In-home speech therapy for individuals in Skokie, Evanston, Wilmette, Niles, and surrounding Illinois areas
Online speech therapy in IL, NY, NJ
Call or email me for your free consultation
224-704-0790 | Stephanie@speakwithstephanie.com
Online stuttering/stammering therapy for adults
In-person stuttering therapy near Skokie, Evanston, West Rogers Park, Wilmette & Niles
What is the difference between stuttering & stammering?
Stuttering and stammering both refer to a speech disorder characterized by involuntary repetitions, prolongations, or blocks of sounds, syllables, or words. Stuttering is more commonly used in American English, while stammering is more commonly used in British English. Oftentimes people in America see stuttering as "bad" and therefore refer to it as stammering, which they feel is less severe.
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What is stuttering (or stammering)?
Stuttering, also known as stammering, is a speech disorder that affects individuals of all ages. While those who stutter often know what they want to say, they experience difficulty in verbal expression. Stemming from motoric issues, stuttering can evolve into a communication disorder, leading to avoidance of certain words, people, and situations. Someone who stutters may avoid ordering food, articulating their preferences, and giving presentations at work. The pattern and severity of stuttering can vary from person to person and may even fluctuate from day to day. It is important to note that these fluctuations are a normal part of stuttering.
Signs/symptoms of stuttering
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Repetition of sounds, syllables, or words in a sentence (also called repetitions)
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Having a hard time getting a sound out (also called block)
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Drawing a sound out (also called prolongation)
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Avoiding certain words or situations that they find challenging to articulate
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Physical movements such as eye blinking, head turning, pen tapping
These signs and symptoms can significantly impact an individual's ability to communicate effectively, and may require professional intervention to manage.
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When to seek stuttering/fluency therapy for yourself?
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Exhibiting tension while speaking: tension in your voice or speech muscles while trying to communicate. This tension may manifest as facial grimaces, clenched jaw, or tightness in the throat.
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Avoiding situations which may require you to speak: If you find yourself avoiding certain social or professional situations because they require speaking, such as making phone calls, participating in meetings, or ordering food at a restaurant, it suggests that your stuttering is affecting your daily life and interactions.
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Choosing words carefully to avoid stuttering: Selecting words cautiously to avoid words you may stutter on is a common behavior exhibited by those who stutter. If you find yourself frequently avoiding words, substituting words, or altering sentences to avoid stuttering, it may be time to seek speech therapy.
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Feeling unhappy with the way you sound: if you feel dissatisfied with the way you sound, it can impact your self-confidence and self-esteem. Persistent negative feelings about the way you sound may indicate a need for therapy to improve fluency and address any underlying emotional issues related to stuttering.
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Feeling that stuttering holds you back: If you believe stuttering is preventing you from pursuing certain professional or social opportunities, it is a sign that stuttering is impacting your quality of life.
What causes stuttering?
​Stuttering is a neurologically-based disorder which impairs an individual’s ability to time and sequence the underlying movements necessary for speech.
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Stuttering is genetic. In fact, research has identified some of the genes that play a role in stuttering.
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The exact causes of stuttering remain unclear; however, ongoing research and advancements in the field continue to shed light on this complex disorder and offer hope for effective treatment and management.
Speech Therapy for Stuttering
For adults, I take a holistic approach to stuttering treatment. This includes education about stuttering and creating an awareness of the individual's stuttering pattern. Techniques to manage stuttering are then taught and practiced in role-playing scenarios to reduce fear and avoidance and generalize skills into everyday life.
Throughout therapy, emphasis is placed on addressing thoughts and feelings as they have a direct impact on both the individual and their speech. Principles of Avoidance Reduction Therapy (ART) and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) are incorporated to promote successful outcomes.
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I can help improve fluency and confidence. My main goal is to assist individuals in managing their stuttering and building confidence in speaking situations, so that it does not hinder their progress. I am capable of helping adults who stutter fully participate in their lives by improving fluency and managing stuttering behaviors, reducing negative reactions such as tension, struggle, and avoidance, enhancing communication attitudes, and minimizing activity limitations and negative impacts from stuttering.
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Speech Therapy for Adults who Stutter Near Skokie, Illinois
I offer in-home speech therapy for children who stutter who live near Skokie, Wilmette, Evanston, and West Rogers Park.
Online Speech Therapy for Adults who Stutter Throughout Illinois, New York, ad New Jersey
I offer online speech therapy services for adults who stutter throughout Illinois, New York, and New Jersey.
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Throughout my career, I have encountered numerous clients who stutter and have unfortunately had negative experiences with speech therapy in the past. I want to assure you that this should not deter you from seeking assistance. I invite you to schedule a complimentary consultation to explore how I can support your loved one in achieving your communication goals.
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