What to Ask When Choosing a Speech Therapist for Your Child Who Stutters

Written in collaboration with Wendy Dietz, M.S., CCC-SLP

If your child stutters, finding the right speech therapist can feel overwhelming. There are various treatment approaches, ranging from affirming and evidence-based to misinformed and flat-out harmful. Clinicians come with a variety of backgrounds and experience levels. What matters most is that your child feels heard, safe, and supported—and that the clinician you choose aligns with your child’s needs and your family’s values.

This guide walks you through what to look for, what to ask, and three common therapy options to help you make the most informed decision for your child.

Why Specialized Experience Matters in Speech Therapy

Not all speech-language pathologists (SLPs) have in-depth experience with stuttering. Stuttering is a neurophysiological difference with a genetic predisposition that requires an individualized, evidence-based approach. A generalist SLP may have an excellent understanding of speech sound and language disorders, but may not have the specific tools or mindset needed to support your child effectively. In fact, some SLPs are significantly less comfortable discussing a diagnosis of stuttering than other communication disorders. 

For meaningful therapy outcomes, it’s important to connect with an affirming SLP who has experience in stuttering. To help identify which SLPs fit this criteria, start by asking:

• “What experience do you have working with children who stutter?”

• “What is your approach to stuttering therapy?”

• “How will you measure my child’s progress?” (Please note that frequency of stuttering is not a meaningful measure of progress as stuttering frequency can vary significantly based on a variety of factors.)

• “How do you address underlying emotions and attitudes related to stuttering?”

• “Do you believe people who stutter can be good communicators? If so, how?” (Please note that “good communication” should not require or include fluency).

A therapist who is a good fit will welcome these questions and be transparent about their background.

Understand the Different Types of Stuttering Therapy

There are several research-backed approaches to stuttering therapy. Each has its own goals, techniques, and ideal age range. Understanding these can help you choose a therapist who aligns with your child’s personality and stage of development.

RESTART-DCM (Demands and Capacities Model)

Best suited for preschoolers, RESTART-DCM is a two-phase approach that focuses on reducing environmental and internal demands on the child’s communication. 

Traditionally, the goal of this approach has been to reduce stuttering frequency indirectly. Therefore, it is advised that parents be skeptical of this approach when looking for an affirming stuttering therapist. However, a modified version of this approach could be considered to help children express themselves with the greatest possible mental and emotional ease, regardless of whether they stutter. 

The goal of Phase 1 is to create a relaxed, supportive environment that allows natural communication to emerge. It is recommended that Phase 2 of this approach (which traditionally focuses on strategies to reduce stuttering) be modified to emphasize developing a calm, relaxed attitude towards speaking/stuttering, without the intention of reducing stuttering.

Ask:

• “Do you offer parent training to support the RESTART approach at home?”

• “How do you tailor this model to my child’s daily life?”

• “How do you modify this approach to support and affirm my child’s natural way of speaking (stuttering)?”

• “How will you ensure that your therapy does not directly or indirectly send the message that fluent speech is superior to stuttered speech?”

CARE Model

Developed from over 20 years of ongoing research at the Blank Center for Stuttering Education and Research, this approach is highly effective in improving quality of life outcomes for individuals who stutter. 

Designed for children, teens, and adults, the CARE Model is an education- and empowerment-based approach that focuses on reducing the burden of stuttering rather than eliminating stuttering itself. It emphasizes four pillars, communication, advocacy, resiliency, and education, to help individuals who stutter speak confidently and effectively in real-life situations. 

Therapy involves participation in experiential activities, group interaction, and skill-building to support long-term communication effectiveness and self-advocacy. 

Ask:

•  “Are you formally trained in the Blank Center’s CARE Model?”

•  “How do you measure or define effective communication?”

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)

CBT is often used with older children and teens who experience anxiety or negative thoughts about stuttering. It helps them reframe unhelpful thinking patterns and reduce fear in communication situations.

Ask:

• “How do you integrate CBT into speech therapy?”

• “Is your therapy focused only on fluency, or also on building confidence?”

• “What is more important: fluency or communication confidence?”

• “How do you involve parents in the therapy process?”

• “How do you stay involved with the stuttering community?”

The goal is not “smoother speech,” but a happier, more confident child who can participate freely in a variety of communication contexts, regardless of the presence or absence of stuttering.

Look for a Connection

Credentials are important, but your child should feel comfortable with their therapist. Therapy is most effective when it happens in a space of trust and respect.

You can ask:

• “Can we do a trial session to see how my child responds?”

• “How do you build rapport with children, especially those who may feel shy or frustrated?”

Pay attention to how your child reacts. If they leave a session feeling encouraged, hopeful, or even just more relaxed, you are likely on the right path.

Consider a Holistic Approach

The best therapy includes emotional support, peer connection, and real-world communication tools. Ask whether the therapist:

• Incorporates talking about emotions and self-esteem

• Encourages your child to advocate for themselves at school or socially

• Supports participation in stuttering community programs, like NSA Chapters

Therapists who see your child as a whole person—not just a speech pattern—will help them thrive both inside and outside the therapy room.

Know When to Reassess

It is okay to change therapists if something is not working. Stuttering therapy is often long-term, and the therapeutic relationship should feel right for both you and your child. If progress feels stalled or your child is dreading sessions, it may be time to revisit your options.

You are your child’s advocate. Trust your instincts.

Choosing a speech therapist for a child who stutters is about finding a partner in your child’s journey. The right SLP will offer tools, encouragement, and perspective that help your child grow as a communicator and a person. An SLP who is well-versed in stuttering should help your child understand over time that the way they speak is natural and valid, regardless of the presence or absence of disfluencies.

The National Stuttering Association (NSA) offers a nationwide directory of professionals, plus family support and education to guide you every step of the way.

Find a Speech Therapist and Explore Resources

Visit WeStutter.org/parents to explore family resources and access the NSA’s network of stuttering-informed professionals.

Additionally, consider checking out the Spero Stuttering’s Ally of Stuttering® directory for clinicians committed to ongoing training in the area of stuttering.