ABSTRACT
This article provides a brief overview of historical and current approaches to stuttering
treatment for adults. Treatment is discussed in terms of stuttering management approaches,
fluency-shaping approaches, and combined approaches. The evidence base for these various
approaches is outlined. Fluency-shaping approaches have the most robust outcome evidence.
Stuttering management approaches are based more on theoretical models of stuttering,
and the evidence base tends to be inferred from work using the approaches of cognitive
behavior therapy and desensitization with other disorders such as anxiety. Finally,
comprehensive approaches to treating stuttering are discussed, and several clinical
methods are outlined. Comprehensive approaches target both improved speech fluency
and stuttering management. Although it is presented that a comprehensive approach
to stuttering treatment will provide the best results, no single approach to stuttering
treatment can claim universal success with all adults who stutter.
KEYWORDS
Stuttering - treatment outcomes - stuttering management - fluency shaping - cognitive
restructuring
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Michael BlomgrenPh.D.
Associate Professor, Social & Behavioral Sciences Building
Rm 1203, 390 South 1530 East, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT 84112-0252
eMail: Michael.Blomgren@health.utah.edu