Stuttering is considered a communication disorder. A person who stutters (PWS) experiences a feeling of loss of control on his/her speech, in which, despite “know[ing] precisely what s/he wishes to say (…) is unable to say [it] because of an involuntary repetition, prolongation or cessation of a sound” (World Health Organization, 2007). These experiences may generate negative thoughts or emotions associated with communication that can have a profound impact on PWS’ communicative attitude and quality of life.

70 million people globally are estimated to stutter. Approximately 5% of children go through a period of stuttering. Of these, 1% is left with persistent stuttering.

Several research projects are underway to explain why people stutter. It is generally accepted by the scientific community that stuttering is caused by a combination of factors that affect how the brain processes motor speech control (abnormalities in speech motor system, sensory and motor incoordination, timing). According to The Stuttering Foundation: “The evidence for genetic factors in stuttering is overwhelming, with genetic factors playing a role in at least half of all cases (…) [though the level of] severity does not [play any role]”.

“An individual who stutters exactly knows what s/he would like to say but has trouble producing a normal flow of speech. These speech disruptions may be accompanied by struggle behaviors, such as rapid eye blinks or tremors of the lips. Stuttering (…) affects a person’s quality of life and interpersonal relationships” (NIDCD, 2017) (Butler, 2014). Consequently, without a proper care, it can impact negatively a person’s job performance and opportunities.

Symptoms of stuttering can vary significantly throughout a person’s day. Speaking before a group or talking on the telephone may cause a more severe stuttering, while singing, reading, or speaking in unison may momentarily reduce stuttering. Stuttering does not have a cure, but, with the help of a speech therapist, PWS learn how to handle it in its different dimensions, i.e. emotions and fluency.

Our speech therapists pursue a treatment path that incorporates:

• Strategies to cope with physical tension during stuttering moments;
• Ways of addressing negative emotions/ perceptions related with stuttering, e.g. progressive public exposure and fear reduction training;
• Strengthening communication skills, namely the ability to engage in daily social interactions, public speaking and job interviews;
• Trust-building for a more comfortable and relaxed communication flow.

In short, our therapists will work to help PWS to overcome difficult (and oftentimes traumatic) communication experiences, replacing them for a highly functional and comfortable stuttering that will enable them to feel more confident and participative, without losing authenticity.