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Frequently Asked Questions

What is Accent Reduction?

 

Accent Reduction (also known as Accent Modification) training is a systematic approach to modifying and reducing a client’s accented English in order to increase clarity and thus intelligibility. In today’s global world many people find it beneficial as well as advantageous to seek out formal structured training  on standard English sound pronunciation, rhythm and inflection to be better understood by colleagues and peers. There is often additional focus on stress, rate of speech and grammar usage.  

 

An accent reduction program can improve your effective communication both socially and professionally.

Why use Accent Reduction, Inc.?

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  • You will be working directly with a corporate speech trainer who is a licensed Speech-Language Pathologist, knowledgeable, experienced and a certified accent reduction instructor.  

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  • An individualized plan for training will be developed and tailored to your professional, personal and business needs.

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  • My methodology is based in scientific research. I will initially target auditory discrimination between correct and incorrect sound substitutions.

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  • Once the ability to differentiate between correct and incorrect productions is accomplished, the correct production of sound and speech patterns at the word, sentence, paragraph and conversational levels of speech are taught.  

Why is it important to work with an SLP and why should you work with an ASHA certified SLP?

   

  • Unlike ESL teachers, a Speech-Language Pathologist (SLP) has been educated in the science of speech.  
     

  • An SLP has studied the physiology and oral-motor capabilities of the oral structures and is trained in teaching proper placement of the oral musculature for correct sound production in the English language.

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  • American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA)  certified SLPs have in-depth knowledge and experience with both normal speech and language, as well as communication disorders and speech sound differences. They have met rigorous educational and clinical qualifications, including a Master’s Degree from an accredited university, and have been awarded the Certificate of Clinical Competence (CCC)  by ASHA).  To be a member of ASHA, an SLP must maintain a high level of academic, continuing education and clinical standards.

When are the sessions held?

 

Sessions are scheduled weekly, at a mutually convenient time between the client and the      instructor. Sessions are one and a half hours in length for 12 weeks. The initial consultation/evaluation cost is $150. Should you decide to register for the course within 6 months, this fee will be applied to your tuition.

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How can I tell if I need Accent Reduction Therapy?

 

Ask yourself these questions in your job environment...

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Ask yourself these questions in in a social environment...

 

  • Do I feel that often people seem to be focusing on how I am speaking rather than what I am saying?

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  • Am I difficult to understand when on the telephone?

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  • Do I feel less confident speaking in social situations?

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If you answered "yes" to any of these questions, you would benefit from enrolling in our accent reduction program.

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  • Do I get asked to repeat myself frequently?

 

  • Do I have difficulty communicating my ideas with my colleagues?

 

  • Does my accent interfere with communication in my workplace?

 

  • Do I worry about people understanding me when I have a presentation to make?

 

  • Am I concerned that I won’t progress in my job because people don’t always understand me?

How much time do I need to practice?

 

  • As you know, the more you practice, the more success you will enjoy.  

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  • It’s not just learning how to say certain sounds but it’s changing a life long speech pattern (muscle memory) that, once learned, will need to be assimilated into everyday speech situations.

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  • It is recommended that you practice a minimum of 20-30 minutes daily.  This is the absolute minimum required in order to make significant progress.  

How much can I expect to improve?

 

  • Anticipated improvement (assuming the client is compliant with practice times) is 50-70%.

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  • Please note that it is not a goal, nor is it realistic to expect 100% reduction in your accent.  

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