Join the Atlanta - Family stuttering support group. Connect with others, share experiences, and access resources through the National Stuttering Association. Atlanta Family FAMILY CHAPTER IN-PERSON MEETINGS SOUTHEAST REGION Official NSA Chapter - Georgia State Welcome to the NSA Atlanta Family 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? Family 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? Atlanta, GA 30324 When? Events are held quarterly. For details about meetings/events and to be added to our email list, please contact the Chapter Leaders to confirm meeting details prior to attending. Chapter Leaders Who leads the meetings? Genna Hall & Dominique Kennedy Chapter Leaders Get in touch! NSA.Family.ATL@gmail.com - - 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! What are NSA Local Chapters? Local chapters are the heartbeat of the NSA — powerful spaces where you can meet others, share experiences, and feel supported. Whether you’re an adult who stutters or part of a family navigating stuttering together, we have a chapter for you. Learn more about NSA Chapters and find a meeting close to home! Read more about NSA Chapters and plan to attend a meeting near you! What does a local NSA chapter do? Our purpose is to provide information, advocacy and mutual support for people who stutter, their families, and speech-language pathologists (SLPs). Come join us and experience the NSA’s motto in action: If You Stutter, You’re Not Alone®. How can I find a local NSA chapter? You can find a local NSA chapter by using the chapter locator on our website. Simply enter your location to find the nearest chapter and contact details. Visit our Chapter Locator to find a chapter near you. What happens at an NSA meeting? Your Chapter Leader may prepare a topic for the meeting or might open the floor for discussion and see where things go. Some chapters may also host social events outside of the traditional chapter meeting. The magic of the NSA is just being among other people who stutter, building connections, and having fun while doing it! NSA Chapters give people who stutter, their families and SLPs, a chance to connect and have fun-filled experiences together! Who attends an NSA Chapter? People of all ages who stutter, along with their family and friends, speech-language pathologists (SLPs), and anyone interested in stuttering, are welcome at our chapters! Do you need to RSVP before joining an NSA chapter meeting? You do not need to RSVP, but it is a good idea to let the Chapter Leader know you’re coming. That helps them welcome you and makes your first visit a little easier. Do you offer virtual chapter meetings? Several NSA chapters now meet virtually, making it easy to join from wherever you are. On our Chapter Locator page, you can filter by meeting type and look specifically for virtual or hybrid chapters. When you find one that fits your needs, simply reach out to the Chapter Leader(s) for details on how to join their next meeting. We’d love to welcome you into the community. Don’t see an answer to your question? Email us at info@westutter.org How do I start a local NSA chapter? If you’re interested in starting a chapter, we’d love to hear from you. The NSA can help you understand what’s involved and what support is available. Please reach out to us at info@westutter.org to get started. How do I start a local NSA chapter? Starting a chapter is a great way to build community close to home. Email us at info@westutter.org and we’ll connect you with the guidance and resources you need to get started. You do not have to do it alone. How can I start a new NSA chapter in my area? Starting a chapter begins with reaching out to the NSA so we can help you get set up. We’ll walk you through the next steps, share helpful materials, and support you as you build a welcoming community for people who stutter and their families. 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

< Back Seven Cats, One Bold Voice: Caitney File’s NSA Story If you’ve ever wondered what bravery looks like, try picturing a left-handed teen with seven cats, a killer karaoke ballad, and a brand-new outlook on stuttering. That’s Caitney File. Caitney joined the NSA in July 2024 and she’s hit the ground running. After attending the NSA Conference that summer (just an hour and a half from home), she walked away with more than some awesome NSA merch. She left with a new understanding of herself. “I learned that I had been a covert stutterer,” she says. “Since learning that, I have tried to stutter freely. I do my best to say what I want, even if it will make me stutter. Although, becoming an overt stutterer is a continuous process, and I still struggle with it at times.” That commitment to growth, to authenticity, and to showing up even when it’s hard is something Caitney’s proud of. And she should be. She recently took a college speech class, even though public speaking has always been the thing she avoided most. “Throughout middle and high school, I stayed in the lines of my 504 plan. However, I wanted to challenge myself since I will attend college in the fall. So far, I have presented three speeches varying from two to seven minutes!” Caitney’s already giving back in big ways. She’s a member of the Teen Advisory Council (TAC) and serves as the Member Outreach Coordinator for Sisters Who Stutter (SWS), where she connects with other girls across the country and keeping the spirit of community going all year long! Her advice to newcomers? Get involved. “Get involved - whether in person or virtually! Go to the NSA's website to see what chapter meetings are in your area and what Zoom groups the NSA offers.” When she’s not doing all that, you’ll find her soaking up beach vibes, rewatching New Girl, jamming to John Mayer’s “Slow Dancing in a Burning Room,” or chilling with one of her seven cats. And someday? You just might find her eating gelato in Italy. Caitney’s story is still unfolding, but it’s already clear that she’s not just finding her voice. She’s owning it. Previous Next

Meet Elizabeth Edwards, a valued member of the National Stuttering Association team. Learn more about their role and contributions. Elizabeth Edwards Seasoned Voices Committee Elizabeth Edwards, a member of the National Stuttering Association’s (NSA) Seasoned Voices Committee, is a passionate advocate for both the stuttering community and the aging population. A proud person who stutters, Elizabeth has been actively involved with the NSA since attending her first conference in Chicago in 2018. Her journey within the NSA reflects her commitment to fostering connections and supporting individuals across all stages of life. Originally from Baltimore, Maryland, Elizabeth is a dedicated public health coordinator for a state health department. During the pandemic, she earned her MA in Aging Studies and Public Health, furthering her expertise and deepening her commitment to serving the aging population. Her professional work is complemented by her active volunteer roles, where she continues to make an impact in her community. Elizabeth is also a proud alumna of the University of Iowa and a devoted Hawkeyes fan, bringing enthusiasm and team spirit to all she does. Her diverse experiences and dedication to advocacy make her a valuable member of the NSA and a champion for raising awareness about stuttering and aging issues. With her blend of professional expertise and personal passion, Elizabeth is helping to shape a more inclusive and supportive environment for people who stutter, particularly older adults. Her work is a testament to her belief in the power of community and her drive to create positive change.

< Back Previous Annie Bradberry Presenter Annie Bradberry is the past Executive Director of the National Stuttering Association (NSA) (1993-2003), former Board Member, and past Board Chair of the International Stuttering Association. During that time, Annie served on the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association’s (ASHA) Specialty Board on Fluency Disorders as the consumer representative. Continuing her passion for the stuttering community, she loves presenting workshops, providing in-service trainings to local universities and school districts whenever she can. Next

< Back Previous Robb Hurt Presenter Robb Hurt is currently the Dean of Students and Athletic Director at Mill Creek Middle School in Comstock Park, Michigan. He is also the Varsity Defensive Line Coach at Comstock Stock Park High School. Robb has been a coach for 34 years, coaching football, basketball, and Track & Field, and has worked in education for 28 years in various roles. He was recently nominated for the Michigan High School Football Coaches Hall of Fame. Robb is a lifelong stutterer who strongly believes that stuttering should neither define you nor hinder you. Next

Meet Cameron Joyce, a valued member of the National Stuttering Association team. Learn more about their role and contributions. Cameron Joyce Young Adults Committee Cameron lives in Charlotte, NC with his wife Avery and works as a senior associate at JPMorgan. Originally from South Carolina, he holds degrees in economics and computer science from Wofford College and is pursuing a graduate degree in AI at UT Austin. Passionate about mentoring students and young professionals who stutter, he also enjoys mountain biking, beekeeping, and watching Formula 1. Cameron has served on the Young Adult Committee since 2022 and is a chapter leader of the Charlotte, NC chapter.

The WeStutter@Work Mentorship Program empowers professionals who stutter to grow in confidence and career success through one-on-one mentoring, networking, and community support. MENTORSHIP PROGRAM Empowering professionals who stutter through mentorship, connection, and career growth. Become a Participant Become a Mentor Learn More Purpose The WeStutter@Work Mentorship Program connects adults who stutter with mentors who understand career growth, workplace communication, confidence-building, and self-advocacy. Through one-on-one mentorship and peer connection, participants receive practical support as they navigate professional life, explore opportunities, and grow with greater confidence. Mentors come from a wide range of fields, including marketing, healthcare, finance, technology, education, communications, and nonprofit leadership. Some are people who stutter. Others are allies who are committed to supporting the stuttering community with respect, care, and practical guidance. What Does the Program Include? Personalized career guidance and coaching Whether you're just starting out, looking to advance, or considering a change, mentors provide tailored support to help you navigate your next steps. Support for workplace challenges Gain strategies for handling tough conversations, self-advocacy, and navigating bias or misconceptions around stuttering. Confidence-building and communication support Build confidence as a communicator in interviews, meetings, and professional networking situations. Professional references Mentors can serve as references and help strengthen job applications with informed, supportive endorsements. Networking opportunities Expand your network through introductions to industry professionals and connections with others in your field. Peer connection and community Get exclusive access to a Google group and mentorship website and connect with other participants in similar fields. For Participants For Mentors Who Can Join? The program is open to adults who stutter who are looking for career support, mentorship, and community. Whether you are a student preparing for your first job, an established professional, changing careers, or returning to the workforce, WeStutter@Work offers a supportive space to grow with confidence. Why It Matters Workplace experiences can feel isolating when you stutter, especially when you are navigating interviews, meetings, leadership opportunities, or moments of self-advocacy. Mentorship helps create a space where people who stutter can ask honest questions, receive practical support, and build professional confidence without having to explain or hide who they are. “Having a mentor who understood my journey made all the difference in my professional confidence.” — Program Participant Get Involved Whether you’re looking for guidance or ready to mentor others, your journey starts here. Together, we’re building workplaces where people who stutter can thrive. Join as Participant Apply as a Mentor For any questions, complaints or feedback, reach out to mentorshipsupport@westutter.org Disclaimer: The National Stuttering Association (NSA) Mentorship Program is a voluntary peer-support program facilitated by NSA volunteers. Participation is at each individual’s discretion. The views and advice shared by mentors and mentees are personal and do not necessarily reflect those of the NSA. This program is not a substitute for professional therapy, counseling, or career services. The NSA does not evaluate participants, guarantee outcomes, or monitor individual interactions. The NSA is not responsible for any actions, decisions, or consequences arising from participation in the program. Participants are expected to engage respectfully and maintain confidentiality within the bounds of the program.

< Back Previous Cha Holmes Presenter Cha Holmes is the proud dad of Clint Holmes, who resides in Atlanta, GA, with his beautiful wife Rebecca and their daughter Hollis. Next

Learn how Madison Nichols,a person who stutters, achieved career success. Get inspired by their journey. Flow Cytometry Specialist Madison Nichols Briefly describe your daily job duties. My job involves assisting researchers with analyzing their cell specimens using the principles of flow cytometry. I’m responsible for being able to analyze experiments when needed, keeping analyzers clean and functional, and also for caring for our two cell sorters. Cell sorting is my main job, in which I use high complexity instrumentation to sort cells from a suspension into a separate receptacle to allow our clients to use them for other research purposes. As a person who stutters, share the most challenging part of your job. It’s been particularly difficult during the pandemic meeting people very slowly instead of all at once. People are slowly phasing into returning to work, which puts some added stress on me to meet new people on a fairly regular basis. What are your long-term career aspirations? I’d love to stay in this position and continue to learn as long as I continue to feel passionate about the work I am doing. Did you self-disclose your stuttering during the job hiring process? Disclosure of my stuttering was the first thing I did when applying for this job. I disclosed it in my application and my letter of intent as well as to every on-boarding individual along the way. Disclosure is something I am very passionate about, as I believe it takes stress off of us to try to appear perfect and to try to hide something that isn’t even our fault. What is your proudest moment at your current company? I’m very proud of transitioning to this job at the very beginning of the pandemic and am also proud of myself for continuing to learn and meet new people even though it can be difficult. Describe how stuttering makes you a better, more valued contributor at work. I work on being a good, active listener. I always try to give people the space and time to share their ideas without interruption because I know how hard it can be to communicate. What’s your best advice for people who stutter just entering the workplace and for those in a career striving to achieve greater success? Always be yourself, even if being your true self requires you to put in more effort and go beyond your comfort zone. Be willing to learn new things and to be corrected. Always be willing to lend a hand and stay away from workplace drama! Most of all, don’t let something like your speech hold you back. When you’re in the right position, those who truly care about you won’t care and will give you all the time in the world to speak your mind.

< Back Previous Scott Yaruss Presenter J Scott Yaruss, PhD, CCC-SLP, BCS-SCF, F-ASHA, is a professor of communicative sciences and disorders at Michigan State University, and a Co-PI for the NSF-funded HeardAI project. His research focuses on the experiences of people who stutter, with particular emphasis on ways that speech-language pathologists (SLPs) can help to diminish the adverse impact that is often associated with stuttering. He is also the President of Stuttering Therapy Resources, a publishing company dedicated to helping SLPs help people who stutter. He has published more than 135 peer-reviewed articles on stuttering, as well as more than 200 other papers, articles, and books. He has also given more than 800 professional development workshops for clinicians around the world. Next

< Back Previous Caitney File Presenter Caitney File is the Co-President of Sisters Who Stutter (SWS). She enjoys planning meetings, coordinating future events and outreach with the other officers in SWS, and hearing from other girls who stutter! Caitney is currently a sophomore at Southern Illinois University Carbondale, majoring in Social Work. Next

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