This is true of facilitated communication as well. Speech, gestures, signs, independent pointing, body language, and behavior can all be forms of functional communication. Facilitated communication can augment, and in some cases enhance, these other modes. Many individuals, however, are able to achieve their most sophisticated communication through facilitation. Over time the support is usually faded back.
Many individuals now communicate with just a hand on their shoulder or even independently.
Facilitators do not guide. Instead they provide backwards resistance only. Facilitators have many responsibilities. In addition to these physical accommodations facilitators provide a great deal of positive support and encouragement. That context affects the quality and substance of shared messages.