What works for whom? Multidimensional individualized stuttering therapy (MIST)

Area of Science:

• Speech-language pathology
• Psychology
• Clinical research

Background:

• Stuttering management often requires multifaceted approaches.
• Integrating Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) with traditional speech therapy offers a novel avenue for treatment.
• Individualized therapy plans are crucial for addressing diverse needs in adults who stutter.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the efficacy of Multidimensional Individualized Stuttering Therapy (MIST) in reducing stuttering severity and impact.
• To assess MIST's effect on communication confidence, avoidance behaviors, and quality of life in adults.
• To explore the role of shared decision-making in tailoring stuttering therapy.

Main Methods:

• An A-B-A multiple case study design was employed with 18 adult participants.
• Participants received 10 hours of MIST over four sessions, integrating speech modification and ACT.
• Outcomes were measured at 3, 6, and 12 months post-therapy, assessing psychosocial and behavioral aspects.

Main Results:

• Significant reductions in stuttering impact were observed at 6 and 12 months post-therapy (effect sizes d = 0.71–1.06).
• Strong associations were found between overall satisfaction with MIST and improved speaking abilities.
• Improved speaking abilities, communication confidence, and reduced avoidance correlated with enhanced quality of life.

Conclusions:

• MIST demonstrates effectiveness in managing adult stuttering by combining speech modification with ACT.
• Shared decision-making and personalized therapy plans are vital for successful stuttering management.
• MIST shows promise in both clinical and real-world settings, warranting further research with larger samples.