No, not necessarily! Even simple gestures like facial expressions, head nods, and smiles can get you far but obviously it doesn’t work for every situation. So, I would really recommend meeting with a SLP for them to work with you to figure out what works best for you. You can brainstorm with them to see when you could use another form of communication if the situation fits :) Edit: I think eye contact is overrated nowadays. So, if that makes you uncomfortable - don’t feel pressured to do it.