From Stammering to Fluency: Success Stories and Effective Techniques
Stammering, also known as stuttering, can significantly impact one's confidence and communication abilities. At Speaking Of Words, we specialise in online speech therapy, providing tailored strategies to help individuals overcome stammering and achieve fluency. Here, we share anonymised success stories and effective techniques that have made a difference.
Success Stories
Aās Journey to Fluency
A, a 35-year-old from London, struggled with stammering since childhood. Traditional speech therapy helped, but it was our personalised online speech therapy sessions that transformed his communication. Using techniques like controlled breathing and slow speech, A gained confidence and fluency. Today, he delivers presentations at work without hesitation.
Sās Breakthrough
S, a university student, faced social anxiety due to their stammer. Through our remote speech therapy sessions, S learned to manage their stammer with techniques such as pausing and easy onset. These methods, combined with regular practice, enabled S to participate actively in seminars and social events.
Effective Techniques
Controlled Breathing
Controlled breathing is fundamental in managing stammering. By focusing on deep, diaphragmatic breaths, individuals can reduce tension and speak more smoothly. Research supports the use of controlled breathing techniques in reducing stammering frequency (Bloodstein & Bernstein Ratner, 2008).
Slow Speech
Slowing down the rate of speech helps in reducing stammering. It allows individuals to think about their words and reduces the pressure to speak quickly. Studies have shown that slow speech can significantly reduce stammering incidents (Prins, Main, & Wampler, 1997).
Easy Onset
Easy onset involves starting vocal sounds gently, which can help reduce the physical tension that contributes to stammering. Practising this technique can make initiating speech easier and more fluid. This technique has been effective in clinical settings (Guitar, 2014).
Pausing
Incorporating pauses into speech can give individuals time to plan their words and reduce the likelihood of stammering. Pausing also helps in maintaining a calm and controlled pace of speaking. Research indicates that pausing can be beneficial for fluency (Gregory, 2003).
Desensitisation
Desensitisation involves gradually exposing individuals to speaking situations that they find challenging. Starting with less stressful scenarios and slowly progressing to more demanding ones can help build confidence and reduce anxiety. This approach is supported by evidence showing its effectiveness in reducing speech anxiety (Menzies et al., 2008).
Why Choose Online Speech Therapy?
Our online speech therapy sessions are designed to be accessible and cost-effective, allowing clients to receive high-quality care from the comfort of their home. Whether you are in London, St Albans, or anywhere in the UK, our personalised approach ensures that therapy is tailored to your unique needs.
Online speech therapy provides flexibility, making it easier for clients to schedule sessions around their daily lives. This convenience, combined with the expertise of our therapists, makes it an ideal choice for those seeking to improve their communication skills.
In summary
Stammering can be a challenging condition, but with the right techniques and support, achieving fluency is possible. At Speaking Of Words, we are committed to helping individuals overcome their stammering through effective, personalised online speech therapy. If you or someone you know is struggling with stammering, consider booking a free 15-minute consultation with us at www.speakingofwords.co.uk to begin your journey to fluent communication.
References
Bloodstein, O., & Bernstein Ratner, N. (2008). A Handbook on Stuttering. Cengage Learning.
Prins, D., Main, V., & Wampler, S. (1997). Effects of speech rate changes on stuttering frequency during repeated readings. Journal of Speech, Language, and Hearing Research, 40(1), 50-66.
Guitar, B. (2014). Stuttering: An Integrated Approach to Its Nature and Treatment. Lippincott Williams & Wilkins.
Gregory, H. H. (2003). Stuttering Therapy: Rationale and Procedures. Pearson.
Menzies, R. G., Onslow, M., Packman, A., & O'Brian, S. (2008). Cognitive behavior therapy for adults who stutter: A tutorial for speech-language pathologists. Journal of Fluency Disorders, 33(3), 192-206.