Stuttering and Polyvagal Therapy

Polyvagal neurological therapy applied to stuttering can yield significant results. It is well-known that a person who stutters does so less when feeling secure. Thus, there is an anxiety state linked to misplaced sympathetic and dorsal excitation that blocks the individual who stutters. In this regard, Dr. Paret collaborates with the National Association for the Treatment of Stuttering in Italy. Let's now give an overview of a series of interventions aimed at creating a sense of security and well-being, essential for addressing and managing this communication disorder. Here is a detailed summary of the proposed interventions:

Double Perspective: This intervention involves encouraging the individual to alternately imagine themselves as both a spectator and a speaker, back and forth. The goal is to understand that the spectator is the speaker's foremost supporter, thereby generating a positive and reassuring emotional environment.

Voluntary Projection: Building on Freud's concept of projection, which states that we always unconsciously project, this technique invites conscious projection of positive images. It suggests imagining the present individuals as dear and supportive people, transforming initial anxiety into a feeling of welcome and affection. After all, the first few seconds are important for a positive impact. Here too, a sense of connection is created.

Solar Plexus Stimulation: This method involves a gentle touch in the solar plexus area, stimulating the vagus nerve and promoting a sense of calm and well-being. This practice helps to reduce tension and improve speech fluency.

Progressive Muscle Relaxation Techniques: Learning to recognize and reduce muscle tension throughout the body, especially around the throat and jaw, can help reduce physical barriers to fluent speech.

Support Groups and Group Therapy: To increase the sense of Safety and connection. Here too, acting on the activation of the ventral vagal. Sharing experiences and coping strategies in a supportive environment can reduce the sense of isolation and increase emotional resilience in the face of stuttering challenges.

Mindfulness and Meditation: These practices help to center oneself in the present moment, reduce general anxiety, and improve the ability to handle stress and difficult communication situations.

These interventions undoubtedly help people with stuttering feel more secure and manage communication situations better, leveraging the body's ability to influence the emotional and cognitive state through integrated polyvagal therapy and various strategies.