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Professional Communication

***COVID-19 update: all services, including individual, group classes, and consultations, are provided online via Zoom videoconferencing. Insurance coverage for online services is the same as for in-office services. Learn more about online speech therapy here, or contact us for more information.***

What is professional communication?

Professional communication services target practical skills applied in the specific context of the workplace. Examples of professional communication skills include:

  • Job interviews
  • Presentations
  • Difficult conversations (eg feedback or negotiation)
  • Simplying detailed or technical information
  • Managing or facilitating meetings
  • Networking or relationship-building skills
  • Written aspects of professional communication
  • Industry-specific communication practice (eg "bedside manner", sales calls, depositions)

The goal of professional communication work is to equip you with both explicit knowledge and practical skills to be a confident, graceful professional. Professionals at all career levels may benefit from time and space to practice these skills. We work with graduating college seniors and C-suite executives alike. 

What happens in professional communication coaching?

Professional communication work typically involves three key components:

  • Increasing knowledge of explicit communication principles (including the contextual factors of your industry/workplace)
  • Learning discrete communication skills to improve confidence and clarity
  • Role-play and practice applying skills using the conceptual and contextual frameworks

Professional communication work can be as minimal as one or two sessions to practice and get feedback on a specific activity, such as a job interview or presentation. Alternatively, some of our clients attend sessions long-term, exploring the depth and breadth of professional communication skills for personal growth and development. Services are always customized to your needs. We are a resource, use us in the way that works best for you.


Professional communication services are considered “coaching” and are not covered by insurance. However, many of our professional clients have their services paid for by their employer. We are happy to work with your company, HR department, or employee training program to develop a package that can be expensed to your employer.

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"Working with speech IRL gave me the confidence to get up and speak in front of any audience.  I am no longer concerned with how my words will come out when I speak due to the time Rachel invested with me.  I have had so many people state that they notice a difference in my speaking and have commended me on how well I present in front of an audience.  I have already referred someone else to speech IRL because of your great work and my results. Thanks!"
Q, professional

“As a lawyer, communication is critical. I sought out speech IRL because I was concerned that I wasn’t effectively communicating with clients and judges. In my sessions with Courtney Luckman, she explained the different aspects of effective communication, and we worked on various exercises to target those areas where I could improve. The exercises worked. And more than anything, they restored my confidence. I recommend speech IRL, and Courtney, to any professional who is looking to become a more effective communicator.”
C, professional
 
"speech IRL has helped me gain confidence in myself by preparing me for important presentations, sales pitches, etc. I've also hired them to help me feel more comfortable having difficult conversations with clients and within project teams. They are very effective in identifying opportunities for improvement in my speech, tone, speed, and even body language. I am more aware of my style, and its challenges, after working with them. Their services are a crucial part of my professional development."
J, professional