About Me

Hi, I’m Heather Roach, an educational consultant with a deep passion for supporting individuals who use Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) and their families. Known for my creative, outside-the-box thinking, I am dedicated to finding innovative ways to empower and engage individuals and teams.

I collaborate closely with families, educators, and therapists, using a variety of strategies to ensure inclusive and effective support. Working with AAC is something I truly enjoy, and I’m always exploring new methods to connect with individuals and help them communicate in meaningful ways. Whether it’s through eye gaze technology or other cutting-edge approaches, my goal is to provide solutions that make a difference.

With experience as both a special education teacher and a mom to a complex communicator and AAC user, I bring a unique perspective and a wealth of knowledge to my work. I specialize in helping individuals with AAC navigate all aspects of their lives. By closely assessing each person’s communication needs, motor skills, positioning, and goals, I ensure that AAC interventions are tailored to fit their unique abilities and needs.

One of my key focuses is promoting collaboration through a cross-disciplinary approach. I believe that working together with professionals from various fields—therapists, educators, medical staff, and equipment providers—creates a comprehensive support system that is more integrated and coordinated. This approach helps develop communication strategies that are effective in all environments, ensuring the individual’s success and participation in daily life. By considering everyday activities as opportunities for communication, we design goals that foster meaningful interactions and engagement.

I earned my Bachelor of Science from Western Illinois University and a Master of Arts in Teaching from Fontbonne University. Including over a decade as a special education teacher I’ve spent the past 17 years teaching, training, consulting, and working directly with individuals facing significant challenges. Currently, I serve as a private educational consultant, helping individuals and teams navigate complex educational needs. 

In December 2024, after seven years of dedicated training, I had the privilege of presenting alongside Gayle Porter and earned my certification as an officially recognized PODD presenter. I am proud to be one of only 12 individuals in the United States to achieve this distinction.

Overall, I’m committed to empowering families and teams to create environments that are supportive, inclusive, and enriching for all individuals, helping them achieve their communication goals and thrive.