Aspies For Freedom

I am looking into a job opportunity helping a young adult with autism with classes at a technical college.  According to the job description this particular individual is nonverbal, but obviously very intelligent.

My questions is posed towards other non-verbal or perhaps previously non-verbal individuals.  What about producing verbal language is difficult/distressing/etc. that makes it undesirable or impossible to expressively produce verbal speech?  It's a concept that confuses me, as it is still within this individual's (and others like him) ability to produce textual language.  I want to understand this perspective from the point of view of this individual, or at least an individual like him, before approaching this job full-on.  

Any insight into this issue would be greatly appreciated, I want to provide the greatest quality of understanding and support to this student.

Thanks,
Lindsey

Does the person use a symbol board or sign language to communicate?  Maybe they just feel more comfortable and proficient using non-verbal communication.  

If you have ever learned another language then you might understand that your brain takes some time to translate and then think of your answer and then translate that back into the other language and to say it.  It is effort to do that.  There are many steps.  Someone who is fluent in two languages really does not have to put so much effort into it.  Sometimes I just find there are too many steps and I just get lost.

M,

I'm not sure what tools he uses to communicate, I haven't moved to the area yet where I'm applying to the job.  If, or once, I find out, I'll let you know.

I have learned another language (spanish) and thinking about it in those terms makes sense, now that you say it.  When it comes down to it, I'm much more proficient at understanding someone speaking spanish, than personally coming up with the words to communicate myself.  

That really helps me understand, thanks for your reply!