Selective Mutism
Understanding and Treating Selective Mutism at Garden State Speech Therapy
Welcome to Garden State Speech Therapy, where we provide compassionate and effective speech therapy services for children with selective mutism. We understand the unique challenges that come with this condition, and our dedicated team of speech-language pathologists is committed to helping children overcome selective mutism to communicate confidently and expressively.
Pediatric Speech & Language Services
Our pediatric occupational therapy services are dedicated to fostering the holistic development of children with a family-centered approach. Our expert therapists provide individualized treatment targeting a range of areas. Through personalized and comprehensive approaches, we empower children to overcome challenges and reach their full potential in all aspects of their daily lives.
-
Selective mutism is an anxiety disorder that primarily affects children. It is characterized by a consistent inability to speak in specific social situations, despite being able to communicate comfortably in other settings. Children with selective mutism may be silent or extremely limited in their verbal interactions, especially in school or public environments.
-
If your child has selective mutism, you may notice the following things:
They will not speak in certain places or situations, such as in class or in front of certain people. This may happen every time they are in that situation. Your child will talk at other times and in other places.
Not speaking gets in the way of school, work, friendships, or relationships.
This difficulty in talking lasts for at least 1 month. This time period does not include the first month of school because children may be shy and may not talk right away.
Your child can understand and speak the language used in this specific situation but is still not talking.
Difficulty making eye contact with others
Your child may rely on nonverbal cues or gestures, such as pointing, nodding, and writing to answer questions or communicate wants and needs
Your child may communicate by “speaking through” a trusted family member or friend - they may whisper a response to a question to this person, who will then communicate their message
Sometimes children don’t speak when people are using a language they are less familiar with but do speak when people are using a language they know. This is not selective mutism (ASHA).
-
There is no single cause for selective mutism. However, selective mutism is generally understood to be an anxiety disorder linked to social anxiety, shyness, and an inhibited temperament. Many factors may play a part in a child developing selective mutism, including:
• Having an anxiety disorder or a family history of social anxiety and/or selective mutism
• A child that is very shy or is especially afraid to embarrass themselves in public
• A child desiring to be alone and not talk to friends or other people.
• A child diagnosed with a receptive or expressive language disorder may have an increased risk of selective mutism.
-
Assessment for selective mutism is a multi-disciplinary process involving your child’s pediatrician, a psychologist/psychiatrist, and a speech-language pathologist. A speech and language assessment may include:
• Evaluating how well your child’s lips, jaw, and tongue move
• Evaluating how well your child understands what others say to them
• Collecting information from you about when and where your child speaks or doesn’t speak
• Listening to how well your child says words, answers questions, and talks about their ideas
• Assessing how well your child communicates ideas and needs without speaking, such as their use of gestures, writing, or facial expressions
• Reviewing video or audio recordings if your child is not able to talk in the evaluation session -
Similar to assessment, treatment for selective mutism requires a multi-disciplinary approach. Your child’s speech-language pathologist will work with their mental health provider and pediatrician to find an approach that best suits their individual needs and goals.
-
Your speech-language pathologist may also collaborate with different people in the places where your child has trouble speaking. These people may include your child’s teachers, counselors, coaches, or family members in order to support your child to be comfortable talking in many situations. Your speech-language pathologist can also work with your child on improving their speech and language skills if they have trouble saying sounds or words, if they have problems explaining their ideas, or if they don’t like the sound of their own voice.
-
Explore the following links for additional information and support on selective mutism:
Selective Mutism Foundation (www.selectivemutismfoundation.org):
This comprehensive website offers a wealth of resources, including articles, webinars, and downloadable materials, to help individuals, families, and educators understand and address selective mutism. The Selective Mutism Foundation is dedicated to raising awareness and providing support for those affected by this communication challenge.
The American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (https://www.asha.org/public/speech/disorders/selective-mutism/):
ASHA provides a dedicated section on selective mutism, offering insights into assessment and treatment approaches. This trusted resource is a valuable destination for individuals seeking information on the role of speech-language pathologists in managing selective mutism.
Child Mind Institute (https://childmind.org/guide/quick-guide-to-selective-mutism/):
The Child Mind Institute's website includes an array of articles and guides that delve into the various aspects of selective mutism. With a focus on mental health and child development, this resource provides practical information for parents, caregivers, and professionals.
Selective Mutism Group (www.selectivemutism.org):
This organization is committed to supporting individuals with selective mutism and their families. The Selective Mutism Group's website offers a community forum, expert articles, and information on upcoming events, creating a space for shared experiences and mutual support.
National Institute of Mental Health (www.nimh.nih.gov):
NIMH offers in-depth information on selective mutism as a part of its broader mental health resources. Visitors can access research updates, treatment options, and educational materials to gain a deeper understanding of selective mutism from a scientific perspective.
These resources serve as valuable companions on your journey to understand and address selective mutism. Whether you are a parent, caregiver, educator, or individual navigating selective mutism, these links provide reliable information and connect you with supportive communities.
