Purpose:
Emerging research highlights fluency and communication competence as separate constructs. Ongoing exploration of novel therapeutic interventions for individuals with advanced stuttering is necessary to improve long term outcomes. One such initiative is Group Improv which aims to address communication competence in a professionally led peer supported group modality employing Applied Improv in a stuttering therapy context.
Methods:
This study explored thirteen interview participant’s perspectives on Group Improv therapy’s potential efficacy, relevancy, and associated factors. This included data from three teens, eight adults who stutter (AWS) and two speech language pathologists (SLP). Interviews were conducted and recorded over Zoom by the lead author. Transcript data was coded and thematically analyzed inductively to identify and describe emerging themes from the data.
Results:
Eight primary themes and six subthemes were identified. The primary themes identified were as follows: (a) Improv? I can see the benefit, (b) changing my story, (c) captain of my ship, (d) the best I can be, (e) finding community is impactful, (f) it depends on the individual, (g) help me get there and (h) what would stop me from attending.
Conclusion:
This study demonstrates that stakeholders in therapy for advanced stuttering generally view the novel concept of group improv therapy to be of benefit to individuals who stutter. Applied improv was seen to align with acceptance and commitment therapy’s mission to enhance psychosocial resources while minimizing psychological risk factors, potentially improving long term outcomes for this population.

stakeholders in therapy for advanced stuttering generally view the novel concept of group improv therapy to be of benefit to individuals who stutter. Applied improv was seen to align with acceptance and commitment therapy’s mission to enhance psychosocial resources while minimizing psychological risk factors, potentially improving long term outcomes for this population.