Understanding Fluency Disorders and the Role of Speech Therapy
Fluency disorders in communication affects the flow of speaking and initiates disruptions. Although it is normal to encounter stuttering or word repetition every now and then, fluency disorders are on a different level. It is classified as a disorder as it already impacts the person’s self-esteem and communication abilities. But what are fluency disorders, and how can speech therapy, Caledon area and nearby locations, assist with this condition?
What is Fluency Disorder?
Fluency disorder is a condition when there are disruptions in the flow of how a person speaks. Stuttering and cluttering are the two types of this condition. Stuttering is the repetition of sounds, word prolongation, or a sudden pause while speaking. Whereas, cluttering is the increased rate of disorderly speech that may include merging of words, overuse of filler words or jumping from one topic to another.
As much as they are annoying, more importantly, these conditions cause social phobia for the affected individual. In addition to shame, it also impairs learning or work in academic or business environments. Although this usually starts at a young age, these difficulties persist into adulthood if not addressed.
Cause and Impact
There are many reasons for developing fluency disorders. It can be hereditary, neurological problems, or due to education delay. Additionally, psychological pressure and physical environmental stressors tend to worsen the condition. Hence, further hindering communication. For children with fluency disorders, answering questions in class or reading aloud becomes difficult. Whereas for grown-ups, it may cause skipping opportunities to speak in public and dodge discussions in large groups.
How Can Speech Therapy Help?
The availability of speech therapy, Caledon, and nearby locations, helps improve communication skills. Additionally, it also raises the self-esteem and confidence of the child with this disorder. Speech therapists usually assess each participant first in order to create an individualized plan aimed at overcoming these issues.
Techniques to Control Speech
Cognitive-behavioral therapists help children by providing skills on how to pace themselves. Additionally, they train and practice enunciating properly in respiration training.
Breathing Exercises
Deep breathing helps the pressor lower stress levels, and speech becomes less strained.
Desensitization Practices
Speaking, in general, is made more comfortable in therapy. Hence, the fear related to social situations is also looked into and resolved.
Benefits of Speech Therapy
- Improved Communication: This increases flow and genuine convincing discourse. This is because the capacity of discourse is enunciated and restated more effectively through therapy.
- Emotional Support: Counselors explain ways of handling anger and stress associated with fluency concerns.
- Social Growth: Clarity of speech improves communication. Hence, providing new prospects at school, at work, and in one’s personal life.
Early Intervention Matters
The success in treating fluency disorder is higher if addressed early in life. That is why it is so important to begin positive practices and teach appropriate skills as soon as the disorder is observed and diagnosed. Therefore, seeking the services of experts in speech therapy, Caledon, is important.
Experts in Speech Therapy, Caledon Area
If you notice your child having issues with fluency, it is best to seek advice immediately. Speech Link is here to help residents in the Ontario region, including the Caledon area.
Schedule your consultation today!
Call 416-666-9198