Relapse Following Successful Stuttering Therapy: The Problem of Choice

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Re: The Devil We Know

From: Pam to Rebekah
Date: 08 Oct 2012
Time: 13:36:04 -0500
Remote Name: 67.248.49.228

Comments

Rebekah, Thanks for taking the time again to comment. I sure hope Ryan doesn’t mind our “hi-jacking” space on his terrific paper. My significant other definitely was used to me being one way, and he always in control. So when that began to change as I began to change, he struggled with it. He started exhibiting anger and “acting out” behaviors, and would be very negative and critical of just about anything I did. I asked him repeatedly to consider coming to a group session with me – he refused, wanting nothing to do with my growth that was making me happy. He didn’t want to come on the journey with me either. So, in answer to your question, I think clinicians should try to involve family/partners/spouse when possible, especially when it appears that a significant identoy change is on the horizon. I liken it to “The Biggest Loser.” When a person loses 200 pounds, sure, her life changes, but so does the spouse. All of a sudden, the spouse may feel worried that she will leave him, will experience jealousy (maybe for the first time) and may feel that he is not good enough. That has to be dealt with. As far as insights I have gained along the way for assisting people who stutter (generally, not just specific to this topic,) I wrote a good paper (at least I think so) for the 2009 ISAD that captured some of the things I think are critical for a good therapeutic relationship. Please feel free to check it out. http://www.mnsu.edu/comdis/isad12/papers/mertz122.html ~Pam


Last changed: 10/24/12