Finding Strength in Each Other: A Reflection on Our Düsseldorf Course

Last weekend, something powerful happened in a quiet training room in Düsseldorf. It wasn’t just another course. It was a gathering of people committed to growth – not just in their speech, but in how they show up for themselves, and for others.

We came together, some as strangers, others as friends. We left as a stronger community.

From the first breath to the final commitment speech, what stood out most was not just the progress made, but the spirit in which it was made. This course reminded us that when people come together to work on something that truly matters, transformation becomes not only possible, but inevitable.

For some, it was their very first step. For others, it was a return to the basics; a chance to recalibrate, reinforce techniques, and find new ways of dealing with what life throws at them.

“In the run up to the course, my speech was deteriorating… I no longer wanted to speak to people. The course has changed all of this. It was a great opportunity to stretch myself and improve my confidence.”

Courses like this aren’t just about speech. They’re about courage. They’re about learning that while we can’t always control the situation, we can control ourselves: our breath, our attitude, our presence. And that’s often enough to come out of a challenge feeling stronger, not smaller.

A Catalyst for Change

For many, the course was more than just a few days of training – it was a catalyst.

“I’ve been hesitant towards a lot of things… including going out of my usual environment. But this course helped me break that cycle.”

“It acted as a turning point. I travelled abroad for the first time since 2019. That in itself was huge.”

This kind of courage ripples out. From learning how to take a proper costal breath… to facing the tension of speaking to a stranger in another language… to taking the floor in front of the group, shaky hands and all. It’s all connected. Every moment becomes a step toward something greater.

What Stood Out

“As always, I got really inspired by everyone in the room. I also enjoyed giving the sessions and practicing my presenting skills.”

“The importance of being proactive hit home. I’m in control of my speech recovery, and I should do whatever I can to improve.”

This is what The McGuire Programme is all about – not perfection, but progress. And not alone, but together.

Beyond the Classroom

Some of the most powerful moments happened outside the training room. During street contacts, over coffee breaks, and especially during the Saturday night social.

“I struggled a bit at the social evening… but with McGuires around me it was easier to identify what was happening. That was the biggest learning for me – taking it into the real world.”

We don’t grow in a vacuum. We grow through connection — real, raw, and supportive.

Looking Ahead: Join Us This Summer in Düsseldorf

We’re thrilled to announce that we’ll be returning to Düsseldorf this summer — from 31st July to 2nd August 2025 — for another intensive course at the same welcoming venue, Volkmann Akademie.

Go Beyond Stuttering With The Mcguire Programme In Düsseldorf, Germany For Speech/stutter Confidence And Control

Summer courses in Düsseldorf have their own magic. Warm evenings, a vibrant city atmosphere, and the chance to unwind together after a full day of breakthroughs — whether it’s grabbing dinner outside or exploring the nightlife. It’s not just a course, it’s a full experience.

If you’re ready to take the next step — whether you’re just beginning your journey or coming back to reconnect — we’d love to welcome you.

To all who attended: Thank you.

Thank you for showing up — for yourselves and for each other. Your courage, energy, and commitment are what make this programme so powerful.

Let’s keep the momentum going.