![pde-v3-banner Promotional banner for a national stuttering association event titled "Embracing the Person Behind the Stutter: A Professional Development Experience" from July 3-4 at the Marriott Harbor Beach Resort &](https://westutter.org/wp-content/uploads/pde-v3-banner.jpg)
July 3-4, 2023
Fort Lauderdale, Fl
Professional Development Experience
Join us as we explore this year’s theme, Embracing the Person Behind the Stutter. Designed to serve the needs of graduate students and speech-language pathologists (at all points in their career), this experience will delve into topics geared toward the development of an inclusive, person-centered approach when working with people who stutter. By exploring the diverse experiences of individuals who stutter we’ll dive into conversations on how to best serve those who stutter. This event will spur collaboration and provide an opportunity to learn about new ideas from thought leaders in the field.
This development experience offers up to 1.2 ASHA CEUs, in addition to those offered during the Annual Conference which directly follows.
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Mark your calendars and join us in sunny Ft. Lauderdale, Florida July 3rd!
5
Presenters
12
Hours of Learning
1.2
ASHA CEUs
Our Noteworthy SPEAKERS
Featured speakers are highly-respected individuals in the community who have important and relevant insights, information, and stories to share.
![headshot A smiling man with glasses, wearing a light blue shirt, sits in front of a warm beige background. His expression is friendly and inviting, exuding an aura of professional development experience.](https://westutter.org/wp-content/uploads/headshot-280x280.jpeg)
Jason Cassell
LCSW
![kia-johnson-2023 A professional development experience portrait of a smiling woman with curly hair, wearing a black blazer over a patterned blouse and a pearl necklace, with abstract golden decorations in the background.](https://westutter.org/wp-content/uploads/kia-johnson-2023-280x280.jpg)
Kia Noelle Johnson
Ph.D., CCC-SLP
![gerlach-houck-square A portrait of a smiling woman with blonde hair, wearing a dark blazer, standing against a maroon background, exuding professional development experience.](https://westutter.org/wp-content/uploads/gerlach-houck-square-280x280.jpg)
Hope Gerlach-Houck
Ph.D., CCC-SLP
![derek-square A smiling man wearing a gray suit and yellow tie, against an indistinct background as part of his professional development experience. He has short black hair and a cheerful expression.](https://westutter.org/wp-content/uploads/derek-square-280x280.jpg)
Derek Daniels
Ph.D., CCC-SLP
![ana-paula-mumy A woman with curly hair smiling at the camera, wearing a patterned top in earth tones. She has light makeup and a warm, inviting expression, conveying professional development experience.](https://westutter.org/wp-content/uploads/ana-paula-mumy-280x280.png)
Ana Paula G. Mumy
SLPD, CCC-SLP
Why should I attend?
![burst-gradient Purple and turquoise starburst with the letters NSA in the middle.](https://westutter.org/wp-content/uploads/burst-gradient.png)
Jess G.
Conference Attendee
Stuttering has given me far more than it ever could have taken away. Once I walk into that event, time stands still for just one fleeting moment and how unbelievable it is. You can try to use every adjective out there to explain what it means to be with the most selfless, passionate people I know, but it is asking the impossible to do that. It is moments like that, which will always define my life.
Agenda
DAY ONE
Monday, July 3rd
![nsa-logo-3in-sticker WE Stutter Stickers featuring a bright white burst centered in a circle with the letters "nsa" and the website "westutter.org" against a purple and green gradient background.](https://westutter.org/wp-content/uploads/nsa-logo-3in-sticker-100x100.png)
8:00 – 8:30
Introductions/Overview of event
![nsa-logo-3in-sticker WE Stutter Stickers featuring a bright white burst centered in a circle with the letters "nsa" and the website "westutter.org" against a purple and green gradient background.](https://westutter.org/wp-content/uploads/nsa-logo-3in-sticker-100x100.png)
8:30 – 10:15
The What and How of Counseling
By: Jason Cassell, LCSW
Many speech therapists have anxiety about their counseling skills. They worry that they will say the wrong thing or not know what to say at all. SLPs get concerned that they won’t be able to help their clients make progress, they have trouble dealing with the emotions that are bound to come up and they struggle interacting with clients and family members that can be demanding. In this two-hour workshop, we will explore the qualities of an effective counselor and the treatment approaches that have the greatest impact. This workshop will also provide SLPs with techniques to help them engage their clients, improve their listening skills, and manage the intense affect that often arises. Additionally, self-care for SLPs will also be discussed.
![nsa-logo-3in-sticker WE Stutter Stickers featuring a bright white burst centered in a circle with the letters "nsa" and the website "westutter.org" against a purple and green gradient background.](https://westutter.org/wp-content/uploads/nsa-logo-3in-sticker-100x100.png)
10:30 – 12:15
Resisting ableism in stuttering therapy: Exploring possibilities for change
By: Hope Gerlach-Houck, PhD CCC-SLP
What is ableism, and why is it so hard to talk about? In this interactive session, we will explore ableism and its effects on the stuttering community. We will examine how ableism is embedded in society as well as status quo practices in speech therapy. Clinically relevant topics will be prioritized, including how to write goals, facilitate activities, and advocate for accommodations that are affirming of stuttering. We will discuss practical suggestions for making the therapy room, profession, and society more welcoming and accepting of stuttering.
Intermission/Lunch Break
![nsa-logo-3in-sticker WE Stutter Stickers featuring a bright white burst centered in a circle with the letters "nsa" and the website "westutter.org" against a purple and green gradient background.](https://westutter.org/wp-content/uploads/nsa-logo-3in-sticker-100x100.png)
1:30 – 3:15
Embracing the Person Who Stutters: Active Listening, Intersectionality, and Affirmation
By: Derek E. Daniels, Ph.D., CCC-SLP
People who stutter often face societal stigma for stuttering across a range of domains, including school, employment, family, and mass media. These stigmatizing experiences can adversely affect how people who stutter perceive themselves, which can lead to self-stigma. Therefore, it is important for clinicians to understand the wider experience of stuttering for each individual. In alignment with the clinical symposium theme, this presentation will discuss how clinicians can counteract societal and self-stigma by embracing individuals who stutter through active listening, intersectionality, and affirmations.
![nsa-logo-3in-sticker WE Stutter Stickers featuring a bright white burst centered in a circle with the letters "nsa" and the website "westutter.org" against a purple and green gradient background.](https://westutter.org/wp-content/uploads/nsa-logo-3in-sticker-100x100.png)
3:30 – 4:00
Q&A with Presenters
![nsa-logo-3in-sticker WE Stutter Stickers featuring a bright white burst centered in a circle with the letters "nsa" and the website "westutter.org" against a purple and green gradient background.](https://westutter.org/wp-content/uploads/nsa-logo-3in-sticker-100x100.png)
4:15 – 5:15
Mix & Mingle
DAY TWO
Tuesday, July 4th
![nsa-logo-3in-sticker WE Stutter Stickers featuring a bright white burst centered in a circle with the letters "nsa" and the website "westutter.org" against a purple and green gradient background.](https://westutter.org/wp-content/uploads/nsa-logo-3in-sticker-100x100.png)
8:00 – 10:00
Responsive guidelines for bilingual PWS
By: Ana Paula G. Mumy, SLPD, CCC-SLP
This session will assist SLPs in developing their cultural responsiveness as it pertains to working with bilingual families, with a special focus on bilingual children who stutter. The vital role of the home language will be discussed as well as the far-reaching detrimental effects of removing or reducing use of the home language within the family unit. We will also challenge the notion of treating bilingualism as a “demand” or “burden” on a child’s linguistic system. Additionally, we will examine how language and culture tie to the importance of clinical and patient evidence when making treatment decisions, particularly when research evidence is lacking. In summary, we will explore guiding principles for family-centered treatment, viable solutions, and practical recommendations for working with bilingual children who stutter and their families.
![nsa-logo-3in-sticker WE Stutter Stickers featuring a bright white burst centered in a circle with the letters "nsa" and the website "westutter.org" against a purple and green gradient background.](https://westutter.org/wp-content/uploads/nsa-logo-3in-sticker-100x100.png)
10:15 – 12:15
The Impact of Cultural and Linguistical Diversity on Developmental Stuttering
By: Kia Noelle Johnson, Ph.D., CCC-SLP
Continuous growth in cultural and linguistic diversity within the United States influences service delivery to children from diverse backgrounds. Research findings and clinical observations indicate differences in the presentation of speech disfluencies as well as related behaviors in culturally/linguistically diverse individuals. Together, these factors motivate a need to consider the impact of cultural and linguistic diversity on developmental stuttering and its influence on clinical decision making. This session will discuss cultural differences and considerations for stuttering as well as how to adjust assessment protocols to be more culturally responsive.
![nsa-logo-3in-sticker WE Stutter Stickers featuring a bright white burst centered in a circle with the letters "nsa" and the website "westutter.org" against a purple and green gradient background.](https://westutter.org/wp-content/uploads/nsa-logo-3in-sticker-100x100.png)
12:15
That’s a Wrap
Reserve your SPACE
Space is limited, so register early! Our prior events have SOLD OUT, so be sure to register early for our 2023 Professional Development Experience.
No onsite registrations will be accepted.
One ticket gets you…
- Entry to six amazing sessions
- 12 hours of learning
- Up to 1.2 ASHA CEUs
Our SPONSORS
The NSA is the leading voice of the stuttering community, the NSA Annual Conference is how we connect, and Conference Sponsors are the ones that make it all happen!.
![NSA Logo The logo of the Amplify 2022 Conference, featuring a stylized sun in orange-yellow with a purple crescent and the letters "nsa" overlaid in purple, set against a solid](https://westutter.org/wp-content/uploads/nsa_logo-300x194.png)
![zoom-logo-with-icon The logo for the 41st Annual NSA Conference, featuring a blue circle with a white video camera icon above the bold blue text "zoom.](https://westutter.org/wp-content/uploads/zoom-logo-with-icon.jpg)
![NSA Logo The logo of the Amplify 2022 Conference, featuring a stylized sun in orange-yellow with a purple crescent and the letters "nsa" overlaid in purple, set against a solid](https://westutter.org/wp-content/uploads/nsa_logo-300x194.png)
![zoom-logo-with-icon The logo for the 41st Annual NSA Conference, featuring a blue circle with a white video camera icon above the bold blue text "zoom.](https://westutter.org/wp-content/uploads/zoom-logo-with-icon.jpg)
![zoom-logo-with-icon The logo for the 41st Annual NSA Conference, featuring a blue circle with a white video camera icon above the bold blue text "zoom.](https://westutter.org/wp-content/uploads/zoom-logo-with-icon.jpg)
![NSA Logo The logo of the Amplify 2022 Conference, featuring a stylized sun in orange-yellow with a purple crescent and the letters "nsa" overlaid in purple, set against a solid](https://westutter.org/wp-content/uploads/nsa_logo-300x194.png)
![zoom-logo-with-icon The logo for the 41st Annual NSA Conference, featuring a blue circle with a white video camera icon above the bold blue text "zoom.](https://westutter.org/wp-content/uploads/zoom-logo-with-icon.jpg)
![NSA Logo The logo of the Amplify 2022 Conference, featuring a stylized sun in orange-yellow with a purple crescent and the letters "nsa" overlaid in purple, set against a solid](https://westutter.org/wp-content/uploads/nsa_logo-300x194.png)
FAQ
We know you might have questions about what’s in store, how to plan, and what to expect when it comes to the NSA Annual Conference. We’ve answered a few of the most common questions below, but please don’t hesitate to contact us if you don’t find the answers you’re looking for!
The NSA Annual Conference is something that can’t be described; whether online or in person, you have to experience this exhilarating and unforgettable event for yourself. With days full of workshops, sessions, speakers, and events tailored specifically to each age group, and evenings filled with laughter, fun, and connection, you’ll learn about stuttering, explore your attitudes toward living life as a person who stutters, make new friends, reconnect with old friends, be entertained, and feel a connection like you’ve never felt before.
Our Day at a Glance Calendar* is your quick reference guide to see exactly what’s going on and when, at just a glance. The full Conference Program is where you find detailed workshop descriptions, sessions leads, bios, and more. Want to start planning what your days will look like?
Check out our 2022 Day at a Glance Calendar and Conference Program below to get see our schedule and get a taste of what’s in store, then check back as we get closer to the event for this year’s full details!
*Information subject to change. Finalized copies will be available onsite.
The Fort Lauderdale Marriott Harbor Beach Resort & Spa invites guests to embrace beachfront living in style. Nestled along a quarter-mile stretch of pristine private beach, our hotel effortlessly blends laid-back tropical tranquility with signature Marriott service. Enjoy our perfect location near the shops, dining and nightlife of Las Olas Boulevard.
It’s a difficult decision to attend for the first time, but we can ease your fears.
Are you attending as a family? Here’s what to expect.
Speech professionals can learn from other experts and earn ASHA CEUs.
Donate A Silent Auction Item
Our Silent Auction is one of the most talked-about happenings at the Conference. Attendees check out the autographed sports memorabilia and scheme on how much to bid to win the gourmet chocolate and coffee gift basket and other fantastic auction items.
Have a Silent Auction item to donate? Email us and tell us about it!
Consider the following donation ideas when thinking of items to donate for our Silent Auction. Keep in mind that all money raised through the auction helps fuel the NSA to continue to change lives!
- Apple iPad Mini or AirPods
- Envelope full of scratch-off lottery tickets from your state
- Gaming System
- Autographed sports memorabilia
- Stay at a vacation rental or resort
- Tickets/parking passes to a professional sporting event
Donate A Gift Card
Donating a gift card is easy! Simply purchase a gift card from a well-known nationwide store or restaurant at any dollar amount ($5, $10, $20, etc.) and bring it with you to the conference. We’ll collect the cards when you check-in to the conference. All donated gift cards will be grouped randomly and raffled off during the Annual Conference. And who knows…you might be a lucky grand prize winner!
Need ideas for gift cards? Think outside the box…store! Consider gift cards to places and services such as:
- Exxon/Mobil/Shell/WaWa/Sheetz
- Hello Fresh/Blue Apron
- Disney+/HBOMax/Amazon Prime/ Kindle Unlimited/Audible
- Etsy/Michaels/AC Moore
- National grocery chains
- Hilton/Hyatt/Marriott/IHG/Wyndham Hotels
Amazon Wishlist
Not able to attend this year, or want to simplify your donation? Purchase a gift card or item from our NSA Conference Amazon Wishlist and have it sent directly to us. Donation done!
Thanks to the generosity of the Liben Family Fund, special donors, and many of our supporters, we are determined that financial difficulties will not prevent anyone from attending our Conference. However, funds are not unlimited, and due to the increasing number of applications each year, we aren’t able to award as much as we’d like.
We encourage those with financial hardships to apply, but please keep in mind that we do not offer 100% scholarships for anyone and that funds are limited. In addition, yearly scholarship funding may run out before the deadline.
Ready to host your own workshop? Here’s what you need to know.
Cancellations received prior to June 1, 2023 will receive a full refund, minus $100 processing fee per attendee.
Cancellations received after June 1, 2023 are non-refundable.
The Marriott Harbor Beach Resort and Spa accepts reservation cancellations with no penalty if received 72 hours prior to scheduled check in.
The health and safety of our attendees is a top priority. Here is what we’re doing to ensure it.
Learn More
To learn more about the Annual Conference, Click Here.