Does My Teenager Need Stuttering Therapy?

by Lori Melnitsky, MA CCC-SLP

Clear Signs to Help Parents Know When It’s Time

Many parents ask me the same question:

“My teen stutters… but do they really need therapy?”

Stuttering can be unpredictable. Some days your teen sounds fluent; other days they freeze, get stuck, or avoid talking completely. As a speech-language pathologist who stuttered severely growing up, I understand the confusion, fear, and frustration—both from the teen’s perspective and the parent’s.

This guide will help you recognize the real signs, uncover common pain points, and understand when therapy can truly help.

1. Your Teen Is Avoiding Talking (The #1 Warning Sign)

Avoidance is usually the first red flag. Teens may:

• Use short answers to “get by”

• Avoid ordering food or speaking to adults

• Refuse to make phone calls

• Switch words constantly

• Stay silent in class even when they know the answer

Avoidance grows over time and becomes harder to break without skilled support.

2. They’re Stuttering More During Stress, Transitions, or Social Pressure

High school brings:

• More academic pressure

• Friend group changes

• New activities, clubs, and sports

• Presentations and oral assignments

• College preparation

If your teen’s stuttering increases during stress, therapy can help them stay calmer, reduce tension, and feel more in control.

3. They Feel Embarrassed, Frustrated, or “Different”

Teens may not express it directly, but you might hear:

• “I hate talking in class.”

• “People think I’m nervous.”

• “Why can’t I talk like everyone else?”

As someone who stuttered severely, I remember these feelings deeply. Therapy can reduce shame, rebuild confidence, and give teens the tools they need to advocate for themselves.

4. They Might Stutter More at Home Than at School

This surprises many parents, but it’s common. Home is where teens feel:

• Safe

• Tired

• Unfiltered

• Comfortable letting go of the “mask”

If your teen is more fluent at school but struggles at home, it often means they’re using significant effort to hide or manage their stuttering throughout the day.

5. Teachers or Coaches Are Noticing Signs

If educators or coaches report:

• Hesitations

• Tension or blocks

• Avoidance

• Difficulty participating

…it’s a sign your teen may be struggling in higher-pressure environments.

6. Stuttering Is Affecting Confidence or Opportunities

Your teen may:

• Avoid social situations

• Step back from clubs or leadership

• Not want to meet new people

• Refuse to present in class

Stuttering therapy isn’t just about techniques—it’s about restoring self-esteem, courage, and communication freedom.

What Effective Stuttering Therapy Should Offer Teens

• Calm, controlled breathing strategies

• Light articulatory contacts

• Tools for high-pressure speaking moments

• Real-life practice for school, social situations, and daily life

• Emotional support from someone who understands stuttering

• A safe, positive space where they can express fears and goals

You’re Not Alone—And Neither Is Your Teen

I know firsthand how isolating stuttering can feel. But teens can make tremendous progress with the right support, tools, and guidance.

All Island Speech & Stuttering Therapy

www.allislandspeech.com

516-776-0184

Online sessions available in NY, NJ, PA, MA, CA, CT, FL.

We offer the Talk it Up Stuttering Program

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