Hey David.
I think it depends who you ask if it works or not. Some say it does, some say it doesn't. If the nerve is going to heal, it is going to heal with or without a therapist - the nerves seem to have a mind of their own and start working when they are good and ready and I don't think anyone has found a way to make that happen any faster.
I think the most important part of using a therapist when you do start to get some movement is to minimize or avoid the synkinesis that can occur. It's easier to make corrections when things are moving at the wrong time if you can catch it early and re-train your brain to get the correct muscles going. Nerves also seem to be set in their ways and once they get wired in there - it's hard to change.
I would think in your case, it would be important since you would want your face cooperating when trying to work! You can't play a very tough guy if you're winking at people when you try to talk, and you can't make a very convincing minister if you're snarling at people when you try to smile!
I would ask your doctor about it. Sometimes I think they just don't think about telling you it's an option, but if you ask them about it, they'll usually give you a referral without question. The Bell's Palsy website has a list of trained facial therapists, and I'm sure there are some in your area.
Lori
