Considerations for conducting group intervention with adults who stutter

Area of Science:

• Speech-Language Pathology
• Healthcare Management

Background:

• Healthcare delivery and reimbursement trends necessitate efficient, cost-effective interventions.
• Literature review identifies key clinician skills and responsibilities for group interventions.
• Growing need for evidence-based group therapy models in speech-language pathology.

Purpose of the Study:

• To present preliminary findings on the efficacy of group speech therapy for adults who stutter.
• To outline a rationale for utilizing group environments for stuttering intervention.
• To discuss clinician experiences and perceptions in conducting group stuttering treatment.

Main Methods:

• Literature synthesis of clinician skills and group intervention structures.
• Presentation of preliminary findings from group speech therapy sessions.
• Qualitative discussion of authors' experiences and perceptions with adult stuttering groups.

Main Results:

• Group speech therapy is identified as a potentially efficient and cost-effective intervention model.
• Key elements for structuring successful group interventions are outlined.
• Preliminary data suggests feasibility and positive perceptions of group treatment for stuttering.

Conclusions:

• Group speech therapy provides a viable and potentially cost-effective alternative for adults who stutter.
• Structured group interventions require specific clinician competencies.
• Further research is warranted to fully establish the benefits and optimal delivery of group stuttering therapy.