News

The New York Times Science Times explores how experts are reaching consensus on what stuttering is, featuring the Interdisciplinary Consensus Guidelines on Stuttering developed by STARS’ international panel of more than 30 psychiatrists, neuroscientists, speech-language pathologists, and individuals who stutter. The article highlights Gerald A. Maguire, MD, Founder and Chair of STARS, and the panel’s finding that stuttering is a brain-based disorder related to psychiatric conditions like ADHD and Tourette syndrome, along with the growing conversation around how best to treat it.

STARS’ Second Annual Research and Education Conference brought together physicians, researchers, clinicians, and individuals who stutter from around the world for three days of research presentations, clinical training, and community connection. Highlights included the unveiling of the first-ever Interdisciplinary Consensus Guidelines on Stuttering and the announcement of STARS’ first Center of Excellence for Stuttering at Saint Louis University, slated to open in early 2027. The new center will bring interdisciplinary research and care for stuttering together under one roof, modeling the collaborative approach called for in the guidelines.

STARS’ international multidisciplinary advisory panel has published new consensus guidelines in Psychiatric Times, identifying stuttering as a brain-based neuropsychiatric disorder rather than a behavioral or developmental phase. Gerald A. Maguire, MD, Founder and Chair of STARS, and co-authors outline findings on genetic links, gaps in diagnosis and treatment, and the case for interdisciplinary, physician-inclusive care for individuals who stutter.

Our President & Founder, Gerald A. Maguire, MD, delivered a keynote address at Saint Louis University School of Medicine’s Pre-Commencement ceremony, sharing personal reflections on courage, vulnerability, and what it truly means to practice medicine. His words served as an inspiring send-off for the next generation of physicians as they prepare to enter the field.

Gerald A. Maguire, MD, Founder and Chair of STARS, is featured in Medscape discussing the importance of early evaluation and support for children who stutter. The article highlights the neurologic and multifactorial nature of stuttering, the need for pediatricians to play an active role in screening and coordinating care, and the value of early intervention and multidisciplinary treatment approaches. It also notes STARS’ work to develop open-access guidelines to help improve stuttering care for physicians, speech-language pathologists, and families.

Gerald A. Maguire, MD, Founder of STARS, together with STARS physicians, discusses stuttering in Exceptional Parent Magazine, helping parents better understand the condition and when to seek support. The article highlights early identification, the neurological basis of stuttering, and promising advances that are expanding treatment options for individuals who stutter.