Supporting Selective Mutism

Selective Mutism Treatment and Therapy in Toronto

What is Selective Mutism?

Selective mutism is an anxiety disorder in which a child is unable to speak and communicate effectively in select social situations, but they speak in other settings in which they are comfortable (i.e. home). Fortunately, there are many effective virtual and in-person treatments and therapies in Toronto that can help children reduce their anxiety symptoms.

What are Common Symptoms of Selective Mutism?

Children with selective mutism may show the following symptoms:

• Completely mute, speaks only to a select few people, or whispers

• Stands motionless due to fear when they are in specific social situations

• Shy, withdrawn, avoid eye contact

• Socially isolated from peers

• Aggressive, temper tantrums when they get home

• Speaks loudly and frequently in other settings (i.e. at home)

• Individuals less severely affected may appear relaxed, carefree, and able to socialize with one or a few peers, but unable to communicate with teachers or most peers

How to Support Children with Selective Mutism?

• For communication:

  • Use questions that allow for nonverbal communication to answer (i.e. nodding their heads, pointing, thumbs up or down)

  • Provide choices to encourage the child to use gestures/words to make a request

  • Include the child in group activities by allowing them to participate nonverbally (i.e. hold up cards, write on the board)

• For social skills:

  • Use small group or partnered activities to make the child feel more comfortable with speaking

Selective Mutism Support for Families

For individuals and families in Toronto struggling with selective mutism, there are a variety of in-person and virtual treatments that may be beneficial, including:

• Child anxiety programs and groups

• Anxiety behavioural therapy for kids

• Cognitive behavioural therapy

• Social skills training

• Exposure therapy

• Parent anxiety programs and groups

• Online anxiety programs