What is Spasmodic Dysphonia?
Private Online Voice Therapy for Spasmodic Dysphonia with UK based Clinical Specialists.
What is Spasmodic Dysphonia?
Spasmodic Dysphonia (also known as Laryngeal Dystonia) is a voice disorder that causes interruptions to to voice (known as voice breaks) and a strained voice quality due to the muscles in the vocal folds go into spasm.
What causes Spasmodic Dysphonia?
The causes is unknown but it is considered to be a Neurological condition involving a part of the brain called the basal ganglia. The basal ganglia helps co-ordinate muscles throughout the body. There may be a family history of Spasmodic Dysphonia. Triggers may include an upper respiratory chest infection, injury to the larynx or psychological stress.
How is Spasmodic Dysphonia diagnosed in the UK?
Spasmodic Dysphonia is diagnosed by a referral via your GP to Ear, Nose and Throat (ENT). ENT will use a camera to look at your voice box. This is not a painful procedure and has very few risks. A Voice Therapist will also be involved in the assessment of your voice. It is sometimes misdiagnosed as Muscle Tension Dysphonia which is why assessment by a specialist voice therapist is advised to determine appropriate treatment.
What are the types of Spasmodic Dysphonia?
Adductor Spasmodic Dysphonia is the most common type with around 87% of people being affected. The sudden involuntary movements cause the vocal folds to come together and stiffen. The voice may sound strained, and words might be cut off because of the spasms. Stress can make the muscle spasms more severe.
Abductor Spasmodic Dysphonia : The spasms cause the vocal folds to remain open. The vocal folds cannot vibrate when they are open. The voice may sound weak or breathy.
Mixed Spasmodic Dysphonia: This is a very rare form of Spasmodic Dysphonia and is a combination of the two types listed above.
Who treats Spasmodic Dysphonia in the UK?
There is no cure for Spasmodic Dysphonia. Voice Therapy alongside botox injections to reduce voice strain. Botox reduces the muscle spasms by weakening the muscles. It improves the voice for 3-4 months and the voice symptoms are likely to return. Surgery may be considered but the evidence of effectiveness is limited.
Can Spasmodic Dysphonia be treated with the NHS in the UK?
ENT will typically refer to an NHS voice Therapist. However, the wait for NHS voice therapy in some areas can be substantial. Due to the impact Spasmodic Dysphonia can have on people, we see clients privately while they wait NHS therapy.
Can I have Online Voice Therapy for Spasmodic Dysphonia in the UK?
Online Voice therapy is shown to be as effective as face to face therapy. We are very experienced at providing online voice therapy in the UK and internationally.
Does Spasmodic Dysphonia ever go away?
Spasmodic Dysphonia does not go away but can be improved with treatment such as botox and Voice Therapy specificially for Spasmodic Dysphonia.
Do you have a waiting list?
No - you can be seeing within one week of your consultation.
Why Choose The Speech Network?
Our UK-based private voice therapists are all Clinical Specialists in Voice, each with a minimum of 12 years’ experience. They currently work, or have previously worked, as Senior Voice Therapists within the NHS.
All our therapists are fully registered and accredited, including:
Health and Care Professionals Council (HCPC)
Royal College of Speech and Language Therapists (RCSLT)
Association of Speech and Language Therapists in Independent Practice (ASLTIP)
Members of the British Voice Association
Our private voice therapy team is highly rated, with outstanding 5-star Google reviews and recognition as a 2024 Quality Business Award winner.
Specialist Training & Accreditation
Our private voice therapists are accredited in:
Myofascial Release manual therapy
Lee Silverman Voice Treatment (LSVT LOUD®)
Advanced Laryngeal Manipulation
Our UK based Private Voice Therapists are Clinical Specialists in Voice with a minimum of 15 years experience Specialising in Voice Therapy. Book a free 15 minute consultation or email us at thespeechnetwork@hotmail.com to enquire about our reasonable fees for Voice Therapy.
What are Vocal Fold Nodules?
Vocal fold nodules develop due to trauma of the vocal folds. When you use your voice incorrectly over time, the vocal folds might become swollen. These swollen areas then become nodules that are sometimes called ‘soft nodules’ but as they progress they can be called ‘hard nodules’ and be harder to treat.
Vocal fold nodules are small, benign growths on the vocal cords caused by repetitive vocal strain or misuse. They often affect teachers, singers, actors, and anyone who relies heavily on their voice for work. Understanding causes, symptoms, and treatment options is essential for maintaining healthy vocal function.
What Are Vocal Fold Nodules?
Vocal fold nodules develop when the vocal folds are overused or misused, causing swelling that can become firm over time.
Soft nodules: Early-stage and easier to treat
Hard nodules: More persistent and harder to treat
Nodules usually form in pairs, directly opposite each other, but occasionally appear unilaterally with slight swelling on the opposite cord.
What Causes Vocal Fold Nodules?
The primary cause of nodules is vocal misuse or overuse, including:
Shouting or screaming
Singing incorrectly or excessively
Long periods of speaking or heavy vocal use
Professionals in voice-heavy jobs, such as teachers, singers, or actors, are particularly at risk. Chronic misuse can cause strain, discomfort, and even income-related stress if the voice is impacted.
Symptoms of Vocal Fold Nodules
Common symptoms include:
Hoarseness or breathy voice
Effortful speech with breaks
Lower pitch and vocal fatigue
Throat discomfort or soreness
Frequent throat clearing
Why this happens: Nodules create a gap between the vocal folds, allowing air to escape and causing a breathy or weak voice.
How Are Vocal Fold Nodules Diagnosed in the UK?
Diagnosis is usually made by an ENT (Ear, Nose, and Throat) consultant using endoscopy, a camera inserted through the nose to view the vocal folds. After the examination, your ENT will confirm the diagnosis and discuss the best treatment plan.
What are Treatment Options for Vocal Fold Nodules in the UK?
Voice Therapy is the first-line treatment, focusing on:
Retraining healthy vocal habits
Reducing strain and forceful voice use
Improving breath support and resonance
Surgery is rarely required and is considered only if therapy is ineffective. Post-surgery Voice Therapy is essential to prevent recurrence.
Online Voice Therapy is effective and convenient, allowing patients to receive treatment remotely.
Can vocal fold nodules go away without treatment?
In the acute stages, vocal nodules may resolve with voice rest alone. However, if it is due to repetitive vocal misuse, then Voice Therapy treatment will be required. Voice Therapy is first choice rather than surgery. If surgery is required, Voice Therapy following surgery to prevent reoccurrance is recommended. Online Voice Therapy for Voice is effective for treating nodules.
How long does it take to recover from vocal fold nodules?
Voice therapy takes between 6-8 sessions.
Can I still sing or talk professionally with nodules?
Singing or heavy voice use can worsen nodules. Early therapy focuses on safe vocal technique so you can resume professional voice use as soon as possible.
Is surgery always needed for vocal fold nodules?
No. Most nodules respond well to Voice Therapy. Surgery is reserved for nodules that don’t improve with therapy.
Can online Voice Therapy treat nodules?
Yes. Online Voice Therapy is effective as face to face therapy, allowing patients to learn healthy vocal techniques and practice exercises in the comfort of their own home, reducing travel time and cost.
How can I look after my voice?
Vocal hygiene is very important to look after your voice when you have vocal nodules.
Do you have a waiting list?
No - you can be seeing within one week of your consultation.
Why Choose The Speech Network?
Our UK-based private voice therapists are all Clinical Specialists in Voice, each with a minimum of 12 years’ experience. They currently work, or have previously worked, as Senior Voice Therapists within the NHS.
All our therapists are fully registered and accredited, including:
Health and Care Professionals Council (HCPC)
Royal College of Speech and Language Therapists (RCSLT)
Association of Speech and Language Therapists in Independent Practice (ASLTIP)
Members of the British Voice Association
Our private voice therapy team is highly rated, with outstanding 5-star Google reviews and recognition as a 2024 Quality Business Award winner.
Specialist Training & Accreditation
Myofascial Release manual therapy
Lee Silverman Voice Treatment (LSVT LOUD®)
Advanced Laryngeal Manipulation
Our UK based Private Voice Therapists are Clinical Specialists in Voice with a minimum of 15 years experience Specialising in Voice Therapy. Book a free 15 minute consultation or email us at thespeechnetwork@hotmail.com to enquire about our reasonable fees for Voice Therapy.
Why has my voice changed?
Voice Therapy will explore the reasons in greater depth that you lose your voice frequently. This may be due to the ways in which you use your voice ineffectively, tension within the larynx, reflux or not taking care of your voice in the best way. Voice Therapy the recommended treatment for voice disorders.
Why has my voice changed?
If your voice has suddenly changed, the most common reason for this is Laryngitis, which is a loss of voice, often alongside a cough and/or sore throat. It typically lasts 1-2 weeks. Drinking fluids and voice rest is recommended.
When should I worry about Voice changes?
If you have a hoarse voice that has lasted longer than 6 weeks, its advisable to request your doctor refer you to an Ear, Nose and Throat Consultant (ENT) for an examination of your Larynx (Voice box). A camera is put up your nose to examine your voice box. This procedure is not painful and is safe. ENT will confirm the reason for your voice changes.
What causes Voice changes?
There are many reasons that cause changes in voice. One of the reasons most people are worried about is laryngeal cancer. The earlier it is diagnosed, the easier it is to treat it, and for treatment to be successful.
There are many other reasons that you may experience voice changes. There are many other reasons that you may experience voice changes. These might be due to Muscle Tension Dysphonia (MTD) , Vocal cord Nodules or a Vocal fold palsy.
Muscle Tension Dysphonia (MTD) : A voice disorder characterised by a hoarse voice due to excessive muscle tension in the Larynx. It produces voice symptoms without any physical damage.
Vocal cord Nodules: Swollen areas on the vocal folds caused by using your voice incorrectly over a long period of time. Nodules are typically seen in children or women. People with jobs who use their voice excessively are often affected such as singers, actors and teachers.
Vocal cord Paralysis: Typically, one vocal cord not moving as a result of an infection or damage to the nerve due to surgery results in a breathy, hoarse and weak voice.
Spasmodic Dysphonia: A Neurological Disorder than affects the voice.
Following assessment by ENT, Voice Therapy is recommended for the treatment of Muscle Tension Dysphonia (MTD), Vocal cord Nodules, Vocal cord Paralysis and Spasmodic Dysphonia.
Why do I keep losing my voice?
Voice loss is ‘multi-factorial’. This means there is often not one reason. It is important that ENT diagnose the reason you are losing your voice. Voice Therapy will explore the reasons in greater depth that you lose your voice frequently. This may be due to the ways in which you use your voice ineffectively, tension within the larynx, reflux or not taking care of your voice in the best way. Voice Therapy the recommended treatment for voice disorders.
Why do I have a muscle tightness in my throat?
Voice disorders such as Muscle Tension Dysphonia (MTD) or Vocal Nodules can cause excessive tension in the larynx (the throat area) which results in a sensation of muscle tightness. Sometimes people complain about tension in their laryngeal area with no vocal symptoms or changes in voice.
People may describe an ache, constriction, or a lump in their throat. A sensation of a lump in the throat, where no lump exists, is known as ‘Globus’. You may experience a sensation that you want to clear your throat regularly. These unpleasant changes in sensation can make talking feel very effortful and tiring.
Voice Therapy can help reduce this discomfort minimising the effort you feel when speaking.
Why do I feel like I am straining my voice when I speak?
Voice Disorders can result in excessive tension in the laryngeal area. Often the voice is being used ineffectively, which causes additional strain on the larynx (voice box). You may not be projecting effectively resulting in poor amplification of sound. This is known as resonance. Resonance is how your voice is shaped by your voice box, nose and mouth. You may need to learn how to use your breath more effectively to reduce strain.
You may also need to improve your breath support for Speech so that you can use your voice effectively. Often people with Voice disorders use only the upper part of their chest to breathe. Breathing from the diaphragm provides effective breath for speech and reduces tension in the laryngeal area.
Voice Therapy can help reduce strain and discomfort when speaking, to free your voice and improve your confidence.
Can I have NHS voice Therapy?
Yes - we often see people when they are waiting for NHS voice therapy or there is no service in their area.
How can I look after my voice?
Vocal Hygiene is very important for looking after you voice.
Our UK based Private Voice Therapists are Clinical Specialists in Voice with a minimum of 15 years experience Specialising in Voice Therapy. Book a free 15 minute consultation or email us at thespeechnetwork@hotmail.com to enquire about our reasonable fees for Voice Therapy.
How can reflux affect the Voice?
Muscle Tension dysphonia (MTD) and laryngo-pharyngeal reflux often co-occur. We see clients that may have not responded to medications. Voice therapy can boost the recovery period and is essential to reduce discomfort and overcome damaging behaviours
How does reflux affect the voice ?
Laryngo-pharyngeal reflux (LPR) is also known as ‘silent reflux’ because many people do not show any symptoms such as heartburn commonly associated with reflux.
What is laryngo-pharyngeal reflux (LPR)?
Stomach juices are made up of digestive acids. Some of these juices can travel up the oesophagus, spill into the throat, affecting the voice. This is called laryngo-pharyngeal reflux (LPR). This causes hoarseness. Additional symptoms are throat clearing, a sore dry throat, an unpleasant taste in the mouth, a feeling of phlegm in the throat, chronic cough or excessive burping. A lump in the throat sensation called ‘Globus’ is a common symptom.
How is laryngo-pharyngeal reflux (LPR) diagnosed?
An Ear, Nose and Throat doctor uses a small thin camera that is passed through your nose, to view your larynx or voice box. This is called an endoscopy. Our Voice therapist will ask you about your symptoms and often use a short questionnaire to identify your symptoms.
How is Laryngo-pharyngeal reflux (LPR) treated?
It can be treated by medications to treat stomach acid, through dietary changes working with our team of Voice Therapists, and occasionally surgery.
How can a Speech Therapist help with reflux?
Muscle Tension dysphonia (MTD) and laryngo-pharyngeal reflux (LPR) often co-occur. We see clients that may have not responded to medications, and alleviate symptoms often attributed to LPR. Voice therapy can boost the recovery period and is essential to reduce discomfort and overcome damaging behaviours
Why Choose The Speech Network?
Our UK-based private voice therapists are all Clinical Specialists in Voice, each with a minimum of 12 years’ experience. They currently work, or have previously worked, as Senior Voice Therapists within the NHS.
All our therapists are fully registered and accredited, including:
Health and Care Professionals Council (HCPC)
Royal College of Speech and Language Therapists (RCSLT)
Association of Speech and Language Therapists in Independent Practice (ASLTIP)
Members of the British Voice Association
Our private voice therapy team is highly rated, with outstanding 5-star Google reviews and recognition as a 2024 Quality Business Award winner.
Specialist Training & Accreditation
Our private voice therapists are accredited in:
Myofascial Release manual therapy
Lee Silverman Voice Treatment (LSVT LOUD®)
Advanced Laryngeal Manipulation
Our Private Voice Therapists are Clinical Specialists in Voice. Book a free 15 minute consultation or email us at thespeechnetwork@hotmail.com to enquire about our reasonable fees for Voice Therapy.
What is a vocal fold paralysis?
Frequently asked questions about vocal fold palsy
What is a vocal fold paralysis?
Vocal fold paralysis occurs when one or both vocal folds fail to open or close properly. Most cases affect only one fold, while bilateral paralysis is rare and serious.
The vocal folds, located in the larynx above the windpipe, vibrate as air passes through to produce voice. If a fold is paralysed, air escapes, resulting in a weak, breathy, or hoarse voice.
What Causes Vocal Fold Paralysis?
Common causes include:
Viral infections (most common)
Nerve damage during surgery (thyroid, chest, or neck procedures)
Trauma or injury
Cancers affecting vocal nerves
Neurological conditions such as Parkinson’s disease, multiple sclerosis, or stroke
Idiopathic cases (unknown cause)
Early diagnosis is important for effective treatment.
What are the symptoms of a Vocal Fold Paralysis?
Typical symptoms include:
Hoarse, weak, or breathy voice
Difficulty projecting your voice
Vocal fatigue
Difficulty swallowing (dysphagia) — a specialist swallowing assessment may be also required
Shortness of breath with exertion
What are the treatment Options in the UK for a vocal fold paralysis?
Voice Therapy is often recommended to:
Strengthen the voice by increasing the movement of the paralysed vocal fold
Improve clarity and projection
Restore normal breathing patterns
Reduce fatigue and strain
Surgery is rarely needed, only in severe or persistent cases.
Private therapy is available for faster access or if NHS services have long waiting times. Online Voice Therapy is also highly effective and accessible throughout the UK.
How long does Voice Therapy take for vocal fold paralysis?
Duration varies depending on severity. Many clients see significant improvements in 6-8 weeks with consistent therapy.
Can online Voice Therapy help for a vocal fold palsy?
Yes. Remote therapy is as effective as face to face therapy and allows patients across the UK to access specialist clinical voice therapy.
Do you have a waiting list?
No - you can be seeing within one week of your consultation.
Why Choose The Speech Network?
Our UK-based private voice therapists are all Clinical Specialists in Voice, each with a minimum of 12 years’ experience. They currently work, or have previously worked, as Senior Voice Therapists within the NHS.
All our therapists are fully registered and accredited, including:
Health and Care Professionals Council (HCPC)
Royal College of Speech and Language Therapists (RCSLT)
Association of Speech and Language Therapists in Independent Practice (ASLTIP)
Members of the British Voice Association
Our private voice therapy team is highly rated, with outstanding 5-star Google reviews and recognition as a 2024 Quality Business Award winner.
Specialist Training & Accreditation
Our private voice therapists are accredited in:
Myofascial Release manual therapy
Lee Silverman Voice Treatment (LSVT LOUD®)
Advanced Laryngeal Manipulation
GOOGLE REVIEWS FOR THE SPEECH NETWORK VOICE TEAM
*****
These voice sessions with Janet were life changing. I had hit a crossroads where teaching full time on zoom gave me such vocal strain I could not speak. Now I am back to teaching, albeit with a little lighter schedule, and have a new way to work with my voice that is healthy and working! - Sarah.
*****
‘I worked with Janet following post-surgery voice damage and subsequent vocal difficulties. She is great, with a kind, empathetic and friendly approach. I really appreciated the understanding she gave me about how my vocal cords (should) work, and how to manage symptoms and look after my voice, improving my confidence along the way. I very much enjoyed our sessions and would highly recommend her’ Phillipa
Book a free 15-minute consultation or email thespeechnetwork@hotmail.com for information on private Voice Therapy fees.
Our Private Voice Therapists are Clinical Specialists in Voice. Book a free 15 minute consultation or email us at thespeechnetwork@hotmail.com to enquire about our reasonable fees for Voice Therapy.
How do you feminise your Voice ? It's not all about pitch.
Sometimes the assumption of sounding more feminine is to focus on a higher pitched voice. However, a women’s voice is not only a higher-pitched version of a man’s voice. If we only focus on pitch, it is unlikely that you will be satisfied with the results of your therapy.
Its not all about pitch
Sometimes the assumption of sounding more feminine is to focus on a higher pitched voice. However, a women’s voice is not only a higher-pitched version of a man’s voice. If we only focus on pitch, it is unlikely that you will be satisfied with the results of your therapy. In order to raise your pitch, we also need to change other aspects of your voice and speech. For natural-sounding speech we need to focus upon your intonation, resonance and other aspects to achieve a natural higher pitch. It’s important that you are able to use a flexible feminine voice that matches your personality and lifestyle, in a variety of situations.
What will happen in Voice Feminisation sessions?
Aside from pitch, we will be focusing upon:
Stress and intonation: Stress is often conveyed by using a higher pitch or louder intensity. Intonation patterns are pitch changes at the sentence level. Subtle differences in intonation patterns might hint at the speakers gender so its important to work on these aspects.
Resonance: Resonance amplifies sound and is often referred as projection in voice. We want to diminish the ‘chest’ sound that is often identified with the male voice.
Articulation: we focus on patterns for vowels and consonants that females produce that can be imitated in MTF voice training.
Volume: We might focus on reducing the loudness of your voice
Therapy is like building blocks – we build your voice together gradually. It takes practice and you will be given bespoke exercises after your sessions. The more you practice, the more natural it will feel.
How much does Voice Feminisation Therapy cost?
If you send us an email we can send your further information about number of sessions required and costs.
We are Clinical Specialists in Voice, Voice Feminisation and Voice Coaching. Feel free to book a free consultation or email us for more information.
Can Voice Feminisation harm my voice?
Trans* Voice : Vocal misuse
Inappropriate voice use may strain or cause tension leading to voice damage known as Muscle Tension Dysphonia.
Can voice feminisation training harm my voice?
If you are thinking about starting voice training or experiencing loss of voice following training, you may have seen this question or peoples experiences of voice loss following training - but what harm can actually be caused by voice training on your own?
There are lots of great resources for people to practice independently on youtube and through apps, but sometimes people experience voice difficulties following training.
Sometimes, by practicing independently, inappropriate voice use may strain or cause tension leading to voice damage known as Muscle Tension Dysphonia. In some research studies, up to 30% of Male to female Transgender Voice clients had a voice disorder in their initial assessment caused by trauma to the voice box (larynx). Muscle Tension Dysphonia can be caused by excessive effort used when training your voice.
What is Muscle Tension Dysphonia (MTD)?
Muscle Tension Dysphonia (MTD) is a change in the sound of your voice due to excessive muscle tension in and around the larynx (voice box). Muscle Tension Dysphonia produces vocal symptoms without any physical damage.
Muscle Tension Dysphonia in voice training can be caused by :
Excessive elevation of the larynx
Poor vocal hygiene ( see below ways to improve vocal hygiene)
Excessive muscle tension in the larynx
Inappropriate pitch level
Excessive breathiness also leads to excessive tension in the larynx.
What are the symptoms of muscle tension dysphonia?
The most common symptoms of muscle tension dysphonia include:
Voice that sounds hoarse or strained
Voice becomes weaker and more effort the longer your voice is used.
Difficulty singing notes that used to be easy.
Pain or tension in your throat
Feeling like there is something in your throat that needs to be cleared.
If muscle tension dysphonia or hoarseness does not resolve after 3 weeks, it would be best to speak to your GP about a referral to ENT. They will perform an endoscopy (a camera up your nose - it is not painful) to examine your larynx. Voice therapy is the recommended treatment for muscle tension dysphonia.
What can I do to look after my voice whilst voice training?
The best way to prevent harm is to build strong vocal hygiene habits. These support your vocal folds, reduce strain, and help you get the most from your training.
Stop smoking. If you can’t give up, cut down. Smoking irritates and damages the vocal folds.
Try to drink 2 litres (3 ½ pints) of liquid a day (not including coffee, alcohol or fizzy drinks). This will prevent dehydration of the vocal cords.
Avoid too much coffee, fizzy drinks and alcohol. These can dry out the vocal cords. Try drinking decaffeinated tea or coffee or follow an alcoholic drink with a soft drink.
If your voice feels tired or strained then rest it. This is your bodys way of telling you to rest your voice
Try not to clear your throat unnecessarily. It can create excessive mucous and lead to a further need to clear your throat. Try drinking water instead or swallowing.
Try steaming to keep the vocal folds hydrated - just water adding no menthol.
How can a Specialist Speech Therapist in transgender voice training prevent harm?
Working with a Speech and Language Therapist who specialises in transgender voice can make a huge difference.
All our therapists at The Speech Network have expertise in both transgender voice training and voice therapy for Muscle Tension Dysphonia. Through therapy, you will learn how to:
Raise your pitch safely, using resonance rather than throat tension
Build breath support and reduce neck strain
Develop a voice that feels authentic, comfortable, and sustainable
Build confidence in your voice with positive feedback and bespoke exercises.
Research consistently shows that gender-affirming voice training is safe and effective when guided by an Speech therapist with specialist training improving satisfaction, perceived femininity, overall vocal health and confidence.
Can you do transgender voice training online?
Yes - all our therapists are experienced in providing effective therapy online in the comfort of you own home.
Do you have a waiting list?
No - you can be seeing within one week of your consultation.
Why Choose The Speech Network?
Our UK-based private voice therapists are all Clinical Specialists in Voice, each with a minimum of 12 years’ experience. They currently work, or have previously worked, as Senior Voice Therapists within the NHS. They are active members of the National Trans Voice and Communication Clinical Excellence Network.
All our therapists are fully registered and accredited, including:
Health and Care Professionals Council (HCPC)
Royal College of Speech and Language Therapists (RCSLT)
Association of Speech and Language Therapists in Independent Practice (ASLTIP)
Members of the British Voice Association
Our private voice therapy team is highly rated, with outstanding 5-star Google reviews and recognition as a 2024 Quality Business Award winner.
GOOGLE REVIEWS FOR THE SPEECH NETWORK TEAM FOR TRANSGENDER VOICE TRAINING
*****
‘Having now come to the end of my sessions with Katy I can hand on heart say she has transformed my life. She has enabled me to find my true voice and given me the confidence to truly own it. Katy is such a fun, loving and caring therapist, and every session was a joy, and the exercises were fun and engaging. I owe her so much, and would recommend her in an instant. Thank you Katy!’ Paula
*****
‘Julie and the Speech Network were exactly what I needed.. Julie was wonderfully patient, knowledgable and encouraging’ Sebrina
*****
'Katy is really nice person who is easy to get along with and you will enjoy speech Therapy with Katy. She is supportive and listens to your needs and concerns. She also listens to your voice and can precisely and constructively pinpoint areas which will benefit from some improvement, you will learn what makes a voice is more complex than you ever imagined. Katy will deconstruct this complexity into simple to digest steps and will coach you very well to bring your voice up to the next level, providing you with the tools, exercises and guidance to assist you. I really appreciate that we can have some light hearted fun at the same time as I'm taking on board the learning activities’ Karen.
Our UK based Private Voice Therapists are Clinical Specialists in Transgender Voice Training, with 5 * google reviews. Book a free 15 minute consultation or email us at thespeechnetwork@hotmail.com to enquire about our reasonable fees for Voice Training.
How can I train my voice to sound feminine?
Trans* Voice - Tips for learning and exploring your voice
Trans* Voice - Tips for learning and exploring your voice
In therapy you will be exploring your voice. Repetition outside the clinic room is important to change. It is comparable to going to the gym for your voice. You are developing flexibility and freedom for your voice. When learning and exploring try to:
Be Playful – try out new things
Be Mindful – notice without judging
Be Curious – use all of your sense to explore your voice
Be Imaginative – find your own images, hand gestures to support exercises
Be Positive
Be Regular – Be creative about when and where you practice – little and often.
Be Patient – Let things develop and transfer to situations that are easiest first
Be Reflective – record your voice, keep a diary
Be Sociable – try to step out of solo practice into getting support from others
Adapted from The Voice Book for Trans and Non-Binary People – Matthew Mills and Gillie Stoneham
For more information about Voice Feminisation Therapy click here
We are Clinical Specialists in Voice, Voice feminisation and Voice Coaching. Send us an email or book a free consultation for more information.
What can I do to look after my Voice?
Advice on how to look after your voice to keep it healthy.
Stop smoking. If you can’t give up, cut down. Smoking irritates and damages the vocal folds. Talk to your GP about advice to support stopping smoking.
Avoid eating spicy foods. Spicy foods can cause stomach acid to move into the throat or oesophagus, causing heartburn or reflux. If you do experience reflux, talk to your GP about possible medications.
Avoid too much coffee, fizzy drinks and alcohol. These can dry out the vocal cords. Try drinking decaffeinated tea or coffee or follow an alcoholic drink with a soft drink.
Avoid shouting and whispering
If your voice feels tired or strained then rest it. This is your bodys way of telling you to rest your voice
Try not to clear your throat unnecessarily. It can create excessive mucous and lead to a further need to clear your throat. Try drinking water instead or swallowing.
Avoid dry and dusty atmospheres as they may dry out the vocal cords. Wear a mask in a dusty environment.
Try to drink 2 litres (3 ½ pints) of liquid a day (not including coffee, alcohol or fizzy drinks). This will prevent dehydration of the vocal cords.
Try steaming to keep the vocal folds hydrated
Our Private Voice Therapists are Clinical Specialists in Voice. Book a free 15 minute consultation or email us at thespeechnetwork@hotmail.com to enquire about our reasonable fees for Voice Therapy.