Speak slowly, progress quickly

Speak slowly, progress quickly

If you’ve ever worked with me, you know that I am always going on and on about the importance of practice in acquiring the standard American accent (or any accent, for that matter!) There is a lot of research supporting the how, what and why to practice, but today, I want to focus on a […]

Use it or Lose it; Use it and Improve it- Applications of Neuroplasticity to Accent Modification

Use it or Lose it; Use it and Improve it- Applications of Neuroplasticity to Accent Modification

Accent modification, like the acquisition of any new skill, consists of forming new pathways in the brain- the process known as neuroplasticity- our brain’s ability to learn and change in response to experience! In the particular instance of accent modification, the brain needs to be re-trained regarding relevant auditory input of speech sounds, intonation, and […]

What are the Benefits of Accent Reduction Training?

What are the Benefits of Accent Reduction Training?

There are many benefits to accent reduction training: increased confidence in your speech, an improved ability to communicate your ideas, and conversations that are no longer interrupted by “Could you please repeat that?”. The benefits of accent reduction do not end just with you though, they transfer over to the people that you are communicating with as […]

Should I Consider Accent Reduction?

Should I Consider Accent Reduction?

This is a question that I often get asked. The truth is that accent reduction is not right for everyone. If you do not travel outside of the region where your accent is the “standard accent” then chances are, people understand you perfectly and you do not have a problem communicating your thoughts and ideas. If, […]