Our Psychologists have availability for face-to-face and online appointments for adults, adolescents and children.
Our Psychologists have availability for face-to-face and online appointments for adults, adolescents and children.
Selective mutism is an anxiety disorder in which a child consistently finds it difficult to speak in certain social situations, despite being able to speak comfortably in other settings. For example, a child may talk freely at home but find it difficult to speak at school, with unfamiliar people or in other social situations. This is not a choice or an act of defiance. Rather, anxiety can make speaking feel overwhelming.
Treatment for selective mutism aims to help children feel more comfortable communicating in situations where they experience difficulty speaking. Evidence-based approaches may include cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), behavioural strategies and gradual exposure to speaking situations. Treatment can also involve parents and, where appropriate, teachers and other professionals to help children practise communication skills across different environments.
These behaviours usually last for at least a month (not including the first month of school) and aren’t better explained by a language delay or other developmental issue. If you’re noticing a mix of these signs, especially if they’re getting in the way of school or social life, it’s worth chatting to a therapist who understands treatment for Selective Mutism.
Speaks at home but not at school or in public
May whisper or use gestures instead of talking
Struggles to speak to teachers or unfamiliar people
Talks to some people but not others
Avoids asking for help or speaking in groups
Anxiety increases in certain settings, making speech feel impossible
Selective Mutism affects about 1 in 140 children
It’s an anxiety disorder—not caused by trauma
Without support, it can impact learning and friendships long term
Being multilingual doesn’t cause Selective Mutism
Selective Mutism can feel like a confusing and isolating experience for families—but the good news is, there’s strong research showing that with the right support, children can make incredible progress. Here’s what the science tells us about this anxiety-based condition and the most effective treatment options available.
Research confirms that Selective Mutism is an anxiety disorder, closely related to social anxiety, rather than a behavioural issue or stubbornness. Children with Selective Mutism often want to speak, but feel frozen in certain settings—like school, the playground or around unfamiliar adults.
In many cases, symptoms appear in early childhood and become more noticeable when children start school. Studies show that without support, Selective Mutism can continue into adolescence and impact a child’s academic, emotional and social development.
One of the most well-known studies on treatment for Selective Mutism followed a group of young children (around six years old) over five years after they completed a school-based cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) program. The results were encouraging:
70% of the children were in full remission
17% were in partial remission
Only 13% still met diagnostic criteria for Selective Mutism five years later
What’s more, teachers and parents reported lasting improvements, and most children were enjoying a good quality of life. However, around half still found it a bit challenging to speak in some settings, especially outside of home. This highlights the importance of ongoing support and understanding even after formal treatment ends.
Another key takeaway from the research? Early intervention makes a big difference. Younger children, those with milder symptoms, and those without a family history of Selective Mutism tend to respond better and faster to therapy.
For older children or those with more entrenched symptoms, progress is still very possible—it may just take a little longer and require more tailored support from a psychologist trained in Selective Mutism treatment.
A recent meta-analysis (a type of study that combines results from multiple studies) looked at data from 12 research papers involving 472 children. It found that:
Behavioural interventions, such as CBT, had a large effect in improving speech across settings
Face-to-face therapy delivered stronger outcomes than online or web-based methods
The most effective programs were those that involved both school and home environments
This supports what many therapists already know—treatment for Selective Mutism works best when it’s consistent, collaborative, and done in real-life situations where the child is experiencing anxiety.
If your child is struggling with speaking in certain settings, you’re not alone—and there is help available. Working with a therapist experienced in Selective Mutism treatment can make all the difference. Therapy is usually gentle, goal-oriented, and involves close teamwork with parents, teachers and other carers.
It often includes strategies such as:
Gradual exposure to speaking situations
Anxiety management tools
Building confidence through small, achievable steps
Support for teachers and schools
The research is clear: Selective Mutism is highly treatable, especially when support starts early and involves a team approach. Cognitive behavioural therapy and school-based interventions are among the most effective strategies we have. If you’re looking for support, one of our therapists can guide you through the process and help your child build confidence step by step.
*Source: Treatment of selective mutism: a 5-year follow-up study – National Library of Medicine
Start with low-pressure situations and gradually build up to speaking—there’s no need to rush
Smiles, nods, gestures—acknowledge every small step, not just speaking
Help school staff support your child with simple strategies like offering extra response time
Call us on 02 9438 2511, email hello@mindboxpsychology.com.au or send us an enquiry. Our reception team will answer your questions.
We’ll match you with a clinical psychologist who works with your concern, face-to-face in St Leonards or through online counselling anywhere in Australia.
Your first session is 60 minutes. You don’t need a referral to book, but with a GP Mental Health Treatment Plan and referral you may be eligible for a Medicare rebate.
Clinical Psychologist, Director of MindBox Psychology
Our Psychologists, highly qualified with Masters or Doctorate degrees in Clinical Psychology, offer treatment for selective mutism using evidence-based approaches. They use Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT) and Behaviour Therapy.
Hours: Monday to Friday 9am to 5pm
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