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.

The Jefferson Moss-Magee Rehabilitation Aphasia Center was developed to meet the long-term communication and psychosocial needs of individuals affected by aphasia. It is a place where people can find information and peer support as well as participate in on-going research and treatment.

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

The 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 onset of aphasia.
• Participating in social, recreational and educational activities 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.

The 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. Treatment emphasizes developing effective home practice routines whenever possible. For those outside of Philadelphia, the ACT program offers an in-depth evaluation and a treatment plan that can be carried out by the patient’s treating clinician.
• 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. A variety of programs are offered through the Activity Center, including Conversation Cafés, the Talking Book Club, the Computer Lab, Educational Programs and Reta’s Games Groups, all of which contribute to long-term recovery and re-engagement in the community.
• 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 to clinicians and students.

Voices of Jefferson Aphasia Center (VOJAC) is the driving force behind the Aphasia Center. VOJAC volunteers organize events, run group activities, spearhead fundraising events and advocate for aphasia awareness.

The Director of the Aphasia Center is Sharon M. Antonucci, PhD, CCC-SLP. Nikki Benson-Watlington is Outreach and Administrative Coordinator. She can be reached at nikki.benson-watlington@jefferson.edu or 215-663-6344.