For the schedule of our Activity Center programs, please see our current brochure.
For news and updates about what’s happening at the Aphasia Center, please see our current newsletter.
About Aphasia
Aphasia is a communication disorder that can affect speaking, reading, writing, and understanding language. It is usually acquired following a stroke or other brain injury. People who have aphasia know what they want to say but may have difficulty saying it. Frustration and social isolation can easily develop as individuals struggle to communicate.
About the Center
Founded in 1996, the MossRehab Aphasia Center meets the long-term communication and psychosocial needs of individuals who have been affected by aphasia. It is a warm and welcoming place where people can find information and peer support, as well as participate in research and treatment.
The Aphasia Center provides focused and meaningful intervention at strategic points in the recovery process. This can occur through short-term outpatient therapy in the Advance Clinical Therapy (ACT) program, through the various groups and classes in the Aphasia Activity Center, or through participation in research at the Moss Rehabilitation Research Institute (MRRI).
MossRehab Aphasia Center was founded on several basic principles:
- Recovery from aphasia involves a life-long process of re-education, adaptation and support.
- Under the right conditions, people with aphasia can continue to recover even years after the onset of aphasia.
- Participating in social, recreational and educational activities reduces isolation and helps people with aphasia and their families make psychosocial adjustments
- Individuals with aphasia and their families can play an important role in increasing public awareness of aphasia.
Services
MossRehab Aphasia Center programs and services include:
Advanced Clinical Therapy Program (ACT). The Advanced Clinical Therapy (ACT) Program is a specialized outpatient therapy program developed for people with chronic (6 months or more) or progressive aphasia.
Aphasia Activity Center. Social interaction facilitates rehabilitation. The Aphasia Activity Center is a place where people with aphasia can meet, socialize and use their communication skills in a safe, supportive environment.
Research Opportunities at MRRI. At the Moss Rehabilitation Research Institute (MRRI), scientists and clinicians conduct studies to gain a better understanding of stroke and traumatic brain injury. People with aphasia may be eligible to volunteer for one or more of these research studies.
Aphasia Blog. Our blog is intended as a resource for people with aphasia and co-survivors, as well as for clinicians and students.
Virtual Resource Library
Below are a selection of videos and articles from the Aphasia blog.
- Aphasia and the Brain 101
- Staying Connected During COVID
- Making Your Own Communication Book
- Personalizing Communication Practice
- Personalizing Naming Practice in the Tactus Therapy App
- Personalizing Spelling Practice in the Tactus Therapy App
- Communication Strategies for the Whole Community
- Living Well With Aphasia Series
People
Director: Sharon M. Antonucci, PhD, CCC-SLP
Outreach and Administrative Coordinator: Nikki Benson-Watlington
Speech-Language Pathologists:
- Roberta Brooks, MA, CCC-SLP
- Karen R. Cohen, MSPA, CCC-SLP
- Paula R. Sobel, MA, CCC-SLP
- Adelyn Brecher, MS, CCC-SLP
- Colleen Boger, MS, CCC-SLP
Philanthropy Officer/Donations: Rejoice Jula
Help support the work of the Aphasia Center. Click on the button below to access the donation form. Select “Aphasia Center” under “Designation.”