Counseling vs Strategies
I’m sure this is probably client dependent, but how much of therapy time do you work on implementing fluency techniques vs how much therapy time do you set aside for counseling? Additionally, what specific techniques have you found to be beneficial in counseling individuals who may have a very negative self-perception due to their stutter?
Dear Abischo,
it is nice to meet you and thanks for asking questions that are so important to you and the people you help.
Counseling is folded into everything we do. So, even if a client is interested learning fluency enhancing skills we are counseling them through these teachings, practices in order to create confidence and self-esteem.
As far as counseling skills we can teach clients, there are many. You can teach them mindfulness (which can be performed and practices in countless ways). This helps them connect with the each moment so they can react to any thoughts or behaviors around stuttering.
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) are a psychological theories that have many activities and skills to teach any person who stutters to gain psychological flexibility, values based thoughts, and ways to approach everyday living.
If you want more specifics, email me at spalasik@uakron.edu and I can send you a PDF from a presentation I have performed several times.
Thanks for asking questions.
With compassion and kindness,
Scott