A resource for speech pathologists
 Concluding Therapy
Voice and communication therapy for male-to-female transsexuals is often a gradual process. There is limited research on the number of therapy sessions required.13 However, the available literature indicates that this figure ranges from 10 to 120 hour-long sessions.13 The client’s dedication and willingness to comply with therapy expectations will influence the decision to conclude therapy.29
Criteria for discharge will be largely based upon the clinician and client’s agreement that the client has achieved the determined goals.20 Comparing the objective pre and post therapy data for voice, speech and language parameters will assist in reaching this decision.29 Additional criteria for discharge include successful use of the female voice and communicative techniques across all settings.20
To prepare the client for communicating in everyday life in their chosen gender, the clinician must establish a maintenance/generalisation programme to ensure the client feels they are equipped with strategies to face daily challenges. This may include routine practice schedules in relation to selective communication partners or situations and identification of practice time. Documenting success in a journal allows the clinician and the client to see progress, and promotes self-monitoring and independence.29
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