Introduction
For those who know me, I have experienced speech difficulties for a significant part of my life, since my late teenage years, due to a surgical procedure that caused damage to my vocal cords. The best way to explain this is my voice has a croak.
However, in 2023, I decided to begin a speech therapy program with the hope of improving my voice. All of this has been made possible because of an amazing friend who is also an ENT surgeon, Helen Wallace. Despite my affected voice, it hasn't hindered me personally or professionally; I think my CV tells you the story.
However, I wanted to explore potential gains. Can it be improved, and how? It has been a journey filled with challenges, triumphs, and growth. In this blog post, I will share my journey and how my voice has improved.
The Importance of Speech Therapy
Speech therapy plays a vital role in helping individuals overcome speech difficulties and improve their communication skills. Throughout my journey, I have realised the importance of working with a skilled speech therapist who understands my specific needs and tailors the therapy sessions accordingly. The therapy sessions are not just about correcting pronunciation or enunciation; they also focus on building confidence and addressing any underlying issues that may contribute to speech difficulties.
Techniques and Progress
Over the course of my speech therapy journey, I have learned various techniques to improve my voice and speech. One of the primary techniques is breathing exercises, which help in controlling my breathing and regulating the pace of my speech. Through regular practice, I have noticed a significant improvement in my ability to speak clearly and coherently. Another technique that has been instrumental in my progress is vocal exercises. These exercises have strengthened my vocal cords and improved my overall voice quality. I have also learned the importance of proper posture and articulation, which have contributed to the clarity and effectiveness of my speech.
Improved Confidence and Communication
As my voice has improved through speech therapy, so has my confidence in expressing myself. Previously, I would often shy away from public speaking or engaging in conversations due to my speech difficulties. However, with consistent therapy and practice, I have gained the confidence to speak up and share my thoughts without fear of being misunderstood. This newfound confidence has not only enhanced my personal and professional relationships but has also opened doors to opportunities I would have otherwise missed out on.
Conclusion
My speech therapy journey through 2023 has been transformative, both in terms of my voice and my overall confidence in communication. With the guidance and support of a skilled speech therapist, I have learned valuable techniques to improve my voice and overcome speech difficulties. The progress I have made has not only enhanced my ability to communicate effectively but has also given me the confidence to embrace new challenges. If you are struggling with speech difficulties, I highly recommend embarking on a speech therapy journey. It is a rewarding and empowering experience that can truly change your life.
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