Selective Mutism Anxiety & Related Disorders Treatment Center

Guided Virtual Get Together with S-CAT® Strategies (ages 10-18)
2021-11-05 16:00 - 17:00, 2021-10-29 16:00 - 17:00, 2021-10-22 16:00 - 17:00, 2021-10-15 16:00 - 17:00, 2021-10-08 16:00 - 17:00, 2021-10-01 16:00 - 17:00 UTC | SMart Center Virtual Treatment Room
Practice building and maintaining social communication strategies using S-CAT® strategies under direct guidance of SMart Center counselors as they facilitate get togethers from a distance using S-CAT® and the Social Communication Bridge® weekly through a variety of activities.
Join just one session or as many as you like! Registration is $50/session.
Click here to register and select the date(s) you wish to attend!
Email us if you have questions.
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October 2021 CommuniCamp™
2021-10-08 18:30 - 2021-10-11 14:00 UTC | Jenkintown, PA
CommuniCamp™ is a 3+ day Intensive Group Treatment and Parent Training Program to help children and teens ages 3-17 (at every level of communication e.g. shut-down and non-communicative, nonverbal, somewhat communicative, etc.) with Selective Mutism, social anxiety, and extreme shyness speak in school and other social settings. Based on 20+ years of experience treating Selective Mutism using Social Communication Anxiety Treatment® (S-CAT®), the evidence-based treatment approach created by world-renowned Selective Mutism expert, Dr. Elisa Shipon-Blum, we will help your child, tween, or teen build the social communication skills necessary for school, the real world, and at home.

Click here to let us know you’re interested!

The CommuniCamp™ Mission is two-fold: 1) treatment in small, peer-groups in a school for children and teens and 2) parent education, training, and support seminars:
Intensive Group Treatment:
Over the course of a three-day weekend (5 hours/day, 15 hours total), our professionally trained counselors, under the direction of our lead clinicians, work directly with two-to-three campers on social comfort and confidence to instill social confidence, increase communication, and facilitate the learning of coping skills using S-CAT® based strategies using each camper’s individual baseline for social communication. Through these strategies and by removing the expectation for speech and respecting each camper’s baseline, our campers see and hear themselves communicating confidently in a peer-group school setting which translates to their school environment when they get home.
Parent Training, Education, and Support Seminars:
While campers undergo treatment, we simultaneously provide 15 hours of intensive parent education, training, and breakout support sessions so parents can immerse themselves in the world of Selective Mutism and learn strategies, ask questions, share stories, receive support, and feel confident implementing the goals, strategies, and interventions the entire family learned at CommuniCamp™, at home.
CommuniCamp™ has been rated as “excellent,” “life-changing,” and highly recommended by parents!
WHEN IS IT?

Friday, October 8, 2021: 6:30 PM – 7:30 PM EST (Welcome & Orientation Get-Together)
Saturday, October 9 2021: 9:00 AM – 2:00 PM EST (Day One, Child and Parent Sessions)
Sunday, October 10, 2021: 9:00 AM – 2:00 PM EST (Day Two, Child and Parent Sessions)
Monday, October 11, 2021: 9:00 AM – 2:00 PM EST (Day Three, Child and Parent Sessions)

The SMart Center’s CommuniCamp™ Program is held multiple times over the course of the year. Click here to find out when!
WHO CAN APPLY? Children and teens (new and existing SMart Center patients) ages 3-17-years-old with Selective Mutism, Social Anxiety, and/or Extreme Shyness (and their families!). Your loved one does not need an official diagnosis to attend.
WHERE IS IT? We rent a local school in the Greater Philadelphia Area (Click here for local, low-cost housing recommendations)
HOW TO REGISTER?
Click here to let us know you’re interested!

For more detailed information, click on the links below, visit www.CommuniCamp.org or email CommuniCamp@SelectiveMutismCenter.org

our treatment method, S-CAT®

globally successful
backed by research (95% success rate)

email us for parent references
what to expect from CommuniCamp™
financial assistance
CommuniCamp™ Insurance Policy

August 2021 CommuniCamp™
2021-08-13 18:30 - 2021-08-16 14:00 UTC | Jenkintown, PA
CommuniCamp™ is a 3+ day Intensive Group Treatment and Parent Training Program to help children and teens ages 3-17 (at every level of communication e.g. shut-down and non-communicative, nonverbal, somewhat communicative, etc.) with Selective Mutism, social anxiety, and extreme shyness speak in school and other social settings. Based on 20+ years of experience treating Selective Mutism using Social Communication Anxiety Treatment® (S-CAT®), the evidence-based treatment approach created by world-renowned Selective Mutism expert, Dr. Elisa Shipon-Blum, we will help your child, tween, or teen build the social communication skills necessary for school, the real world, and at home.

Click here to let us know you’re interested!

The CommuniCamp™ Mission is two-fold: 1) treatment in small, peer-groups in a school for children and teens and 2) parent education, training, and support seminars:
Intensive Group Treatment:
Over the course of a three-day weekend (5 hours/day, 15 hours total), our professionally trained counselors, under the direction of our lead clinicians, work directly with two-to-three campers on social comfort and confidence to instill social confidence, increase communication, and facilitate the learning of coping skills using S-CAT® based strategies using each camper’s individual baseline for social communication. Through these strategies and by removing the expectation for speech and respecting each camper’s baseline, our campers see and hear themselves communicating confidently in a peer-group school setting which translates to their school environment when they get home.
Parent Training, Education, and Support Seminars:
While campers undergo treatment, we simultaneously provide 15 hours of intensive parent education, training, and breakout support sessions so parents can immerse themselves in the world of Selective Mutism and learn strategies, ask questions, share stories, receive support, and feel confident implementing the goals, strategies, and interventions the entire family learned at CommuniCamp™, at home.
CommuniCamp™ has been rated as “excellent,” “life-changing,” and highly recommended by parents!
WHEN IS IT?

Friday, August 13, 2020: 6:30 PM – 7:30 PM EST (Welcome & Orientation Get-Together)
Saturday, August 14 2020: 9:00 AM – 2:00 PM EST (Day One, Child and Parent Sessions)
Sunday, August 15, 2020: 9:00 AM – 2:00 PM EST (Day Two, Child and Parent Sessions)
Monday, August 16, 2020: 9:00 AM – 2:00 PM EST (Day Three, Child and Parent Sessions)

The SMart Center’s CommuniCamp™ Program is held multiple times over the course of the year. Click here to find out when!
WHO CAN APPLY? Children and teens (new and existing SMart Center patients) ages 3-17-years-old with Selective Mutism, Social Anxiety, and/or Extreme Shyness (and their families!). Your loved one does not need an official diagnosis to attend.
WHERE IS IT? We rent a local school in the Greater Philadelphia Area (Click here for local, low-cost housing recommendations)
HOW TO REGISTER?
Click here to let us know you’re interested!

For more detailed information, click on the links below, visit www.CommuniCamp.org or email CommuniCamp@SelectiveMutismCenter.org

our treatment method, S-CAT®

globally successful
backed by research (95% success rate)

email us for parent references
what to expect from CommuniCamp™
financial assistance
CommuniCamp™ Insurance Policy

1-Day Virtual CommuniCamp™ for Tweens/Teens Ages 12-17
2021-07-21 11:00 - 17:00 UTC | SMart Center Virtual Treatment Room
Due to demand, we are excited to offer a One Full Day (6 hours!) Virtual CommuniCamp™ Program for children (and their families!) between the ages of 12 and 17. Exceptions can be made for some 18 and 19-year-olds. See our FAQs to learn more.
Read more about the Tween/Teen CommuniCamp experience
Sign me up!

The SMart Center, under the direction of Selective Mutism pioneer, Dr. Elisa Shipon-Blum, has been treating children, tweens/teens, and adults with SM for over 25 years using S-CAT®, an evidenced-based treatment focusing on the whole person and a CBT, family systems approach.
This 1-Day Program is modeled after our successful in-person CommuniCamp™ but done virtually and for one full day–6 hours. The CommuniCamp™ experience allows children to learn skills for home, the real world, and school–in a classroom or while distance learning. In addition, parents receive education and training to support their child’s progress.
Our Virtual CommuniCamp™ is popular since families can receive treatment, meet others who understand, and learn as if they are in-person at our Center! No travel involved. Virtual CommuniCamp™, like our individual telehealth treatment programs, are done in the comfort of a child/teen’s home, which has proven to be a strong advantage for them (and their parents). Using a virtual platform, we practice ALL the same skills and have mock social settings with unique and ultra-fun virtual backgrounds! These backgrounds help the child visualize the setting and practice skills. This has carried over well into real-world/school social settings and is a favorite amongst our families!
Our 6-hour program is unmatched! It is an intensive group treatment and support program for our children/teens/parents to provide parents with education and support throughout. There will be breakout treatment sessions with clinical counselors and separate support/connection luncheons for parents and campers. In addition to therapeutic, evidence-based strategies, CommuniCamp™ and the S-CAT® program, exclusively used in SMart Center Programs, is known for the tremendous amount of support that both parents and campers receive before, during, and after the program. Our 1-Day Virtual CommuniCamp™ program is no different! Included in the price of the program, families receive:

Multiple relevant handouts and webinars to supplement your CommuniCamp™ experience to take home and to be shared with the school/teachers/relatives/friends.
A one-on-one support call with the camper’s counselor to discuss what strategies worked best with your child during the day.
Receipts with CPT codes to submit to insurance
Confirmation of diagnosis letter
Recommendations for continued support: Individualized Follow-Up Sessions in-person or web-conference, School Consultations via web-conference, attend CommuniCamp™ again
A support system of professionals and peers you (and your child) can relate to and keep in touch with after the program.
A metaphorical tool belt equipped with skills, strategies, and mechanisms for overcoming Selective Mutism.

If you are interested in attending this event or learning more about CommuniCamp, please fill out our CommuniCamp Interest Form.
Also, listen to Dr. E via Outloud Podcast: Let’s Talk Teens

July 2021 CommuniCamp™
2021-07-16 18:30 - 2021-07-19 14:00 UTC | Jenkintown, PA
CommuniCamp™ is a 3+ day Intensive Group Treatment and Parent Training Program to help children and teens ages 3-17 (at every level of communication e.g. shut-down and non-communicative, nonverbal, somewhat communicative, etc.) with Selective Mutism, social anxiety, and extreme shyness speak in school and other social settings. Based on 20+ years of experience treating Selective Mutism using Social Communication Anxiety Treatment® (S-CAT®), the evidence-based treatment approach created by world-renowned Selective Mutism expert, Dr. Elisa Shipon-Blum, we will help your child, tween, or teen build the social communication skills necessary for school, the real world, and at home.

Click here to let us know you’re interested!

The CommuniCamp™ Mission is two-fold: 1) treatment in small, peer-groups in a school for children and teens and 2) parent education, training, and support seminars:
Intensive Group Treatment:
Over the course of a three-day weekend (5 hours/day, 15 hours total), our professionally trained counselors, under the direction of our lead clinicians, work directly with two-to-three campers on social comfort and confidence to instill social confidence, increase communication, and facilitate the learning of coping skills using S-CAT® based strategies using each camper’s individual baseline for social communication. Through these strategies and by removing the expectation for speech and respecting each camper’s baseline, our campers see and hear themselves communicating confidently in a peer-group school setting which translates to their school environment when they get home.
Parent Training, Education, and Support Seminars:
While campers undergo treatment, we simultaneously provide 15 hours of intensive parent education, training, and breakout support sessions so parents can immerse themselves in the world of Selective Mutism and learn strategies, ask questions, share stories, receive support, and feel confident implementing the goals, strategies, and interventions the entire family learned at CommuniCamp™, at home.
CommuniCamp™ has been rated as “excellent,” “life-changing,” and highly recommended by parents!
WHEN IS IT?

Friday, July 16, 2020: 6:30 PM – 7:30 PM EST (Welcome & Orientation Get-Together)
Saturday, July 17 2020: 9:00 AM – 2:00 PM EST (Day One, Child and Parent Sessions)
Sunday, July 18, 2020: 9:00 AM – 2:00 PM EST (Day Two, Child and Parent Sessions)
Monday, July 19, 2020: 9:00 AM – 2:00 PM EST (Day Three, Child and Parent Sessions)

The SMart Center’s CommuniCamp™ Program is held multiple times over the course of the year. Click here to find out when!
WHO CAN APPLY? Children and teens (new and existing SMart Center patients) ages 3-17-years-old with Selective Mutism, Social Anxiety, and/or Extreme Shyness (and their families!). Your loved one does not need an official diagnosis to attend.
WHERE IS IT? We rent a local school in the Greater Philadelphia Area (Click here for local, low-cost housing recommendations)
HOW TO REGISTER?
Click here to let us know you’re interested!

For more detailed information, click on the links below, visit www.CommuniCamp.org or email CommuniCamp@SelectiveMutismCenter.org

our treatment method, S-CAT®

globally successful
backed by research (95% success rate)

email us for parent references
what to expect from CommuniCamp™
financial assistance
CommuniCamp™ Insurance Policy

1-Day Virtual CommuniCamp™ for Tweens/Teens Ages 12-17
2021-04-17 11:00 - 17:00 UTC | SMart Center Virtual Treatment Room
Due to demand, we are excited to offer a One Full Day (6 hours!) Virtual CommuniCamp™ Program for children (and their families!) between the ages of 12 and 17. Exceptions can be made for some 18 and 19-year-olds. See our FAQs to learn more.
Read more about the Tween/Teen CommuniCamp experience
Sign me up!

The SMart Center, under the direction of Selective Mutism pioneer, Dr. Elisa Shipon-Blum, has been treating children, tweens/teens, and adults with SM for over 25 years using S-CAT®, an evidenced-based treatment focusing on the whole person and a CBT, family systems approach.
This 1-Day Program is modeled after our successful in-person CommuniCamp™ but done virtually and for one full day–7 hours. The CommuniCamp™ experience allows children to learn skills for home, the real world, and school–in a classroom or while distance learning. In addition, parents receive education and training to support their child’s progress.
Our Virtual CommuniCamp™ is popular since families can receive treatment, meet others who understand, and learn as if they are in-person at our Center! No travel involved. Virtual CommuniCamp™, like our individual telehealth treatment programs, are done in the comfort of a child/teen’s home, which has proven to be a strong advantage for them (and their parents). Using a virtual platform, we practice ALL the same skills and have mock social settings with unique and ultra-fun virtual backgrounds! These backgrounds help the child visualize the setting and practice skills. This has carried over well into real-world/school social settings and is a favorite amongst our families!
Our 6-hour program is unmatched! It is an intensive group treatment and support program for our children/teens/parents to provide parents with education and support throughout. There will be breakout treatment sessions with clinical counselors and separate support/connection luncheons for parents and campers. In addition to therapeutic, evidence-based strategies, CommuniCamp™ and the S-CAT® program, exclusively used in SMart Center Programs, is known for the tremendous amount of support that both parents and campers receive before, during, and after the program. Our 1-Day Virtual CommuniCamp™ program is no different! Included in the price of the program, families receive:

Multiple relevant handouts and webinars to supplement your CommuniCamp™ experience to take home and to be shared with the school/teachers/relatives/friends.
A one-on-one support call with the camper’s counselor to discuss what strategies worked best with your child during the day.
Receipts with CPT codes to submit to insurance
Confirmation of diagnosis letter
Recommendations for continued support: Individualized Follow-Up Sessions in-person or web-conference, School Consultations via web-conference, attend CommuniCamp™ again
A support system of professionals and peers you (and your child) can relate to and keep in touch with after the program.
A metaphorical tool belt equipped with skills, strategies, and mechanisms for overcoming Selective Mutism.

If you are interested in attending this event or learning more about CommuniCamp, please fill out our CommuniCamp Interest Form.
Also, listen to Dr. E via Outloud Podcast: Let’s Talk Teens

1-Day Virtual CommuniCamp™ for Children Ages 4-11
2021-03-13 11:00 - 17:00 (America/New_York) | SMart Center Virtual Treatment Room
Due to demand, we are excited to offer a One Full Day (6 hours!) Virtual CommuniCamp™ Program for children (and their families!) between the ages of 4 and 11. Exceptions can be made for 12 and 13 year-olds.

Sign me up!

The SMart Center, under the direction of Selective Mutism pioneer, Dr. Elisa Shipon-Blum, has been treating children, tweens/teens, and adults with SM for over 25 years using S-CAT®, an evidenced-based treatment focusing on the whole person and a CBT, family systems approach.
This 1-Day Program is modeled after our successful in-person CommuniCamp™ but done virtually. The CommuniCamp™ experience allows children to learn skills for home, the real world, and school–in a classroom or while distance learning. In addition, parents receive education and training to support their child through the process.
Our Virtual CommuniCamp™ is popular since families can receive treatment, meet others who understand, and learn as if they are in-person at our Center! No travel involved. Virtual CommuniCamp™, like our individual telehealth treatment programs, is done in the comfort of a child/teen’s home, which has proven to be a strong advantage (and their parents). Using a virtual platform, we practice ALL the same skills and have mock social settings with unique and ultra-fun virtual backgrounds! These backgrounds help the child visualize the setting and practice skills. This has carried over well into real-world/school social settings and is a favorite amongst our families!
Our 6-hour program is unmatched! It is an intensive group treatment and support program for our children/teens/parents to provide parents with education and support throughout. There will be breakout treatment sessions with clinical counselors and separate support/connection luncheons for parents and campers. In addition to therapeutic, evidence-based strategies, CommuniCamp™ and the S-CAT® program, exclusively used in SMart Center Programs, is known for the tremendous amount of support that both parents and campers receive before, during, and after the program. Our 1-Day Virtual CommuniCamp™ program is no different! Included in the price of the program, families receive:

Multiple relevant handouts and webinars to supplement your CommuniCamp™ experience to take home and to be shared with the school/teachers/relatives/friends.
A one-on-one support call with the camper’s counselor to discuss what strategies worked best with your child during the day.
Receipts with CPT codes to submit to insurance
Confirmation of diagnosis letter
Recommendations for continued support: Individualized Follow-Up Sessions in-person or web-conference, School Consultations via web-conference, attend CommuniCamp™ again
A support system of professionals and peers you (and your child) can relate to and keep in touch with after the program.
A metaphorical tool belt equipped with skills, strategies, and mechanisms for overcoming Selective Mutism.

If you are interested in attending this event or learning more about CommuniCamp, please fill out our CommuniCamp Interest Form.

February 2021 VIRTUAL CommuniCamp™ Intensive Group Treatment and Parent Training Program for Children ages 4-11
2021-02-12 18:30 - 2021-02-15 18:30 UTC | SMart Center Virtual Treatment Room
This event will be held virtually due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
CommuniCamp™ is a 3+ day Intensive Group Treatment and Parent Training Program to help children and teens ages 4-17 (at every level of communication, e.g., shut-down and non-communicative, nonverbal, somewhat communicative, etc.) with Selective Mutism, social anxiety, and extreme shyness speak in school and other social settings. This specific event will be for children ages 4-11 years old.

Sign me up!

Based on 20+ years of experience treating Selective Mutism using Social Communication Anxiety Treatment® (S-CAT®), the evidence-based treatment approach created by world-renowned Selective Mutism expert, Dr. Elisa Shipon-Blum, we will help your child, tween, or teen build the social communication skills necessary for school, the real world, and at home.
The CommuniCamp™ Mission is two-fold: 1) treatment in small, peer-groups in a school for children and teens and 2) parent education, training, and support seminars:
Intensive Group Treatment:
Over the course of a three-day weekend (5 hours/day, 15 hours total), our professionally trained counselors, under the direction of our lead clinicians, work directly with two-to-three campers on social comfort and confidence to instill social confidence, increase communication, and facilitate the learning of coping skills using S-CAT® based strategies using each camper’s individual baseline for social communication. Through these strategies and by removing the expectation for speech and respecting each camper’s baseline, our campers see and hear themselves communicating confidently in a peer-group school setting, which translates to their school environment when they get home.
Parent Training, Education, and Support Seminars:
While campers undergo treatment, we simultaneously provide 15 hours of intensive parent education, training, and breakout support sessions so parents can immerse themselves in the world of Selective Mutism and learn strategies, ask questions, share stories, receive support, and feel confident implementing the goals, strategies, and interventions the entire family learned at CommuniCamp™, at home.
CommuniCamp™ has been rated as “excellent,” “life-changing,” and highly recommended by parents!
For more detailed information, click on the links below, visit www.CommuniCamp.org or email CommuniCamp@SelectiveMutismCenter.org

our treatment method, S-CAT®

globally successful
backed by research (95% success rate)

please email us for parent references
what to expect from CommuniCamp™
financial assistance
CommuniCamp™ Insurance Policy

If you are interested in attending this event or learning more about CommuniCamp, please fill out our CommuniCamp Interest Form.

October 2020 CommuniCamp™ Intensive Group Treatment and Parent Training Program
2020-10-09 18:30 - 2020-10-12 18:30 UTC | Jenkintown, PA
CommuniCamp™ is a 3+ day Intensive Group Treatment and Parent Training Program to help children and teens ages 3-17 (at every level of communication e.g. shut-down and non-communicative, nonverbal, somewhat communicative, etc.) with Selective Mutism, social anxiety, and extreme shyness speak in school and other social settings. Based on 20+ years of experience treating Selective Mutism using Social Communication Anxiety Treatment® (S-CAT®), the evidence-based treatment approach created by world-renowned Selective Mutism expert, Dr. Elisa Shipon-Blum, we will help your child, tween, or teen build the social communication skills necessary for school, the real world, and at home.
The CommuniCamp™ Mission is two-fold: 1) treatment in small, peer-groups in a school for children and teens and 2) parent education, training, and support seminars:
Intensive Group Treatment:
Over the course of a three-day weekend (5 hours/day, 15 hours total), our professionally trained counselors, under the direction of our lead clinicians, work directly with two-to-three campers on social comfort and confidence to instill social confidence, increase communication, and facilitate learning of coping skills using S-CAT® based strategies using each camper’s individual baseline for social communication. Through these strategies and by removing the expectation for speech and respecting each camper’s baseline, our campers see and hear themselves communicating confidently in a peer-group school setting which translates to their school environment when they get home.
Parent Training, Education, and Support Seminars:
While campers undergo treatment, we simultaneously provide 15 hours of intensive parent education, training, and breakout support sessions so parents can immerse themselves in the world of Selective Mutism and learn strategies, ask questions, share stories, receive support, and feel confident implementing the goals, strategies, and interventions the entire family learned at CommuniCamp™, at home.
CommuniCamp™ has been rated as “excellent,” “life-changing,” and highly recommended by parents!
WHEN IS IT?

Friday, October 9, 2020: 6:30 PM – 7:30 PM EST (Welcome & Orientation Get-Together)
Saturday, October 10 2020: 9:00 AM – 2:00 PM EST (Day One, Child and Parent Sessions)
Sunday, October 11, 2020: 9:00 AM – 2:00 PM EST (Day Two, Child and Parent Sessions)
Monday, October 12, 2020: 9:00 AM – 2:00 PM EST (Day Three, Child and Parent Sessions)

The SMart Center’s CommuniCamp™ Program is held multiple times over the course of the year. Click here to find out when!
WHO CAN APPLY? Children and teens (new and existing SMart Center patients) ages 3-17-years-old with Selective Mutism, Social Anxiety, and/or Extreme Shyness (and their families!). Your loved one does not need an official diagnosis to attend.
WHERE IS IT? We rent a local school in the Greater Philadelphia Area (Click here for local, low-cost housing recommendations)
HOW TO REGISTER? WHAT’S THE PROCESS & FEES? The process for families to join CommuniCamp™ is simple as 1-2-3!

APPLY. Click here to complete the application so that Dr. Elisa Shipon-Blum can perform a detailed review and assessment of the application to determine if applicant is eligible for group treatment prior to being involved in our Individualized Intensive Treatment Program. This is one of many unique aspects of CommuniCamp™. This is how we are able to accept new patients directly into group treatment! Our globally successful, evidence-based treatment approach, Social Communication Anxiety Treatment® (SCAT®), is grounded in the understanding that Selective Mutism is more than just not speaking in social settings. Your loved one with Selective Mutism and/or Social Anxiety developed SM and remains “stuck” from one or more contributing factors. The application also allows to start to uncover the child’s/teen’s unique needs so that we can utilize the appropriate S-CAT® strategies with respect to his/her baseline. There is a $75 non-refundable application assessment fee. After a clinical assessment of your application, you will be notified of your status within 2-3 business days. Since established SMart Center patients have already completed the initial interviews and assessments, they are eligible to submit the application at no cost by using the coupon code: SMartPatient
MEET. After your application is thoroughly reviewed, you will be eligible for one of three meeting options (in-person or virtual, dependent on clinical assessment of application) with one of our clinicians to deepen our understanding of your child’s unique social communication needs so that we can determine ideal group placement and identify and plan for the proper treatment strategies to utilize during the CommuniCamp™ weekend. Since we use S-CAT® model in a peer-group and school setting, this step will help foster a comfortable, fun, and therapeutic weekend for all. There is a minimum fee of $300* for this step; however, based on clinical assessment of application, Dr. Shipon-Blum might recommend individualized treatment prior to attending the program. More detailed information and pricing will be sent upon application acceptance. After your meeting is completed and your CommuniCamp™ acceptance is confirmed, we will create your child’s unique experience. Before, during, and after camp, purposeful, specific strategies are used to help ease each child’s specific anxieties, which will foster social comfort in a school-like setting and hence, communication. *This step is waived for SMart Center families who’ve been seen within 6 months to 1 year. Upon acceptance of application, the meeting may or may not be necessary pending clinician determination.
ATTEND. Steps 1 and 2 unite with a Welcome & Orientation Get-Together (the evening prior to Day One of the program) where campers and parents will meet their counselors, fellow campers, and tour the facility. Therapeutic, S-CAT® strategies are incorporated into this pre-camp event so we recommend arriving to the Philadelphia area the afternoon before the Day One of the program. During CommuniCamp™ (after camper drop off), parents will meet each day with Dr. Elisa Shipon-Blum and our clinical staff for educational and support sessions. Parents will receive hands-on training and learn proven, step-by-step treatment strategies with goal charts, opportunities to ask questions, as well as time to connect with other parents. Campers will have a detailed schedule each day (9AM – 2PM) that consists of fun games and activities to foster social comfort, confidence, and progression of communication in home, school, and real world settings. Campers work directly with their counselors and clinicians in their small groups or paired with buddies, as well as participate in pull-out sessions with our clinicians. There is an $1,800 fee associated with this step.

For more detailed information, click on the links below, visit www.CommuniCamp.org or email CommuniCamp@SelectiveMutismCenter.org

our treatment method, S-CAT®

globally successful
backed by research (95% success rate)

email us for parent references
what to expect from CommuniCamp™
financial assistance
CommuniCamp™ Insurance Policy

Guided S-CAT® Virtual Get-Togethers (ages 10-18 yrs old)
2020-09-14 16:00 - 17:00 UTC | SMart Center Virtual Treatment Room
Practice building and maintaining social communication strategies using S-CAT® treatment strategies under the direct guidance of SMart Center master-level clinical counselors they facilitate get-togethers from a distance using S-CAT® and the Social Communication Bridge® weekly through a variety of activities.
Tweens/teens ages 10-18 yrs old will get-together on Mondays at 4PM EST.
Join just one session or as many as you like! Registration is $50/session. Ongoing support is recommended as this situation is evolving daily, so we encourage you to participate in this recurring support group as often as possible! To join, visit here!

August 2020 4-Day Virtual CommuniCamp™ Intensive Group Treatment & Parent Training Program
2020-08-14 12:00 - 2020-08-17 18:30 UTC | SMart Center Virtual Treatment Room
August 2020 CommuniCamp™ is Virtual! This 4-day Intensive Group Treatment and Parent Training Program to help children ages 4-12 (at every level of communication e.g. shut-down and non-communicative, nonverbal, somewhat communicative, etc.) with Selective Mutism, social anxiety, and extreme shyness speak in school and other social settings. Based on 20+ years of experience treating Selective Mutism using Social Communication Anxiety Treatment® (S-CAT®), the evidence-based treatment approach created by world-renowned Selective Mutism expert, Dr. Elisa Shipon-Blum, we will help your child build the social communication skills necessary for school, the real world, and at home.
Click here to learn more about our 1-Day Virtual CommuniCamp™ programs for children, tweens, and teens.
The 4-Day Virtual CommuniCamp™ is our web-based INTEGRATED treatment and training group for Selective Mutism, Social Anxiety, and extreme shyness. Virtual CommuniCamp™ allows families to participate from the comfort of their own homes, which is the perfect environment to facilitate progression into social communication since home is where our children are often most comfortable and communicative. Virtual CommuniCamp™ embodies the two-fold mission of our traditional CommuniCamp™ meaning this event:

integrates group experiences to help children gain comfort and communication with other peers and adults through activities often mirrored within the virtual classroom, via virtual playdates, and the “new world” of social distancing we are beginning
involves parent training and implementation during camp, as parents are asked to participate within the ‘virtual classroom’ experience. Virtual CommuniCamp™ fosters parent observation, training, and facilitation (featuring Dr. Elisa Shipon-Blum and Jennifer Brittingham, LPC) while SMart Center clinicians and counselors lead and role model communication progress using Dr. E’s evidence-based S-CAT® strategies and interventions.

Date/Time*:

August 14th – Virtual CommuniCamp™ Day 1

12:00 PM ET – 3:00 PM ET – Parent Training & Welcome
4:00 PM – 5:00 PM ET – Camper Orientation, Meet & Greet

August 15th – Virtual CommuniCamp™ Day 2 – 11:00 AM – 5:00 PM ET
August 16th – Virtual CommuniCamp™ Day 3 – 11:00 AM – 5:00 PM ET
August 17th – Virtual CommuniCamp™ Day 4 – 11:00 AM – 5:00 PM ET

*The structured daily agenda involves both parent-only training sessions as well as child group sessions. Optional (but encouraged) independent camper activities and parent networking sessions will be offered. Upon registration confirmation, you will receive details of the agenda (daily activities, times, and breaks), a comprehensive Welcome Guide to prepare for Virtual CommuniCamp™, and additional supplemental resources to prepare you and your camper for your intensive weekend. Keep scrolling for more details on the process to enroll, pricing, and what to expect from the program!
WHO CAN APPLY? Children (new and existing SMart Center patients) ages 4-12-years-old with Selective Mutism, Social Anxiety, and/or Extreme Shyness (and their families!). Your loved one does not need an official diagnosis to attend.
WHERE IS IT? Microsoft Teams (we give you detailed instructions on how to join this easy-to-use platform)
HOW TO REGISTER? WHAT’S THE PROCESS & FEES? The process for families to join CommuniCamp™ is simple as 1-2-3!

APPLY. Click here to complete the application so that Dr. Elisa Shipon-Blum can perform a detailed review and assessment of the application to determine if applicant is eligible for group treatment prior to being involved in our Individualized Intensive Treatment Program. This is one of many unique aspects of CommuniCamp™. This is how we are able to accept new patients directly into group treatment! Our globally successful, evidence-based treatment approach, Social Communication Anxiety Treatment® (SCAT®), is grounded in the understanding that Selective Mutism is more than just not speaking in social settings. Your loved one with Selective Mutism and/or Social Anxiety developed SM and remains “stuck” from one or more contributing factors. The application also allows to start to uncover the child’s/teen’s unique needs so that we can utilize the appropriate S-CAT® strategies with respect to his/her baseline. There is a $75 non-refundable application assessment fee. After a clinical assessment of your application, you will be notified of your status within 2-3 business days. Since established SMart Center patients have already completed the initial interviews and assessments, they are eligible to submit the application at no cost by using the coupon code: SMartPatient
MEET. After your application is thoroughly reviewed, you will be eligible for one of three meeting options (in-person or virtual, dependent on clinical assessment of application) with one of our clinicians to deepen our understanding of your child’s unique social communication needs so that we can determine ideal group placement and identify and plan for the proper treatment strategies to utilize during the CommuniCamp™ weekend. Since we use S-CAT® model in a peer-group and school setting, this step will help foster a comfortable, fun, and therapeutic weekend for all. There is a minimum fee of $300* for this step; however, based on clinical assessment of application, Dr. Shipon-Blum might recommend individualized treatment prior to attending the program. More detailed information and pricing will be sent upon application acceptance. After your meeting is completed and your CommuniCamp™ acceptance is confirmed, we will create your child’s unique experience. Before, during, and after camp, purposeful, specific strategies are used to help ease each child’s specific anxieties, which will foster social comfort in a school-like setting and hence, communication. *This step is waived for SMart Center families who’ve been seen within 6 months to 1 year. Upon acceptance of application, the meeting may or may not be necessary pending clinician determination.
ATTEND. Steps 1 and 2 unite with a Welcome Orientation and Meet & Greet sessions occurs the first day of the program. Campers and parents will meet the staff, counselors, fellow campers, and get used to the virtual platform. Therapeutic, S-CAT® strategies are incorporated into this pre-camp event. On the second, third, and fourth days, parents meet with our lead clinicians for 2+ hours each morning and then participate during the virtual activities. We also provide optional, but encouraged, parent lunch sessions. This is a popular aspect of our onsite CommuniCamp™! Parents will eat lunch on a video-conference with the parents of children in the same age range (led by a counselor). Parents also receive daily goal review and discussion to conclude each day. Although the way we engage within the real-world has changed, S-CAT® strategies are designed to meet campers ANYWHERE and utilize available opportunities to increase comfort and communication. Communication progress is NOT canceled or postponed–it’s happening now! We are still visiting the grocery store, waving hi/bye to people on family walks, ordering and picking up food, interacting with teachers/peers online, taking virtual music lessons, and more! Virtual CommuniCamp™ teaches and demonstrates how to implement strategies in both our “old world” as well as our new, virtual world to prepare our children for whatever social engagement opportunities become available (and to prevent regression when we return). Our SM experts will help families create action plans to prepare for social communication platforms as they will most likely be modified as we move forward. Examples include increasing comfort and progress into speech during playdates/get-togethers with peers both in-person as well as virtually, participating with teachers and peers one-on-one, and within virtual and regular classrooms, becoming proactive, participatory, and communicative in stores and with extended family gatherings, etc. Virtual CommuniCamp™ will therefore focus on ways to increase social communication in this ‘new’ virtual and social distancing world and also help with opportunities for the world as we begin to slowly re-engage. In addition to the above, included in the price of this step ($1,950.00) is:

Multiple written educational materials and webinars to supplement your CommuniCamp™ experience to take home and to be shared with the chool/teachers/relatives/friends.
A support call with the camper’s counselor to discuss what strategies worked best with your child during treatment.
Receipts with CPT codes to submit to insurance
A confirmation of diagnosis letter
Recommendations for continued support, e.g. Individualized Follow-Up Sessions in-person or web-conference, School Consultations via web-conference, attend CommuniCamp™ again
Confidence and A PLAN for what to do!
A support system of professionals and peers you (and your child) can relate to and keep in touch with after the program.
A metaphorical tool belt equipped with skills, strategies, and mechanisms for overcoming Selective Mutism.

For more detailed information, click on the links below, visit www.SelectiveMutismCenter.org/virtual-communicamp or email CommuniCamp@SelectiveMutismCenter.org to discuss:

our treatment method, S-CAT®

globally successful
backed by research (95% success rate)

email us for parent references
what to expect from CommuniCamp™
financial assistance
CommuniCamp™ Insurance Policy

Back to School Town Hall Meeting
2020-08-10 18:30 - 19:30 UTC | SMart Center Virtual Treatment Room
This is a live, one-hour virtual Question/Answer session with SM school expert, Jennifer Brittingham, M.A., LPC. Participants are given the opportunity to submit questions upon registration and Jennifer will answer them all live, giving parents the opportunity to learn how to implement strategies under safety guidelines and social distancing. Topics of discussion can and will focus on how to decide to if a virtual, hybrid, or in-person school schedule is the best decision for your child communicatively, how to implement social communication strategies remotely, preparing for entry back to school if and when possible, and regression prevention. Register here!

1-Day Virtual CommuniCamp™ for Tweens/Teens Ages 11-19
2020-07-29 10:00 - 17:00 UTC | SMart Center Virtual Treatment Room
Due to demand, we are excited to offer a One Full Day (7 hours!) Virtual CommuniCamp™ Program for children (and their families!) between the ages of 11 and 17. Exceptions can be made for some 18 and 19 year olds. See our FAQs to learn more.
The SMart Center, under the direction of Selective Mutism pioneer, Dr. Elisa Shipon-Blum, has been treating children, tweens/teens, and adults with SM for over 25 years using S-CAT®, an evidenced-based treatment focusing on the whole person and a CBT, family systems approach.
This 1-Day Program is modeled after our successful in-person CommuniCamp™ but done virtually and for one full day–7 hours. The CommuniCamp™ experience allows children to learn skills for home, the real world, and school–in a classroom or while distance learning. In addition, parents receive education and training to support their child.
Our Virtual CommuniCamp™ is popular since families can receive treatment, meet others who understand, and learn as if they are in-person at our Center! No travel involved. Virtual CommuniCamp™, like our individual telehealth treatment programs are done in the comfort of a child/teen’s home which has proven to be a strong advantage for them (and their parents). Using a virtual platform, we practice ALL the same skills and have mock social settings with unique and ultra fun virtual backgrounds! These backgrounds help the child visualize the setting and practice skills. This has carried over well into real world/school social settings and is a favorite amongst our families!
Our 7-hour program is unmatched! It is an intensive group treatment and support program for our children/teens/parents where we provide parents with education and support throughout. There will be breakout treatment sessions with clinical counselors and separate support/connection luncheons for parents and campers. In addition to therapeutic, evidence-based strategies, CommuniCamp™ and the S-CAT® program exclusively used in SMart Center Programs, is known for the tremendous amount of support that both parents and campers receive before, during, and after the program. Our 1-Day Virtual CommuniCamp™ program is no different! Included in the price of the program, families receive:

Multiple relevant handouts and webinars to supplement your CommuniCamp™ experience to take home and to be shared with the school/teachers/relatives/friends.
A one-on-one support call with the camper’s counselor to discuss what strategies worked best with your child during the day.
Receipts with CPT codes to submit to insurance
A confirmation of diagnosis letter
Recommendations for continued support: Individualized Follow-Up Sessions in-person or web-conference, School Consultations via web-conference, attend CommuniCamp™ again
A support system of professionals and peers you (and your child) can relate to and keep in touch with after the program.
A metaphorical tool belt equipped with skills, strategies, and mechanisms for overcoming Selective Mutism.

To learn about the enrollment process & pricing, visit www.SelectiveMutismCenter.org/1-day-Virtual-CommuniCamp

1-Day Virtual CommuniCamp™ for Children Ages 4-10
2020-07-28 10:00 - 17:00 UTC | SMart Center Virtual Treatment Room
Due to demand, we are excited to offer a One Full Day (7 hours!) Virtual CommuniCamp™ Program for children (and their families!) between the ages of 4 and 10.
The SMart Center, under the direction of Selective Mutism pioneer, Dr. Elisa Shipon-Blum, has been treating children, tweens/teens, and adults with SM for over 25 years using S-CAT®, an evidenced-based treatment focusing on the whole person and a CBT, family systems approach.
This 1-Day Program is modeled after our successful in-person CommuniCamp™ but done virtually. The CommuniCamp™ experience allows children to learn skills for home, the real world, and school–in a classroom or while distance learning. In addition, parents receive education and training to support their child.
Our Virtual CommuniCamp™ is popular since families can receive treatment, meet others who understand, and learn as if they are in-person at our Center! No travel involved. Virtual CommuniCamp™, like our individual telehealth treatment programs are done in the comfort of a child/teen’s home which has proven to be a strong advantage for them (and their parents). Using a virtual platform, we practice ALL the same skills and have mock social settings with unique and ultra fun virtual backgrounds! These backgrounds help the child visualize the setting and practice skills. This has carried over well into real world/school social settings and is a favorite amongst our families!
Our 7-hour program is unmatched! It is an intensive group treatment and support program for our children/teens/parents where we provide parents with education and support throughout. There will be breakout treatment sessions with clinical counselors and separate support/connection luncheons for parents and campers. In addition to therapeutic, evidence-based strategies, CommuniCamp™ and the S-CAT® program exclusively used in SMart Center Programs, is known for the tremendous amount of support that both parents and campers receive before, during, and after the program. Our 1-Day Virtual CommuniCamp™ program is no different! Included in the price of the program, families receive:

Multiple relevant handouts and webinars to supplement your CommuniCamp™ experience to take home and to be shared with the school/teachers/relatives/friends.
A one-on-one support call with the camper’s counselor to discuss what strategies worked best with your child during the day.
Receipts with CPT codes to submit to insurance
A confirmation of diagnosis letter
Recommendations for continued support: Individualized Follow-Up Sessions in-person or web-conference, School Consultations via web-conference, attend CommuniCamp™ again
A support system of professionals and peers you (and your child) can relate to and keep in touch with after the program.
A metaphorical tool belt equipped with skills, strategies, and mechanisms for overcoming Selective Mutism.

To learn about the enrollment process & pricing, visit www.SelectiveMutismCenter.org/1-day-Virtual-CommuniCamp

June 2020 CommuniCamp™ Intensive Group Treatment and Parent Training Program
2020-06-19 12:00 - 2020-06-22 17:00 UTC | SMart Center Virtual Treatment Room
Virtual CommuniCamp™ is our web-based INTEGRATIVE treatment and training group for Selective Mutism, Social Anxiety, and extreme shyness. Virtual CommuniCamp™ allows families to participate from the comfort of their own homes, which is the perfect environment to facilitate progression into social communication since home is where our children are often most comfortable and communicative. Virtual CommuniCamp™ embodies the two-fold mission of our traditional CommuniCamp™ meaning this event:

integrates group experiences to help children gain comfort and communication with other peers and adults through activities often mirrored within the virtual classroom, via virtual playdates, and the “new world” of social distancing we are beginning, and Virtual CommuniCamp™
involves parent training and implementation during camp, as parents are asked to participate within the ‘virtual classroom’ experience. Virtual CommuniCamp™ fosters parent observation, training, and facilitation (featuring Dr. Elisa Shipon-Blum and Jennifer Brittingham, M.A.) while SMart Center clinicians and counselors lead and role model communication progress using Dr. E’s evidence-based S-CAT® strategies and interventions.

Date/Time*:

Friday, June 19th, 2020

11:00 AM ET – 1:00 PM ET – Parent Training
4:00 PM – 5:00 PM ET – Camper Orientation, Meet & Greet

Saturday, June 20th, 2020 (11:00 AM – 5:00 PM ET) – Virtual CommuniCamp™ Day 1
Sunday, June 21th, 2020 (11:00 AM – 5:00 PM ET) – Virtual CommuniCamp™ Day 2
Monday, June 22nd, 2020 (11:00 AM – 5:00 PM ET) – Virtual CommuniCamp™ Day 3

*The structured daily agenda involves both parent-only training sessions as well as child group sessions. Optional (but encouraged) independent camper activities as well as movement breaks before and after lunch break will be offered. Details of the agenda (daily activities, times, and breaks), Welcome Guide to prepare for Virtual CommuniCamp™, and additional supplemental resources are provided upon registration confirmation. Keep scrolling for more details!
WHO CAN APPLY? Children (new and existing SMart Center patients) ages 4-12-years-old with Selective Mutism, Social Anxiety, and/or Extreme Shyness (and their families!). Your loved one does not need an official diagnosis to participate.
WHERE IS IT? In the comfort of your own home! June 2020 CommuniCamp™ is VIRTUAL! Learn more here!
HOW TO REGISTER? WHAT’S THE PROCESS & FEES? The process for families to join CommuniCamp™ is simple as 1-2-3!

APPLY. Click here to complete the application so that Dr. Elisa Shipon-Blum can perform a detailed review and assessment of the application to determine if applicant is eligible for group treatment prior to being involved in our Individualized Intensive Treatment Program. This is one of many unique aspects of CommuniCamp™. This is how we are able to accept new patients directly into group treatment! Our globally successful, evidence-based treatment approach, Social Communication Anxiety Treatment® (SCAT®), is grounded in the understanding that Selective Mutism is more than just not speaking in social settings. Your loved one with Selective Mutism and/or Social Anxiety developed SM and remains “stuck” from one or more contributing factors. The application also allows to start to uncover the child’s/teen’s unique needs so that we can utilize the appropriate S-CAT® strategies with respect to his/her baseline. There is a $75 non-refundable application assessment fee. After a clinical assessment of your application, you will be notified of your status within 24-48 hours. Since established SMart Center patients have already completed the initial interviews and assessments, they are eligible to submit the application for free by using the coupon code: SMartPatient
MEET. After your application is thoroughly reviewed, you will be eligible for one of three virtual meeting options (dependent on clinical assessment of application) with one of our clinicians to deepen our understanding of your child’s unique social communication needs so that we can determine ideal group placement and identify and plan for the proper treatment strategies to utilize during the CommuniCamp™ weekend. There is a minimum fee of $300* for this step; however, based on clinical assessment of application, Dr. Shipon-Blum might recommend individualized treatment prior to attending the program. More detailed information and pricing will be sent upon application acceptance. After your meeting is completed and your CommuniCamp™ acceptance is confirmed, we will create your child’s unique experience. Before, during, and after camp, purposeful, specific strategies are used to help ease each child’s specific anxieties, which will foster social comfort in a school-like setting and hence, communication. *This step is waived for SMart Center families who’ve been seen within 6 months to 1 year. Upon acceptance of application, the meeting may or may not be necessary pending clinician determination.
ATTEND. Visit the event website to learn more: https://selectivemutismcenter.org/virtual-communicamp/ or send an email to CommuniCamp@SelectiveMutismCenter.org with questions.

For more information about who we are and what we do, click on the links below:

our treatment method, S-CAT®

developed by licensed medical physician and mother, Dr. Elisa Shipon-Blum
globally successful
backed by research (95% success rate)

financial assistance
Success Stories

Let's Talk: Tweens and Teens!
2020-05-20 13:00 - 14:30 UTC | Online Webinar
This 90-minute virtual “town meeting” with Dr. Elisa Shipon-Blum (“Dr. E”) was created to discuss the many questions we receive about treating tweens and teens with Selective Mutism. Parents, caretakers, teachers, and treatment professionals will benefit from joining this discussion.
Upon registration, participants will be asked to submit their specific questions for Dr. Shipon-Blum to address live during the discussion. This will be an interactive Q/A session as well meaning participants are welcome to ask questions and engage in a back-and-forth discussion with Dr. E throughout the course of the meeting. Topics for discussion will include:

Adapting treatment for tweens and teens
Understanding differences in treatment approach for tweens/teens as compared to younger children
Learning ways to increase motivation for tweens/teens to ‘want’ to make progress.
Role of CBT (cognitive behavioral therapy) in the treatment of tweens and teens
Outlining key exposure opportunities for teens/tweens to allow for progress
Learning how parenting dynamics affect treatment
Understanding how external and internal motivation affect treatment
When to consider using medication and best strategies for medication

Register today by clicking here.
Learn more about Dr. E. Elisa Shipon-Blum DO, is the President and Director of the Selective Mutism Anxiety and Related Disorders Treatment Center (SMart Center) located in Jenkintown, PA. She is the Founder and Director Emeritus of the Selective Mutism Association (SMA) and a Director of the Selective Mutism Research Institute (SMRI). Dr. Shipon-Blum is also Clinical Assistant Professor of Psychology & Family Medicine at the Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine. She is a board certified physician who specializes in Selective Mutism (SM). Dr. Shipon-Blum developed the evidenced-based Social Communication Anxiety Treatment® (S-CAT®) and consults worldwide with families, treating professionals, and educators, and has helped 6,000+ individuals from around the world overcome SM. Dr. Shipon-Blum also created CommuniCamp™, an intensive group treatment and parent training program for children and teens with Selective Mutism, social anxiety, and extreme shyness. Dr. Shipon-Blum lectures throughout the country on the topic of SM, performs school evaluations and training for treating professionals, educators, and parents, and is considered one of the world’s leading experts in the treatment, research, and understanding of Selective Mutism. She has been a featured expert on national television programs such as 20/20, CNN, Inside Edition, and Good Morning America, as well as other local, national, and international television and radio broadcasts. In addition, she has been featured in TIME Magazine, People Magazine, and has interviewed with newspapers such as the New York Times, Chicago Tribune, Boston Globe, San Diego Tribune, Philadelphia Inquirer, and Palm Beach Post. Dr. Shipon-Blum is presently involved in multiple collaborative research projects with top researchers and clinicians. In addition to her research she has written numerous articles and books on SM and anxiety including ‘Easing School Jitters for the Selectively Mute Child,’ ‘The Ideal Classroom Setting for the Selectively Mute Child,’ ‘Understanding Katie,’ ‘Supplement Treatment Guide Book to Understanding Katie‘, ‘Selective Mutism Summer Vacation & Back to School Guide‘ and ‘ Selective Mutism and Social Anxiety Disorder in School.’ She has also produced numerous webinars, conferences, and handouts on the assessment and treatment of SM. Notably, Dr. Shipon-Blum is also the mother of a child, Sophie, who suffered from and overcame Selective Mutism and is the inspiration for the work she does each day.

Selective Mutism & Social Anxiety In-the-School Webinar, Part 1
2020-05-15 10:00 - 12:30 UTC | SMart Center Virtual Treatment Room
Individuals with Selective Mutism (SM) manifest social communication deficits based on the setting and expectations from others within a setting. Parents, therapists, and school staff are often perplexed as to how to help the mute child. Dr. Shipon-Blum, an expert in treating children and adolescents with SM and developer of Social Communication Anxiety Treatment® (S-CAT®), conceptualizes SM as a social communication anxiety disorder where “not speaking” merely skims the surface of the difficulties these individuals face. Dr. Shipon-Blum has found that individuals with SM can make significant progress and transition to verbal communication when provided with comprehensive treatment that focuses on the whole person and improving his/her social communication and engagement skills.
The school environment is most often the setting where children present as mute. Progress in the therapy room and at home will not automatically generalize to the school setting without the implementation of specific treatment goals and adult facilitation from educational staff. SM treatment in the school requires a team approach involving the clinician, parents, and educational staff. Through collaboration and consistent implementation of specific treatment strategies and goals, students with SM can transition to verbal communication in the school setting.
This conference will review the importance of the initial evaluation and assessment process that are critical in developing an effective treatment plan for an individual with Selective Mutism. Next, the impact of SM on a child’s academic performance and ability to make progress and the need for accommodations and services through an Individualized Education Program (IEP) or 504 Plan will be discussed. A review of common comorbid disorders (e.g. speech and language disorder, sensory processing disorder, developmental delays, etc.) seen in children with SM and sample accommodations and interventions to address these challenges in the school setting will also be discussed. Finally, the presentation will identify and describe effective treatment strategies and interventions in treating SM in the school setting.
Part 1 of this webinar workshop will focus on two areas: the benefits of comprehensive assessments for children with Selective Mutism and Social Anxiety and addressing comorbid conditions in the school setting through the development of accommodations and interventions such as 504/IEP Plans. The goal is to understand Selective Mutism and learn strategies to help the child/teen with Selective Mutism, social anxiety, and extreme shyness cope, socialize, and communicate in school.
From 10-11am ET, SMart Center clinicians Tera Gibbs, M.A. and Julia Gomes, M.S., M.A. will present “The Benefits of Comprehensive Assessments for Children with Selective Mutism and Social Anxiety.” We know that individuals with SM and social anxiety can easily be misunderstood due to communication difficulties. Comprehensive assessments provide a unique perspective into a student’s strengths and challenges and identify, as precisely as possible, the facilitators (maintaining factors) and barriers children experience as they navigate the world around them. Assessment data provides a foundation upon which teams can develop tailored, individualized, and effective interventions in order to best support the individual. Tera and Julia will outline the assessment process, highlight special considerations for assessing students with communication difficulties, and discuss how assessment and differential diagnosis contribute to developing the most effective interventions for the students with whom we work. A thorough explanation of the overlap between SM and related disorders will be provided while specifically highlighting how comprehensive assessment can differentiate the nuances of what appear to be similar surface-level symptoms. Finally, the presentation will review how to successfully develop and implement 504 Plans and IEP’s using assessment data.
From 11:30am-12:30pm ET, SMart Center clinicians Tera Gibbs, M.A. and Jenna Blum, B.A. will present “Addressing Comorbid Conditions in the School Setting Through 504/IEP Plans.” Tera and Jenna will give an overview of the conditions and disorders that commonly occur with Selective Mutism and how to recognize and identify them, including extreme shyness and timid temperament, social anxiety, autism spectrum disorders, behavioral challenges, sensory processing problems, developmental and intellectual delays and disabilities, learning disabilities, and bilingualism. The importance of a comprehensive evaluation to help ensure that comorbid conditions are not missed, misdiagnosed, or over-identified will be discussed. Tera and Jenna will also provide an overview of accommodations for each of these comorbid conditions and how they can be incorporated in a 504/IEP in the school environment.
By attending this webinar you will learn:

The assessment process and special considerations for children/teens with communication and social anxiety-related difficulties.
The importance of tailoring the assessment process to the individual child in order to bolster validity of results.
The relationship between Selective Mutism, its related disorders, the various co-occurring symptoms, and how assessment leads appropriate identification, differentiated diagnosis, and the development of effective interventions.
How assessment and interventions become formalized, effective school accommodations and modifications through 504 Plans and IEPs.
Common conditions or disorders that may occur with a diagnosis of Selective Mutism.
Accommodations, interventions, and modifications to include in a 504 or IEP plan to address comorbid conditions.

Register here!
About our Presenters:
Tera Gibbs, M.A. is a master-level clinician at the SMart Center and serves as a CommuniCamp™ Head Counselor. She is a doctoral student in school psychology at Temple University. Prior to her current program, she earned her undergraduate degree from Daemen College (B.A., 2007) and graduate degrees from SUNY Buffalo (M.A., 2009) and Temple University (M.Ed., 2011). She has worked as a paraprofessional in Emotional Support at South Philadelphia High School, a school counselor in Chester County, and an adjunct instructor in the College of Lifelong Learning at Immaculata University. As a student clinician at the Temple University Psychoeducational Clinic, she has conducted full psychoeducational evaluations for school-aged students and has experience assessing specific learning disabilities as well as social, emotional, and attentional difficulties. She is trained to use solution-focused, cognitive-behavioral, and acceptance and commitment therapeutic strategies. Throughout her education, her research interests have included exploring facilitators and barriers to healthy behavior change, using inquiry-based strategies to facilitate science learning for middle school teachers and students, and, currently, how executive skills influence math achievement in middle school students.
Julia Gomes, M.S, M.A. is currently a fourth year doctoral student in the Clinical Psychology Psy.D. program at the Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine. She earned a M.S. in Mental Health Counseling from the Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine. Julia works as a part-time adjunct professor at Cabrini University, teaching Abnormal Psychology and Theories of Personality courses to undergraduate students. She also works as a psychology social media coordinator for a private practice located in King of Prussia and Philadelphia. Julia currently serves as a doctoral student extern at Cooper Hospital and Cooper Learning Center where she works alongside of health professionals to provide brief interventions and services to their patients. In addition to providing therapeutic services at Cooper Hospital, Julia conducts psychoeducational evaluations at Cooper Learning Center with children and adolescents. She has held prior positions conducting therapy with adults and children who have a variety of diagnoses and has utilized evidence-based practices to alleviate client’s psychological distress. Julia previously was a doctoral student extern at Intercommunity Action Incorporated where she conducted comprehensive behavioral evaluations, psychoeducational and neuropsychological testing with children and adolescents who may have learning difficulties, intellectual disabilities, attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder, autism spectrum disorders, and other mood and trauma-related disorders. Julia also co-led a psychoeducational Depression group at Intercommunity Action Incorporated, for clients who endorsed experiencing symptoms of depression. Within the group Julia provided psychoeducation about depression and taught the client’s evidence-based techniques and strategies to help decrease their depressive symptoms. During her master’s level clinical experience, she worked in Belmont Behavioral Hospital’s outpatient department, providing therapy to children, adolescents, adults, and older adults with a number of diagnoses. Julia is a member of the American Psychological Association (APA) as well as other subdivisions within APA. She is currently in the process of developing her dissertation on the topic of “The Prosocial Behaviors, Gross Motor Abilities, and Soccer Skill Acquisition of Young Children after Participating in an Organized Soccer Program.”
Jenna Blum, B.A. is currently pursuing a doctorate in the field of Clinical Psychology at Chestnut Hill College after graduating with honors from Muhlenberg College where she received her Bachelor of Arts degree and majored in Psychology and minored in Creative Writing. Jenna was a member of the Psychology National Honor Society (Psi Chi). Jenna has years of experience working at the SMart Center. Over the years, she has developed a passion for this community. She explained that her favorite part about working at the SMart Center is the rewarding feeling that she gets every time she reads a story from a patient located anywhere in the world who has found a voice from the comfort and confidence that they have gained at the center. Jenna is currently a Research Assistant, Clinical Support Staff, and a Head CommuniCamp™ Counselor. She also works with patients under our licensed clinicians and performs Exposure Based Treatment (EBPs) for families who attend consultations at the SMart Center. Jenna has been a Head Counselor at CommuniCamp™ since 2017 and enjoys meeting families from all over the world. Her favorite part of CommuniCamp™ is watching children and teens from various sides of the world come together for one weekend to find their voices together. She explained that it is so powerful to watch children act as leaders and helpers to other campers. She stated, “Every child walks out of CommuniCamp™ as a new, confident, and inspired young individual and feels encouraged and proud of the person that they have become.”

Ask-the-Expert: School Edition! How to Support Students with Selective Mutism During Pandemic
2020-04-17 15:00 - 16:00 UTC | Online Webinar
Date/Time: This event occurs every Friday at 3:00pm EDT

This is a live, one-hour Question/Answer session with SM school expert, Jennifer Brittingham, M.A. Participants are given the opportunity to submit questions upon registration and Jennifer will answer them all live, giving teachers, other education professionals, and parents the opportunity to learn how to continue engaging and interacting with SM students virtually during school closures and social distancing. Topics of discussion will focus on how to continue social communication strategies remotely through distance learning, preparing for entry back to school if and when possible, and regression prevention. This interactive workshop is perfect for the teacher, parent, or caregiver who is interested in learning how keep a student(s) with Selective Mutism engaged and communicative with schools, restaurants, and store closures. This event occurs every Friday at 3:00pm EDT until further notice. To signup for this date or future dates, click here: https://events.eventzilla.net/e/asktheexpert-school-edition-how-to-support-students-with-selective-mutism-during-pandemic-2138772411

Ask-the-Expert Webinar: School Edition! How to Support Students with Selective Mutism During Pandemic
2020-04-10 15:30 - 16:30 UTC
This is a live, one-hour virtual Question/Answer session with SM school expert, Jennifer Brittingham, M.A. Participants are given the opportunity to submit questions upon registration and Jennifer will answer them all live, giving teachers, other education professionals, and parents the opportunity to learn how to continue engaging and interacting with SM students virtually during school closures and social distancing. Topics of discussion can and will focus on how to continue social communication strategies remotely, preparing for entry back to school if and when possible, and regression prevention. This interactive webinar workshop is perfect for the teacher, parent, or caregiver who is interested in learning how keep a student(s) with Selective Mutism engaged and communicative with schools, restaurants, and store closures.
Click here to signup: https://events.eventzilla.net/e/asktheexpert-school-edition-how-to-support-students-with-selective-mutism-during-pandemic-2138772411
Can’t join live? That’s OK! Register anyway and receive a video copy of the recording after the event!

Webinar Workshop: Quarantine Week 2 Organize & Recalibrate As New Details Emerge
2020-04-07 15:30 - 16:30 UTC | Online Webinar
Webinar Description:
How do we maintain/build social communication skills while social distancing? With most stores, restaurants, and schools shut-down for the unforeseeable future, how do we work on overcoming Selective Mutism? Join Jennifer Brittingham, M.A., Selective Mutism expert specializing in Dr. Elisa Shipon-Blum’s Social Communication Anxiety Treatment® (S-CAT®), as she guides parents with Part 2 of her Quarantine webinar series. Last week, Jennifer discussed how to get organized and develop social communication goals during social distancing. This webinar will focus on weekly re-calibrating social communication opportunities and using S-CAT® concepts and goals within the real-world when our world is temporarily more digital, and how to begin organizing social communication goals related to school when many schools are not in session. Remember, during these unprecedented quaran-times, progress is not canceled, just recalibrated!

If you can’t join live, that’s OK! Complete this registration form and receive a video recording after the event so you can view it on-demand: https://events.eventzilla.net/e/quarantine-week-2-organize–recalibrate-goals-as-new-details-emerge-webinar-2138774554

Navigating the Social Media & Technology World
2020-04-07 13:00 - 14:00 UTC | SMart Center Virtual Treatment Room
Led by Samantha Algauer, M.A., and Jenna Blum, B.A., this group is for tween, teens, and their parents to meet and discuss the beneficial and negative uses of social media/technology (e.g. connectivity, self-care, learning/research, cyberbullying, social comparison, etc.), as well as helpful information to help teens navigate the use of online schooling forums comfortably and confidently during COVID-19. Supplementary discussion of using technology to enhance coping skills.
This event will reoccur every Tuesday at 1pm EDT. Registration is $30/session. Ongoing support is recommended as this situation is evolving daily, so we encourage you to participate in this recurring support group as often as possible! Click here to register and select the date(s) you wish to attend: https://fs4.formsite.com/smartcenter/mi3zpbrhaq/index.html

Ask the Expert School Edition! Supporting Student with Selective Mutism During Pandemic
2020-04-03 15:00 - 16:00 UTC | Online Webinar
This is a live, one-hour Question/Answer session with SM school expert, Jennifer Brittingham, M.A. Submit your questions upon registration and Jennifer will answer them all live as well as giving teachers and other education professionals the opportunity to learn how to continue engaging and interacting with their SM students virtually during school closures and social distancing.
If you can’t join live, that’s OK! Complete this registration form and receive a video recording after the event so you can view it on-demand! Click here to register: https://events.eventzilla.net/e/ask-the-expert-school-edition-supporting-sm-students-during-pandemic-2138774583

Parents of Children with Selective Mutism Support Group
2020-04-03 14:00 - 15:00 UTC | SMart Center Virtual Treatment Room
Designed for parents and caretakers of preschool and elementary-aged children with Selective Mutism, Social Anxiety and Extreme Shyness, these group sessions, guided by Faith Logan, B.A. will deliver support and provide discussions about various topics such as separation anxiety, fears/worries, difficult behaviors, eating, sleeping and toileting issues, advocating for your child, school-related challenges, parental self-care and more! These support groups are held every Friday at 2:00pm ET and ongoing support is recommended for continued success. You can select as many dates as you wish! Click here to register: https://fs4.formsite.com/smartcenter/parentsupport/index.html

General Mental Wellness
2020-04-02 15:00 - 16:00 UTC | SMart Center Virtual Treatment Room
Alexis Trakhtorchuk, B.A., will meet weekly for guided group sessions to discuss topics and share experience such as separation anxiety, fears/worries, difficult behaviors, eating, sleeping, advocating for yourself and/or your child, school-related challenges, parental self-care and more!
This event will reoccur every Thursday at 3:00pm EDT. Registration is $10/session. Ongoing support is recommended for continued success, so we encourage you to participate in this recurring support group as often as possible! Click here to register and select the date(s) you wish to attend: https://fs4.formsite.com/smartcenter/8ki2icj6q4/index.html

Managing Parental Anxiety
2020-03-31 17:00 - 18:00 UTC | SMart Center Virtual Treatment Room
Julia Gomes, M.S., M.A. holds this online treatment group on a weekly basis. Support will be provided to parents/caregivers who may be feeling overwhelmed, stressed, burnt-out, and exhausted. Topics will include how parents/caregivers are managing their mental health with all of the challenges that are occurring currently in the world. Parents/caregivers of children of all ages are encouraged to attend to receive psychoeducation regarding the onset, symptoms, and cycle of anxiety. Strategies regarding anxiety management and relaxation techniques will be given to parents/caregivers to utilize and implement in their lives. Additional resources and strategies will be provided to group members as well.
This event will reoccur every Monday at 5pm ET. Registration is $30/session. Ongoing support is recommended, so we encourage you to participate in this recurring support group as often as possible! Click here to register and select the date(s) you with to attend: https://fs4.formsite.com/smartcenter/7lh8hdxgeo/index.html
