The Chicken and the Alligators

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The magic of support groups

From: Jim McClure
Date: 10/5/01
Time: 2:48:24 PM
Remote Name: 199.174.179.54

Comments

Russ' article makes an important point. The magic of a stuttering support meeting happens when people talk -- not when they are lectured to. In my experience, as a NSA chapter leader since 1984, some of the best meetings have happened when someone's comment, question or sharing sparks a spontaneous discussion -- and we scrap the planned agenda and just run with it. I'm sure Lee Reeves and Russ Hicks can prepare for a meeting in 15 minutes -- they've been doing this for years -- but most of us put in a little more time. No matter how thoroughly you've prepared, however, once you start the meeting you never know what is going to happen. And that's half the fun. For those who have not been active in stuttering support groups, or are unclear on how they work, it's important to note that support groups do not administer speech therapy. If you come to a meeting expecting someone to "fix" your stuttering, you will be disappointed. But if you're ready to take charge of your recovery, a support group will let you know that you're not alone, show you what people like you have accomplished, and put you in touch with the right resources when you need expert information or professional help.


Last changed: September 12, 2005