The University of Arkansas Speech and Hearing Clinic has formed the Fayetteville chapter of the National Stuttering Association, and its first meeting is set for noon Wednesday, Oct. 4, at the Epley Center for Health Professions, 606 N. Razorback Road, Fayetteville.

Lunch will be provided. Meetings will be held the first Wednesday of each month, following the university schedule.

The National Stuttering Association's motto, If You Stutter, You're Not Alone, is what local support groups are all about. For many people, chapter meetings are the first time they have ever talked about stuttering with other people who stutter.

Local support groups are a proven way to build self-confidence, practice speaking in a safe environment, and explore new ways to cope with stuttering. Chapter meetings are open to adults who stutter; parents, significant others and friends of stutterers; speech-language pathologists; and anyone who wants to learn more about stuttering.

Graduate students of the U of A speech-language pathology program, under supervision of a licensed speech-language pathologist, will lead the meetings. They will provide attendees with the opportunity to share fears, frustrations and triumphs; practice therapeutic techniques to help control stuttering in a safe and supportive environment; engage in speaking experiences they might shy away from in their daily lives; and, perhaps most importantly, assist others in achieving these goals. The Fayetteville chapter will strive to provide information about stuttering, increase public awareness of stuttering, and serve as a support and advocacy group.

A signup form is available on the Speech and Hearing Clinic website. The Fayetteville chapter is committed to protecting the privacy of all group members.