What is a primary focus of the SM approach in stuttering treatment?

The SM approach to stuttering treatment, developed by Joseph Sheehan, places a significant emphasis on the emotional and psychological dimensions of stuttering. This approach recognizes that stuttering is not solely a speech disorder but also incorporates feelings of anxiety, fear, and avoidance that often accompany the speech difficulties experienced by individuals who stutter.

By addressing these emotional and psychological aspects, the SM approach encourages clients to confront their fears related to speaking situations, thereby fostering a more comprehensive understanding of their stuttering. This shift in focus allows for a treatment process that helps individuals develop strategies to manage both their speech and their emotional responses, ultimately improving their overall communication experience.

Consequently, this focus on emotional and psychological well-being is crucial for long-term change and helps individuals lead more fulfilled lives without being burdened by the stigma or challenges commonly associated with stuttering. Achieving only physical fluency, complete fluency, or maintaining rapid speech production overlooks these essential components of an individual’s experience with stuttering, which the SM approach aims to address holistically.