1. What causes stuttering?

Stuttering is not caused by nervousness or low intelligence. Many people who stutter are fully capable communicators; it’s simply that their speech comes out with disruptions in fluency.

Research suggests that stuttering is caused by a combination of factors, including differences in how the brain processes speech and language, genetics (it can run in families), and sometimes developmental factors during early childhood. Environmental influences, such as stress or fast-paced communication environments, can make stuttering more noticeable, but they are not the root cause.

2. Is there a cure for stuttering?
No. However, speech therapy can help individuals manage stuttering, reduce its impact, and improve overall communication confidence.

3. At what age should a child start therapy?
If stuttering persists for more than a few months or increases in severity, early intervention is recommended. Preschool-aged children often make significant progress with timely support.

4. Who benefits from stuttering therapy?
Children, teens, and adults who experience stuttering and want strategies to communicate more easily and confidently.

5. What happens during stuttering therapy?
Therapy focuses on helping each person communicate with confidence, not just on eliminating stuttering. We work on speech strategies, self-awareness, and reducing tension during speaking. For children, sessions often include play-based activities and parent coaching to support fluent, easy communication at home.

6. Will speech therapy make the stuttering go away completely?
While therapy may not eliminate stuttering entirely, many people experience smoother speech and greater confidence. The goal is to reduce struggle, manage moments of stuttering, and feel more comfortable communicating in any situation.

7. Is it okay to bring attention to my child’s stuttering?
It depends on how it’s done. Avoid telling your child to “slow down” or “take a breath.” Instead, model calm, patient listening and give them time to express themselves. Your Speech-Language Pathologist can guide you on how to respond supportively.

8. What causes stuttering to get worse sometimes?
Stuttering can fluctuate — it may increase with excitement, fatigue, stress, or changes in routine. This is normal. Therapy helps individuals recognize and manage these patterns in a supportive way.

9. How can parents support a child who stutters at home?
Create a calm communication environment: slow down your own speech, maintain eye contact, and show interest in what your child says, not how they say it. Encourage turn-taking and relaxed conversation.

10. Do you offer therapy for adults who stutter?
Yes! We support adults who want to manage stuttering more effectively in personal, academic, or professional settings. Therapy focuses on building confidence, fluency strategies, and self-advocacy skills.