[ Contents | Next | Previous | Up ]
From: Lynne Shields
Date: 10/22/03
Time: 3:56:59 PM
Remote Name: 134.29.3.133
Interpersonal communication skills are quite important, as you point out in your post. When I work with both children or adults, we talk about good communication skills in general, along with the skills that can help them manage their stuttering. Some of the clients I see have quite good skills already in relating to others, while others are more shy or hesitant about interacting in a variety of situations, either because of concern over their stuttering or a lack of experience. If this is the case, I think you are quite correct in suggesting that the skills need to be addressed in therapy. Treatment can be structured so that both sets of skills are addressed simultaneously. For example, I might have the client develop a heirarchy of social situations going from least to most stressful for them. Beginning with the least stressful situations, we discuss and how to use their fluency management tools, as well as how to interact in those settings. Role playing can be used to good effect, followed by going out and experiencing real situations with me or another person with whom the client is comfortable.
I'm pleased that you are planning to provide assistance through your seminar. I wish you the best.
Lynne