Stuttering Across the Lifespan & Cluttering
Stuttering is complex and entails thoughts and feelings about communication and about communication experiences. Cluttering involves speech that sounds rapid, unclear and/or disorganized to the listener. Understanding individual relevant factors allows for personalized and holistic care. The ultimate goal of therapy is free, natural, and confident communication that is in accord with personal values.
Early Years (Age 2-6 years)
During this time, development occurs rapidly across many areas of ability that affect one another. In my evaluation, I consider each of these areas and the interplay of these shifting aspects of development along with other relevant factors, such as the temperament and the unique qualities of the child. I listen carefully to understand parental/caregiver perspectives and concerns and work collaboratively to determine the best options to meet the needs of the child and family. Therapy is offered both virtually and in-person.
School Age (Ages 7 to18 years)
For school-age children, the results of my evaluation are thoughtfully integrated with the child’s case history, my observations, the child’s input, the parental/caregiver input, and with any other relevant information. Getting to know the child and developing a collaborative relationship is central to the therapeutic process. The therapeutic process takes into consideration the child’s current stage of development, individual temperament and personality, preferences, interests, and current life circumstances. This holistic therapy addresses internal and external factors that affect communication including the child’s thoughts and feelings, with the overarching goal of confident communication. Therapy is offered both virtually and in-person.
Adults (Over18 years)
For adults, the therapeutic process begins with a conversation about what the client would like to make different in life and why this change is important at this time. I listen carefully to understand the communication experiences that led to this moment. Getting to know each client well is essential, including gaining an understanding of individual strengths and interests. This foundation is important because it positions me to provide customized support in achieving goals, including capitalizing on the client’s individual strengths within the therapeutic process. Therapy is collaborative and takes place in an accepting and calm environment at a personalized pace. Therapy is offered both virtually and in-person.
Cluttering
Cluttering often involves a rapid speech production rate, and may include difficulties in speech or language planning. Cluttering is sometimes confused with stuttering and may co-occur with stuttering; therefore, differential diagnosis is key. Therapy addresses each individual's challenges in communication. Getting to know each client including their specific strengths and goals is essential to the therapeutic process in order to provide meaningful results. Therapy is collaborative and takes place in an accepting and calm environment at a personalized pace. Therapy is offered both virtually and in-person.