commentr/StutterAugust 19, 2018

Content

Recent clinical psychologist graduate here. It's hard to give specific advice since I don't know you or your stutter. Generally though... It will be harder because of your stutter. My program was big on class presentations and group work - which everyone was nervous about but for someone who stutters much more so. My undergraduate training (BS in psychology) was also big on presentations. Doing so many helped me to learn what I needed to do for myself to ease my anxiety (writing my entire presentation word for word worked for me). For therapy, you'll probably stutter, most will ignore it (depending on severity) but some will ask you about it. So be prepared about how much you want to share, and remember it's their therapy, not yours. For me, I love it when people ask me about it since it allows my client to see that I have hardships in my life too and that it's possible to accept and love yourself as you are and not let adversity dictate my life. My motto since undergrad was go toward my anxiety, if I was afraid of something then that's where I needed to go or what I needed to do. However, each day is just a day, they all end and you can only do so much in each one. Take care of yourself! Know how far you can push yourself, become intimate with your emotions, anxiety, etc and don't overwhelm yourself. It's ok to go slow. I took an extra 2 years to complete my doctorate. And 8 years to complete my bachelor's. I'm the definition of the tortoise - and I'm totally ok with that. And we all know who won the race. Lastly, find a good therapist. Not just anyone. They have to be a good fit for you. Don't be afraid to shop around. I saw many therapists one time and called them and said sorry but I won't be coming back. Your professors may be able to refer you to someone they know - this tactic only works if you trust the professor and you actually open up to them (trust your gut). As a psychologist myself, it's probably not surprising that I'd tell you to only look for psychologists for a therapist. But, they do receive the most education regarding mental health then any other profession - they are the experts and it actually takes longer to become a psychologist then an MD (which is totally not necessary). But remember to shop around, there are plenty of psychologists that I do not like and would never go to for therapy. I wish you luck and congratulations! You can do it. I know you can do it. (Sorry for any typos, wrote this on my phone).

Themes

School & WorkEmotional ExperienceTherapy & Professional

Subthemes

School & Academic LifeAnxiety & Social JudgmentSeeking TherapyHope & Motivation