1. Why do I have an accent?

It can be frustrating to still deal with a strong accent holding you back professionally even after you have mastered the English language. You might be wondering why your accent remains despite language proficiency or long-term residency in North America.

That’s because your first language shapes your pronunciation and prosodic features in the language you’re learning. Even fluent English speakers are still influenced by the patterns of their native language, creating an accent. Unlearning such fundamental habits requires conscious practice and intervention in the form of accent reduction therapy. For a more detailed explanation, read this blog post.

2. Why are speech-language pathologists specialists in accent reduction or modification?

Speech-language pathologists (SLPs) are specially trained professionals who have mastered the knowledge of language acquisition, articulation, and anatomy and physiology of the speech and hearing mechanism. SLPs are experts in verbal and non-verbal communication, voice, resonance, as well as speech prosody. SLPs are postgraduate-level professionals who use scientifically proven speech therapy techniques to provide accent modification programs that really work.

3. What is the difference between accent reduction, accent modification, and accent training?

If you’re looking to reduce or change your accent, you might hear these various terms used. If you’re wondering about the distinctions between these programs, the answer is that there really isn’t one. “Accent reduction,” “Accent modification,” and “accent training” are simply different terms for essentially the same process.

These terms refer to a process for modification of accents, usually aiming to achieve native-like articulation, word stress, and prosody. No matter what term is used, all these programs can help you achieve your accent goals.

4. How much can I improve?

The degree of improvement that a client can achieve depends on a wide variety of factors, including the strength of your current accent, English fluency, and individual speaking style. For a detailed explanation, refer to this blog post.

While there is no precise way to know how much you will improve, you can make sure that you get as much improvement out of the program as possible for you. The secret to optimized accent improvement is the same secret to mastering any set of skills: practice. Individuals who work diligently and consistently with therapists and on their own see the best results.

If you’re truly determined to improve your life and career through accent reduction, then all you need is a commitment to working hard and a full investment in the program with our accent reduction special.

5. How long does it take to reduce my accent?

The great thing about an individualized accent reduction program is that it allows you to work at your own pace. The length of time it takes a given person to reduce their accent will vary and depends largely on your end goal, and the amount of time you spend practising. Some people prefer to work harder over a shorter period of time. Others might prefer a longer program with more flexibility in hours spent practising in sessions. For a more detailed explanation, I invite you to read this blog post.

Whatever your learning style, there is a way to make accent reduction a success for you.

6. Do you help with both American and British accents?

I work help individuals with their Standard North American Accent, which is an accent that is distinctively Norther American, but is devoid of any regional or socio-economical variations. 

For a British accent, I recommend Sonya Ross. 

If you’re interested to know the subtle differences between American and Canadian accents, refer to this blog post. 

Whichever accent you choose to work on, remember that the key is to be understood by those around you. If you want to develop a more North American accent, you can take the first step today by booking complimentary consulation.