Frequently Asked Questions

HCRI therapy is grounded in science and represents a one-of-a-kind treatment for stuttering. It produces a powerful, intensive and transforming experience. Our 12-day behavioral therapy is an immersion-based program with systematic treatment protocols and proprietary technology. HCRI stuttering therapy operates at the highest level of quality-controlled, behavioral stuttering therapy available today.

In addition, HCRI clinicians are the only professionals in the world certified to administer our therapy. They participate in a rigorous 500-hour training program to ensure the best possible fluency outcomes for clients.

HCRI stuttering therapy is effective with virtually all developmental stuttering types and severities. We have treated 7,000 people who stutter. The odds are high that we have successfully treated a stuttering condition similar to yours.

No. We find traditional fluency shaping approaches represent old, incomplete and out-of-date methods. While HCRI was one of the earliest developers of fluency shaping therapy, our ongoing research demonstrated that traditional fluency shaping methods embodied a set of rather vaguely defined procedures that were frequently applied incorrectly. Our data revealed that many detailed behavioral elements were omitted, which inhibited successful outcomes.

So, we moved well beyond traditional fluency shaping methods to a more specific and well-structured therapy system. The stuttering therapy approach we use at HCRI provides more effective and efficient fluency learning, better results, and stronger post-therapy fluency retention

HCRI fluency outcomes are demonstrated in a large scale evaluation study, which is documented in Chapter 11 of the book, From Stuttering to Fluent Speech, 6,300 Cases Later: Unlocking Muscle Mischief, written by HCRI President and Founder Ronald L. Webster, Ph.D.

The research revealed that 93 percent of participants achieve fluency by the end of their HCRI therapy. Follow-up studies conducted two years later show 75% maintain fluency. We know of no other stuttering therapy program that has this level of data about fluency outcomes. In addition, client surveys indicate that 84% of participants experienced greater confidence after therapy and 78% reported that HCRI's stuttering treatment program helped enhance their overall quality of life.

The data above indicate the majority of participants achieve skills for lasting fluency with HCRI therapy. With commitment to the HCRI stuttering therapy process, you can reasonably expect similar results, based on the percentages in these studies.

When you graduate from your therapy program, you should have solid fluency skills that give you greater confidence and the ability to handle everyday speaking situations. We recommend you continue to practice your fluency skills when you return home so they become second nature.

Our research team invented and patented several specialized electronic systems that we use in HCRI stuttering therapy. These proprietary tools make it easier for you to learn and maintain specific speech behaviors that generate fluency. Our Voice Monitor measures details of your speech in real time and provides instant feedback to help you master fluency skills..

We also provide ongoing support and home-practice tools, including an iPhone app, that you can use post-therapy to assess your fluency skills, and if desired, further guide practice. As a result, you will benefit from an unparalleled level of immediate, accurate feedback that facilitates robust learning and retention of speech fluency.

Yes. Therapy is held in a small group setting. There may be up to nine others who will range in age and come from near and far. You will interact with your fellow participants every day and likely develop close friendships. Everyone supports one another during the therapy process because everyone comes to HCRI for the same reason – to become fluent for life. You will also enjoy a close, supportive relationship with your HCRI clinician.

Your stuttering program includes 100 hours of treatment and evaluation. HCRI therapy starts promptly each day at 8 a.m. and you will work intensively until 4:30 p.m. You will have breaks during the day to recharge and will have an hour for lunch. Therapy will be held in a clinical setting, as well as in real-world environments like shopping malls and restaurants.

That’s okay. Our clinicians will work with you to ensure you always understand what you need to do and how to do it. They are patient, compassionate, and dedicated to helping you achieve fluency.

There are nice hotels within walking distance of HCRI – Country Inn and Suites, Hampton Inn, and Fairfield Inn and Suites. Other hotels are a short drive away. We have negotiated special HCRI rates to reduce your lodging costs. These hotels have hosted many, many HCRI clients and will take good care of you.

You have one hour each day for lunch. There are a number of restaurants within walking distance. In addition, there are many restaurants within a short drive, as well as a Kroger grocery store. You may also opt to bring your lunch. A refrigerator and microwave are available for client use. Often, participants go to lunch together.

A family member may join you for a short time on the first day of your program to meet the clinicians and staff, tour the Institute, and hear the program introduction.

We are always here for you and just a phone call away. Simply call your clinician any time you need coaching or assistance. HCRI also provides an unmatched package of post-therapy practice tools to take home with you.

Yes. We provide financing through CareCredit. In addition, a limited number of therapy scholarships are available for those with demonstrated financial need. These scholarships are possible through gifts to our nonprofit center from past therapy participants. If you are interested in financing or the availability of scholarships, let us know by emailing info@stuttering.org

Achieve LASTING FLUENCY

1. Come to HCRI.

2. Get the right therapy.

3. Return home to a better life through fluency.

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