The Experiences of Trans and Gender Diverse Clients in an Intensive Voice Training Program: A Mixed-Methodological Study

Abstract

Intensive schedules in behavioral voice therapy and training have been proposed to have a range of positive benefits including enhanced outcomes, high client and clinician satisfaction, and reduced client attrition. In the sub-field of behavioral voice training for trans and gender diverse clients, intensive schedules may also present a means of increasing service access opportunities for a vulnerable population. Despite the proposed benefits there has been limited research investigating client experiences in intensive voice training programs. The current study utilized a mixed-methodological approach to compare participant experiences in an intensively scheduled (three 45-minute sessions per week, over 4 weeks) versus a traditionally scheduled (one 45-minute session per week, over 12 weeks) voice training program for trans and gender diverse participants aiming to develop a perceptually feminine-sounding voice. Participant experiences were compared using a satisfaction questionnaire delivered to both training groups as well as thematic analysis of semi-structured interviews conducted with participants in the intensive group. Results suggested that individuals in the intensive training program had both positive and negative experiences related to the intensive schedule, but all viewed the program favorably and expressed a preference for intensive training based on their experiences. However, it was also found that overall satisfaction and attrition did not differ significantly between the intensive and traditional training groups and that many factors contributing to participant satisfaction in the intensive program were unrelated to the intensive schedule. Results from the current study also suggest that experiences in intensive programs may be highly variable and mediated by factors such as clients' individual personalities and preferences. The current study concludes that intensive schedules present a viable alternative to traditional schedules in practice, with additional considerations and directions for future research also discussed.

Keywords: Intensity; Transgender; Voice; Voice therapy; Voice training.