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Learn about stuttering, its causes, and how to support individuals who stutter. Explore resources for families and educators. Stuttering Explained What is stuttering? How common is it? What help is available? Causes of Stuttering Do genetics influence stuttering? How does brain activity differ for people who stutter? When does stuttering begin? Treatment for Stuttering Can stuttering be "cured"? What treatments can reduce the effects of stuttering? Myths About Stuttering Is stuttering caused by nervousness? Bad parenting? Or emotional trauma? (NO!) Facts About Stuttering What is the TRUTH about stuttering? Support Near You Where can I go to get support?

Looking for a speech therapist who understands stuttering? The National Stuttering Association offers guidance, referral links, and questions to ask before starting therapy so you can find the right Speech-Language Pathologist for your needs. 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: The clinician has specific training and experience working with people who stutter. 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

Join local or virtual support groups for people who stutter. Connect, share experiences, and find community. Getting Started with NSA Local Chapter Support Groups The National Stuttering Association (NSA) has a robust community for people who stutter of all ages and their families through over 125 local chapters nationwide. There are four different NSA Chapter types - Adult Chapters, Family Chapters, Kids Chapters, and Teens Chapters. These local chapter meetings provide a crucial opportunity for people who stutter to connect with others who have shared similar experiences, fostering a sense of community and understanding. There really is something for everyone! Why Join NSA Local Chapter Meetings? Local meetings are a safe space where people who stutter and their families can openly discuss the unique situations they face at work, with friends, or in various social settings. NSA members can share their attitudes towards stuttering and how stuttering shapes their life experiences. These discussions are invaluable for gaining new perspectives, finding emotional support, and building connections and lasting relationships with others who truly understand the journey of living with a stutter. The Role of Speech-Language Pathologists (SLPs) Many Speech-Language Pathologists (SLPs) recognize the benefits of NSA meetings and encourage their clients to participate. Attending NSA meetings can be an essential component of long-term maintenance of treatment gains, providing ongoing support even after formal therapy has concluded. SLPs are welcome to join their clients at NSA support group meetings or attend on their own. However, it's important to note that these meetings are not a platform for clinicians to advertise their services or promote specific therapy methods. The NSA does not endorse any particular therapy approach over another. The focus is on creating a community where people who stutter and those who support them can learn from each other in a spirit of mutual support and understanding. The Spirit of Community and Support NSA Local Chapters are all about fostering a supportive environment where everyone can share, learn, and grow together. By bringing together people who stutter, their families, and professionals, these meetings help build a strong network of support and can help foster lifelong friendships. Find an NSA Chapter Near You If you're an adult who stutters, have a child or teen who stutters, or are a Speech Language Pathologist looking to support your clients, consider joining an NSA Local Chapter. These meetings can make a significant difference in the lives of those who attend, offering a unique blend of empathy, support, and shared experience. Explore our website to find an NSA Chapter near you and take the first step towards joining a vibrant community dedicated to empowerment and support. FIND YOUR LOCAL CHAPTER

Complete the volunteer screening form to support NSA programs and events. Join us in empowering the stuttering community. The NSA realizes it is important to institute certain safeguards because many activities occur away from the NSA National Office (local youth, teen and adult chapters, Youth Days, regional meetings, etc) and involve children, teens, and vulnerable adults. Therefore, it has implemented the screening process to help ensure the protection of the children, teenagers and/or vulnerable adults participating in events sponsored by the NSA. This screening form must be completed by all persons requesting to volunteer in a leadership capacity and who will be engaging in any National Stuttering Association (“NSA”) activities with or around children, teenagers, and/or vulnerable adults. This is not an employment application. The information provided in this screening form is used to help the NSA provide a safe and secure environment. NOTE: Anyone wishing to serve as a Chapter Leader MUST reach out to their Regional Chapter Coordinator (RCC) before submitting this form. Your RCC or Family Programs RCC can be found on your state page in our NSA chapter directory. Volunteer Screening Consent Form Volunteers are required to fill out the application and background criminal (not credit) check below before being approved as a Chapter Leader, Regional Chapter Coordinator, or as a volunteer for NSA events. * First name * Last name * Email * Phone * Address * Birthday Month Month Day Year * Last 4 digits of Social Security Number * Current Employer * What Volunteer Position are you applying for? * Do you currently have pending charges for any criminal offense involving minors or violence? * Have you ever been refused participation in any youth programs? If yes, please contact Executive Director to discuss. * Have you ever been convicted of, pled guilty or no contest to, placed on probation for, given community supervision for or given deferred adjudication for, any crime involving minors or violence? * Have you ever been refused an opportunity to volunteer for an organization? If yes, please contact Executive Director at tflores@westutter.org to discuss. Authorization for Background Check and Release of Claims I understand the National Stuttering Association (“NSA”) requires a general background check, including criminal history, for its leadership volunteers. I authorize, without reservation, the NSA to obtain, and any party or agency contacted by a consumer reporting agency (“CRA”) to furnish, any and all information and records relating to my background which may reflect upon my potential to volunteer for the NSA. This information may include, but is not limited to, criminal history records, information on any committed or alleged criminal acts or offenses, and/or arrests, including any act of child abuse, and sex offender registry information. I knowingly release the NSA from any and all liability arising from or relating to obtaining or using this information. The CRA is authorized to disclose all information obtained to the NSA for any lawful purpose. This authorization shall remain on file and serve as ongoing authorization for the procurement of consumer reports. I also understand and authorize any references, whether or not identified by me, to give information (including opinions) regarding my character and fitness. I knowingly release any reference contact, whether or not identified by me, from any and all liability on account of compliance with this authorization. I further knowingly release the NSA from any and all liability arising from or relating to obtaining or using this information. I am aware that background checks may be updated periodically at the sole discretion of the NSA. By signing below, I certify that I have carefully read and fully understand this legally binding release, that prior to signing, I was given an opportunity to consult with an attorney (if desired), and to ask questions, and to have those questions answered to my satisfaction, and that I executed this release voluntarily. * Yes, I consent No, I do not consent Acknowledgement of Volunteer Status and Release of Claims I acknowledge that by submitting this form, I am requesting to be considered as a volunteer only. If I am accepted as a volunteer, I understand that I am not an employee of the NSA and do not expect to be treated as an employee for any purpose, including but not limited to, compensation and/or fringe benefits. To that end, I release NSA from any liability from any claims, including claims alleging an employment relationship. I also agree to save, hold harmless and indemnify NSA from any liability resulting from such claims. * I agree. * Type Full Name NSA requires a general background check, including criminal history, for all individuals who want to volunteer. This background check may be repeated at periodic intervals at the discretion of the NSA. By signing your name you hereby consent to the National Stuttering Association running a background check. * Signature Drawing mode selected. Drawing requires a mouse or touchpad. For keyboard accessibility, select Type or Upload. SUBMIT

Learn how Anabel Augustin,a person who stutters, achieved career success. Get inspired by their journey. Youth Case Manager Anabel Augustin Briefly describe your daily job duties. As a Youth Case Manager, I link the families that I work with to resources and services they need. I advocate for my families at school, court, medication management and with anything else they may need. As a person who stutters, share the most challenging part of your job. The most challenging part of my job for me is speaking in meetings and during court cases. Did you self-disclose your stuttering during the job hiring process? If so, how did you do it and how do you currently disclose your stuttering to unsuspecting co-workers, clients and or customers? I did self-disclose my stuttering during the job hiring process. Before starting my formal interview for the job that I was applying for, I told the interviewer, “Before we start this interview, I wanted to let you know that I stutter which means that I sometimes block, repeat words or speak slowly to achieve my level of fluency and to not speak for me.” By self-disclosing, I was able to feel more comfortable, more confident and I did not need to rush because I was able to say exactly what I wanted to say, how i wanted to say it with blocks and all. From my first meeting with my coworkers, I self-disclosed and explained to them how I stutter because so many people stutter differently, and I am always trying to spread awareness about stuttering. Describe how stuttering makes you a better, more valued contributor at work. Stuttering makes me a better, more valued contributor at work because I am a better listener, and I am educating others about people who stutter in meetings, at court and in school settings. I am also trying my best to spread awareness about stuttering and lessening the public stigma about stuttering. What is your proudest moment at your current company? My proudest moment is when a family I was helping was able to obtain all the resources they needed and because of my assistance, they were able to provide for their family because a parent got a job. What are your long-term career aspirations? My long-term career aspiration is to be a speech-language pathologist and help children and other people who stutter. What’s your best advice for people who stutter just entering the workplace and for those in a career striving to achieve greater success? My advice is to stutter with power and self-disclose about your stuttering because the reason people look at individuals who stutter weirdly, chuckle, try to change the subject, and also speak for them is because many people don’t know people stutter and that people stutter differently. Self-disclosing informs them of what’s going on and because they know, the interviewer or coworker will be more patient and understanding. Don’t ever apologize for stuttering — speak freely and proudly!!!

Join the LA/San Fernando Valley - Adult stuttering support group. Connect with others, share experiences, and access resources through the National Stuttering Association. LA/San Fernando Valley ADULT CHAPTER IN-PERSON MEETINGS SOUTHWEST REGION Official NSA Chapter - California State Welcome to the NSA LA/San Fernando Valley Chapter! The National Stuttering Association’s® motto: If You Stutter, You’re Not Alone®, is what our NSA Chapters are all about! Chapter meetings are open to people who stutter, family members of people who stutter, speech-language pathologists (SLPs), and anyone that wants to learn more about stuttering. Feel free to reach out to the Chapter Leader(s) to find out more about our chapter. We hope you will join us! How do you typically meet? In-Person Meetings What age group can attend? Adult What languages are spoken? English How much does it cost? Free! Meetings Here is information on the location and schedule of our meetings. Reach out to the Chapter Leader(s) for more information! Where? Cal State (Northridge Campus) – Monterey Hall When? Meetings are held on the 2nd Tuesday of each month from 7:00 – 9:00PM. Chapter Leaders Who leads the meetings? Heather Najman Chapter Leader Get in touch! cominghome2you@gmail.com (310) 713-4114 - Questions? We know that attending your first NSA Chapter meeting might be a little intimidating so we’ve tried to answer some of your questions! We know once you get there, you’ll be greeted by Chapter Leaders who have been in your shoes before and are happy to welcome you! ! Widget Didn’t Load Check your internet and refresh this page. If that doesn’t work, contact us. Testimonials Read more about the power of chapters and support groups from NSA members themselves! "When I attended my first conference in 2019. I was welcomed into this "stamily" with open arms and haven't left the bear hug since!" Lexi Hewitt Exton, PA Chapter "Other people who stutter are the best sources of support, love, and encouragement on your journey. Don't be afraid to reach out, no matter what stage you're at." Gina Waggott Author, Entrepreneur "This community has helped me rediscover myself as a confident and capable person who stutters." John Ontiveros Lorem, CA Chapter

Review the NSA’s Conflict of Interest Statement to understand our commitment to ethical practices and transparency. Conflict of Interest Statement 1. No employee, officer, director, agent (“Chapter Leader, Regional Chapter Coordinator”) shall perform services for a competitor organization, if this could result in a conflict of interest. Every employee, officer, director, agent who wishes to perform services for a competitor organization shall disclose this information to the Adult Program Co-Chairs (or in the case of a director, to the board), including the name of the organization, the services to be performed, and the estimated time necessary for performance. Written permission must be obtained from the National Stuttering Association before the services can be performed. If the National Stuttering Association (“NSA”), in its sole and absolute discretion, determines that there is a potential conflict of interest, permission may be denied. The employee, officer, director, or agent understands that the National Stuttering Association is under no obligation to approve the performance of the services, and that the National Stuttering Association may arbitrarily and in its sole discretion, deny permission to the employee, officer, director, or agent. 2. Employees, officers, directors, and agents may consult with outside organizations as long as no conflict of interest exists. The Board of Directors shall have the final say as to what constitutes a conflict of interest. 3. No employee, officer, director, or agent shall participate in the selection, award or administration of a contract, where, to their knowledge, the employee’s, officer’s, director’s, chapter leader’s, agent’s, or regional chapter coordinator’s immediate family or partner has a financial interest. The financial interest must be fully disclosed to the board prior to commencement of the selection process. 4. No employee, officer, director, or agent shall participate in the selection, award or administration of a contract, where, to their knowledge, the employee, officer, director, agent, chapter leader or regional chapter coordinator, or their immediate family or partner is negotiating for or has any arrangement concerning prospective employment without full disclosure to the Board. 5. No officer, employee, director, or agent, shall solicit or accept personal gratuities, favors or anything of substantial monetary value from contractors or potential contractors. 6. No individual shall be employed by the National Stuttering Association in a position over which a member of their immediate family exercises supervisory authority. 7. No individual may perform services for which they receive compensation from the National Stuttering Association, while a member of their immediate family serves on the Board of Directors. Exceptions can be made at the request of the Executive Director by approval of the Board. 8. No current member of the Board of Directors shall be eligible for employment with the National Stuttering Association or in any program operated by the National Stuttering Association. Immediate family as used above shall include: husband, wife, domestic partner, mother, father, sister, brother, son, daughter, mother-in-law, father-in-law, son-in-law, daughter-in-law, sister-in-law, and brother-in-law. Definition of agent: An agent, in legal terminology, is a person who has been legally empowered to act on behalf of another person or an entity (NSA). The agent may be given decision-making authority.

Provide an update on your Graduate Student Research Award project for the NSA community. Summarize your recent research findings and their impact on stuttering in clear, accessible language to help inform and inspire. GSRA Research Update: Sharing Your Impact on Stuttering The National Stuttering Association is gathering updates from Graduate Student Research Award (GSRA) projects to share with our community. These summaries highlight recent findings, their impact, and the progress being made in stuttering research. Please write your answers in accessible, non-technical language so all of our community can understand the real-world impact of your work. About You First name* Last name* Your title* Email* Your place of employment * About the Project A short recap of your original GSRA project (year awarded, main question you set out to answer, and why it’s important)* The population or participants you studied (e.g., children, adults, families, clinicians)* The methods you used (in plain language)* Recent Findings What new results or insights have you discovered?* How do these findings add to what was previously known about stuttering?* Were there any surprising or unexpected results?* Impact and Application How might your findings help people who stutter, their families, or professionals who support them?* Are your results already being applied in practice or inspiring further research?* Do your findings suggest changes in how we think about treatment, support, or education?* Current Status and Next Steps Have you published or presented your findings? If so, where?* Are you continuing this line of research, expanding it, or moving into a related area?* What’s the next big question you hope to answer?* Other A recent photo of yourself or your research team* Upload Photos Any relevant charts, infographics, or images we could adapt for a general audience* Upload Links to publications, conference presentations, or media coverage * SUBMIT

Discover resources for parents of children who stutter. Access guides, programs, and a supportive community. As a parent, you may be concerned about the difficulties your child will experience with their stuttering, both socially and academically. You worry when your child has a play date with new kids. You worry when you put your child on the bus on their first day of school. You may feel isolated with your concerns as your child embarks on new experiences. Remember: "Your child is NOT broken; do not try to fix him.” These were some of the first words that I heard at our first NSA conference. What a relief! My son was okay….The message I heard, and have tried to live by, is that there is much to be celebrated in the life of any child and that there are challenges to be met, accepted, explored and developed to bring that child to the full experience of their being." NSA Parent YOU ARE NOT ALONE! You have a wonderful young person to guide and nourish through the child and adolescent years. The NSA® is here to be a source of support, education, information for both you and your child. The NSA supports children, young adults, and parents through the myriad of challenges that you may encounter. We are here for you; you are NOT ALONE! The NSA is Here to Help One of the benefits of being involved in the NSA is that you and your child will be exposed both to adults and to peers who have achieved professional and academic success in spite of – and in some cases because – they are people who stutter (PWS). The NSA is comprised of PWS who demonstrate daily that living a successful, fulfilling, and happy life is the norm, not the exception, regardless of their speech. For more information and ways to get involved, contact our Family Programs Chair Holly Nover. Helpful resources for parents of children who stutter

< Back Spotlight on the Professional Relations Committee: Megan Young’s Journey as an Ally and Advocate The NSA community includes people who stutter and allies who stand beside them. Today, we’re spotlighting Megan Young, a powerful voice in the NSA’s Professional Relations Committee and someone who has built her career around supporting people who stutter. Megan joined the NSA in 2019 during her doctoral program at The University of Texas at Austin. “I wanted to get more connected with the stuttering community,” she recalls, “so I started attending the Austin Chapter meetings occasionally as an ally.” Since then, Megan has been involved with the NSA for 6 years, growing her professional work and personal connections. In 2023, she successfully defended her dissertation and earned her Ph.D. in speech, language, and hearing sciences—an achievement we celebrate with her! Megan now serves on the Professional Relations Committee, a group focused on building bridges between the NSA and the wider professional world—especially speech-language pathologists (SLPs). The committee provides resources, creates continuing education content, and advocates for greater SLP participation in the stuttering community. “We want every single SLP to know about the NSA,” Megan explains, “and to feel empowered to engage with our work and our members.” For Megan, the NSA has been more than a professional network—it’s been a transformative personal experience. "I’ve been involved with the NSA for 6 years, initially joining to connect with the stuttering community during my doctoral program. As someone who doesn’t stutter, I’m deeply humbled by how welcoming and vibrant this community is. It’s been an incredible journey that’s shaped my work as a clinician, researcher, and advocate.” Her message to anyone new to the NSA? “You won’t regret coming to your first event — you’ll be welcomed with open arms!” And when Megan isn’t making waves in research or outreach, she’s embracing a life full of creativity and nature. Get to know Megan: Favorite ice cream flavor: S’mores Beach, mountains, or desert? Mountains, always. Go-to karaoke song: "Dancing in the Dark" – Bruce Springsteen Favorite rewatch: The Sopranos Pets: Two cats—Uma and Tito Hidden talent: Painting and ceramics Dream vacation: Exploring Patagonia We’re so grateful to have Megan’s dedication, passion, and perspective on the team. Her work continues to elevate the NSA’s mission—and we’re lucky to have her. Thank you, Megan! Previous Next

Discover exciting volunteer opportunities with the National Stuttering Association. Join us today to make a meaningful impact twice. OPEN VOLUNTEER POSITIONS Join Our Team At the National Stuttering Association, leadership is rooted in service, collaboration, and community impact. Our work is guided by people who believe deeply in advocacy, inclusion, and creating spaces where people who stutter are heard and supported. While we don’t always have paid roles available, we do periodically seek dedicated leaders to help guide the organization forward. Now Seeking: Vice Chair Board of Directors (Volunteer) The National Stuttering Association is currently seeking a qualified volunteer to serve as Vice Chair of the Board of Directors . This is a key leadership role for someone who is passionate about nonprofit governance and committed to supporting people who stutter through thoughtful, steady leadership. The Vice Chair works closely with the Board Chair, Executive Director, and fellow board members to help guide the organization’s strategic direction and ensure strong, mission-aligned governance. View the full job description and apply now. APPLY NOW Interested in Volunteering? If you’re passionate about writing, content creation, or storytelling and want to contribute in a volunteer capacity, we’d still love to hear from you. Volunteer writers and creators help amplify lived experiences, educational resources, and community voices across the NSA. Your perspective matters, and your voice can make a real difference. CONTACT US

Meet Chris Monello, a valued member of the National Stuttering Association team. Learn more about their role and contributions. Chris Monello WS@W Committee Chris Monello lives in Tinton Falls, New Jersey and is a person who stutters. He started attending NSA local chapter meetings in 2014 and was quickly comforted by the stuttering community and inspired to help others who stutter. In 2021, he joined the We Stutter at Work Board to help advocate for people who stutter in the workplace. He’s passionate about his career as the Head of Marketing at Scientific American Magazine. When he isn’t working, he enjoys spending time with loved ones, traveling and yoga.