EP56 features a discussion between Dr Elisa Shipon-Blum and licensed psychologist and selective mutism expert, Ruth Perednik.

In this episode, Dr. Elisa Shipon-Blum and Ruth Perednik discuss why children don’t progress by practicing skills only in a treatment setting, how to continue therapy at home, how to get buy-in from teachers and school staff and more.

Breaking the Traditional Therapy Model

Episode 56 begins with Dr. Elisa Shipon-Blum and Ruth Perednik discussing their approaches to treating selective mutism, focusing on creating a bridge from home to social settings. 

The two selective mutism experts highlight the importance of understanding each selectively mute child’s unique context and the need for integrative treatment involving parents, teachers, and key workers. 

Also discussed is traditional clinic-based therapy and how it’s insufficient. Dr. Elisa Shipon-Blum and Ruth stress the necessity of training parents and teachers to ensure effective communication and social integration.

Developing Skills for the Real World

Dr. Elisa Shipon-Blum and Ruth Perednik continue their discussion by getting into their approaches to treating selective mutism, focusing on transitioning skills from the clinic to real-world settings. 

They emphasize the importance of individualized care, ongoing adjustments, and the involvement of parents and teachers. 

Key strategies include giving parents homework tasks, using video recordings for gradual exposure, and employing playful, step-by-step desensitization techniques. 

The two experts also highlight the importance of meeting each child where they are and using engaging methods like games to reduce anxiety and encourage communication.

Ways to Help Selectively Mute Children Speak

Dr. Elisa Shipon-Blum and Ruth Perednik reach the middle of this podcast episode by discussing methods for helping selectively mute children develop verbal skills through gradual exposure and playful activities. 

They stress coordinated efforts among parents, teachers, and therapists, and highlight the ‘sliding in’ method for progressive social integration. 

The two experts agree that tailored, continuous facilitation is deemed essential for making progress.

Every Individual has Unique Needs

In this segment, Dr. Elisa Shipon-Blum and Ruth Perednik discuss individualizing care for selective mutism, involving parents and teachers, and transitioning skills from clinic to real life. 

The two Selective Mutism experts emphasize pairing children with peers, setting supportive environments, and adapting treatment plans based on each child’s unique challenges.

How to Support your Selectively Mute Child

Dr. Elisa Shipon-Blum and Ruth Perednik wrap up their discussion by discussing how to best support children with selective mutism, emphasizing individualized care, consistency, and parental and teacher involvement.

Key strategies in this segment include evaluating successes and challenges, using step-by-step desensitization, integrating visuals, and fostering comfort and connection before communication. 

The two Selective Mutism experts highlight the need for gradual exposure, reducing anxiety, and empowering children through strategic questioning and ensuring collaboration among all caregivers.