EP48 features the latest installment of our Shining Stars series, where we sit down with former SMart Center patients – or their parents – and discuss how they overcame Selective Mutism. This episode, we meet former SMart Center patient, Alex Collins.
In this episode, Dr. E and Alex discuss Alex’s journey with Selective Mutism, what worked during her treatment, advice she has for those still working to overcome SM, and much, much more.
ALEX’S UNIQUE BUT RELATABLE EXPERIENCE WITH SELECTIVE MUTISM
Dr. E and Alex begin their discussion with Alex reflecting on their experiences with Selective Mutism. Alex recalls distinct memories of feeling different from her peers when she started going to school, being able to speak only at home or with a close friend.
Unable to understand their condition as a child, Alex explains their personal ‘whys’ for developing Selective Mutism, mainly being highly timid and anxiety-prone.
Alex discusses their journey through treatment at the SMart Center, where she engaged in exercises to build social communication skills.
Also also mentions that much of the progress involved their parents working behind the scenes to integrate the learned skills into their daily life.
STRATEGIES THAT HELPED ALEX THE MOST DURING HER JOURNEY WITH SELECTIVE MUTISM
Dr. E and Alex details a journey of overcoming Selective Mutism with the help of parents and school collaboration. Key strategies included progressing at one’s own pace, supportive pairing, and gradually increasing social interactions.
By middle school, Alex no longer met Selective Mutism’s diagnostic criteria. Alex noted that staying in the same school was important, when compared to switching schools.
Eventually, while studying psychology in college, Alex became so passionate about Selective Mutism, she eventually joined CommuniCamp as a counselor.
ALEX’S LIFE AFTER SELECTIVE MUTISM
Dr. E and Alex continue their conversation with Alex sharing her journey from attending CommuniCamps to higher education, and her experiences with test and social anxiety.
Alex highlights the importance of coping skills, and she offers advice to parents of children with Selective Mutism to focus on their strengths and provide comfort and support. Effective coping strategies enable individuals to achieve their dreams and function well in life.
ALEX’S ADVICE TO CHILDREN & PARENTS CURRENTLY WORKING TO OVERCOME SELECTIVE MUTISM
Alex stresses the importance of respecting and validating children’s feelings of anxiety or avoidance without pushing them beyond their comfort levels.
Alex also emphasizes parents trusting their instincts, recognizing they know their child best despite conflicting professional advice.
Dr. E and Alex discuss understanding differences in temperament between parents and children, and stresses validating each child’s unique experiences, with insights from working with children at camp.
HOW CHILDREN AND TEENS PROGRESS DURING COMMUNICAMP
Dr. E and Alex conclude their conversation by discussing CommuniCamp, exploring the changes Alex sees in children while she’s a counselor at Camp. Alex describes how kids initially reserved become more comfortable and open by the weekend’s end.
The ‘Social Communication Bridge’ concept helps kids understand and manage their communication progress, Alex notes.
Alex emphasizes advocacy and education about Selective Mutism for parents. Alex wraps up the discussion by sharing her personal experience of overcoming Selective Mutism and aims to continue making an impact as a counselor at Camp.
