What Happens in Gender-Affirming Voice Therapy? A Week-by-Week Guide

Your Voice, Your Identity

Voice is more than sound — it’s identity, emotion, and connection.For many trans and gender-diverse people, aligning voice with gender can be a deeply affirming part of their journey.

At Gender Voice Centre, we offer gender-affirming voice therapy through a structured five-session online program, tailored to your goals and delivered in a warm, supportive environment.

Curious what that looks like? Here’s a week-by-week overview.

Week 1: Foundations & Forward Focus

We begin by getting to know you.

Your first session includes a detailed review of your voice history, daily voice use, and relevant medical or social context. We also screen for vocal health factors (like reflux) so we can tailor the work to your specific needs.

Then, we introduce resonance — the quality of your voice that determines where the sound vibrates in your body. We begin with forward-focused humming, which may sound simple but forms the foundation for everything that follows. Your therapist will send a custom follow-up (via email or voice message) to guide your home practice between sessions.

Week 2: Straw Phonation, Technology & Mouth Shaping

In this session, things get more hands-on.

We introduce straw phonation — a fun but powerful technique where you blow bubbles into water to release tension and balance breath support. You'll also start using the Voice Tools app to track resonance and pitch with guided hums.

We then introduce mouth shaping: learning how the shape of your mouth affects resonance. We keep things playful with simple analogies and physical cues that help you find the right placement naturally.

Week 3: Repetition, Feedback & Functional Phrases

Now we build consistency.

This session focuses on high repetition and real-time feedback. You’ll practise resonant words, adjust technique as needed, and begin applying your new voice to functional, everyday phrases like “yes please,” “no thanks,” or “just on card.” These quick, familiar phrases are ideal for building confidence in real-world settings.

Week 4: From Structure to Spontaneity

With the basics in place, we shift toward real-life use.

This session supports you in using your voice in more spontaneous settings — casual conversations, phone calls, or short social exchanges. The goal is to bridge the gap between structured exercises and everyday interaction, with guidance along the way.

Week 5: Expression, Projection & Independent Practice

By week five, you’ve built a strong foundation and a clear sense of how to continue.

This final session focuses on emotional expression, volume control, and fine-tuning. We identify any remaining areas for improvement, answer your questions, and support you in beginning to use your voice more naturally in your own life.

What Happens After These 5 Sessions?

These first five sessions give you the tools and structure you need.After that, the focus is on generalisation — using your voice in your own environment, building confidence in real-life interactions, and continuing your progress at your own pace.

We’re always here if you’d like to check in again, but these first five sessions are designed to give you a clear starting point, practical strategies, and ongoing self-guidance.

Your voice is personal — and you deserve support that’s affirming, evidence-based, and grounded in your lived experience.If you're ready to explore your voice in a safe and supportive space, we’re here to help.

Start your journey now