Otolaryngology–Head and Neck Surgery
Transgender Voice and Communication Modification
At Mass. Eye and Ear, we offer voice therapy to those who wish to explore and practice a voice that fits their personality and gender identity. Through customized therapy sessions, we teach you how to use your desired voice in a way that is healthy and comfortable.
Therapy sessions are typically 45 to 50 minutes long and are individualized to each person’s specific needs and wants. We offer individual and group therapy options.
Changing your voice requires daily commitment to home practice as well as regular attendance at therapy sessions.
Each case is different, however, here are some of the facets of speech, language, and communication that we might focus on throughout therapy:
- Resonance: The way your voice vibrates throughout your vocal tract
- Pitch: How high or low your voice is
- Inflection: The way your pitch fluctuates during speech
- Articulation: The way you pronounce each sound
- Nonverbals: Walking, posture, gestures, etc.
Our Division of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery also offers facial feminization surgery. Learn more.
Meet Our Team
Our team comprises of speech-language pathologists with specialized training in voice modification alongside a board-certified otolaryngologist who specializes in surgery related to the voice and throat.
Voice changes and hormone therapy
Although a deepening of the voice will likely occur with masculinizing hormone therapy, there still may be aspects of your speech you want or need to adjust such as inflection, language, and articulation.
Feminizing hormone therapy does not have any direct effects on the voice; therefore, voice therapy in this instance will likely encompass all of the targets listed below.
What to expect at an evaluation
- Thorough case history
- Several recordings of your voice
- Possible laryngoscopy exam to assess the larynx, including the vocal folds and screen for any pathologies
- Brief initial exploration of the voice through exercises
- Recommendations for initial home exercises before returning for therapy
- Schedule regular therapy sessions if appropriate
