaningful.
Can you help people with very severe physical and cognitive needs?
Absolutely. We believe in the right to communicate. Even those with the most profound difficulties can benefit from a communication system and experience more connection and autonomy â with the right support.
How do you assess communication needs in cerebral palsy?
We follow a structured assessment process that includes:
- Observing current communication methods (speech, vocalisations, gestures, etc.)
- Understanding motor abilities, vision, hearing and access preferences
- Collaborating with family, support teams and educators
- Trialling low- and high-tech AAC systems where appropriate
This helps us build a picture of whatâs possible and where to begin.
Can you support clients whoâve had a device before but didnât get on with it?
Yes. Itâs common for people to be given devices without the right support to succeed. We revisit what was tried, understand why it didnât work, and reintroduce communication in a more person-centred and supported way. Sometimes a different system or access method is needed; sometimes itâs just a matter of timing and trust.
What if a client has learning difficulties as well as CP?
We regularly support individuals with both cerebral palsy and learning disabilities. Our approach is flexible and assumes that everyone can communicate. We adapt our tools and teaching style to fit the personâs cognitive profile and learning pace.
What about clients who donât have good eye control or hand use?
Weâre highly experienced in working with alternative access methods. For clients who canât use direct touch or eye gaze, we explore options like:
- Partner-assisted scanning
- Switch scanning
- Head-tracking
- Auditory scanning
We make access achievable and always ensure thereâs a backup low-tech method too.
Do you provide training for families, schools or carers?
Yes, itâs a core part of what we do. AAC only works when the whole team is on board. We offer:
- Hands-on training sessions
- Modelling support in real environments (home, school, community)
- Custom video guides and resources
- Ongoing coaching to build confidence and consistency
Do you only work with electronic devices?
No. While weâre experts in high-tech AAC (like eye gaze and Grid 3), many of our clients benefit from a mix of paper-based and electronic tools. We tailor the system to each personâs needs, preferences, and environment and we never rely on tech alone.
Can you support non-verbal children and adults with very limited movement?
Yes. This is one of our specialisms. We work with people who may not yet have a clear way of showing yes/no, and we help establish reliable responses as a starting point. From there, we build a pathway to more intentional and expressive communication, however small the first steps may seem.
What other strategies do you use besides AAC?
We take a holistic approach. Depending on the individualâs needs, this might include:
- Oral motor and speech therapy
- Visual supports like schedules, choice boards or now/next
- Core vocabulary teaching across environments
- Environmental adaptations to reduce barriers
- Communication partner training to build natural interaction
Our goal is always to meet the individual where they are and help them grow.