Life changes and therapy

I think it was four years ago when I was given a very brief time to present on therapy techniques. In my intro, I mentioned the mind-brain-body connection. I never got there in content because my A/V equipment failed me – and now I think it was also because in the synchronicity of my learnings I wasn't really ready to discuss it. Afterward, someone said she really wanted to hear about the mind; it had captured her interest. This past weekend she presented and without so bluntly saying mind/brain/body connection I could tell by her content that she'd been on a similar path, reading the same books since four years ago and maybe having personal experiences she was trying to better understand. In a few words exchanged afterward, I sensed this is likely true to whatever extent.

To use stuttering treatment as an example of utilizing parts of what is a pathway to learning of oneself and one's own powers, I agree stuttering therapy is a course on life. As with many pervasive disorders, stuttering begins to impact self image, limiting what is possible to achieve now and in the future and facing all the myths believed by supposedly smart people. So many pervasive disorders are a lesson in life even before appropriate therapy. However, too often the pain, shame and guilt are too great to handle alone or with those who don't "get it."

It's time we go beyond what is (or was, for some) considered the foundations and traditional and measured treatment. About six years ago a parent told me that another SLP advised her not to see me because I was "unconventional." Six years ago I was defensive; now I embrace that description.

If people want some book titles, I have so many. Ask about them and please tell me where you are in integrative therapy and what you have read about the power of the mind or books that might relate to Harrison's stuttering Hexagon, as an example within the field.