Becoming Biopsychosocial for Voice Practitioners

11th & 12th July, 2026

Day One

A.M with Jenevora WilliamsIntroduction, contracting, placebo/nocebo, expectation and contextual healing mechanismsP.M with Maurice GoodwinWhat happens when a client needs a diagnosis to make sense of their experience and we don’t have one to give? How our own biases shape treatment goals more than we realise; what disability justice asks us to reconsider about ‘normal function’.

Day Two
A.M with Nicki KennedyCoaching language, moving from instruction to inquiryCreating space for clients to notice for themselves, and to begin connecting the different threads of their story; how to balance knowledge-sharing with a genuine respect for the client’s own insight.P.M with Jenevora Williams and teamConclusion, synthesis and consolidation

The Course

A two-day group workshop for voice teachers, rehabilitation specialists, speech and language therapists, and vocal massage therapists. This course will be led by Dr Jenevora Williams plus guests: Maurice Goodwin SLP from the US and Executive Coach and Voice Rehabilitation Specialist, Nicki Kennedy.

Timings – 9:30 am – 4:30 pm.Venue – United Reformed Church, Portsmouth Road, GU2

This course is a compulsory module for students on the VRS pathway and is worth 15 credits, but anyone who works in the field of voice and vocal health is welcome.

What is Becoming Biopsychosocial for Voice Practitioners?

It’s a weekend spent in a cross-disciplinary meeting of minds: an Executive Coach, a Speech Pathologist and a Voice Rehabilitation Specialist. All with expert knowledge in voice and rehabilitation.

Who is it for?

For anyone wishing to explore, evaluate and embed their position in the world of Voice Rehabilitation. What exactly is your Scope of Practice in an unregulated occupation? How do you know where your work ends and that of your colleague begins? What are the boundaries, in your work and in your relationships with clients?

What will I discover?

The simple lessons – how to be kind, and the value of positive language. The complex lessons –  at the overlap between physiology and psychology, you can challenge and consolidate your ethical and philosophical position.

How will the sessions be led?

The form will be in group discussion, facilitated by experts but led by the members of the group. You may be challenged, stretched, or tested. You will be encouraged, validated and supported. Everyone will have a voice.

Why do I need to be there for the weekend?

If you are moving into rehabilitation, or refreshing your work, you have the chance to establish and articulate your strengths and skills. Then you will be in a position to embody your Scope of Practice, either in a private studio, or so you can be incorporated into a collaborative team.

Why is this in Guilford?

A central London venue would significantly increase ticket prices without improving the experience. Hosting the event in Guildford lets us offer a better venue, more space and a more relaxed atmosphere while keeping costs reasonable.

Guildford is also easier to reach than most people expect:

  • Around 35 minutes direct from London Waterloo
  • Weekend train fares are usually cheaper
  • The venue is a 6-minute walk from Guildford Station