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From: Vivian Sisskin
Date: 13 Oct 2007
Time: 14:37:20 -0500
Remote Name: 68.227.196.186
Hello HK, It sounds like your client may have achieved some self-acceptance as a PWS and may be looking for comfort in communication rather than fluency per se at this point in his life. He appears to be concerned about how he may be perceived at work and may want to be known as someone who can take on more responsibilities, perhaps some that include good communication skills. It is often the case that it is the “struggling” that interferes with communication, not the “stuttering”. The targets you have chosen may not be congruent with his goals, as they are aimed at increased fluency. You might discuss other possible targets, for example, the ability to modify the moment of stuttering both during and in anticipation of disfluency. These strategies will help him move through stuttering moments easily and build confidence in his ability to say what he wants when he wants. It will also allow him to make choices about the way he stutters rather than having to learn a new way of talking. Stuttering modification targets also require some practice. Selecting cues during his daily routine can be reminders, for example, practice at least once before every meal, or practice daily with the first person he sees in the office. Introducing him to support groups (local NSA Chapter) would offer opportunities to practice with others in a less fearful environment. Finally, reporting in to a group of others working on speech targets through an email list is very helpful. Perhaps team up with another student who has a fluency client and create a list. Check with your supervisor about some of these creative options for support between sessions. Good luck!