I tap my forefinger to my thumb for each syllable and that helps me be more fluent. Maybe write down what you are going to say before you make the phone call so you can read it instead of trying to be spur of the moment? I know what you are talking about with the phone pain. I'm really happy now that I can text/email instead of relying solely on my verbal skills. What do you think is your biggest issue when you stutter?