accent modification
advanced english coaching
WHAT IS english accent modification coaching?
OUR ENGLISH COMMUNICATION COACHING PROGRAMS ARE DESIGNED TO TAKE YOUR CURRENT ENGLISH SKILLS TO THE NEXT LEVEL. WE PRIMARILY FOCUS ON ADVANCED PRONUNCIATION TECHNIQUES TO HELP CLIENTS SOUND MORE FLUENT AND NATURAL WHEN SPEAKING. WE ALSO ADDRESS LANGUAGE SKILLS ON AN INDIVIDUAL BASIS; HOWEVER, CLIENTS SHOULD ALREADY HAVE A STRONG COMMAND OF ENGLISH BEFORE COMPLETING OUR PROGRAMS. PROGRAMS ARE PROVIDED AT THREE LEVELS, DEPENDING ON THE CLIENT'S UNIQUE NEEDS: 12 HOUR, 24 HOUR, AND 48 HOUR.
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 speakers 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.
HOW CAN ENGLISH accent modification coaching HELP?
SPEECH-LANGUAGE PATHOLOGISTS MAY PROVIDE ELECTIVE SERVICES TO HELP ADULTS INTERESTED IN MODIFYING THEIR ACCENT AND ADVANCING THEIR ENGLISH LANGUAGE SKILLS
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.
What accent modification programs do you offer at cloudspeech?
Our Accent Modification programs offer structured, cost-effective solutions to help adults enhance their advanced English communication skills. Each program includes personalized coaching, virtual materials for class and self-study, and an initial evaluation session to develop individual goals and a coaching plan (written report provided upon request for additional fee).
12-Hour Package / Low Intensity: $2,400 – 1 session per week (3-month plan)
24-Hour Package / Moderate Intensity: $4,320 – 2 sessions per week (3-month plan)
48-Hour Package / High Intensity: $7,680 – 2 sessions per week (6-month plan)
These packages are ideal for anyone looking to improve pronunciation, fluency, and overall English communication for both personal and professional purposes.