3Es: An All-Inclusive Stuttering Therapy Tool

Abstract

Purpose: There are many therapy approaches for stuttering, but speech-language pathologists (SLPs) often report that they are uncomfortable treating stuttering. The 3Es model for stuttering therapy (education, ease, and empowerment) is proposed to help SLPs understand stuttering treatment options efficiently and effectively. This model is based on emerging stuttering research trends such as redefining stuttering, anticipation of stuttering, and stigma of stuttering. A primary function of the 3Es model is to serve as a translational research-to-practice funnel for practicing SLPs. Conclusions: This tool is conceptualized by identifying three key thematic components of stuttering therapy: education, ease, and empowerment. The Es are the values-based themes of stuttering therapy, and a successful application of the model will create an accessible, robust, and structured “menu” of activities for clinicians to use in treatment planning. These therapy activities can be flexibly combined to provide holistic stuttering therapy and communication outcomes, which include competence, confidence, and change.