Stuttering Therapy

SpeechEasy In-the-Ear Device:

This fluency device is specifically designed for older children and adults.  The device, developed by Janus Development, is helpful for some people who stutter.  Some providers do fit young children; however, Dr. Ramig and Associates will consider this device only for those children who are older.  Dr. Ramig and Associates are the only professionals certified to fit the device within the state of Colorado.  To determine the extent of fluency enhancement, the individual must be evaluated using specific computer software.  The cost for an evaluation is $300-$400.  Additionally, the pricerange of the device ranges from about $4500 to $5100.  Efficacy-related research on this device has been conducted by Ellis, Finan, & Ramig, 2008; Pollard & Ramig, in review; Ramig, Ellis, Pollard & Finan, 2008.  

SpeechEasy is a fluency-enhancing device that fits in or behind the ear inconspicuously and can help people who stutter to speak more fluently.  The devices work by emulating the "choral effect", a phenomenon which occurs when a person's stutter is dramatically reduced or even eliminated while speaking or singing in unison with others.  SpeechEasy combines Delayed Auditory Feedback (DAF) and Frequency Altered Feedback (FAF), which create a slight delay and change in pitch, to digitally produce the choral effect.  SpeechEasy has proven successful for all types of people.  However, the device is most effective for people with a basic understanding of their stuttering and who have completed, or are willing to complete, a comprehensive speech therapy program.  To ensure optimal outcomes, client evaluations and fittings for SpeechEasy devices are only conducted by state-licensed, ASHA-certified SLPs who have completed an additional SpeechEasy certification program.

Facts:

• Stuttering is a lifelong challenge.
• SpeechEasy is not a cure. No known cure for stuttering exists for persistent stuttering. SpeechEasy does not perfect the user's speech or completely eliminate stuttering.
• Of those who purchase a device, less than 10% exercise their option to return it during the 60-day trial period for a 90% refund of the purchase price.
• While SpeechEasy has provided significant benefit for many people who stutter, it is not for everyone. There are many factors and variables that make a user successful with SpeechEasy, and the only true way to determine if a client is suitable is by conducting a thorough screening and evaluation.
• SpeechEasy has a high customer satisfaction rating. Over 80% of SpeechEasy clients are satisfied with their decision to purchase. See the SpeechEasy website for complete results of this survey.

For more detailed information regarding the Speech Easy Fluency device, please refer to: www.SpeechEasy.com