Question for a Professional
Through research and class material we have learned the importance of matching specific evidence-based practice therapy techniques to the goals and wishes of each client. Additionally, we learned the importance of mindfulness and acceptance of stuttering for a PWS. In an article that was provided to our class, we read that it was suggested to remind the PWS to breathe and take their time in their speech, but we have learned not to interrupt or tell the person to breathe, as this frustrates the client/patient. Therefore, these interventions contradict each other.What are your thoughts on this subject? What are your previous experiences with this idea?
Hello and thank you for your question. Evidence based practice is very important as a clinician, and yes, you will find evidence out there that contradicts each other. One thing to consider is the date of the evidence – often more recent recommendations contradict something published a few years ago (or more) as the field is constantly evolving, and best practice recommendations reflect this. From my clinical experience I would say that many people who stutter find it frustrating (even highly irritating!) to be told to ‘stop and breathe’ or ‘take your time’ but this is not the case for everyone. Every client is an individual and I find it helps when I’m gathering case history information (and at later points in therapy) to ask what people in the support network do presently when the person stutters, following this up with a question to clarify if this actually helps!
There are also times when I’m in two minds about which approach I think will suit a client. On these occasions I’ll talk them through the options, advising that there is research backing up both or all approaches, and then support them to choose which they feel will best suit their personality, needs and environment. We then have an open attitude to reviewing our joint choice and we may revise our decision later, therapy doesn’t have to be set in stone! So, I guess you could say that contradictory research gives us options! The important thing is to always consider the person you’re working with as an individual, remembering that different people will respond to different approaches in different ways.
Does that help clarify things?
Jenny