April 2026 Dear Selective Mutism Community, Participation in extracurricular and socially enriching activities plays an important role in the emotional, social, and developmental growth of children and teens. Research consistently… Continue reading The Importance of Extracurricular Activities for Children and Teens with Selective Mutism
Category: Living With SM
Scripts as a Scaffold: Supporting Speech While Confidence Grows
March 2026 Dear Selective Mutism Community, Often, my clients with Selective Mutism (or their family members) share concerns that they “will say the wrong thing” or that they “don’t know… Continue reading Scripts as a Scaffold: Supporting Speech While Confidence Grows
Challenging Anxious Selective Mutism Thoughts
Our thoughts are powerful and can have a strong impact on our emotional and behavioral responses in challenging situations. Individuals with anxiety often fall into characteristic “thinking traps” in which… Continue reading Challenging Anxious Selective Mutism Thoughts
Harnessing Motivation: Navigating the Challenges of Selective Mutism and Anxiety Treatment
April 2025 Dear SMA Community, Navigating the journey of overcoming selective mutism and anxiety can feel like climbing a steep mountain. It’s challenging, sometimes overwhelming, and progress might not always… Continue reading Harnessing Motivation: Navigating the Challenges of Selective Mutism and Anxiety Treatment
Supportive Parenting for Anxious Childhood Emotions
March 2025 Dear SMA Community, While there is a strong body of evidence supporting the effectiveness ofindividual, child-focused behavioral and cognitive-behavioral therapies fortreating youth anxiety, as clinicians, researchers, and caregivers,… Continue reading Supportive Parenting for Anxious Childhood Emotions
SMA December Communication A Story of Hope: Austin’s Journey
December 2024 Dear SMA Community, As we reflect on the past year, we are filled with immense gratitude for allthe strides we’ve made in supporting individuals and families affected byselective… Continue reading SMA December Communication A Story of Hope: Austin’s Journey
Traveling and Vacationing with Selective Mutism
With the summer season upon us, families are planning and orchestrating family vacations. This article focuses on two typical types of travelers, 5 ways to help children cope when away… Continue reading Traveling and Vacationing with Selective Mutism
Celebrating Progress and Success Within Selective Mutism Intervention
May 2024 “Believe in yourself and you can achieve greatness in your life” – Judy Blume Dear SMA Community, While exposure practice is a critical component of SM treatment, a… Continue reading Celebrating Progress and Success Within Selective Mutism Intervention
Selective Mutism and the Holidays
November 2023 Dear SM Community, It is known as the most wonderful time of the year, but for people with selective mutism the holidays can be very stressful. Family gatherings,… Continue reading Selective Mutism and the Holidays
How to Explain Selective Mutism to Friends and Family
August 2023 Dear SM Community, People generally have a hard time understanding Selective Mutism (SM). Even some experienced mental health professionals have a difficult time conceptualizing SM symptoms and what… Continue reading How to Explain Selective Mutism to Friends and Family