Selective Mutism
Selective mutism (SM) is a childhood anxiety disorder where a person is unable to speak in certain social situations, such as schools or in public, despite being able to speak comfortably in other settings like at home. When anxious, children, teens or adults may appear frozen, stiff or expressionless. they may be avoiding eye contact and rely on nodding, pointing, or whispering.
It is not a behavioral choice, but a consistent failure to speak that interferes with daily life, often first appearing before age five. Treatment typically involves therapy, like controlled exposure (fade in/fade out technique, bug-in-the-ear coaching), and sometimes medication for severe cases.
Our therapists are RTC are passionate and understand the debilitating impact selective mutism has on an individual. We are dedicated working with children, teens and adults and their families and community to provide education and support on selective mutism.
Selective Mutism Specialists
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Miri Arie, PhD
CHILD, ADULT, FAMILY, AND GROUP THERAPIST
Provides telehealth video and In-person services (accepting new clients)
Dr. Miri Arie is a licensed clinical psychologist specializes in working with adults presenting with anxiety, relational difficulties, and life transitions, offering both individual and adult group psychotherapy. She also works with children, adolescents, and parents, with a focus on anxiety, emotional regulation, attachment, and early childhood trauma. Her work is relational, evidence-based, and trauma-informed.
Dr. Arie is fluent in English and Hebrew. She can also support families who prefer to speak Russian or Hungarian but are proficient enough to understand responses in English.
Website: https://www.socialendeavors.net/
Email: Miri@SocialEndeavors.ne
Phone: (585)857-9394
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Claire de Leon, LMHC
CHILD AND TEEN THERAPIST, PARENT COACHING
Provides Telehealth video and in-person services (accepting waitlist for new clients at this time)
Claire is a Licensed mental health counselor who providers attachment and trauma-based psychotherapy with clients struggling with, but not limited to, Social Anxiety and Selective Mutism, Complex Trauma, and cultural identity. She also provides support for parents and school personnel.
Claire offers services in English and Tagalog.
Email: malaya@counselingmind.co
Phone: (425) 202-5485