Speech Therapy & Courses

The next speech therapy I had was in Southampton, where I was told they rarely had adults who stammer attending their department. I quickly realised this when, as part of the therapy, I was handed a children’s reading book—with about five words per page—to read aloud. You won’t be surprised to hear that I didn’t return.

As an adult, I then joined the McGuire Programme. My first point of contact was Anne Blight (who later founded Starfish). Back then, Anne was the Regional Director—so supportive and encouraging. The McGuire Programme teaches costal breathing—breathing.  

The difference in my speech during the course was really good—but it was hard work. I remember speaking with Anne about the effort it required, and she said, "It is hard work." I replied, "So is stammering." I don’t think people realise just how exhausting stammering can be.

Around a year after I joined the programme, Anne sadly left. To my complete surprise, Dave McGuire asked me to take over as Regional Director—essentially becoming the main point of contact for the UK and organising all the courses. I had never done anything like that before. I was simply given a few phone numbers of course members, some new enquiries, a computer—and off I went!

It was daunting but exciting, and what an achievement it was to set up everything—from running courses and handling enquiries to doing TV, newspaper, and radio interviews. I will always be grateful to Dave for seeing something in me and giving me that opportunity. I truly loved helping and supporting fellow stammerers, and I made lifelong friends along the way.

In 2003, I left the McGuire Programme to focus on being a mummy to my two daughters. Naturally, my speech suffered, as I was no longer part of the courses or the support network.

A New Approach—A Natural Discovery

In 2004, purely by chance, I came across an article in a magazine. It explained how a relaxation breathing technique had helped a cancer patient manage stress during a difficult time.

It made me wonder—if this gentler, calmer breathing technique could also help me control my speech?

So, I started practicing it. I combined it with other techniques and tools and quickly realised—it worked! It felt natural, calming, and I loved it. The added bonus? As I researched this type of breathing, I discovered all its incredible health benefits, making it even more appealing.

Wanting to see if this approach helped others too, I ran a pilot course. It was incredible to be back doing what I loved—helping fellow stammerers gain control over their speech.

I was all set to launch my courses in 2004… but due to unforeseen family circumstances, I had to put my plans on hold.

I tried again a couple of times, but life had other plans. The timing just wasn’t right.

A Detour—From Speech to Cakes!

While my girls were at school, I decided to start a children’s party food business—something I could do around my family. What started as a small venture quickly expanded into catering for buffets, parties, and eventually, bespoke cake-making.

I went from baking simple fairy cakes to creating artistic cupcakes and wedding cakes. It kept me busy and allowed me to work around my children, but throughout this time, I never stopped supporting fellow stammerers. There was always someone I was helping and supporting, always with the plan to start my own courses.

I did one-to-one sessions with friends I had met over the years—fellow stammerers who wanted support. This never stopped being my passion.

As my cake business grew (and even won awards!), I started to notice something… I wasn’t talking as much as I liked. Cake-making is a very solitary business—not ideal for someone who needs to talk to keep their speech strong.

Meanwhile, my girls had grown up into incredible young women, achieving amazing things (proud mother alert!).

I knew it was time.

Finally—Bringing Changes to Life

Running my cake business meant I was constantly in the kitchen, alone. (Except for talking to myself, of course! 😊). I began taking time off, spacing out my cake orders to give myself room to focus on my real passion.

I started talking more—connecting with family, friends, and even some lovely random strangers. This time enabled me to finally get my courses up and running.

To strengthen my knowledge, I also completed a diploma in Professional Relaxation Therapy—which perfectly complements the breathing technique I now teach. This has been such a valuable tool, both for myself and for the Changes courses.

After many years of my dream being on the back burner, the time was finally right. And so, Changes was launched.

As I’ve mentioned before — I’m not a speech therapist. I am a stammerer who has learned to control my speech using my Changes Technique. This is not a cure, as we know there is no known cure for stammering. Of course, I can still have the occasional hiccup or stumble — I am a stammerer, controlling my speech using the Changes Technique. I’m passionate about sharing my technique with fellow stammerers, empowering them to take control of their own speech and gain confidence.

I have years of experience—teaching on courses, working one-to-one, coaching, and supporting fellow stammerers. Alongside that, I teach relaxation therapy, which has been invaluable.

I cannot wait to welcome you onto one of my courses and help you on your journey.

Love what you do – Do what you love

Heidi