Clear, efficient speech is a perquisite for communication in the 21st century. New York Speech and Hearing offers specific training in effective speaking, presentational skills and accent reduction or acquisition. It is well known that first impressions are lasting impressions. The clarity of a telephone greeting, the response to a question, the smile that accompanies the greeting all contribute to that lasting impression. Anyone who wants to speak with distinction, articulate with precision and present their message with confidence will benefit from the speech improvement and accent reduction programs

Who is a candidate for speech improvement or accent reduction?
Individuals who speak professionally may find a program of speech improvement or accent reduction beneficial. In addition to others, salesman, executives, actors, secretaries, doctors, teachers/professors and clergy may find benefit in this program. People who suspect they might benefit from additional help to clearly articulate speech and project the voice can be helped with speech improvement techniques. People with a strong accent who are asked to repeat or who want to minimize their accent can also benefit from the program. Any individual who wants to be presented with a voice of confidence, a distinct message and a dynamic/interesting delivery can improve in a short time with established techniques. In addition, people who may be placed in circumstances that require public speaking (i.e. training seminars, infrequent speeches for personal or professional events) may benefit from training to maximize the presentation, to facilitate increased experience with the nuances of public speaking and to decrease any anxiety or other emotional variables.

For those who are interested in accent modification programs, New York Speech and Hearing uses the Compton P-ESL method. This is the original and most comprehensive accent modification method available for speech professionals to teach non-native English speakers how to master the pronunciation of English. Special certification is required to use this method of training.

Actors who need to acquire a given accent for a role can benefit from the use of this method to prepare or a role or situation that requires.

What skills are addressed in this program?

• Knowledge of vocal anatomy
• Articulation
• Postures and Gestures
• Intonation and Prosody
• Tongue and Jaw accuracy
• Variations of speech rate
• Eye contact
• Dress and presentation
• Specific exercises depending on the accent to be changed
• Strategies to help reduce/eliminate stage fright

How Does the Program Work?
A complete speech and voice evaluation is done on the first visit. A speech profile is then determined from the initial evaluation - a program is then outlined based on each individual's needs. Goals are established within a time frame and "brush up" sessions may be scheduled once the goals are achieved.

How long does the program take to see results?
The length of time needed depends on a few variables: the goals of the speaker, the baseline level of function, and the speaker’s motivation and commitment. Some people may notice a change after 2 or 3 sessions. Accent reduction using the Compton’s method typically takes 10-15 sessions. However, this is merely a rough estimate.

Daily practice is blended into the work and social settings as soon as possible to promote generalization of lessons learned in the program.

How are the sessions conducted?
Individual sessions are the most common and, generally the most functional as individual needs can be addressed. Each session lasts 45-60 minutes.

Group sessions are available for individuals with similar goals or accents. Corporations or organizations may arrange sessions for groups at their office site if the goals are similar for the group.