Accent modification, or accent training, is designed to help individuals change their speech patterns to sound more like native speakers of a particular language or dialect. This helps to enhance communication skills, increase confidence in speaking, improve comprehension by others, and better integration into professional and social environments where clear communication is essential. Accent modification aims to deploy clear speech when needed while honoring the native culture and language.

Cultural differences can create tension when communicating with others who are not familiar with cultural differences. This can be exasperated at work. These sessions focus on helping the minority and majority culture understand each other and provide ways to talk about differences in a way that allows all cultures to be respected.

Speech-language pathologists are experts in all modes of communication. During these sessions, the SLP will work with you to determine any barriers that need to be tackled for more effective communication at work and with the individuals most important to you. This involves analyzing communication patterns and determining strategies that can be easily deployed.

Preparing and delivering a presentation can be overwhelming. Harmony’s presentation skills training includes public speaking techniques, working on the visual aids for the presentation, structuring ideas effectively, managing nerves, helping to receive constructive feedback, and improving delivery style by examining the tone, pace, and body language used when presenting. This can be a skill that is targeted each week, or in a concentrated period of time when preparing for a big presentation.

After a day of talking, teaching, or coaching, a hoarse voice could mean you are misusing your vocal cords. This could lead to vocal nodules that typically require surgical removal (think Adele, Sam Smith, Justin Timberlake). A speech pathologist can help you learn to bring your voice forward and optimize tone, avoiding harsh sounds and vocal cord damage.

Communication is interactive, and some people need help making eye contact, knowing when to speak, how to avoid being interrupted, what gestures are appropriate, and how to have your words make an impact. These skills can be targeted for speaking one-on-one with others or presenting your ideas. This can be helpful when engaging with teammates or clients.

Many of us have developed years of bad habits that can be buttoned up. We may want to work together if you speak too quickly, mumble too much, have difficulty projecting your voice, or use inflection that makes you sound like you’re asking for permission. This could also be relevant if you are worried you sound unsure. Conversely, you could be concerned you sound aggressive and arrogant.

We use breathwork to help you have control when you are speaking to someone. If you're not breathing correctly, you may be inadvertently doing things that make you more nervous. This involves examining your workplace positioning, discussing anatomy, and discussing the best way to handle triggering events.