Selective Mutism Therapy
Supporting you to find your voice and thrive
What is Selective Mutism?
Selective mutism (SM) is an anxiety disorder characterised by an inability to speak in specific situations while being able to speak in other situations without difficulty. Difficulty speaking is typically observed in the school or nursery environment. But every child is unique, as are their speaking patterns. Speaking patterns and severity range from speaking to everyone outside of school and perhaps limited speech to some peers in school to not speaking to anyone outside of the home environment or nuclear family. Some children will be unable to talk to some close family members. Onset usually occurs in early childhood and can continue into adolescence and adulthood.
Myths about Selective Mutism
Selective Mutism ≠ Autism
Selective Mutism ≠ Trauma
Selective Mutism ≠ Shyness
Selective Mutism ≠ Oppositionality
KIDS WITH SELECTIVE MUTISM DO NOT GROW OUT OF IT
If left untreated, SM can significantly impact the client's and their family's wellbeing.
Treatment
Early intervention is vital
My initial goal is to build a positive relationship with the client. I then harness the power of this relationship to encourage the client to make small, manageable "brave talking" steps using behavioural and cognitive strategies.
I support children, teens, and young adults in overcoming their anxiety and moving from silence to speech.
Treatment should have a direct impact on day-to-day life.
Treatment Options
1. One-week intensive intervention—This short-term intensive program is designed to kickstart change. It usually includes two home sessions followed by three school-based sessions, although treatment may vary depending on the client's needs.
2. Guidance and training—This programme is particularly helpful when clients live far away. Bi-weekly or monthly sessions provide parents and teachers with the behavioural strategies and skills to support their child or student in moving forward with their speaking goals. Parents and teachers are given specific targets to work towards between sessions.
3. Weekly therapy sessions – 1-2-1 sessions with the therapist provided in the child's home, social/public, and school environment.
4. Parental therapeutic support – I know how challenging it can be to support a child with SM and the impact having a child with mental health needs can have on parental wellbeing and family relationships. I am here to provide you with the emotional support you need to continue doing the tremendous job you are already doing to support your child with SM.
Training and Workshops
1. Consultation – I provide one-off or ongoing consultation to schools
2. Training – Training opportunities are available to parents and teachers who want to develop selective mutism therapeutic skills.
3. Supervision - If you are a therapist working with a client with selective mutism or who struggles to speak in the therapeutic space for other reasons, supervision can provide you with perspective and skills to feel confident in the silence and support your client towards increased verbal communication.
"I felt the most calm and comfortable with you [...] you really really managed to help me take such huge steps"
[Client]