Voice Habilitation
For a singer, there are few things scarier than having your voice suddenly change or disappear.
You go for that high note and….nothing comes out.
You’re two weeks into tour, and you’re already hoarse.
You’ve been over that cold for weeks, but your voice is still a mess.
I’ve been there, and it suuuuuuucks. It’s scary. It messes with your sense of self, your artistic expression, and your income. And it feels like there’s no way back.
I have some good news though.
There is always a way forward, and there are clinicians and voice teachers who specialize in helping singers get back on that vocal horse, often better and stronger than ever.
So what is habilitation? It’s kind of like rehabilitation, but with a voice teacher as the practitioner.
When we experience a vocal issue or injury (as many artists do at some point in their career), the first stop needs to be an Ear, Nose, & Throat Doctor or a Speech-Language Pathologist who specializes in singing voice. These medical professionals can diagnose the problem and make sure you get the needed rehabilitation (re-establishing basic vocal function, also called voice/speech therapy). After that, I can step in to help rebuild optimal vocal production (think above-average vocal function—high level performance, strength, and stamina).
Singers are vocal athletes who need special care.
When helping a singer rebuild from a vocal issue or injury, I use a wintry mix of therapeutic modalities, functional training, and behavioral awareness—a personalized “care cocktail” if you will— to help each client achieve their most successful recovery. My goal is to create the safest, bravest space possible, free from any kind of vocal health stigma (absolutely nope, none of that), so that singers can get back to doing what they do asap—SINGING!
“My doctor and SLP referred me directly to Sarah Folsom for voice habilitation. In all my years of study and performing, the most thorough, delicate, and comprehensive work I have ever done has been with Sarah. It is with her expertise, acceptance, and patience I am able to perform better and stronger than ever before.”