Specialist Voice Therapy

Claire Williamson Therapy is a speech and language therapy service for adults and children with voice disorders and children with speech, language and communication needs

Thank you for taking the first step.

Seeking voice therapy can be a worrying time. Our voice is deeply personal to us. But you are not alone and Claire at CWT can talk you through the whole process and help you towards your personal goals for better vocal health.

Treatment that works for you

Assessment and Therapy can be delivered online which is an effective and convenient way for patients to access services.  Alternatively we have a clinic space in Bristol. If you are experiencing difficulties with your voice then voice therapy might be helpful. Claire can discuss whether voice therapy might be beneficial for you.

Voice difficulties we can help with

An assessment from Ear, Nose and Throat (ENT) will be needed prior to beginning speech therapy with us. If you have not got this yet, Claire can discuss this with you during your initial consultation.

  • Voice changes such as roughness, strain and tired voice can be caused by muscle tension dysphonia (MDT). It can sometimes follow an episode of upper respiratory tract infection or a period of high vocal demand where excessive muscle tension is occurring in or around the larynx. Once MDT is accurately diagnosed then it can be improved with voice therapy

  • Nodules are benign bilateral lesions on the vocal folds. Voice difficulties such as breathiness, roughness and intermittent voice may be caused by vocal fold nodules. They can be identified after examination with ENT. Nodules can be improved with voice therapy and advice

  • A thorough examination by ENT can identify vocal fold palsy. Unilateral (one sided) paralysis is when one vocal fold isn’t moving as much or at all. Bilateral (both sides) paralysis is when both folds aren’t moving together as much or at all.

  • A dysphonic voice can be described as hoarse, rough, raspy, strained and/or weak. Sometimes there might be pain with your speaking or singing and difficulty projecting the voice. Some of the reasons for the dysphonia may have already been described in the list above.

  • Training can be provided and tailored for organisations that may benefit from training in vocal health and how to look our voices in order to prevent voice disorders in the workplace

“Vocal therapy for me was life changing. I was at drama school and thought I would have to leave because of my voice difficulties. Now I know what to watch out for, I’ve been free of any issues for years”

— Theatre actor and Keynote presenter

 FAQs

  • Speech and Language Therapists are allied health professionals who provide assessment, treatment and support to adults and children with communication difficulties. Speech and Language Therapists need to be registered with the Health Care and Professionals council (HCPC).

  • Absolutely. You are entitled to access the NHS service even if you are also seeing an independent therapist. We can work with you prior to NHS support, during and after. We’re happy to liaise with your NHS Speech and Language therapist with your consent.

  • Some patients may have treatment covered by the private medical insurance. Please check your eligibility with your insurer and let me know at time of booking.

  • One of the advantages of seeking private Speech and Language therapy may mean that you can be seen quicker. Currently I can see you as soon as convenient for you which can discussed in more detail following the free 15 minute telephone consultation.

  • We do understand that things come up and you might need to cancel your appointment. If you need to cancel your appointment then 24 hours notice is needed prior to the appointment. Sessions cancelled within the 24 hours will be charged at 50% of the session fee.

  • Please see the ‘services’ page of the website for further details of current pricing. A 50% deposit will be required at the time of booking, the remainder will be due at the time of your appointment. An invoice will be emailed to you at the time of booking. Preferred method of payment is via bank transfer, details of which will be included on your invoice.

Begin your journey to vocal health

Claire is a trusted member of the Royal College of Speech and Language Therapists, Healthcare Professional Council and the Association of Speech and Language Therapists in Independent Practice.