Selective Mutism Services

Dr. Catherine Eckel has specialized in the treatment of selective mutism since 2004. She has served on the Board of Directors of the Selective Mutism Association and has presented nationally on evidence‑based treatment approaches. Her work integrates collaboration with parents, children, schools, pediatricians, therapists, and other professionals to ensure comprehensive, coordinated care.

a child hand and adult hand forming a heart
 

Child Evaluation & Treatment

Selective mutism treatment is individualized for each child and family. Services may include:

Initial Parent Meeting

A 1.5–2 hour parent‑only session focused on understanding concerns, reviewing developmental and behavioral history, and discussing the child’s current functioning. This meeting includes education about selective mutism, recommendations for next steps, and discussion of any additional evaluation needs.

Follow‑Up Parent Meetings

Regular parent meetings help monitor progress, adjust treatment goals, and plan next steps.

Parent Training

Parents receive comprehensive guidance on:

  • Understanding selective mutism
  • Supporting their child’s communication
  • Recognizing and adjusting their own responses
  • Collaborating with schools
  • Communicating with extended family, peers, and community members

Individual Treatment with the Child

Treatment is tailored to each child and may occur in various settings. Approaches are evidence‑based and may include cognitive behavioral strategies, desensitization, shaping, stimulus fading, and education about anxiety and selective mutism.

Individualized Treatment Plan

A detailed treatment plan outlines specific steps for supporting the child at home, in school, in the community, and in other relevant environments.

School Observation

School observations help identify how a child communicates in the classroom and how staff currently support them. Insights gathered during the observation guide the development of an effective school‑based treatment plan.

Collaboration with School Personnel

Dr. Eckel provides education and consultation to teachers and school staff to ensure they understand selective mutism and can implement effective strategies in the classroom.

School Trainings

Professional trainings are available for school teams, including teachers, speech‑language pathologists, counselors, school psychologists, administrators, and support staff.

Trainings cover:

  • Understanding selective mutism
  • Evidence‑based school interventions
  • Strategies for 504 Plans and IEPs
  • Additional topics requested by the school
  • Intensive Treatment Options

In‑School Intensive Treatment

Some children benefit from intensive support delivered directly in the school environment. This option is available when clinically appropriate.

Community‑Based Intensive Treatment

Intensive treatment can also be provided in community settings when beneficial for the child’s progress.

Group Intensive Treatment

Small and large group intensive programs are available and may be incorporated into a child’s treatment plan.

Group Treatment Programs

Parent Support Groups

Parent support groups offer families a space to connect, share experiences, and learn from one another. Please contact Dr. Eckel for upcoming group dates.

Weekly Small Groups

Dr. Eckel runs small groups for children with selective mutism in the office. These groups allow children to practice speaking, using social skills, asking questions, and initiating speech with peers and adults.

Freedom Camp

Dr. Eckel is the co‑founder of Freedom Camp, an intensive treatment program designed specifically for children with selective mutism. Freedom Camp is no longer operating, but other intensive treatment programs are available throughout the country.

Travel & Remote Consultation

For families outside the San Francisco Bay Area, consultation is available through various remote options. When appropriate, Dr. Eckel also provides services through travel to the family’s location.