How I communicate my feelings and start a conversation

Posted Feb 7, 2024 - 3:32pm

By: Lyle Bahe, PRC-Saltillo Ambassador

This is a conversation between Lyle and his SLP.

In what ways do you communicate your feelings to others? 
Lyle: I talk people.
SLP: If you were frustrated at staff, would you tell that staff or would you only tell me?
Lyle: You.
SLP: How would she ever know about your frustrations if you don't tell her?
Lyle: I will tell her.
SLP: Do you only tell people when you're frustrated or do you tell them other feelings you have as well?
Lyle: Yes, other feelings.
SLP: What are some of the other feelings you like to share when you experience them?
Lyle: I am happy. I am mad. I am frustrated. You are crazy (He says this to the SLP weekly lol), I am hungry, I need space
SLP: What are other ways you can communicate your feelings?
Lyle: communication device, facial expressions, head gestures, laughing, yelling/crying.
SLP: Do you feel that you have a lot of different ways to express your feelings to people?
Lyle: Yes
Lyle: I feel excite tomorrow me see friend.
SLP: Where do you get to see your friend at
Lyle: She work at me home I like her. (He recently moved into a group home and out of his mom's house) Us watch wrestling and movies
SLP: How does it feel to have someone at home who likes to do that stuff with you?
Lyle: I am happy.

How do you start a conversation with someone new? 
Lyle: Hi, my name is Lyle.
SLP: That is a great start. What else can you say/ask them?
Lyle: How you? What you name?
SLP: Lyle requested some social question phrases to be added to his device, just some basic ones for simple conversations.
Lyle: *asks 4 questions that were just added to SLP*
Lyle: I like questions


Communicators In Action  -    feelings, communicate with others, independent living