I was a covert stutterer from the age of eight until I reached my mid-forties. It was then that I decided to let fear be my compass and move towards the things that made me feel unsafe. So, I joined a public speaking club and within four years had become a public speaking coach. I also began teaching history and creative writing at the University of South Australia around this time.
Such a process of desensitisation only works if done with the full volition of the person who stutters. It must be their decision, their choice. If you are the parent of a child who stutters, be patient, open, and hopeful. Go into a cafe and stutter when you are asked for your name, so that you can see exactly why your child might want to avoid such situations.
To those young people who stutter, you are braver than you think. Each time you do something that makes you feel uncomfortable, take a moment to recognize your bravery. There is a fabulous international community of young people who stutter who will be there when you are ready to reach out to them. Apart from the NSA, check out Stamily, an EU-based organisation full of welcoming, supportive and wonderful young people.