A Systematic Review of Interventions for Adults Who Stutter

Journal of Fluency Disorders

Brignell, A., Krahe, M., et al. (2020).

Journal of Fluency Disorders, 64, 105766.

This systematic review investigates the efficacy of nonpharmacological speech interventions in adults who stutter.

National Health and Medical Research Council (Australia)



2005 to January 20, 2019

Systematic reviews; meta-analyses; randomized controlled trials

5

<div>One study investigated the effects of cognitive behavioral therapy combined with speech restructuring and found reduced negative thoughts, less avoidance, less fear of negative evaluation, and less social phobia. More research was needed on the efficacy of combining psychological treatments with stuttering interventions for adults who stutter.</div>

<div>Results suggested emerging evidence for alternative methods of service delivery (e.g., telehealth) for adults who stutter. "No absolute indication was identified for the most effective, efficient and sustainable method of delivery on the basis of available evidence" (p. 9).</div>

<div>Results indicated that speech restructuring treatments such as Smooth Speech and Camperdown Program were effective for adults who stutter. Findings suggested emerging evidence for the effectiveness of the Modified Phonation Intervals intervention as compared to prolonged speech, but more research was needed.</div>