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Your Guide to Finding the Right Speech Language Pathologist
Speech therapy can play a life-changing role in helping people who stutter build confidence and communicate with ease. Choosing the right Speech-Language Pathologist (SLP) is a personal decision that depends on trust, understanding, and experience.
There is no single “best” method for treating stuttering. Different approaches work for different people, and no therapy can guarantee permanent fluency. The goal is to find a clinician who values your voice and partners with you to create a plan that meets your unique goals.
What Makes Speech Therapy Successful
Research shows that the most effective therapy happens when:
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The clinician has specific training and experience working with people who stutter.
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The clinician and client build a strong “therapeutic alliance,” where mutual trust and communication support progress.
Before starting therapy, consider meeting with potential SLPs to learn about their methods and philosophy. This conversation is an opportunity to see whether you feel heard, supported, and respected.
Questions to Ask a Potential SLP
Asking thoughtful questions can help you find a therapist who understands your goals and respects your journey. Below are examples to help you begin.
How do you view stuttering — as something to fix or as a way of speaking that can be supported?
Red Flag Response: “My goal is to help you speak fluently all the time.”
What does a stuttering therapy session typically look like?
Red Flag Response: “We’ll practice until you get rid of your stuttering.”
How do you help clients balance fluency strategies with stuttering acceptance?
Red Flag Response: “I’ll teach you techniques to hide your stuttering.”
What resources or communities do you recommend for people who stutter?
Red Flag Response: “I don’t really know of any stuttering communities.”
How do you handle moments when a client stutters openly in therapy?
Red Flag Response: “I’ll stop you and remind you to use a fluency technique.”
For more context about therapy approaches, visit the Stuttering Treatment Options page to understand fluency shaping, stuttering modification, and stutter-affirming therapy.
Speech-Language Pathologist Referral List
Specialty Board on Fluency Disorders
www.StutteringSpecialists.org
The Specialty Board on Fluency Disorders maintains a directory of SLPs who have advanced training in stuttering and meet peer-reviewed standards as board-recognized specialists. Their website also includes guidance on choosing an SLP and questions to ask to help you select the right therapist.
Spero Stuttering “Ally of Stuttering” Certified Clinicians
www.SperoStuttering.org
Spero Stuttering’s Ally of Stuttering certification program recognizes SLPs who demonstrate a stutter-affirming approach and ongoing commitment to education and advocacy. Their referral list connects individuals with clinicians who focus on empowerment, acceptance, and evidence-based care.
GlobalSpeech
globalspeechaccess.org
GlobalSpeech is a student-created tool that maps nearly 2,000 speech therapy centers across the U.S. and parts of North America. With easy state-by-state filters, it helps families locate speech services quickly. Created by Noel Thomas of Leland High School in San Jose, CA, GlobalSpeech was inspired by his own experience with stuttering.
Please note: The NSA does not warrant the competency of individual therapists or guarantee treatment outcomes. Always contact professionals directly and ask questions before beginning therapy.
Other Helpful Resources
Stuttering Programs and Camps
westutter.org/post/other-programs
The NSA maintains a list of workshops, intensive programs, summer classes, and camps for children, teens, and adults who stutter. This list is updated regularly to help families find supportive programs nationwide.
NSA Local Chapters
westutter.org/join-a-chapter
The NSA offers a nationwide network of Local Chapters for adults, families, teens, and kids. Meetings provide a safe, judgment-free environment for people who stutter to share their experiences and build community with others who understand.
American Speech-Language-Hearing Association
www.asha.org
ASHA is the professional association for speech-language pathologists and audiologists. Their website includes information about certification, evidence-based practice, and insurance reimbursement for stuttering therapy.
Spero Stuttering, Inc.
www.sperostuttering.org
Spero Stuttering empowers and advocates for the stuttering community by supporting those who work with people who stutter.
Spero offers funding for SLPs to attend training and connection events such as the NSA Annual Conference.
Learn more and apply at Spero Funding Opportunities.
Need More Help?
If you need additional assistance finding an SLP in your area, contact the, contact the NSA National Office.
Our team is happy to connect you with resources and local support networks.
Last Updated: October 2025
Author: National Stuttering Association Marketing & Education Team with contributions from Nicole Kulmaczewski, MS, CCC-SLP, Jacqueline Toscano, SLP.D. CCC-SLP, Caitlin Franchini, MS, CCC-SLP and Megan M. Young, ABD, CCC-SLP