By Laura Weiland, M.S. CCC-SLP
Because military audiologists may be the first (and only) health care professionals with a background in communication disorders available at a military facility, you might find the following information useful. The Speech-Language Pathology section of Walter Reed’s Army Audiology and Speech Center (AASC) offers a four-week intensive fluency training program for active duty stutterers. This comprehensive therapy program is the only one of its kind in the Department of Defense.
The AASC program has three components. The first utilizes a computer program called the CAFET (Computer Assisted Fluency Establishment Trainer) to establish specific speech behaviors. This component requires approximately 25 hours and targets physiological processes of used in normal speech production. The second component consists of structured and unstructured activities in which the patient uses speech targets (learned on the computer) in a wide variety of functional and challenging speaking situations. The third component focuses on information about normal speech production, about stuttering, and about the accompanying feelings, attitudes, beliefs, and secondary learned behaviors that are a part of the students unique stuttering pattern.
The ultimate goal of the program is to improve the communicative effectiveness of active duty personnel so that they may more successfully contribute to their units mission. The outcome of competent, fluent speech enables the service member to reach their full military and professional potential by increasing self-confidence, the ability to accept leadership roles, and meet mission requirements during situations of extreme stress.
Outcomes of the four week program are measured by comparing students pre and post therapy performance on a video taped recording of a telephone call, monologue, and reading passage. The tapes are evaluated for the percentage of dysfluent words for each speaking situation. A severity rating on a 7 point scale is assigned pre and post therapy. This 7 point scale is based on Rileys Stuttering Severity Instrument and William Beaumont Outcome Software, which evaluates severity based on specific stuttering behaviors, such as whole and part word repetitions, prolongations, hesitations, silent blocks, substitutions, tremor and secondary characteristics. Pre and post treatment data are also collected utilizing CAFET diagnostic measurements.
A one week refresher course is available for those who qualify based on performance during intensive program. The purpose of this course is to provide further opportunities for transfer and maintenance of fluency skills as well as additional practice on the computer as indicated. We also encourage students to remain in contact with the clinic though telephone calls, submitting audio and video tapes for review, or through e-mail.
Information on this program can be obtained by contacting Pat Thompson, M.A. CCC-SLP or Laura Weiland, M.S. CCC-SLP at (202) 782-6676. Four week intensive programs are offered approximately 5-6 times a year. A consult from a physician is needed before an evaluation can be scheduled.