Frequently Asked Questions

Find answers to common questions about the Speech Clarity Diagnostic, coaching programs, scheduling, payment, and results.

Can't find your answer? Email me directly → Contact Claire

About the Free Speech Clarity Diagnostic

What is the Speech Clarity Diagnostic?

A complimentary 15-minute professional assessment via Zoom where I analyze your speech patterns and identify your top 3 clarity barriers. You'll submit a 1-minute voice sample via Loom beforehand so I can prepare personalized feedback.

You'll leave the session knowing exactly what's affecting your communication and which program (if any) makes sense for your goals.

Is the diagnostic really required before I can enroll?

Yes. It ensures:

I can actually help with your specific communication needs
The program approach aligns with your goals
We're a good fit to work together
You understand what the coaching involves before committing

It protects both of us from wasting time and money on the wrong approach.

What happens during the diagnostic?

I'll share what I observed in your voice sample (specific speech patterns affecting clarity)
We'll discuss your communication goals and challenges
I'll recommend which program best fits your situation
You can ask any questions about the coaching process
We'll discuss next steps if you want to move forward

There's no pressure to commit during the call.

Do I have to commit to a program during the diagnostic?

Absolutely not. The diagnostic gives you the information you need to make a decision. Take all the time you need to think it over.

What if we're not a good fit during the diagnostic?

I'll tell you honestly. I may:

Recommend different resources more suited to your needs
Suggest you're already communicating clearly enough
Refer you to a different type of specialist
Explain that your goals don't align with what this coaching provides

Not everyone needs what I offer, and that's completely fine.

What do I need to submit before the diagnostic?

A 1-minute voice sample via Loom (free tool) at least 24 hours before our session.

What to record:

Introduce yourself (name + profession)
Briefly explain what you do at work
Describe one communication situation that feels challenging

This allows me to prepare specific, personalized feedback for you.

What happens if I don't submit the voice sample?

We'll need to reschedule. Without the sample, I can't provide the personalized assessment that makes the diagnostic valuable.

How do I schedule the diagnostic?

Click here to view available times and book your session →Clarity Diagnostic

About the Coaching Programs

Which program should I choose?

Choose the 4-Week Intensive if:

You have an upcoming interview, presentation, or important event
You're starting a new position and need quick improvement
You want to test the coaching approach before a bigger commitment
You have a specific, focused communication goal

Choose the 12-Week Comprehensive if:

You want lasting improvement that becomes automatic
Your speech needs to stay clear even under high pressure
You're preparing for career advancement or leadership roles
You want comprehensive work on multiple speech patterns

Not sure? That's what the diagnostic is for. I'll recommend the best fit.

Can I switch programs after I start?

Yes, if needed. For example, you might start the 4-week intensive, realize you want deeper work, and upgrade to the 12-week program. We'll discuss options and adjust accordingly.

What's actually included in the programs?

Full details on the Services page → Services Page

Both programs include:

One-on-one coaching sessions via Zoom
Personalized speech assessment
Custom lesson plans for your role
Between-session audio feedback
Session recordings (optional)
Practice portal access
Clinical guidance from a licensed SLP

The main differences:

12-week: 12 sessions, 3-month portal access, final progress report
4-week: 4 sessions, 1-month portal access, action plan for self-practice

How long until I see results?

Most professionals notice improved clarity within 3-4 weeks of consistent practice.

However, making changes automatic—so your speech stays clear even under pressure—typically takes 8-12 weeks. That's why the comprehensive program exists.

What if I'm too busy to practice between sessions?

Honestly? You won't see much improvement.

This work requires consistent practice—about 15-20 minutes most days. If you're in an extremely busy period right now, it's better to wait until you have the bandwidth to commit.

I'd rather you start when you can actually succeed.

Do you work with people whose first language isn't English?

Of course, but only if you're already fluent.

This coaching is for professionals who have strong English vocabulary and grammar but struggle with clarity, especially under pressure.

If you're still building English language skills, I can refer you to ESL programs that would be more appropriate.

Will I completely lose my accent?

That's not the goal, and I don't recommend it.

The goal is to make your accent work for you—so you're clearly understood, even under pressure, while maintaining your authentic voice and identity.

What if I don't improve after the program?

If you're practicing consistently and not seeing results by week 4, we'll reassess.

Sometimes the issue isn't accent-related—it could be listener bias, or something else. I'll be honest about whether continued coaching makes sense.

Will the improvements last after the program ends?

Yes, if you maintain them.

Like any skill, speech patterns can drift if you stop paying attention. That's why many graduates schedule occasional tune-up sessions (25 or 50 minutes) to stay on track.

Can you guarantee I'll be understood perfectly?

No one can guarantee that.

What I can help with is making your speech as clear, predictable, and professional as possible. Most professionals report significant reduction in being asked to repeat themselves.

About Scheduling & Logistics

How do I schedule my sessions?

After enrollment and payment are complete, you'll receive a personalized scheduling link. You can book sessions at times that work for your schedule (shifts, flights, time zones, etc.).

Can I book sessions directly without doing the diagnostic first?

No. The diagnostic is required before any program enrollment.

How flexible is session scheduling?

Very flexible. Sessions are online via Zoom, and I work with professionals on varying shifts, time zones, and schedules. We'll find times that work for both of us.

What if I need to cancel or reschedule a session?

24-hour notice required.

Cancel with 24+ hours notice: Can reschedule at no charge
Cancel with less than 24 hours: Session is forfeited
No-shows: Session is forfeited

Emergency exceptions (medical, family crisis) are handled case-by-case.

What happens if I miss sessions or don't complete my program?

Unused sessions don't roll over and can't be refunded
4-week intensive must be completed within 1 month
12-week program must be completed within 4 months for best results
Extensions beyond these timeframes require approval and may incur fees

Can I pause my program?

Contact me as soon as possible. I handle these case-by-case.

May qualify for pause:

Medical emergencies
Family crises
Military deployment
Unexpected major life events

Generally don't qualify:

Busy work schedules
Changed priorities
"Not feeling motivated"

What technology do I need?

Computer, tablet, or smartphone
Reliable internet connection
Zoom (free to download)
Microphone and camera (built-in is fine)
Quiet space for sessions

About Payment & Refunds

How much do the programs cost?

View complete pricing information →

Quick summary:

12-Week Comprehensive: $1,488
4-Week Intensive: $558
Presentation Coaching: $225
Graduate sessions: $155 or $86

Payment plans available for both main programs.

Can I pay per session instead of upfront?

No. Programs must be paid for (in full or via payment plan) before sessions are scheduled.

This ensures commitment from both sides and allows me to reserve dedicated time for your coaching.

Why can't I just book one session to try it?

Single sessions work well for presentation coaching, but they don't provide enough time to address speech patterns affecting daily communication.

The 4-week intensive is the minimum for seeing real improvement. Many clients use it as a "trial run" before committing to the 12-week program.

Do you offer payment plans?

Yes!

12-Week Program:

Pay in full: $1,488
2 payments: $744 each
3 payments: $496 each

4-Week Intensive:

Pay in full: $558
2 payments: $279 each

See full payment details →

What payment methods do you accept?

All major credit cards via [your payment processor]:

Visa
Mastercard
American Express
Discover

[Add other methods if applicable: Venmo, Zelle, etc.]

Do you offer refunds?

Payment is non-refundable after your first coaching session.

Before your first session: You may receive a refund minus a $50 administrative fee.

After your first session: All payments are non-refundable.

Why? When you enroll, I reserve dedicated time exclusively for you and turn away other clients. The policy protects both of our commitments.

Unsure? Start with the 4-week intensive to test the approach.

Full refund policy →

Can I get reimbursed by my employer or insurance?

Employer: Some offer professional development funds. I can provide detailed invoices and receipts. Ask your HR department.

Health Insurance: This typically isn't covered as it's professional development, not medical treatment.

Do you offer discounts or sliding scale pricing?

The programs already include 10-20% savings vs. individual sessions.

About Results & Outcomes

What kind of results do people typically see?

Common improvements professionals report:

✓ Asked to repeat themselves far less often ✓ Communication flows more smoothly during patient interactions ✓ Colleagues listen more attentively in meetings and briefings ✓ Feel more confident during high-pressure moments ✓ Patients understand instructions the first time ✓ ATC communication is clearer and requires fewer repeats ✓ Stronger professional presence and credibility

Individual results vary based on starting point and practice commitment.

How is this different from using an app like Elsa or Speechling?

Apps are great for:

Learning individual sounds in isolation
Practicing when calm with unlimited time
Building awareness of pronunciation patterns
Self-paced learning

This coaching is for:

Communication that needs to work under pressure
Real-time feedback on YOUR specific patterns
Practice with YOUR actual work situations
Addressing rhythm, timing, and vocal presence (not just sounds)
Accountability and personalized guidance

Apps build awareness. Professional roles require clarity when it matters most.

What if my problem isn't actually my accent?

Great question. Sometimes the issue is:

Volume (speaking too quietly)
Pacing (speaking too fast under stress)
Listener bias or discrimination
Workplace communication dynamics
Something else entirely

If that's the case, I'll tell you during the diagnostic and point you toward more appropriate resources.

Will this help me in job interviews?

Yes. The presentation coaching session ($225) is specifically designed for interviews, and many 4-week intensive clients are preparing for job interviews or promotions.

You'll practice answering common questions, get feedback on clarity and delivery, and build confidence for the actual interview.

What happens after my program ends?

You'll receive:

Final progress report (12-week program)
Recommendations for continued self-practice
Option to book graduate tune-up sessions as needed

Many graduates schedule a 25-minute check-in every few months to maintain progress or prepare for specific events.

About Claire & Her Background

What makes you qualified to teach accent clarity?

I'm a licensed Speech-Language Pathologist with 34+ years of clinical experience.

I have specialized training in:

Speech production and articulation
Prosody (rhythm, intonation, stress patterns)
Communication under stress and cognitive load
Clinical speech assessment and treatment

This is clinical speech work based on evidence, not language teaching.

Have you worked with people in my profession before?

I specialize in healthcare and aviation professionals, so very likely yes.

During your diagnostic, I'll let you know if I have specific experience with your role or if I'll need to learn more about your communication context.

Why do you only work with healthcare and aviation professionals?

These are high-stakes fields where communication directly impacts safety, trust, and outcomes.

The communication challenges are specific and urgent, which makes the coaching more focused and effective.

I'd rather be excellent at serving these professions than mediocre at serving everyone.

Are you a native English speaker?

Yes, I'm a native American English speaker, which is why I specialize in helping professionals align with American English communication patterns.

If you're working in a different English-speaking country (UK, Australia, etc.), I can still help with rhythm, stress, and vocal quality, but some pronunciation targets may differ.

Still Have Questions?

Email me directly: Contact Claire

Ready to get started?

Schedule Your Free Speech Clarity Diagnostic →

Want to learn more first?

Back to Services → • View Pricing → • About Claire →

Accented Communication

Licensed Speech-Language Pathology Services

Professional Communication Coaching for Healthcare & Aviation