Brain damage commonly leads to difficulty speaking and understanding speech. This is typically caused by damage to the left hemisphere. But another form of brain damage that is equally life altering yet far more invisible affects hundreds of people each year. It occurs when the right hemisphere is damaged and it can cause deficits in social communication.
Right Hemisphere Brain Damage: Hidden Communication Challenges Read Post »
Have you ever been in a situation when you were asked a question and you felt your mind went completely blank? You know you know the answer, but the words don’t seem to come out. Often, you may come up with a good answer after the fact, when it is already too late. Maybe this happened during a meeting when someone randomly asked you a question or for your opinion, or when someone asked you a question out of the blue during your presentation, and maybe you said something, but not as clearly and concisely as you would have liked. Sometimes, even the simplest questions can make us blank.
Why Do You Blank When Asked a Question? Read Post »
How we communicate is a form of behaviour. Behaviours are often driven by a combination of our thoughts, feelings, needs, context and experiences. Simply telling someone to slow down, stop saying ‘um’, or “don’t interrupt others” often isn’t an effective or long-term habit-changing solution.
The ‘Why’ Behind How You Communicate Read Post »
There are several ways to produce an S, and small differences in tongue position or airflow can change the way it sounds. For adults, the more useful question is often not “Do I have a lisp?” but “Do I like the way my S sounds?” If the answer is no, speech therapy can help.
Do You Have a Lisp? Read Post »
Introduction Have you ever started thinking about what you just said and it makes you lose your train of thought?
Overthinking During Social Interactions Read Post »
Communication can take many forms. The common forms are oral, written, tactile and sign language. Each mode serves the same fundamental purpose, which is, to connect, express and be understood. This article, however, will focus primarily on oral communication and the challenges faced by individuals who struggle with speech.
Social and Psychological Impact Of Speech And Language Issues Read Post »
You breathe on average 21,600 times a day. That’s around 15 times a minute and 900 times an hour (McCoy, 2011). Because breathing is automatic, it is easy to assume that it must also be simple. However, that is not the case. The vast majority of clients I’ve worked with don’t breathe effectively while speaking. Breathing for speech is different from breathing at rest. Speaking requires us to coordinate breathing with voice, phrasing, pauses, pitch, volume, and articulation.
How Breath Shapes Communication Read Post »
For many adults seeking speech therapy, the goal is to communicate more clearly. I will often hear a new client tell me something along the lines of: “People keep asking me to repeat myself at work” or “People say they have difficulty understanding me.” Very often, these clients may speak English as a second or third (or even fourth or fifth) language. Some of them are quick to claim that their accent when speaking English is what is causing the breakdown. Sometimes this may be true. But is that always the case?
Is It Clear Speech or Is It Accent Expansion? Read Post »
We all have been in the middle of a conversation where we have forgotten a word. Often in this situation you can picture what you are talking about, you know exactly what you want to say, but for some reason, the word just will not come out. You might start saying, “You know, the thing…” , or “I can’t think of the word”. Sometimes the word comes back a few seconds later, and other times it suddenly pops into your head after the conversation has already ended or even later in the day.
Tips to help with word finding Read Post »
If you have recently been diagnosed with FND, or are wondering whether it could explain your symptoms, you probably have many questions. This post briefly explains what FND is, how it can affect communication, and how speech-language therapy can help.
Functional Neurological Disorder: How An SLP Can Help Read Post »
We live in a world where you can order groceries, book a medical appointment, and even request a tow truck without having to say a single word. These conveniences have transformed how we communicate, reducing the need for daily human conversation.
The Hidden Cost of a Text-First World Read Post »
The good news is that sounding unfamiliar on a recording is completely normal. It doesn’t automatically mean that there is anything wrong with your voice. In fact, hearing yourself from a listener’s perspective can give you useful information about your speech, voice, pacing, and communication habits.
Why Do I Sound Different in Recordings, and What Can My Voice Teach Me? Read Post »
Many people assume that because they don’t have a communication disorder, a Speech-Language Pathologist can’t help them. This is where one of the biggest misconceptions lies. Yes, speech therapists work with individuals who have communication delays and disorders, but we also work with adults who simply want to improve or enhance specific aspects of their communication for work, leadership roles, public speaking, or personal confidence.
How an Adult Can Benefit from Speech Therapy (You May Not Know You Need It) Read Post »
Have you ever walked away from a conversation thinking, “That sounded way better in my head”? Well, you’re not alone. Knowing what you want to say, and saying it well are two very different skills. An often-overlooked aspect of effective communication is verbal planning
Clear Thoughts, Foggy Speech Read Post »
When people begin speech therapy, they often assume that most of the progress will happen during the actual appointments. On the surface, this makes sense. Therapy sessions are where new strategies are introduced and practiced and skills are demonstrated. Yet one of the most important truths about speech therapy is that meaningful change rarely happens because of the hour spent in the session. Instead, lasting improvement and change is built through the moments of practice that happen between sessions.
Why Practice Matters in Speech Therapy Read Post »
Many people believe that they have a speech issue and that within a few sessions it will disappear, allowing them to speak perfectly. In reality, this is not the case. Progress in speech therapy is usually very gradual. The changes are often subtle at first, but even small changes that may not be noticeable to everyone can begin having a positive impact on a client’s overall quality of life and communication confidence.
Progress in Speech Therapy Read Post »
This article will outline the impact of poor communication across multiple social and economic domains, including reduced employability, increased isolation, medical misinterpretations, workplace inefficiencies, and increased mental health-related costs, among others.
The Social and Economic Costs of Communication Read Post »
When people think about speech therapy, they often imagine articulation drills or exercises. But in reality, both acting and speech therapy involve learning how to communicate authentically under varying levels of pressure. Both require awareness, open flexibility, and a willingness to tolerate feeling vulnerable.
How My Acting Informs My Work as a Speech Therapist Read Post »
I have a lot of clients coming to me to work on accent modification in order to be understood more clearly overall. Some even have the goal of wanting to sound like they are from Canada and have their accent sound more like a native speaker. Most often, after discussions with the client during the initial consultation, they usually mean that they want to sound more clear, confident, and be easier understood by others.
Accent Modification: Why Sounding Native Shouldn’t Be the Main Target Read Post »
Speech is one of the most fundamental tools of human interaction. It is not merely a mechanical act of producing sounds but is a complex coordination of cognitive, physical and social processes. Speech allows thoughts to move beyond the mind and into the shared space between individuals. Many individuals experience situations where their words fail to reach others clearly or are misunderstood entirely. This gap between intention and perception can lead to frustration, miscommunication and even social withdrawal.
Factors Affecting Speech Clarity And Comprehension In Communication Read Post »
Your boss asks you a question on the spot and, despite knowing the answer, you stumble over your words. You talk about something you know well, but end up over-explaining, repeating your point, or sounding less certain than you feel. You go to share an opinion, then your mind goes blank and the words disappear. Sound familiar? This article outlines why this gap happens, and how specific communication patterns can either support or undermine how your knowledge is perceived.
You Know Your Stuff – So Why Doesn’t It Sound Like It? Read Post »
I have many professionals, and especially English as a second language speakers, say that they find it easy to form their thoughts in writing, but have a difficult time transferring this to spoken language, especially when they are put on the spot without any structure. Though this is something many people experience, the good news is that there are clear reasons for it, and it can definitely be worked on, practiced, and improved over time.
Why You Sound Clearer When You Write Than When You Speak Read Post »
When people come to speech therapy for stuttering, they often expect that I will teach them something entirely new about speaking. They imagine techniques or exercises that will finally fix what feels broken. And yes, absolutely therapy involves learning new skills (like gentle onset, or reduced articulatory pressure, etc.). But after years of working with adults who stutter, I have come to realize something important. I am also learning from my clients as much as they may be from me.
What I’ve Learned About Stuttering From My Clients Read Post »
Pausing is a nonverbal communication skill many of us fear and avoid. But what if we’ve been looking at silence all wrong. What if it could be a skill that separates us from the rest. A tool used to capture attention, convey thoughtfulness and showcase well-planned speech. What if instead of shying away from pauses in communication, you learned to embrace and leverage them to command every room you enter.
Why the Best Speakers Pause Read Post »
Although stuttering does not affect intelligence, competence or professional capability, people who stutter are sometimes misunderstood or unfairly judged. This misunderstanding may influence hiring decisions, workplace participation and career advancement. Understanding the nature of stuttering and the challenges faced by people who stutter is important for creating inclusive and supportive work environments.
Stuttering: Workplace Issues and Management Read Post »
Social conversations are more than exchanging information or asking questions. Conversations are about connecting with another human being, sharing experiences, and creating moments of mutual enjoyment. Understanding the purpose and flow of social conversations can help anyone feel more confident, comfortable and engaged with those around them.
Making and Maintaining Social Conversations: A Guide for Adults Read Post »
Artificial intelligence (AI) in more recent years has become a very common part of people’s daily lives in various ways, but this also includes communication and learning. They are so many different communication tools out there, such as generating exercises, practicing pronunciation, and even simulating conversations. AI can appear to be a very confident cost-effective option for practice for many people working on goals such as speech clarity or professional communication.
Using AI vs Working with a Speech-Language Pathologist Read Post »
Vocal strain affects a significant portion of the population particularly those in professions with high vocal demands. Research indicates that nearly 1/3 of workers depend on their voices as essential tools for their jobs. Teachers, call center operators, salespeople, performers and legal professionals face elevated risks for developing vocal strain. Among the various causes, vocal abuse stands out as one of the most common and preventable cause.
Understanding Vocal strain Read Post »
In speech therapy when we do voice work, we spend a lot of time talking about technique. Breath support, resonance, enunciation, and intonation. But sometimes, even though it feels you are doing everything right, the voice still feels unreliable. It may crack more easily, get tired faster, and just doesn’t sound the way it used too. When this happens, many people assume they need to practice more or push through it. Though, the issue may have little to do with vocal technique, and more to do with what’s happening in the digestive system.
Silent Reflux and Voice issues Read Post »
Many people think strong public speaking is about sounding confident, using big words, or having impressive ideas. Those things can help, but they are not the full story. Truly effective speakers combine what they say with how they say it. Their delivery supports their message, making their ideas easier to understand and more memorable. A great real-world example is Mark Carney’s speech at the World Economic Forum in Davos in January 2026.
Is Mark Carney a Good Speaker? Examining his Speech at Davos Read Post »
Whether you’re applying for your first role after graduation, returning to work after a break, or pursuing an upgraded position to match your skills better, job interviews can be daunting. Yet with the right preparation — especially focused on communication, confidence, and clarity — you can improve your chances of success. In fact, some research suggests that structured interview skills training improves both verbal and non-verbal communication behaviours during interviews, especially for individuals with speech, language and communication needs.
A Guide to Preparing for a Job Interview with an SLP Read Post »
Have you noticed that it is harder to think critically, solve problems, find the right words, or remember things? How is your attention span holding up? Have your expectations for how quickly you want information shifted? There are many reasons you might be experiencing these challenges. One of them is our increasing reliance on technology.
The Brain vs. The Search Bar Are we Losing the Ability to Think? Read Post »
Learn how breath flow and gentle onset reduce voice fatigue in professional voice users. WELL SAID explains techniques for long recording sessions and sustained speaking.
How Breath Flow and Gentle Onset Can Support Emotional Recordings Read Post »
Why do adults speak too fast—stress or habit? WELL SAID explores the causes of rapid speech and practical strategies to slow down for clearer communication at work.
Fast speech: Is it stress or habit? Read Post »
What causes throat tension and vocal fatigue? Understand the mechanics of voice strain and learn techniques adults can use to speak effortlessly without pushing.
Throat Tension and Vocal Fatigue Read Post »
What makes speech sound confident? Explore the factors, challenges, and skills that help adults develop clear, authoritative communication in professional settings.
Confidence In Speech: Factors, Challenges, And Skill Development Read Post »
What is professional gravitas? Learn how clarity, calmness, and credibility in speech help executives command attention and influence in workplace communication.
Gravitas at Work: Clarity, Calmness and Credibility Read Post »
What are the most useful communication acronyms for work? WELL SAID introduces evidence-based tools like WAIT, THINK, and DEAR MAN for clearer interactions.
Understanding Communication Acronyms: Tools To Support Clear, Professional Interactions Read Post »
Why is clear speech more important when working remotely? Learn how video calls affect communication and techniques to improve clarity on Zoom and virtual meetings.
Why clear speech matters even more when working remotely Read Post »
How do adults maintain fluency long-term after stuttering therapy? WELL SAID discusses relapse prevention strategies and lifelong management techniques.
Ensuring Long-Term Fluency In Stuttering Management Read Post »
Effective communication doesn’t happen just by luck. There are several unspoken rules that we often unconsciously crave while in conversation. If during a conversation you’ve ever thought, “just get to the point”, “say what you mean” or “this could have been an email”, you’ve spotted these guidelines, or “maxims” at play.
Communicate with Purpose: Grice’s Conversational Maxims Read Post »
When a public figure exhibits a distinct manner of speaking, it often brings a rare moment of public awareness to voice disorders. In RFK Jr’s case, he has publicly stated that his voice issues are due to a condition called spasmodic dysphonia (SD). I thought it might be helpful to use this post to explain what that is and what we know about managing this complex neurological condition.
What’s with RFK Jr’s Voice? A Look at Spasmodic Dysphonia Read Post »
Can cosmetic procedures affect speech clarity? Learn how facial fillers, dental work, and surgery may temporarily or permanently impact articulation in adults.
Cosmetic Procedures and Speech Clarity Read Post »
Misarticulation refers to the difficulty or inability to produce speech sounds accurately. Proper speech requires precise coordination of the tongue, lips, jaw, and soft palate, each playing a key role in shaping sounds correctly.
Understanding Adult Misarticulation: Origins, symptoms, and Treatment Read Post »
How does stress affect your voice? WELL SAID explains the connection between anxiety, tension, and vocal changes—plus techniques to maintain voice under pressure.
How Stress Affects Your Voice Read Post »
Why does your voice matter professionally? Explore how voice quality affects credibility, identity, and the importance of developing clear, confident sound.
Your Voice Matters: Developing a Clear, Confident, and Professional Sound Read Post »
How can frameworks organize your thoughts? Learn structured communication approaches that help adults express complex ideas clearly in professional settings.
How Frameworks Can Help Organize Your Thoughts Read Post »
How has technology changed communication? WELL SAID explores the evolution of how adults connect, work, and maintain relationships in the digital age.
Evolution Of Communication And Socialization In The Age Of Technology Read Post »
What is overall tone in communication? Learn how vocal quality, emotion, and nonverbal cues combine to convey meaning beyond words in professional interactions.
Overall Tone: When Words Aren’t Enough Read Post »
How do manual therapy and resonance approaches differ in voice treatment? Compare two evidence-based paths in voice therapy for adults with vocal disorders.
Two Paths In Voice Therapy: Manual Voice Therapy and Resonance Read Post »
What is social-pragmatic communication disorder in adults? Learn about social communication challenges beyond childhood and strategies for workplace and relationships.
Social-Pragmatic Communication Disorder Read Post »
What is neurogenic stuttering in adults? Learn how brain injury, stroke, or neurological conditions can cause sudden-onset stuttering and available treatment approaches.
Neurogenic Stuttering Read Post »
How can you reframe conflict as collaboration? Discover communication approaches that transform workplace disagreements into productive problem-solving conversations.
Reframing Conflict As Collaboration Read Post »
How do you have successful small talk? WELL SAID shares practical tips for adults navigating social conversations in professional and personal settings.
How To Successfully Have Small Talk Read Post »
What is vocal resonance? WELL SAID explains how resonance creates voice quality, strength, and projection—key concepts for professional speakers and singers.
What Is Vocal Resonance? Read Post »
How are accent and identity connected? Explore the personal, cultural, and professional considerations when thinking about accent modification as an adult.
Accent Vs. Identity Read Post »
What’s the difference between apraxia of speech and misarticulation in adults? Learn how these speech disorders differ in cause, symptoms, and treatment approaches.
Understanding The Difference Between Apraxia Of Speech And Misarticulation Read Post »
How does anxiety affect your voice? Learn about the physical and vocal changes that occur with anxiety and strategies to maintain voice control under stress.
The Effect That Anxiety Can Have On The Voice Read Post »
How do you support a loved one in speech therapy? Learn what family and friends can do to encourage progress and practice for adults in communication treatment.
How To Support A Loved One In Speech Therapy Read Post »
How does traumatic brain injury affect speech? Learn about communication challenges after TBI, including cognitive-communication disorders and rehabilitation approaches.
Traumatic Brain Injury And Speech Read Post »
How is stuttering being redefined? WELL SAID explores the shift from fixing speech to honoring the speaker—a person-centered approach to fluency therapy.
Stuttering, Redefined: From Fixing Speech To Honoring The Speaker Read Post »
How long does it take to modify an accent? Learn about realistic timelines, factors that affect progress, and what to expect from accent modification therapy.
How Long Does It Take To Modify An Accent? Read Post »
How does breath connect to voice and anxiety? Learn breathing techniques that support voice production while managing stress and performance anxiety in adults.
Breath: Its Connection To The Voice & Easing Anxiety Read Post »
What is social communication? Learn about the pragmatic skills adults use in conversations, workplace interactions, and building professional relationships.
Understanding Social Communication Read Post »
How does sleep affect your voice and speech? Discover the connection between sleep quality, vocal health, and communication performance for adult professionals.
Sleep Well, Speak Well Read Post »
What is conversation training therapy? WELL SAID explains how adults can improve turn-taking, topic maintenance, and pragmatic skills in professional conversations.
A Guide To Conversation Training Therapy Read Post »
What are neurological voice disorders? Learn about causes, types like spasmodic dysphonia, assessment methods, and treatment options for adults with neurologic voice conditions.
Neurological Voice Disorders – Causes, Types, Assessment, And Treatment Read Post »
Is speech therapy just for kids? Learn how speech therapy helps adults thrive in careers, relationships, and communication—addressing voice, fluency, and articulation.
Not Just For Kids: How Speech Therapy Helps Adults Thrive Read Post »
How does emphasis clarify your message? Learn about prosody, stress patterns, and vocal techniques that help adults communicate meaning clearly in professional settings.
The Power Of Emphasis: How It Clarifies Your Message Read Post »
How does bilingualism affect the brain? Explore the cognitive benefits of speaking multiple languages and how bilingualism shapes communication and brain health in adults.
Bilingualism And The Better Brain Read Post »
