Accent Reduction – Frequently Asked Questions
Everyone has an accent, which is the unique way they sound when speaking a certain language. There are two types of accents: a native language accent, which develops from the circumstances of living and learning, and a foreign accent, which occurs when one language is spoken using some of the rules and sounds of another language.
Many people take pride in their distinctive accent, which says a lot about who they are and where they are from. Sometimes, though, an accent can make it difficult for other people to understand the speaker’s words. This can lead to communication challenges that interfere with work or school performance as well as social interactions.
Is Accent Reduction Possible?
Yes, an accent can be reduced or modified with the assistance of a professional speech-language pathologist. With that said, it is important to understand that the process requires time, practice, and patience.
How Quickly Can You Lose an Accent?
Many people begin to see results from their accent reduction therapy within two to four weeks. With hard work and dedication, it is possible to achieve a noticeable change—along with improved speech clarity and confidence—in approximately three months.
How To Reduce Your Accent
Your accent reduction therapy will begin with a comprehensive evaluation of your accent and speech patterns. You will be asked to read various words and sentences aloud, which will help your speech-language pathologist gain a better understanding of:
- How you produce different sounds
- The rhythm and intonation of your speech
- How you sound in conversation
- How your accent impacts your daily life
Your speech-language pathologist will also ask about your personal language history, including:
- The languages you speak
- The age at which you learned each language
- Where you learned each language (e.g., at home or school)
- How long you have spoken each language
- Which language(s) you speak at home, at work, and in social situations
What Does Accent Reduction Therapy Include?
Based on the information gathered during your accent and speech evaluation—as well as your age, linguistic and cultural background, and learning style—your speech-language pathologist will develop an individualized accent reduction therapy plan to help you achieve your communication goals. Your plan will include pronunciation training, at-home exercises to reinforce what you have learned, and clear objectives to measure your progress.
Is Accent Reduction Covered By Medical Insurance?
No. Because an accent is a speech pattern and not a medical pathology or health concern, accent reduction therapy is not covered by traditional health insurance. However, the human resource department of some companies will cover the cost of accent reduction therapy under the classification of professional development.
How Long Are the Sessions?
Accent reduction therapy is scheduled for one hour each week, and daily practice is required in between sessions. Therefore, to be successful, our accent reduction program requires both motivation and self-discipline.
How Long Are the Programs?
On average, our accent reduction program takes three months to complete. However, the duration may be shorter or longer depending on the severity of the accent. The program goals and timeframe can be established during a free consultation with a speech-language pathologist.
Where Are the Sessions Performed?
Individualized accent modification therapy sessions are provided at our speech and hearing center in Friendswood, Texas. However, if a company has three or more employees who will receive individualized intervention, the sessions may be provided in the workplace.
If you would like to schedule a consultation at our speech and hearing center in Friendswood, TX, contact Autumn Oak Speech, Voice, and Hearing today.
