Gender-affirming voice therapy: Empowering voice and communication journeys across the gender spectrum
Gender-affirming voice therapy is a specialized treatment program designed to help individuals achieve a voice and communication style that aligns with their gender identity and feels authentic. Here, we cover the various aspects of gender-affirming voice therapy, including its definition, the role of professional guidance, and the steps involved in the therapy process. By understanding and embracing these elements, individuals can embark on a journey towards a voice that truly represents their identity.
What is gender-affirming voice therapy?
Gender-affirming voice therapy is a specialized treatment program designed to help individuals achieve a voice and communication style that aligns with their gender identity and feels authentic.
Can gender-affirming voice therapy be done without professional services?
Each person’s voice journey depends on their needs and comfort level. Although some people prefer to work on their voice independently, if it isn’t done properly, the voice muscles can be harmed. Working with a trained professional not only helps one discover and achieve their voice and communication goals, but it also reduces risk for vocal strain or injury.
What does gender-affirming voice therapy look like?
While each person going for therapy is different, here are some typical phases of treatment clients go through when working with a trained speech therapist who specializes in gender-affirming voice therapy.
Initial evaluation
Services begin with an initial evaluation which typically takes approximately one hour. During the initial evaluation, the speech-language pathologist will take acoustic voice measurements to obtain a baseline. Questionnaires are used to get a better understanding of each client’s needs. The speech-language pathologist will also work with the client to identify their goals and areas to work on during the treatment process.
Treatment sessions
Following the initial evaluation, clients will follow up with individual treatment sessions. These sessions can be completed in person or virtually. The frequency, length, and duration of sessions varies; however, the typical course of treatment is one 30 – 60-minute session once per week for eight – 12 weeks. Sessions may occur more or less frequently, depending on the client’s needs and their progress. In addition to completing exercises during treatment sessions, clients will also be assigned exercises or given recommendations and tasks to engage in outside of sessions.
Areas that may be addressed through gender-affirming voice services
- Vocal hygiene: strategies and tips on ways to maintain vocal health and prevent strain
- Resonance and pitch: strategies and exercises for modifying how the voice is produced and shaped to a achieve a voice that is congruent with one’s gender identity
- Prosody and articulation: education and training on intonation, speech patterns, and rhythm
- Nonverbal: education and training on posture, positioning, and gestures
Post-treatment approach
The goal of Gender Affirming Voice Therapy is to provide the tools and training for clients to understand healthy vs. unhealthy voicing techniques, the different components involved in modifying voice and expressive communication, and exercises and techniques to achieve various voice and speech qualities. With this knowledge and new skill set, clients can feel confident in either maintaining or working further on their voice independently following their course of therapy.
Gender-affirming voice therapy can be a transformative experience for individuals seeking to align their voice with their gender identity. Through professional guidance and personalized treatment plans, clients can achieve their voice and communication goals while minimizing the risk of vocal strain or injury. This therapy enhances vocal health and empowers individuals to express themselves authentically and confidently across the gender spectrum.
For more information
If you or someone you know would like more information on gender-affirming voice therapy or have a question about your particular situation, please call the Therapy Care clinic at 207.744.1345 or send us an email.
