Voice therapy is a cornerstone of treatment for many voice disorders, and Mr Nick Hamilton regularly incorporates this approach into his comprehensive care plans at The London Clinic and One Welbeck. His fellowship training at the MGH Voice Center in Boston has given him extensive experience in coordinating voice therapy with medical treatment.
Understanding what happens during voice therapy can help you prepare for this important aspect of your voice recovery journey.
What is voice therapy and how does it work?
Voice therapy is a specialised form of treatment that focuses on modifying harmful vocal behaviours and teaching healthy voice production techniques. It works by addressing the underlying causes of voice problems rather than just treating symptoms.
Mr Hamilton works closely with qualified speech and language therapists who understand the complex anatomy and physiology of voice production. This collaborative approach ensures that your therapy complements any medical treatment you may be receiving.
The therapy process involves retraining your muscles and breathing patterns to produce voice more efficiently and safely, reducing strain on your vocal cords.
What happens during your first voice therapy session?
Your initial voice therapy session typically begins with a comprehensive assessment of your voice and speaking habits. The therapist will listen to your voice quality and may record you speaking to analyse specific characteristics.
You’ll discuss your voice use patterns, including your occupation, hobbies, and daily communication needs. This helps the therapist understand the demands placed on your voice and tailor treatment accordingly.
The therapist will also explain how your voice works, often using diagrams or models to help you understand the mechanics of voice production. This knowledge forms the foundation for the exercises and techniques you’ll learn.
What types of exercises are included in voice therapy?
Breathing exercises form a crucial part of voice therapy, as proper breath support is essential for healthy voice production. You’ll learn diaphragmatic breathing techniques that provide steady airflow for speaking and singing.
Vocal exercises may include gentle humming, lip trills, and sirens to improve vocal cord coordination and reduce tension. These exercises help your vocal cords vibrate more efficiently and with less effort.
Research shows that 80% of patients with voice disorders experience significant improvement through structured voice therapy programmes when combined with appropriate medical treatment.
How does Mr Hamilton coordinate voice therapy with medical treatment?
Mr Hamilton’s comprehensive approach means he works closely with speech therapists to ensure your voice therapy complements any medical interventions you may need. His research background in voice disorders helps him understand which patients will benefit most from therapy.
If you have structural problems like vocal cord nodules or polyps, voice therapy may be recommended both before and after any surgical treatment to optimise your outcomes.
His experience treating professional voice users means he understands the specific demands different careers place on the voice and can guide therapy accordingly.
What can you expect from voice therapy sessions?
Voice therapy sessions typically last 45-60 minutes and occur weekly initially, though frequency may vary depending on your specific needs and progress. Most people need between 6-12 sessions, though some may require longer programmes.
You’ll receive homework exercises to practice between sessions, as consistent daily practice is essential for success. The therapist will monitor your progress and adjust exercises as your voice improves.
Sessions are interactive and educational, helping you understand not just what to do, but why certain techniques work and how to apply them in real-life situations.
How do you know if voice therapy is working?
Progress in voice therapy is usually gradual but noticeable. You may first notice that your voice feels less tired after talking, or that you can speak for longer periods without strain.
Voice quality improvements often follow, with your voice sounding clearer, stronger, or more consistent. Many people report feeling more confident about their voice as therapy progresses.
The therapist will use objective measures to track your progress, including voice recordings and standardised assessments that Mr Hamilton can review during follow-up appointments.
What role does voice therapy play in preventing future problems?
Voice therapy doesn’t just treat current problems; it also teaches you skills to prevent future voice difficulties. You’ll learn to recognise early warning signs of vocal strain and techniques to manage them.
For professional voice users, therapy often includes specific strategies for managing vocal demands in your work environment, helping you maintain vocal health throughout your career.
Mr Hamilton’s patients often continue with occasional maintenance sessions to ensure long-term vocal health, particularly if they have demanding voice use requirements.
If you’re interested in exploring voice therapy as part of your treatment plan, you can discuss this option during a consultation with Mr Hamilton at The London Clinic or One Welbeck by calling 020 7034 6053.
