For individuals dealing with speech impediments such as stuttering, selective mutism, cluttering, or stammering, effective communication can be a significant challenge. While traditional speech therapy has played a crucial role in addressing these issues, alternative methods have emerged that focus on empowering individuals to take control of their speech. One such approach, outlined in the book “How to Stop Stuttering & Love Speaking,” involves the use of Speech Plans – powerful tools that can transform the way people think about and experience their speech. In this blog, we’ll explore the concept of Speech Plans, including their role, types, and how they can be utilized to overcome speech impediments.
The Evolution of Speech Plans
From 2016 to 2022, the concept of Speech Plans emerged as a transformational tool to aid individuals in their journey to fluent speech. Speech Plans, which gradually replaced Speech Voices, have proven to be highly effective for many people dealing with speech impediments. These plans consist of two key components: a General Speech Plan (GSP) and a Pressure or Emergency Speech Plan (ESP).
General Speech Plan (GSP)
A General Speech Plan, often referred to as a GSP, is a set of thoughts and strategies that individuals strive to think throughout their speech when they feel little to no pressure. The specific elements of a GSP may vary from person to person, but the underlying goal is to maintain a positive mindset about speech. Examples of GSP components include “Animate Message-Smile-Stop,” “Pronounce Words-Smile-Stop,” or “Joy-Smile-Stop.” These affirmations and actions serve to combat negative thinking and promote fluency.
The power of a GSP lies in the ability to impose positive thoughts on unpressured speech. When individuals train themselves to think positively about their speech while speaking, the stuttering habit gradually diminishes. It’s a fundamental shift from letting external factors dictate our thoughts to taking control of our thinking.
Pressure/Emergency Speech Plan (ESP)
In contrast to the GSP, the Pressure or Emergency Speech Plan (ESP) comes into play when individuals feel pressured while speaking. Pressure can manifest in various situations, including addressing groups, interacting with authorities, or speaking to strangers. For some, all speech may be perceived as pressured.
ESP is a set of thoughts and strategies designed to help individuals maintain fluency under pressure. The key components of an ESP often involve “Linking” and “Stopping.” Linking prevents the hesitation-think-fear-force-word cycle that drives stuttering. When words or syllables are linked, they are far less likely to be stuttered, unless the links are broken.
Humming through words makes linking easier, while partial singing simplifies humming. Singing can further facilitate partial singing. In cases where these methods fail, writing, whispering, or mouthing the words being spoken can be employed. The frequent “stops” within ESP are critical for preventing stutters, ensuring a smoother and more fluent speech.
The Importance of “Stops”
“Stops” are a pivotal element in Speech Plans and are considered a “secret” to fluency and eloquent speech. A “stop” entails a full break in speech, lasting at least one second. This provides a respite not only for the individual who stutters but also for the listener.
The length and frequency of stops can vary based on the pressure individuals feel while speaking. For mild pressure, stops may be inserted every 1 to 7 words, while more significant pressure may require stops every 1 to 5 words or even every 1 to 3 words. Shorter speech increments with varied lengths of stops are highly effective in managing pressure and achieving fluency.
Speech Plan Cards
During the learning phase, individuals can benefit from carrying a card or note with their GSP and ESP written on it. Looking at the appropriate plan while speaking can serve as a reminder until these strategies become second nature. With consistent practice, mastering these plans and thinking the associated thoughts can take just a few days to a week or two.
The power of Speech Plans lies in the fact that by thinking positive solutions, individuals can block the stuttering habit. This mental shift from focusing on problems to finding solutions fills the mind and prevents the stuttering habit from taking hold.
The Synergy of Crutches and Speech Plans
While Crutches such as C-1 to C-8 are invaluable for addressing individual challenging words, Speech Plans are essential for managing entire conversations, presentations, job interviews, and more. Combining Crutches with Speech Plans ensures that individuals are equipped to handle any speech situation.
Speech Plans in Everyday Life
To understand the practical application of Speech Plans, consider a scenario where an individual needs to give a public presentation. In this situation, the Pressure or Emergency Speech Plan (ESP) comes into play. The individual focuses on linking words and introducing regular stops to maintain fluency. By implementing these strategies, they effectively combat the pressure and deliver a confident and fluent presentation.
Speech Therapy and Speech Plans
It’s important to emphasize that Speech Plans are not a replacement for speech therapy; they complement traditional methods and serve as an additional tool in the arsenal of individuals dealing with speech impediments. Traditional speech therapy, often guided by speech pathologists, remains a valuable resource for diagnosis, treatment, and personalized therapy plans.
Conclusion
For individuals facing speech impediments such as stuttering, selective mutism, cluttering, and stammering, Speech Plans offer a powerful approach to achieving fluent and confident communication. By mastering the art of thinking positive thoughts, linking words, and incorporating stops into their speech, individuals can effectively manage pressure and maintain fluency.
While Speech Plans are an integral part of the process, it’s essential to acknowledge the role of traditional speech therapy and the expertise of speech pathologists in addressing speech impediments. A combination of both approaches can provide individuals with the comprehensive support they need to overcome their speech challenges and achieve their communication goals.
Ultimately, Speech Plans empower individuals to take control of their speech, transform their thinking, and build the confidence needed to communicate effectively in all aspects of life, whether it’s in everyday conversations or during public speaking engagements. The journey to fluent and confident communication may require some joyful effort and time, but the rewards are well worth the investment.
