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From: Pam
Date: 14 Oct 2009
Time: 12:49:05 -0500
Remote Name: 67.248.58.128
Hi Christina, I copied and pasted my response to an earlier similar question, about what other attributes are important. // Honesty is important, but there other important things to look for in a clinician. I think it goes without saying that the SLP has to be non-judgemental. Sometimes, I think it is easy for SLP's to unintentionally transfer that if only the client used their targets more or practiced more, maybe goals would be achieved sooner. . . . . I think also a SLP needs to be willing to be flexible, to be willing to delve into the tough stuff, to be comfortable talking about feelings. That is a biggie. Ihave learned that speech mechanics and production surely is important, but feelings usually are more so. So the SLP needs to recognize that and go with what comes from the client, even when it is tears, or even when the client is clearly searching for something, but doesn't know how to ask the right questions. . . The SLP also needs to see themselves as a partner in the therapeutic relationship. It won't work if the SLP believes that he or she has all the answers becasue of thier training and experience. Defer to the expertise of the person who has lived with stuttering.// As for self groups, I think it is vital for adults to interact with other people who stutter. Not only is the interaction important - to lessen the feelings of being alone - but we very often learn and share insights from each other that we might not have considered. And in most cases, attending support group nicely supplements therapy. I would advise SLPs to visit and observe an adult support group, with permission first of course! You would be most welcome, but it is always courteous to ask first.