Catamount Intensive Stuttering Program

The Catamount Intensive Stuttering Program (CISP) is 5-day intensive therapeutic program designed for adolescents (14 years and older) and adults who stutter.

Stuttering is a multidimensional disorder that requires a multidimensional and individualized treatment approach. At the surface, stuttering is composed of speech disfluencies such as repetitions and speech blocks. But stuttering is more than speech disfluencies, it involves endless attempts and “tricks” to avoid or hide stuttering that are fueled by anxiety and negative thoughts. The CISP works on managing stuttering by improving the surface and under-the-surface aspect of stuttering.

Clients who participated in last year’s 5-day clinic saw an average of 81% reduction in stuttering and 48% increase in positive attitudes about communicating.

What is therapy like?

The 5-day program includes individual and group therapy sessions. Clients will learn skills to manage stuttering, speaking anxiety, and avoidance behaviors associated with stuttering. These skills will be practiced in real-life situations not just in the clinic room.

Schedule: Monday July 15th through Friday July 19th, 2024 from 10AM-4:30PM. Clients will need to attend a 2hr evaluation before the start of the program.

Cost: Thanks to a generous donation from John and Sheila Haire the program is provided free of cost.

Location: Western Carolina University Speech and Hearing Clinic - Health and Human Sciences Building
3971 Little Savannah Road, Cullowhee, NC 28723

Accommodations: On-campus accommodations are available at a low cost.

Registration: Complete this registration form or contact WCU's Speech and Hearing Clinic 828.227.7251.
For further questions, please contact Dr. De Nardo (tdenardo@wcu.edu).
*Limited spots available.