
Alida Engel, CCC-SLP, BCS-SCF*
Alida Engel
Speech and Language Pathologist
Board Certified Specialist in Fluency
for Adults and Children
- Providing in-office & teletherapy
- Licensed in Connecticut and Massachusetts.
- Insurance Accepted: Blue Cross-Blue Shield
Learn about
SpeechEasy For
People Who Stutter

We can help you with

Stuttering and Cluttering

Gender Identity Affirming Voice Coaching
Since 2007
We live in a time when varying gender identities are more widely accepted, but that does not eliminate the personal… Read More

Articulation Disorders
Often articulation errors in older children and adults persist from their younger… Read More

Conversation Skills
Effective conversation is important in work, education, and social life… Read More
"R" in the Car
10 fun Sing along Songs to Practice The “R” Sound
Click Below to Listen to Songs
- Alida's Tips on teaching children to say "R"
- Video Instructions on Making the "R" (4 parts)
- Judith Maginnis Kuster's Article "Gimme an R": Cheers for Treatment Resources
- Suzanne Boyce, 2000 JASA Conference Article Acoustic Modeling of American English /r/ pdf file
- Lynn Williams and Ken Bleile, "Schwa [r] Phono- -logical Intervention: It's About Time" pdf file
- Be patient. Learning to sing along takes repeated listening.
- Work at mastering one or two words at a time.
- Pick your favorites - you don't have to learn it all.
- Adults should exaggerate the R as they sing along.
Testimonials

“Thank you so much for your sensitivity, wisdom, and expert care of our [daughter]. The confidence you helped her achieve in her speech is of immeasurable importance in her life.”
A. & A. H., parents

Thank you so much for your sensitivity, wisdom, and expert care of our [daughter]. The confidence you helped her achieve in her speech is of immeasurable importance in her life.
A. & A. H., parents

Alida Engel, CCC-SLP, BCS-SCF* helped my voice to become more feminine (I’m a M to F person.), and I’ve become more confident in social situations. It was definitely a positive experience. I was never pushed to do anything which made me uncomfortable, but my comfort zone was expanded so I could take things on when I was ready. I would recommend the Center to others. My limits were respected, but I wasn’t allowed to hold myself back out of fear so I made progress. Alida Engel, CCC-SLP, BCS-SCF* was always supportive. I felt comfortable talking to her about anything. I’m very grateful for the huge impact she’s had on my life.
A., Transgendering Patient, New Haven

Alida Engel, CCC-SLP, BCS-SCF* helped my voice to become more feminine (I’m an M to F person.), and I’ve become more confident in social situations. It was definitely a positive experience. I was never pushed to do anything which made me uncomfortable, but my comfort zone was expanded so I could take things on when I was ready. I would recommend the Center to others. My limits were respected but I wasn’t allowed to hold myself back out of fear so I made progress. Alida Engel, CCC-SLP, BCS-SCF* was always supportive. I felt comfortable talking to her about anything. I’m very grateful for the huge impact she ‘s had on my life.
A., Transgendering Patient, New Haven, 2013

Alida Engel, CCC-SLP, BCS-SCF*, you have such a calming effect on me, and subsequently on my voice. I never thought you could improve me but you have! Thank you, thank you, thank you!
Adult Voice Client

“Alida Engel, CCC-SLP, BCS-SCF*’s persistent attention to G’s unique needs, her loving and firm behavior modification, her strenuous review, and her professional evaluations — all with parental involvement factored in — portray a therapist who sincerely believes in the human spirit: ‘Alida-Engelism.’ As our family matures, we continue to support and develop G’s progress as we celebrate the beauty of being human. Thank you, Alida Engel, CCC-SLP, BCS-SCF*!”
Anne L., Parent

After having trouble with my R’s for years, as an adult I finally decided to attempt to correct my speech. Working with Alida Engel, CCC-SLP, BCS-SCF* reinstalled my confidence in myself about a speech problem that had me avoiding most words and interaction with new people. I used her self-created “R in the Car” CD. Even though it was geared toward children it helped me eliminate my “R” problem and speak with confidence again. I am indebted to Alida Engel, CCC-SLP, BCS-SCF* for her warm, therapeutic and effective speech therapy, it literally change my life.
Anonymous

“My stuttering has become much less severe and I’ve learned to manage it more effectively. I’m not afraid to speak up and participate in discussions like in the past.
“My treatment exceeded my expectations. I learned more than just techniques to manage stuttering, but how to reduce the anxiety and negative emotional impact it has.
“Alida Engel, CCC-SLP, BCS-SCF* acted as a guide/coach, leading me up the path to reaching my speech goals. She is a fantastic therapist and wonderful person. The Center genuinely cares for its patients. It’s always a pleasure to interact with them.”
B. S.

Our 6 year old daughter was having articulation issues. Alida Engel, CCC-SLP, BCS-SCF* provided a thorough initial assessment and clearly explained her treatment approach and anticipated scope, which was very reasonable, and was met. She and her office partner, Gene, were professional and friendly, and communication was always very open and easy. Alida Engel, CCC-SLP, BCS-SCF* excelled at making the sessions enjoyable and productive for my daughter by encouraging her active participation without making her feel uncomfortable or self-conscious. My daughter really enjoyed her time with Alida Engel, CCC-SLP, BCS-SCF*, understood why she was there, and was happily self-motivated to practice on her own outside of the sessions. We were also provided with useful materials for suggested home practice. Within a fairly short period of time, clear progress was made. We highly recommend The Center for Speech and Learning.
B.A., Mom

My stuttering has become much less severe and I’ve learned to manage it more effectively. I’m not afraid to speak up and participate in discussions like in the past.
My treatment exceeded my expectations. I learned more than just techniques to manage stuttering, but how to reduce the anxiety and negative emotional impact it has.
Alida Engel, CCC-SLP, BCS-SCF* acted as a guide/coach, leading me up the path to reaching my speech goals. She is a fantastic therapist and wonderful person. The Center genuinely cares for its patients. It’s always a pleasure to interact with them.
Brian S.

“I cannot thank you enough for all you have done to help E. with his speech development. In a few short months I have seen him go from a frustrated little guy with limited vocabulary to a more confident and at-ease toddler who is interested in expressing himself verbally.”
C.J., Parent

I have been going to Alida Engel, CCC-SLP, BCS-SCF* for a little under a year for speech help and have seen major improvement in my speech. Alida Engel, CCC-SLP, BCS-SCF* taught me not to be ashamed of my stuttering — for me the biggest challenge because in the sixteen years I have been here I never talked about it before. … I am so glad I decided to start speech. It has helped me tremendously with my talking and with my everyday life.
Donald M., Teenager

There’s not a child in the world that wouldn’t benefit from a talk with Alida Engel, CCC-SLP, BCS-SCF*. Thank you for a most imaginative approach, because that’s what J– responded to. She has blossomed this year in so many ways. She not only speaks clearly, but she enjoys being heard. Thank you for thinking outside the box. All the best.
G & R, Parents

I immigrated to the United States as a late teen, and I’ve always struggled with my accent. It has adversely affected both my professional and personal life. For a while, I thought speaking with an accent is just going to be a part of my life and there was not much I could do about it. This changed after I met Alida Engel, CCC-SLP, BCS-SCF*. Her lessons really work! I am already noticing a big difference only two months into our program. More importantly, Alida Engel, CCC-SLP, BCS-SCF* makes me feel that she really cares about me and she is on my side. During the week when we are not meeting, Alida Engel, CCC-SLP, BCS-SCF* takes time to listen to my voice recordings and gives me feedback/encouragement. She makes me feel that I am not doing this by myself because she gives me courage and motivation to confront the negative feelings that came from speaking with an accent. I feel empowered, and I believe I can drastically improve my speech. For anyone who is not a native English speaker, I encourage you to meet Alida Engel, CCC-SLP, BCS-SCF*. It will change your life.
G.

Alida has provided speech therapy services for my daughter, Jennie, for one year. Jennie’s progress has astounded us, and I would highly recommend Alida for anyone young or old in need of speech and language services. Both her innovative techniques and relationship building skills have paved the way for a most successful outcome for Jennie.
G.M., Parent (From a letter to Jennie’s Pediatrician.)

I want to thank you so much. You came into my life to rescue me and my Voice!!”
H. P., Voice Client

I want to thank you so much. You came into my life to rescue me and my Voice!!
Halley P., Voice Client

First of all, I loved meeting you as a person! You welcomed me warmly and put me at ease. I was able to learn so much about “voice,” and what I could do to have a lovely speaking voice.
You have helped me enormously and I will think of you often with happy thoughts.
J.B., Adult Male Patient

Bill’s autistic non-verbalness is a thing of the past now, thanks to the transformative means of Alida Engel, CCC-SLP, BCS-SCF*’s therapy sessions. After several years of sessions with Alida Engel, CCC-SLP, BCS-SCF*, Bill can interact socially and communicate his basic needs. He has learned self confidence. Our family and friends appreciate his charm. The joy we now feel in his company surpasses the few times when we felt the bitter struggle to overcome his disability. Alida Engel, CCC-SLP, BCS-SCF*’s persistent attention to his unique needs, her loving and firm behavior modification, her strenuous review, and her professional evaluations, all with parental involvement factored in, portray a therapist who sincerely believes in the human spirit: “Alida-Engelism.” As our family matures, we continue to support and develop Bill’s progress as we celebrate the beauty of being human. Thank you, Alida Engel, CCC-SLP, BCS-SCF*!
Jane L., Parent

“B’s autistic non-verbalness is a thing of the past now, thanks to the transformative means of Alida Engel, CCC-SLP, BCS-SCF*’s therapy sessions. After several years of sessions with Alida Engel, CCC-SLP, BCS-SCF*, B can interact socially and communicate his basic needs. He has learned self confidence. Our family and friends appreciate his charm. The joy we now feel in his company surpasses the few times when we felt the bitter struggle to overcome his disability. Alida Engel, CCC-SLP, BCS-SCF*’s persistent attention to his unique needs, her loving and firm behavior modification, her strenuous review, and her professional evaluations, all with parental involvement factored in, portray a therapist who sincerely believes in the human spirit: “Alida-Engelism.” As our family matures, we continue to support and develop B’s progress as we celebrate the beauty of being human. Thank you, Alida Engel, CCC-SLP, BCS-SCF*!”
Jane L., Parent

“I’ve always loved your creative energy, and you’ve taught me a lot about how to work better with my own kids. You are a terrific teacher and therapist.”
Jane, Parent

Alida Engel, CCC-SLP, BCS-SCF*, you have such a calming effect on me, and subsequently on my voice. I never thought you could improve me but you have! Thank you, thank you, thank you!!
L. J., Adult Voice Client

As the mother of a trans-teenager, I truly can’t say enough about Alida Engel, CCC-SLP, BCS-SCF*’s services. Her sensitivity to the unique complexities of working with a young person transitioning from male to female informed every aspect of the therapeutic experience, from creating a safe and comfortable space to providing invaluable guidance in the form of concrete exercises and increased vocal awareness. In working with Alida Engel, CCC-SLP, BCS-SCF*, my daughter was able to find her true voice and with that, a newfound self-assurance she will certainly carry with her in all social situations going forward.
L.S., Mom

Alida, you are so patient and wonderful! Not only have you helped my son with fluency, but you also helped him over all as a person! With your guidance, teaching, and support, our whole family has grown and learned to communicate better. I can’t thank you enough. Love,
Laura L., Parent

Since you introduced Jake to Therapeutic Listening, I have noticed drastic changes in his attention span, attention to details, and his ability to stay on task. He is much more receptive to trying to say more words on his own, and doesn’t pitch a fit when we prompt him.
Margaret W., Parent

Alida Engel, CCC-SLP, BCS-SCF*, thank you always for your advice. It always works – you are magical.
Maria.F., Patient’s Mom

“[My son] has improved social speech skills. Alida Engel, CCC-SLP, BCS-SCF*’s treatment went above and beyond our expectations. We have learned so many approaches to helping [him] speak. Our feelings and privacy were absolutely respected by the Center. It always felt like a safe and supportive space. I felt very much involved in R’s treatment by receiving updates on goals, opportunities to ask questions, and feedback on progress. This is an excellent place for people who need help with speech, and for their families.”
N.B., Mom

[My son] has improved social speech skills. Alida Engel, CCC-SLP, BCS-SCF*’s treatment went above and beyond our expectations. We have learned so many approaches to helping [him] speak. Our feelings and privacy were absolutely respected by the Center. It always felt like a safe and supportive space. I felt very much involved in R’s treatment by receiving updates on goals, opportunities to ask questions, and feedback on progress. This is an excellent place for people who need help with speech, and for their families.
N.B., Mom

“I am . . . an eighteen-year-old who stutters. My time spent in speech therapy with Alida Engel, CCC-SLP, BCS-SCF* greatly improved my fluency. Before starting speech therapy, my stuttering was between moderate and severe. After exploring several speaking techniques, Alida Engel, CCC-SLP, BCS-SCF* and I decided that prolonged speech was the best option to improve my fluency. That technique is part of the Camperdown Program.
“On the Camperdown scale of one to eight, my stuttering was initially at a level between six and seven. Today, it has dropped to between one and two. This significant progress was due to the many different aspects of Alida Engel, CCC-SLP, BCS-SCF*’s therapy process. Not only does she explore speaking techniques, but she also addresses factors such as causes, and the emotional and behavioral effects of stuttering.
“Most meaningful, she helped me change my attitude about stuttering altogether. I have learned that one does not have to believe in the negative thoughts that often occur in the mind of a stutterer. I am no longer afraid to stutter, and the confidence this gives, I believe, was a major factor in helping me to become more fluent.
“Alida Engel, CCC-SLP, BCS-SCF* and I have also integrated cognitive-behavioral therapy into the process, which helps me identify and address the anxieties that occur in different speaking situations. Working on a hierarchy, from less to more stressful situations, my social anxiety decreases as I become more successful in using prolonged speech in each one.
“Alida Engel, CCC-SLP, BCS-SCF* . . . has helped me to become a more fluent speaker and a more confident person. I feel that stuttering no longer defines me; my time spent with Alida Engel, CCC-SLP, BCS-SCF* has strengthened the other aspects of who I am. I thank her for helping me to become a happier and more confident individual.”
P.G.

“[Our son] has improved so well with his speech and his behavior. You have given me a way to look into how to deal with him and his speech.”
Parent

You are wonderful! You have helped Robert so much, and not just with his speech. Thank you so much for your patience and understanding. You even know when to tell mom to “Go for a little walk.” (Mom put a smiley face here.) We were blessed to have found you. Thank you.
R & M, Parents

“When T. began with you some six months ago she had been stuttering badly for … a year. Our pediatrician referred us to the “free” speech therapy in the schools. Being skeptical of the idea of a free lunch, I did my own research. I learned of the Lidcombe program and found the Center for Speech and Learning. The Lidcombe Program was the right choice for us, but I’m convinced that this is mostly due to your enviable abilities in teaching it to us, T’s parents, and in motivating her – until recently a very shy little girl – to participate. This she has done with great enthusiasm and joy.
As she progressed, we saw her open up, and her ‘blossoming’ was a source of great happiness and joy for all of us, no doubt drawing us even closer as a family. In the beginning she was ashamed of how she spoke, but now she is clearly proud. Your sure touch in helping us to build her self-confidence was the primary cause of this transformation.
I feel very fortunate not to have gone the traditional speech therapy route offered for “free” in the schools. … I feel we found a great bargain, not to mention a blessing, in your care.
R.D., parent

“God sent me a beautiful son. This wonderful boy struggled to develop and I wondered “Why?” . . . But God [sent] us . . . very special people to help us with our very special son . . . like Alida Engel, CCC-SLP, BCS-SCF*. We have watched our son grow and develop in ways we were not sure he could, or would. We’d like to say thank you to Alida Engel, CCC-SLP, BCS-SCF* for being one of those great humans who have not only helped our son, but helped us help our son.”
S. & M.C. , Parents

“Alida Engel, CCC-SLP, BCS-SCF*, You are such a patient and wonderful person! Not only have you helped my son with fluency, but also helped him overall as a person. . . . I can’t thank you enough.”
S.L., Parent

Our weekly trips to you have been wonderful. I’ve always loved your creative energy, and you’ve taught me a lot about how to work better with my own kids. You are a terrific teacher and therapist, and we are all going to miss you sorely when we move. Thank you so much for everything you taught our kids.
The C. Family

Thank you so much. L. is now able to control his stutter on his own, and we are able to provide him with the support he needs when he struggles.
The V. Family

“Alida Engel, CCC-SLP, BCS-SCF* helped my voice to become more feminine (I’m a M to F person.), and I’ve become more confident in social situations. It was definitely a positive experience. I was never pushed to do anything which made me uncomfortable, but my comfort zone was expanded so I could take things on when I was ready. I would recommend the Center to others. My limits were respected, but I wasn’t allowed to hold myself back out of fear so I made progress. Alida Engel, CCC-SLP, BCS-SCF* was always supportive. I felt comfortable talking to her about anything. I’m very grateful for the huge impact she’s had on my life.”
Transgendering Patient, New Haven

What a wonderful gift God has given to us: You! The most wonderful things have happened to us since you came into our lives. Our little girl has blossomed and is responding wonderfully to your teachings. Her eyes are brighter and her confidence has mushroomed. In your motherly, loving, and professional manner, you have transformed her from a child that was lost into an eager and curious person. I look forward to our visits, and I must say underneath your firmness F– recognized the benefit of your persistence and enjoys her new-found understanding. S– and I cannot express our heartfelt thanks and our gratitude to you adequately enough. What you have done for our child we will never forget. God bless you. Gratefully,
V. & S. M. (Parents)

“Dear Alida Engel, CCC-SLP, BCS-SCF*, What a wonderful gift God has given to us. You! The most wonderful things have happened to us since you came into our lives. Our little girl, F., has blossomed and is responding wonderfully to your teachings. Her eyes are brighter and her confidence has mushroomed. In your motherly, loving, and professional manner you have transformed her from a child that was lost into an eager and curious person.
“I look forward to our visits, and I must say, underneath your firmness F. recognizes the benefit of your persistence and enjoys her new found understanding.
“[We] cannot express our heartfelt thanks and our gratitude to you adequately enough. What you have done for our child we will never forget.”
V.M., Parent

“My stuttering has become much less severe and I’ve learned to manage it more effectively. I’m not afraid to speak up and participate in discussions like in the past.
“My treatment exceeded my expectations. I learned more than just techniques to manage stuttering, but how to reduce the anxiety and negative emotional impact it has.
“Alida Engel, CCC-SLP, BCS-SCF* acted as a guide/coach, leading me up the path to reaching my speech goals. She is a fantastic therapist and wonderful person. The Center genuinely cares for its patients. It’s always a pleasure to interact with them.”
B. S.

I have been going to Alida Engel, CCC-SLP, BCS-SCF* for a little under a year for speech help and have seen major improvement in my speech. Alida Engel, CCC-SLP, BCS-SCF* taught me not to be ashamed of my stuttering — for me the biggest challenge because in the sixteen years I have been here I never talked about it before. … I am so glad I decided to start speech. It has helped me tremendously with my talking and with my everyday life.
Donald M., Teenager

“I am . . . an eighteen-year-old who stutters. My time spent in speech therapy with Alida Engel, CCC-SLP, BCS-SCF* greatly improved my fluency. Before starting speech therapy, my stuttering was between moderate and severe. After exploring several speaking techniques, Alida Engel, CCC-SLP, BCS-SCF* and I decided that prolonged speech was the best option to improve my fluency. That technique is part of the Camperdown Program.
“On the Camperdown scale of one to eight, my stuttering was initially at a level between six and seven. Today, it has dropped to between one and two. This significant progress was due to the many different aspects of Alida Engel, CCC-SLP, BCS-SCF*’s therapy process. Not only does she explore speaking techniques, but she also addresses factors such as causes, and the emotional and behavioral effects of stuttering.
“Most meaningful, she helped me change my attitude about stuttering altogether. I have learned that one does not have to believe in the negative thoughts that often occur in the mind of a stutterer. I am no longer afraid to stutter, and the confidence this gives, I believe, was a major factor in helping me to become more fluent.
“Alida Engel, CCC-SLP, BCS-SCF* and I have also integrated cognitive-behavioral therapy into the process, which helps me identify and address the anxieties that occur in different speaking situations. Working on a hierarchy, from less to more stressful situations, my social anxiety decreases as I become more successful in using prolonged speech in each one.
“Alida Engel, CCC-SLP, BCS-SCF* . . . has helped me to become a more fluent speaker and a more confident person. I feel that stuttering no longer defines me; my time spent with Alida Engel, CCC-SLP, BCS-SCF* has strengthened the other aspects of who I am. I thank her for helping me to become a happier and more confident individual.”
P.G.

“Alida Engel, CCC-SLP, BCS-SCF*, You are such a patient and wonderful person! Not only have you helped my son with fluency, but also helped him overall as a person. . . . I can’t thank you enough.”
S.L., Parent

“When T. began with you some six months ago she had been stuttering badly for … a year. Our pediatrician referred us to the “free” speech therapy in the schools. Being skeptical of the idea of a free lunch, I did my own research. I learned of the Lidcombe program and found the Center for Speech and Learning. The Lidcombe Program was the right choice for us, but I’m convinced that this is mostly due to your enviable abilities in teaching it to us, T’s parents, and in motivating her – until recently a very shy little girl – to participate. This she has done with great enthusiasm and joy.
As she progressed, we saw her open up, and her ‘blossoming’ was a source of great happiness and joy for all of us, no doubt drawing us even closer as a family. In the beginning she was ashamed of how she spoke, but now she is clearly proud. Your sure touch in helping us to build her self-confidence was the primary cause of this transformation.
I feel very fortunate not to have gone the traditional speech therapy route offered for “free” in the schools. … I feel we found a great bargain, not to mention a blessing, in your care.
R.D., parent

Thank you so much. L. is now able to control his stutter on his own, and we are able to provide him with the support he needs when he struggles.
The V. Family

I want to thank you so much. You came into my life to rescue me and my Voice!!”
H. P., Voice Client

First of all, I loved meeting you as a person! You welcomed me warmly and put me at ease. I was able to learn so much about “voice,” and what I could do to have a lovely speaking voice.
You have helped me enormously and I will think of you often with happy thoughts.
J.B., Adult Male Patient

Alida Engel, CCC-SLP, BCS-SCF*, you have such a calming effect on me, and subsequently on my voice. I never thought you could improve me but you have! Thank you, thank you, thank you!!
L. J., Adult Voice Client

As the mother of a trans-teenager, I truly can’t say enough about Alida Engel, CCC-SLP, BCS-SCF*’s services. Her sensitivity to the unique complexities of working with a young person transitioning from male to female informed every aspect of the therapeutic experience, from creating a safe and comfortable space to providing invaluable guidance in the form of concrete exercises and increased vocal awareness. In working with Alida Engel, CCC-SLP, BCS-SCF*, my daughter was able to find her true voice and with that, a newfound self-assurance she will certainly carry with her in all social situations going forward.
L.S., Mom

“Alida Engel, CCC-SLP, BCS-SCF* helped my voice to become more feminine (I’m a M to F person.), and I’ve become more confident in social situations. It was definitely a positive experience. I was never pushed to do anything which made me uncomfortable, but my comfort zone was expanded so I could take things on when I was ready. I would recommend the Center to others. My limits were respected, but I wasn’t allowed to hold myself back out of fear so I made progress. Alida Engel, CCC-SLP, BCS-SCF* was always supportive. I felt comfortable talking to her about anything. I’m very grateful for the huge impact she’s had on my life.”
Transgendering Patient, New Haven

“I cannot thank you enough for all you have done to help E. with his speech development. In a few short months I have seen him go from a frustrated little guy with limited vocabulary to a more confident and at-ease toddler who is interested in expressing himself verbally.”
C.J., Parent

“Dear Alida Engel, CCC-SLP, BCS-SCF*, What a wonderful gift God has given to us. You! The most wonderful things have happened to us since you came into our lives. Our little girl, F., has blossomed and is responding wonderfully to your teachings. Her eyes are brighter and her confidence has mushroomed. In your motherly, loving, and professional manner you have transformed her from a child that was lost into an eager and curious person.
“I look forward to our visits, and I must say, underneath your firmness F. recognizes the benefit of your persistence and enjoys her new found understanding.
“[We] cannot express our heartfelt thanks and our gratitude to you adequately enough. What you have done for our child we will never forget.”
V.M., Parent

“Thank you so much for your sensitivity, wisdom, and expert care of our [daughter]. The confidence you helped her achieve in her speech is of immeasurable importance in her life.”
A. & A. H., parents

“[My son] has improved social speech skills. Alida Engel, CCC-SLP, BCS-SCF*’s treatment went above and beyond our expectations. We have learned so many approaches to helping [him] speak. Our feelings and privacy were absolutely respected by the Center. It always felt like a safe and supportive space. I felt very much involved in R’s treatment by receiving updates on goals, opportunities to ask questions, and feedback on progress. This is an excellent place for people who need help with speech, and for their families.”
N.B., Mom

“B’s autistic non-verbalness is a thing of the past now, thanks to the transformative means of Alida Engel, CCC-SLP, BCS-SCF*’s therapy sessions. After several years of sessions with Alida Engel, CCC-SLP, BCS-SCF*, B can interact socially and communicate his basic needs. He has learned self confidence. Our family and friends appreciate his charm. The joy we now feel in his company surpasses the few times when we felt the bitter struggle to overcome his disability. Alida Engel, CCC-SLP, BCS-SCF*’s persistent attention to his unique needs, her loving and firm behavior modification, her strenuous review, and her professional evaluations, all with parental involvement factored in, portray a therapist who sincerely believes in the human spirit: “Alida-Engelism.” As our family matures, we continue to support and develop B’s progress as we celebrate the beauty of being human. Thank you, Alida Engel, CCC-SLP, BCS-SCF*!”
Jane L., Parent

“God sent me a beautiful son. This wonderful boy struggled to develop and I wondered “Why?” . . . But God [sent] us . . . very special people to help us with our very special son . . . like Alida Engel, CCC-SLP, BCS-SCF*. We have watched our son grow and develop in ways we were not sure he could, or would. We’d like to say thank you to Alida Engel, CCC-SLP, BCS-SCF* for being one of those great humans who have not only helped our son, but helped us help our son.”
S. & M.C. , Parents

“Alida Engel, CCC-SLP, BCS-SCF*’s persistent attention to G’s unique needs, her loving and firm behavior modification, her strenuous review, and her professional evaluations — all with parental involvement factored in — portray a therapist who sincerely believes in the human spirit: ‘Alida-Engelism.’ As our family matures, we continue to support and develop G’s progress as we celebrate the beauty of being human. Thank you, Alida Engel, CCC-SLP, BCS-SCF*!”
Anne L., Parent

“I’ve always loved your creative energy, and you’ve taught me a lot about how to work better with my own kids. You are a terrific teacher and therapist.”
Jane, Parent

“[Our son] has improved so well with his speech and his behavior. You have given me a way to look into how to deal with him and his speech.”
Parent

My stuttering has become much less severe and I’ve learned to manage it more effectively. I’m not afraid to speak up and participate in discussions like in the past.
My treatment exceeded my expectations. I learned more than just techniques to manage stuttering, but how to reduce the anxiety and negative emotional impact it has.
Alida Engel, CCC-SLP, BCS-SCF* acted as a guide/coach, leading me up the path to reaching my speech goals. She is a fantastic therapist and wonderful person. The Center genuinely cares for its patients. It’s always a pleasure to interact with them.
Brian S.

I have been going to Alida Engel, CCC-SLP, BCS-SCF* for a little under a year for speech help and have seen major improvement in my speech. Alida Engel, CCC-SLP, BCS-SCF* taught me not to be ashamed of my stuttering — for me the biggest challenge because in the sixteen years I have been here I never talked about it before. … I am so glad I decided to start speech. It has helped me tremendously with my talking and with my everyday life.
Donald M., Teenager

I want to thank you so much. You came into my life to rescue me and my Voice!!
Halley P., Voice Client

Since you introduced Jake to Therapeutic Listening, I have noticed drastic changes in his attention span, attention to details, and his ability to stay on task. He is much more receptive to trying to say more words on his own, and doesn’t pitch a fit when we prompt him.
Margaret W., Parent

Alida Engel, CCC-SLP, BCS-SCF*, thank you always for your advice. It always works – you are magical.
Maria.F., Patient’s Mom

Our weekly trips to you have been wonderful. I’ve always loved your creative energy, and you’ve taught me a lot about how to work better with my own kids. You are a terrific teacher and therapist, and we are all going to miss you sorely when we move. Thank you so much for everything you taught our kids.
The C. Family

I immigrated to the United States as a late teen, and I’ve always struggled with my accent. It has adversely affected both my professional and personal life. For a while, I thought speaking with an accent is just going to be a part of my life and there was not much I could do about it. This changed after I met Alida Engel, CCC-SLP, BCS-SCF*. Her lessons really work! I am already noticing a big difference only two months into our program. More importantly, Alida Engel, CCC-SLP, BCS-SCF* makes me feel that she really cares about me and she is on my side. During the week when we are not meeting, Alida Engel, CCC-SLP, BCS-SCF* takes time to listen to my voice recordings and gives me feedback/encouragement. She makes me feel that I am not doing this by myself because she gives me courage and motivation to confront the negative feelings that came from speaking with an accent. I feel empowered, and I believe I can drastically improve my speech. For anyone who is not a native English speaker, I encourage you to meet Alida Engel, CCC-SLP, BCS-SCF*. It will change your life.
G.

Alida Engel, CCC-SLP, BCS-SCF*, you have such a calming effect on me, and subsequently on my voice. I never thought you could improve me but you have! Thank you, thank you, thank you!
Adult Voice Client

I want to thank you so much. You came into my life to rescue me and my Voice!!”
H. P., Voice Client

First of all, I loved meeting you as a person! You welcomed me warmly and put me at ease. I was able to learn so much about “voice,” and what I could do to have a lovely speaking voice.
You have helped me enormously and I will think of you often with happy thoughts.
J.B., Adult Male Patient

After having trouble with my R’s for years, as an adult I finally decided to attempt to correct my speech. Working with Alida Engel, CCC-SLP, BCS-SCF* reinstalled my confidence in myself about a speech problem that had me avoiding most words and interaction with new people. I used her self-created “R in the Car” CD. Even though it was geared toward children it helped me eliminate my “R” problem and speak with confidence again. I am indebted to Alida Engel, CCC-SLP, BCS-SCF* for her warm, therapeutic and effective speech therapy, it literally change my life.
Anonymous

Our 6 year old daughter was having articulation issues. Alida Engel, CCC-SLP, BCS-SCF* provided a thorough initial assessment and clearly explained her treatment approach and anticipated scope, which was very reasonable, and was met. She and her office partner, Gene, were professional and friendly, and communication was always very open and easy. Alida Engel, CCC-SLP, BCS-SCF* excelled at making the sessions enjoyable and productive for my daughter by encouraging her active participation without making her feel uncomfortable or self-conscious. My daughter really enjoyed her time with Alida Engel, CCC-SLP, BCS-SCF*, understood why she was there, and was happily self-motivated to practice on her own outside of the sessions. We were also provided with useful materials for suggested home practice. Within a fairly short period of time, clear progress was made. We highly recommend The Center for Speech and Learning.
B.A., Mom

There’s not a child in the world that wouldn’t benefit from a talk with Alida Engel, CCC-SLP, BCS-SCF*. Thank you for a most imaginative approach, because that’s what J– responded to. She has blossomed this year in so many ways. She not only speaks clearly, but she enjoys being heard. Thank you for thinking outside the box. All the best.
G & R, Parents

Alida Engel, CCC-SLP, BCS-SCF* helped my voice to become more feminine (I’m a M to F person.), and I’ve become more confident in social situations. It was definitely a positive experience. I was never pushed to do anything which made me uncomfortable, but my comfort zone was expanded so I could take things on when I was ready. I would recommend the Center to others. My limits were respected, but I wasn’t allowed to hold myself back out of fear so I made progress. Alida Engel, CCC-SLP, BCS-SCF* was always supportive. I felt comfortable talking to her about anything. I’m very grateful for the huge impact she’s had on my life.
A., Transgendering Patient, New Haven

As the mother of a trans-teenager, I truly can’t say enough about Alida Engel, CCC-SLP, BCS-SCF*’s services. Her sensitivity to the unique complexities of working with a young person transitioning from male to female informed every aspect of the therapeutic experience, from creating a safe and comfortable space to providing invaluable guidance in the form of concrete exercises and increased vocal awareness. In working with Alida Engel, CCC-SLP, BCS-SCF*, my daughter was able to find her true voice and with that, a newfound self-assurance she will certainly carry with her in all social situations going forward.
Thank you so much for your sensitivity, wisdom, and expert care of our [daughter]. The confidence you helped her achieve in her speech is of immeasurable importance in her life.
A. & A. H., parents
[My son] has improved social speech skills. Alida Engel, CCC-SLP, BCS-SCF*’s treatment went above and beyond our expectations. We have learned so many approaches to helping [him] speak. Our feelings and privacy were absolutely respected by the Center. It always felt like a safe and supportive space. I felt very much involved in R’s treatment by receiving updates on goals, opportunities to ask questions, and feedback on progress. This is an excellent place for people who need help with speech, and for their families.
N.B., Mom