In the latest installment of our Ask Dr. E series, Dr. E answers five teen-related listener questions, including whether changing schools can serve as a fresh start for your teen, how to handle a teen who won’t leave their room, how to continue supporting and encouraging your teen and more. 

Chapters: 

(2:57) My son is 18 and is completely silent everywhere. He hasn’t spoken since 2nd grade. Are there any resources you recommend I check out and pass along? 

(10:45) Will changing schools solve my teen’s mutism? If so, should I consider a special education school or a private school? 

(17:09) I have a 15-year-old son with SM and social anxiety who refuses to go to school and stays in his bedroom all day. How can I help him? What’s a good first step? 

(22:00) I have a 14-year-old daughter who has social communication difficulties, sensory processing difficulties and defiance at home. What training(s) do you recommend we check out to help support and encourage her? 

(28:01) Is there a link between Multiple Personality Disorder and SM? My 17-yr-old brother, out of the blue, stopped talking to his close family in late 2022. Have you seen anything like this before?