English
Communication
Coaching
advanced accent and language training adults
English
Communication
Coaching
advanced accent and language training adults
Accent modification is an elective service sought by individuals who want to change or modify their speech patterns as adults. An individual typically seeks accent modification services because others have difficulty understanding what that person is communicating, or they wish to increase their English naturalness for such reasons as job promotions, improved social interaction with native English speakers, and so forth.
It is important to understand that accents are a natural part of spoken languages. When we speak a foreign language it may be evident that we are not native speakers because we do not pronounce the sounds as a native speaker would. This is normal! With that said, sometimes a person’s pronunciation may be too far off and people have a hard time understanding them. It isn't just about the accent when we talk about naturalness. Depending on the person's first language and culture, they may exhibit different stress patterns when speaking, different tones, and even different body language! All of these factors can impact the message sent to the native English speaking communication partner. For example, some cultures use a low even stress pattern when speaking, which may come across as dry or impolite to a native English speaker who is not familiar with that person's foreign language and culture (we call this a miscommunication!). Even seemingly small consistent error patterns, like leaving out articles (a, an, the) or misconjugating verbs can distract the native English speaking listener, and reduce the effectiveness of the speaker’s message. These are all areas that we address in our coaching programs, taking a holistic approach to help the client adopt English speaking skills that help them assimilate best to the English speaking world. Regardless of why an individual is interested in accent modification it must be noted that it is not a communication disorder and does not require remediation. It is a personal choice based on personal goals.
Any previously learned languages that the client has learned should be considered, as this may have an impact on the speech errors the client is producing in English. Training is often recommended in more intensive programs with frequent home practice recommendations. A speech therapist will work with the client on how to pronounce sounds in English proficiently, then how to carry over those skills to more complex language. Word and phrasal stress will be carefully addressed. Training may also include other factors that contribute to naturalness, such as posture, breath support for speech, and speaking volume. During the evaluation process the client's language level will be assessed to create individualized goals and learning plans that address their specific needs. Our programs our customized for each client.
We understand that there are multiple reasons to want to improve your accent in a foreign language and we want our clients to feel confident with their speaking skills after working with us.
Our English Communication Coaching programs consider the whole client and their unique language background and speech characteristics. We offer three levels for our programs (15 hour, 25 hour and 40 hour) in order to provide the right amount of support needed. All programs are individualized based on an analysis of each client's specific speech and language error patterns. All programs include easy to access home study materials to practice independently in between direct coaching sessions, which is the best way for clients to develop independence and generalize skills from classes.
Teletherapy makes it easy for clients to attend their sessions, whether in their downtown office or cozy space at home, so that they can stay consistent with practice and make faster progress.
Mastering a different language usually takes some time, and the age at which the person begins studying and speaking that language makes a difference in how natural their accent emerges in the second or third languages. The younger developing brain is connecting fast and imitates the motor plans more easily for multiple languages, which is why people who learned a second language growing up often sound native in both language. When we study languages as adults, it may require extra focus and practice. But this repetition of correct practice with specialized coaching will build new brain pathways, changing the way a person speaks. As this changes, and we look at posture, breath, body language and energy, then we consider how you carry and present yourself in English. Your English skills will improve along with the overall improved version of you. (like a 2.0 self).
When we speak another language well, with clarity and confidence, doors will open. Improving your English accent and speaking confidence can enhance communication, making it easier for others to understand you. It may also boost your confidence, reduce misunderstandings, and improve overall language fluency. A clear accent can be beneficial in professional and social context.
Yes! We accept international clients from around the globe for our virtual programs. You can join us from anywhere you have a good internet connection, which means you can keep your momentum with classes even if you travel often for business, or spend most of the day at your office. Join us where and when it makes sense for you, and don't miss a beat!
Your journey at CloudSpeech will begin with a detailed evaluation of your English. Depending on your current mastery of grammar and language, your native language background, and how many different sound patterns need to be shaped, your SLP coach will recommend one our three programs: 15-hours, 25-hours, 40-hour.
Every individual client receives a personalized coaching plan that follows an individualized curriculum to address their specific needs.
All students will have full access to the digital learning materials that cover everything! However, it's not usually necessary to address everything for every student. Your coach will work on the specific goals that you need support with, and assign home practice assignments that are related specifically to those goals.
All assignments and class notes are organized in the cloud so you can easily access them anytime, from anywhere, just by clicking the direct link in your personalized assignment doc.
Homework assignments are actually an important part of our program design. This is because the goal of English accent training is to independently produce sounds correctly when you're speaking out in the real world. If you never practice by yourself and learn to listen to your own pronunciation to self-correct, following the detailed instructions you've learned in class, then you may not generalize your new skills to everyday speech. Remember, all you have to do is click on your practice materials link to access your home practice modules.
"As above, So below"
Expand your world by mirroring your English skills with your native language skills.
Be confident and access both worlds.