Open Stammering

What is the course about?

This course is about enjoying voice, reconnecting voice with the body and exploring potential resources this connection can provide. It will provide you with skills to become knowledgeable about your own voice as an instrument. You will gain insights into how you currently use and relate to your voice. The course will facilitate you to identify what you like about your voice and provide a safe place to play with possibilities. Getting to know your voice will be a creative process realised through engaging in experiential voice work.

Designed specifically for people who stammer/stutter. This course places no interest or importance in fluency. Instead, this course will introduce concepts and practical opportunities to cultivate skills to experience speaking in flow.

What will we cover?

A comprehensive introduction and exploration of all parameters of voice and how they inter-relate
Increasing perceptual skills for voice and speech
Listening and connecting to self and others
Exploring the Breath
Taking a body centred approach to voice and speech
Cultivating curiosity in your own experience of voice and speech
Opportunities to creatively explore and play with voice and speech.

What will I achieve?
By the end of this course you should be able to...

1) Describe all parameters of voice and how they interrelate.
2) Identify how you (currently) typically use the various parameters of your voice.
3) Creatively explore new/different ways of using all parameters of your voice.
4) Identify aspects of your voice you like and specific aspects you are interested in exploring further.
5) Identify practical exercises you have found useful in developing your voice.

What level is the course and do I need any particular skills?

This course is for people who stammer. Ideally students will have completed a City Lit Stage 1 Stammering course, as being familiar with City Lit’s stammer affirming approach will support your progress.

The course will be practical and experiential. You will need to be able to participate in physical movement/exercise, working within your own limits. To benefit from the course you will need an attitude of openness, curiosity and be interested in yourself and others.

Before joining the class you will need to speak to one of the Speech Therapy team: SpeechTherapy@citylit.ac.uk.

How will I be taught, and will there be any work outside the class?

There is a large component of practical work. Visual aids including demonstration, and handouts are used. Work will be undertaken both in the whole group and smaller sub-groups using a wide variety of activities and exercises. You are encouraged to extend your enquiry beyond the class sessions and take ownership of your developing skills.

Are there any other costs? Is there anything I need to bring?

You will need to wear clothes you are able to move and feel comfortable in.You will also need a notebook and bottle of water for each session.There are no other costs apart from the course fee.

When I've finished, what course can I do next?

The tutor can advise on an individual basis courses students could benefit from going on to do after the course. These courses may include:

Stage 1 stammering therapy courses (XS301/XS304, XS302/XS303),
XS311 Acceptance and Commitment Therapy for people who stammer