SM Perspectives - Focusing on Fathers

Expert: Mr. James Matteo

When treating an SM child and dealing with the challenges SM brings, it often requires baby steps. As a dad, male relative, or friend of an SM child it can be even more frustrating to face SM when there’s no quick fix. Chat with a dad whose daughter has SM, about the role dad can play in the treatment of SM and the patience it requires. This session is for fathers looking for answers and for mothers trying to help Dads become active partners in the treatment of an SM child.

Jim Matteo is a past Director of the Board of SMG~CAN. Jim currently resides in Charlottesville, Virginia with his wife Kristin, and daughters Avery and Kyra. He has worked in the finance field for nearly 15 years and is currently employed at the University of Virginia. Jim is a former member of the Northern Lehigh School District Educational Foundation located in Lehigh County, PA. Jim helped chair their capital campaign designed to raise funds to help educationally and socially at-risk children and to support educational initiatives. Jim's first experience with selective mutism occurred when his daughter was diagnosed with the condition at the age of 4. Having gone through the struggles of getting his daughter properly diagnosed and treated, Jim gained a lasting appreciation of the valuable work being performed by SMG-CAN. This experience also brought to light the realization that there are many families experiencing the same struggles who may not be aware of, or have access to, available resources. Jim is motivated by the desire to help SMG-CAN reach those affected by selective mutism.