Selective mutism therapy · Atlanta & virtual
Selective mutism therapy for children and teens
Selective mutism is an anxiety disorder, not a behavioral issue. Children with selective mutism aren't choosing to be silent. Speaking feels overwhelming. We work closely with parents and schools to help them find their voice.
Who we see
Children & teens
Approach
Gradual exposure
Sessions
In person or virtual
Location
Atlanta, GA
Does this sound familiar?
Children with selective mutism often want to speak but feel unable to.
Why it happens
In selective mutism, the brain treats speaking as a threat, which triggers a freeze response.
Treatment lowers that anxiety so speech can come out naturally.
- 1A speaking situation. A question at school or a new person.
- 2Anxiety spikes. Speaking suddenly feels impossible.
- 3Freezing or silence. Nodding, pointing, or someone answering for them.
- 4Relief. The pressure goes away, for now.
- ↻Harder next time. Silence becomes the habit in that setting.
How we treat it
Collaborative, gradual, and supportive
Treatment centers on gradual exposure and reducing anxiety about speaking, using structured, step-by-step methods. Progress is gradual but steady.
01
Low-pressure practice
Creating easy, low-stakes chances to speak.
02
A speaking ladder
Small steps that build confidence through early successes.
03
Real settings
Practicing at school and in social situations, rewarding effort over performance.
04
Parents & teachers
Helping adults respond to silence and reduce pressure.
What progress can look like
The goal isn't immediate speech. It's lowering anxiety so speech can emerge naturally, often in steps like these:
First steps
Nonverbal communication, then whispering to a trusted adult.
Building out
Speaking to one peer, then in small groups.
More participation
Joining in more at school and with friends.
Common questions
Is my child just being stubborn or shy?
No. Selective mutism is an anxiety disorder. Children with SM usually want to talk but feel unable to in certain settings.
Will you work with my child’s school?
Yes. Treatment works best when parents, teachers, and therapists are aligned, and we help support speaking at school.
Do you offer virtual sessions?
Yes. We see clients in person at our Atlanta office and virtually.
How do I get started?
Fill out our short New Patient Screener Form and we'll reach out within 24–48 hours to schedule your free consultation. You can also call us at (404) 462-5533.
Help your child find their voice
Start with a short screener, and we'll follow up to set up your consultation.
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