FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Do you have questions about how accent training works? Are you preparing for a role, a presentation, or an important interview? Here are the answers to some of the most common questions we hear from clients.
Still have questions? Feel free to reach out.
About Accent Training
Why do you use the term “accent reduction”?
This is a great question, and an important one. The term accent reduction can feel problematic because it implies that an accent is something that needs to be fixed or removed. In reality, an accent is a natural part of how we express ourselves—it’s shaped by where we come from, who we’ve interacted with, and even the sounds we’ve heard since birth. There is nothing wrong with having an accent. In fact, accents bring richness to language and culture.
However, the reality is that certain accents can sometimes create barriers—whether in acting, business, or day-to-day communication. If clarity, consistency, or authenticity in a specific context is the goal, then targeted training can help. I use the term accent reduction because it’s the most widely recognized term for this work. People searching for this type of coaching tend to use it, and I want those who are looking for the right training to be able to find it easily.
That said, I also think of this work as accent refinement or accent mastery. It’s not about erasing identity—it’s about expanding one’s vocal and linguistic range. The goal is to give you more control, freedom, and confidence in your speech so that you can communicate or perform at your best.
Is accent work an art or a craft?
For actors, accent work is not just a technical skill—it’s an art. Just as a musician refines their technique so that their playing becomes effortless, or a painter studies their craft until their brushwork becomes second nature, an actor mastering an accent aims to make it disappear into the performance. The most successful accent work is invisible. The audience isn’t analyzing how every word is pronounced; they’re absorbed in the story.
Actors sometimes take on roles where they must sound like a native speaker of a particular dialect. This is an immense challenge—one that requires precision while remaining completely natural. The audience should never be distracted by the accent; they should simply believe in the character. That’s why some of the most astonishing moments happen off-screen, when viewers hear an actor in an interview and are shocked to realize they sound completely different in real life.
At the highest level, accent mastery is like any great artistic discipline: the technique disappears, and what remains is pure expression.
Do I need to change my accent?
Your accent is part of who you are, and there’s nothing wrong with having one. However, if your accent sometimes makes it difficult for others to understand you, or if you feel it holds you back professionally or socially, training can help. The goal isn’t to erase your identity—it’s to give you the ability to speak clearly and confidently in any situation.
What happens if I improve my American accent? Will I lose my native way of speaking?
You won’t lose your native accent unless you want to. Accent training helps you develop a new way of speaking that you can use when you choose. Many bilingual speakers naturally shift between different accents or styles depending on the situation. The key is flexibility—so you can sound clear and natural in professional, social, or performance settings while still keeping your original accent when you want to.
Scheduling & Sessions
How long will it take for me to see results?
Most clients start noticing improvements within the first few sessions. How long it takes to reach your goals depends on factors like session frequency, practice habits, and how strong your current accent is. Some clients achieve noticeable changes within a few months, while others continue refining their skills over a longer period.
Do you offer in-person or online sessions?
All sessions are conducted online via Zoom. This allows for flexibility in scheduling and lets clients from anywhere in the world access high-quality training.
Are sessions private or in a group?
I provide one-on-one coaching to ensure personalized attention and faster progress. Group training is not currently available.
Results & Expectations
What is Standard American English?
Standard American English (SAE) is a neutral and widely understood way of speaking English in the United States. It’s commonly used in broadcasting, acting, and professional communication because it’s clear, natural, and easy to understand. While SAE is not tied to any specific region, it is the accent most often associated with nationwide media and formal speech.
Can’t I just learn from YouTube videos or apps?
While online resources can be helpful, they can’t provide the personalized feedback needed to refine your pronunciation and intonation. Many clients come to me after trying self-study methods and realizing they need expert guidance to correct mistakes and make lasting improvements.
Pricing & Payments
Is accent training covered by insurance?
No, accent training is not considered a medical service and is not covered by health insurance. However, some employers may offer reimbursement for communication training as part of their professional development programs.
Will my employer pay for training?
Some companies do cover the cost of accent training if it enhances workplace communication. If you think your employer might be open to this, I can provide documentation to support your request.
For Employers & HR
How do I know if my employee would benefit from accent training?
If an employee struggles to be understood in meetings, on calls, or in presentations, accent training may help. Many professionals with strong technical skills find that improving their spoken clarity increases confidence and workplace effectiveness.
How do we set up training for an employee?
The first step is a consultation to assess the employee’s needs and determine the best approach. Once approved, we can set up a customized training plan and schedule sessions at a convenient time for them.
Have a question that isn’t listed here? Feel free to reach out!