How to Stop Stuttering

Stuttering is a speech disorder that disrupts the normal flow of speech. It’s characterized by repetitions of sounds, syllables or words, prolongations of sounds and interruptions in speech, known as blocks.

While the exact cause of stuttering isn’t fully understood, it’s believed to be a combination of genetic and neurophysiological factors. The good news is that treatments are available to help people who stutter.

Obtaining a Diagnosis: The First Step in Treating Stuttering

Treatment for stuttering starts with getting a diagnosis. This is typically done by a speech-language pathologist, who is a healthcare professional trained to evaluate and treat speech and language disorders. Typically, a primary care provider will refer a patient who is seeking a diagnosis to a speech-language pathologist.

During the diagnosis process, the speech-language pathologist will:

• Ask about the person's health history.
• Inquire about when the stuttering started.
• Observe the person's speech in different situations.
• Rule out any underlying health conditions.

Developing a Treatment Plan for Stuttering

Once a diagnosis is made, the speech-language pathologist works with the individual (and their family, in the case of children and teens) to develop an individualized treatment plan. The goal of treatment isn’t necessarily to eliminate stuttering completely. Instead, the focus is on helping the person communicate more effectively and participate fully in school, work and social activities.

Types of Treatment for Stuttering

Speech-language pathologists use various treatments to help patients who stutter.

Speech Therapy

Speech therapy can teach individuals who stutter to slow down their speech and monitor it. They may start by speaking very slowly and deliberately, and then gradually work up to a more natural-sounding speech pattern. Speech therapy can also help people who stutter control their breathing, use shorter sentences and manage anxiety about speaking.

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy

Cognitive behavioral therapy, or CBT, is a type of psychotherapy that can help individuals who stutter identify and change negative thought patterns that may worsen their stuttering. CBT can also help people cope with the stress, anxiety and self-esteem issues that can be associated with stuttering.

Electronic Devices

Various electronic devices can help to improve speech fluency. One type of device provides delayed auditory feedback, which requires the person to slow down their speech in order to hear it clearly.

Another type of device mimics the person's speech so that it sounds like they’re talking in unison with someone else. Some devices used to treat stuttering are small enough to wear throughout the day.

Parent-Child Interactions

For children who stutter, parental involvement is a key part of treatment. Parents can help their child by:

• Creating a relaxed home environment.
• Speaking slowly and calmly.
• Listening patiently to their child.
• Praising their child for clear speech.

A Team-Based Approach to Stuttering Treatment

Typically, treatment for stuttering is most effective when it’s a team effort. In addition to a speech-language pathologist, the team may include a primary care provider and a mental health professional.

The primary care provider can rule out any underlying medical conditions. Simultaneously, the mental health professional can help with any emotional issues that may be contributing to the stuttering.

If you or someone you know is struggling with stuttering, it’s important to seek professional help. With the right treatment, individuals who stutter can learn to communicate effectively and lead full and productive lives. Find a Baptist Health speech therapy location near you, call us at 502.962.2400, or visit our provider directory to get started today.

Next Steps and Helpful Resources

Learn More About Speech Therapy
Stuttering vs. Cluttering: Differences and Support Tips
Is Dysarthria Genetic?
Different Types of Lisps and How to Treat Them