Communicators should receive facilitation from multiple facilitators, as success often depends on the frequency of use across all environments. Central to the FC process is providing continuous feedback and monitoring, which helps ensure that the message as understood by the facilitator is what the communicator intends. Such feedback and monitoring should provide encouragement to the communicator, help build skills that may contribute to the communicator's independence and ensure that facilitation techniques are consistent across all facilitators who are supporting the individual. Evaluation and documentation should be a part of the FC process form the beginning. A portfolio should be developed, with the communicator's permission, which gathers data establishing documented changes and progress over a period of time.
Physical support is provided at the communicator's shoulder, arm, wrist, or hand.
These practice guidelines have been developed with an understanding and respect for the need for freedom of expression, protection from harm, professional and ethical responsibility, as well as the premise that all individuals with communication disabilities should be given the full opportunity to use augmentative and alternative communication. They have been developed because of the controversial nature of FC and are recommended as a model for individuals, families and service providers in New Hampshire to ensure that FC is used with integrity. Information from all parts of the United States was gathered through a survey process, list serve participation, and professional referrals. The facilitator provides both physical and emotional support as the person with the communication disability tries to point at pictures or letters in order to communicate. These guidelines and policies focus on competent implementation that is essential to achieving meaningful outcomes for all involved in the facilitation process.