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From: Speech Therapy
Date: 05 Oct 2009
Time: 05:57:00 -0500
Remote Name: 136.1.1.101
Hi Edward, This is Maria Witte. You asked about my speech therapy. The only therapy I had was in school, kindergarten thru 8th grade. I do think it helped me, but I decided to stop going, against the therapist's recommendation. It was something I felt I had to begin to work through on my own. Once I found the NSA though, in the early 20s, I realized that I did need support and it provided me that support. During college I pushed myself to do everything I would not do in highschool, I gave speeches, asked questions in class, and got involved in more activities that required me to speak. I am glad I did. I also majored in journalism / public relations for my bachelor's degree, which is filled with TONS of public speaking. For me, letting the audience know I stutter made all the difference in the world. I found the world a much nicer place once I just laid it out there. I also use humor as much as I can. Stuttering is a part of me, it isn't all of me. I use the techniques that work for me, easy onset, breathing, etc. I also practice in the car, at home, wherever I can. I also educate my friends and colleagues, which I think is a form of practice within itself. It is also good for your self confidence. I wish you luck, as I know it isn't easy and it is full of pain sometimes. The world does need to hear what you have to say though, so do your best and be proud of who you are, stutter and all.