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Adjusting professional language to align with stuttering-affirming therapy
What is it about?
Some adults who stutter never heard the words, “It’s okay to stutter”. Many who have, also internalized the unspoken caveat, “It’s okay to stutter, but it’s better if you don’t”. Unintentional ableist messages can perpetuate stigma and feeling “othered” in the therapy relationship. In this viewpoint article, the author offers ideas for revisioning therapy outcomes, language, and messaging to students to encourage a congruent, disfluency-affirming culture in schools and community.
Why is it important?
Those who stutter often report memorable negative school experiences both academically and socially. Some characterize their school speech therapy experience as unhelpful, even damaging to their confidence as communicators later in life. We can do better!