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This episode of BLA Connections A Clear Voice, hosted by Natalie Watson, features a follow-up conversation with Jackie Gartner-Schmidt after her keynote presentation at the British Laryngological Association (BLA) Conference 2025. Dr Gartner-Schmidt discusses Conversation Training Therapy (CTT), an approach that begins with everyday conversation rather than traditional vocal drills. The focus is on addressing the vocal behaviours patients experience in daily life, such as hoarseness or vocal fatigue, rather than treating diagnoses in isolation.

During the discussion, Dr Gartner-Schmidt explains the research origins of CTT, its links to clear speech and audiology, and why it can lead to faster and more meaningful carryover into real-world communication. She outlines who is most suitable for the approach, when alternative therapies are more appropriate, and highlights the importance of sensory awareness and negative practice in helping patients maintain efficient voice use over time.

Three main takeaways

1. Voice therapy targets behaviours, not labels
   CTT focuses on changing inefficient vocal behaviours that can occur across different diagnoses.
2. Starting with conversation supports carryover
   Using real speech from the outset helps patients apply changes more quickly and consistently in daily life.
3. Negative practice strengthens self-management
   Learning to move between inefficient and efficient voice use improves awareness, confidence, and long-term outcomes.

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