The NCS Treatment Program
The underlying premise is that stuttering is a set of learned responses triggered by a particular pattern of sensory impulses originating within and around the vocal cords (see The NCS Model Of Stuttering). Accordingly, unlike traditional speech therapies, which attempt to deal with the stuttering, The NCS Treatment Program shifts the focus away from the stuttering to what we perceive to be the trigger for the stuttering. This approach constitutes a substantial departure from conventional procedure. For a detailed description of this orientation, the reader is advised to read Stutter No More.
There are eight methods that have been developed for reducing the tension on the vocal cords. These methods have been derived from a number of therapies, most of which traditionally have not been employed with stutterers. These eight methods are taught in a two-day Workshop. Two of the techniques are physical, three are psychological, and three are nutritional.
These eight methods constitute the array of NCS Tools the stutterer can choose from as he/she approaches any speaking situation. It is our basic contention that no one method can be counted on to consistently reduce vocal cord tension below the critical locking threshold in all speaking situations. Instead, a combination of methods will always be required for consistent success.
Following the Workshop, the student enters a "basic training" phase. Negotiating a sequence of twenty-four exercises over a twelve-week period, the student is lead gradually through a set of procedures designed to make the methods learned at the Workshop automatic. The student practices daily, putting a portion of the practice on an audio cassette using a special recorder, and the cassette is sent to The Center for evaluation. The evaluation is recorded on the student's cassette, together with the following week's assignment, and sent back to the student.
Throughout the twelve-week phase the student is in frequent contact with his/her therapist by telephone, email, or both. The student may join a local support group or, if none exists, practice with other students over the telephone.
The twelve weeks are broken into three phases. First, and lasting approximately a month, are what are called "foundation exercises." These exercises are designed to establish basic habit strength in extremely low-stress environments. They are used to create the initial reflex pathways which will constitute the basis for the new habits. Much repetition is required.
The second month's assignments are called "bridging exercises." These make use of an electro-mechanical device called The MotivAider. The MotivAider produces a periodic, private reminder to the student to employ the techniques in all situations. Without it, it would be extremely difficult to habituate the new behaviors.
Finally, the last month's assignments are called 'real world' exercises. In this month emphasis is placed on correct use of techniques in all situations regardless of the degree of stress or distraction.
The last phase of the program is the longest and arguably the most important. We call it "eliminating the scanner." The "scanner" is defined as the set of mental habits associated with looking ahead and seeing feared sounds, words, and speaking situations approaching. These anticipatory stresses are major contributors to the tension on the vocal cords and, if not eliminated, create the likelihood of relapse. Alternately, their elimination signals the attainment of the relatively permanent result.
A process known as Systematic Desensitization is used to accomplish this goal. There are nine basic speaking situations in which individuals find themselves. Each must be addressed separately using the Systematic Desensitization methods. The elimination of anticipatory stress is a process which typically takes between six and eight months (see the results of the long-term study in The NCS Research Program).
Call 1-800-221-2483 for Treatment Schedule
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