Information presented in this 2 hour (120 minute) course provides theoretical model with multi-sensory activities to improve nonverbal and verbal engagement, behavior and communication at home, work, school and therapy setting for those challenged with Selective Mutism. Individuals with Selective Mutism, thought to be primarily an anxiety disorder, frequently demonstrate abnormal auditory processing and gravitational insecurity. Both of these issues are regulated by the inner ear and tied into the autonomic nervous system via the Vagus Nerve. Both of these arenas provide individuals with a primary means to navigate their physical environment. Ineffective listening and executive function skills for self-regulation can interfere with the ability to focus, concentrate, make sense of what is heard, and control one’s sense of well-being. When these fundamental areas are challenged the individual feels overwhelmed in unpredictable public environments. One researcher found that individuals with Selective Mutism seem to hear those own voice different than the majority of people when they are speaking public arenas. After a review of conventional therapy practices for Selective Mutism, this class provides a model to address the underlying listening and executive function issues, develop coping strategies, and train the auditory system to provide clearer integrated information with multiple inputs and responses that produce a calmer, focused and more organized behavior and performance. I also present methodology for training the individual to hear themselves more efficiently. Practical strategies will be organized in an easy to remember format to quickly add increased value to clinicians for implementing in therapy sessions as well as parents and teachers for home and school use. Strategies are also proactive for teens and adults to utilize for their own benefit. These strategies help to increase greater organized thinking, reasoning and social/emotional behaviors with better engagement for learning and communication.

• This program has been approved for 2 clock hours of continuing education credit by the Texas Speech-Language-Hearing Association (TSHA). TSHA approval does not imply endorsement of course content, specific products, or clinical procedures – Available until August 27, 2019
• This program has been approved by TOTA for 2 Continuing Education Hours        ***PENDING RE-APPROVAL***