In the intricate landscape of speech therapy, where countless methods and approaches vie for attention, a group of exceptional professionals stands out for their enlightened perspective on stuttering. While many speech professionals (SPs) play a crucial role in various aspects of speech therapy, the spotlight here is on those who have not only embraced the possibility of overcoming stuttering but have actively incorporated proven methods into their practices.
Exceptional Voices in the Field
Lee G. Lovett, the trailblazer behind Speech Anxiety Anonymous (SAA) and the World Stop Stuttering Association (WSSA), acknowledges that not all SPs are created equal when it comes to addressing stuttering. In his extensive interactions with the speech community, he distinguishes those who have firsthand experience with stuttering or have witnessed successful transformations.
Paul Brocklehurst: A Personal Triumph
One standout figure in this realm is Paul Brocklehurst, Ph.D., whose journey from severe stammerer to empowered communicator mirrors Lovett’s path. Holding a Ph.D. in Experimental Psychology and an MSc in Psycholinguistics, Paul spent his career delving into the mechanisms behind persistent developmental stammering. His research findings align closely with Lovett’s methods, as both arrived independently at the same destination: fluency.
Marjorie Rosenthal Foer: A Catalyst for Change
Marjorie Foer, M.A., CCC-SLP, BCS-F, emerges as a beacon of hope within the speech community. Armed with an impressive array of credentials, including a BA in Speech and Hearing, an MA in Speech-Language Pathology, and post-graduate certifications, Marjorie champions the Neuroscience Method. Her belief in the transformative power of this method, expressed in the introduction to Lovett’s book, speaks volumes about her enlightened approach.
“As to our Neuroscience Method, in addition to her introduction to this book, Ms. Foer has written the following: ‘After reading a good many of the success stories, watching the corroborating videos, and hearing dozens explain how they stopped stuttering at WSSA’s speech club (SAM) meetings, I am convinced that your method is stopping stuttering rapidly and permanently.'”
Her commitment extends beyond words, as she actively participates in WSSA’s speech club meetings, engages with coaches, and dedicates long hours to understanding the mindset of stutterers and ex-stutterers.
Peggy Beaulieu: Bridging the Educational Gap
Peggy Beaulieu, a speech-language pathologist with extensive experience, has embraced Lovett’s methods and actively supports the introduction of neuroscience techniques in her counseling sessions. Her dedication to treating stutterers in various settings, from outpatient clinics to schools, underscores the applicability of these methods across diverse environments.
Matthew O’Malley: A Vocal Advocate
Matthew O’Malley, an SLP-A with a Master’s in Speech Pathology, stands as a vocal advocate for Lovett’s methods. His support extends beyond online forums to personal discussions, emails, and recognition of the profound impact SAA has had in fostering self-care for stutterers.
John Harrison: A Non-Professional Advocate
While not a speech professional, John Harrison’s influence within the stuttering community is immense. His embrace of Lovett’s methods, as articulated in the foreword of the book, underscores the universal applicability of these techniques.
Challenging the Status Quo
These professionals, through their endorsements and active involvement, challenge the prevailing dogma that stuttering is an incurable disorder. Their experiences with and support for Lovett’s methods serve as an invitation to the wider community of speech professionals to reconsider their perspectives.
Lovett and his allies urge SPs to delve into the book and study the WSSA program with an open mind. The goal is not mere acknowledgment; it is the pursuit of fluency for the speech-disabled. As more professionals like Foer, Beaulieu, Brocklehurst, and O’Malley join the cause, the hope is for an industry-wide shift toward recognizing the merit of methods that have led to countless success stories within the stuttering community. The journey toward fluency beckons, and these enlightened speech professionals are leading the way.
