Voice therapy can be an incredibly effective process — whether you’re recovering from a vocal issue, managing a long-standing pattern, or working toward a voice that better reflects your identity. But something unexpected can sometimes happen along the way: progress brings conflict.
Clients often come to therapy with clear goals. They want to sound stronger, clearer, more expressive, or more aligned with how they feel inside. And many start to see great results. The voice improves, meets those goals… but then comes a surprising reaction: discomfort.
“It Doesn’t Sound Like Me”
One of the most common things I hear at this stage is: “It just doesn’t sound like me.”
This isn’t about the therapy not working. In fact, it’s often working very well. The voice may be healthier, clearer, or higher in pitch — depending on what’s been targeted. But because the change is noticeable, it can feel unfamiliar. And unfamiliar often feels wrong, even when it’s actually right.
Sometimes, a client’s previous voice had become their normal, even if it wasn’t functioning well — maybe it was hoarse, croaky, or too low. Over time, they adapted to it. So when therapy shifts them back toward a clearer or more resonant sound, it can feel almost too bright or too clear at first.
This is especially true in cases of long-standing dysphonia, or when the voice issue has been present since childhood. When your ear gets used to a particular sound, it takes time to re-tune it to something healthier.
Adjusting to Change Takes Time
A common misconception is that once therapy starts working, everything gets easier — but the reality is that adjusting to a new voice is its own phase of the journey. It’s not just about physical technique. It’s also about emotional acceptance.
Whether someone is changing pitch, resonance, or vocal strength, it can take time for the brain to recognise this “new” voice as yours. Even if it’s technically better, more efficient, or more authentic, the voice may not feel right straight away. And that’s where self-consciousness can creep in.
The Role of Self-Consciousness and Resistance
Feeling self-conscious is one of the biggest barriers to progress in voice therapy. People often begin to doubt the sound of their improved voice. They may even resist using it — not because it’s difficult, but because it makes them feel exposed, vulnerable, or awkward.
I’ve worked with clients who achieved a smooth, healthy-sounding voice well within normal limits, only to hesitate because it felt “cringey” or unfamiliar. This resistance doesn’t usually come from a lack of skill. It comes from uncertainty and discomfort with change.
But resistance and self-consciousness can be overcome. The therapist’s role isn’t just to guide you through the technical side of voice change — it’s also to help you build the confidence to own and accept your new voice.
Acceptance Leads to Confidence
Ultimately, acceptance is the key to building lasting vocal confidence. The more someone can embrace their voice as it is — post-therapy — the more freely they can use it in everyday life.
It’s important to recognise that change, even when it’s positive, can feel disorienting. But therapy isn’t just about getting a “better” voice — it’s about helping you feel at home in your voice again.
If you’re going through this kind of internal conflict in voice therapy, know that you’re not alone. It’s a natural part of the process. With the right support and a bit of patience, your new voice can become not just something you have, but something you trust and own.