Selective Mutism in Children: Signs, Causes & Therapy Support

While mental health professionals lead the diagnosis and clinical treatment of SM, developmental therapies play a critical support role—especially when a child has communication challenges, sensory sensitivities, or struggles with daily functioning.

At DrSensory, families can search a national database of licensed pediatric occupational therapists (OTs), speech-language pathologists (SLPs), and physical therapists (PTs) who provide anxiety-informed and developmentally supportive care.

1. Speech-Language Therapy (SLP)

SLPs are often central to helping children with SM. They:

• Support expressive/receptive language development
• Help children build confidence using speech in low-pressure settings
• Use play-based and gradual exposure strategies to reduce anxiety around talking

2. Occupational Therapy (OT)

OTs help children who have sensory sensitivities, emotional regulation challenges, or difficulty adjusting to new environments. They:

• Support self-regulation and coping skills
• Create sensory-friendly strategies to reduce overwhelm in social settings
• Assist in developing routines that support communication

3. Physical Therapy (PT)

While not typically a first-line therapy for SM, PTs can:

• Help children build physical confidence and reduce anxiety around movement-based group activities (e.g., PE, recess)
• Support gross motor development, which may be tied to self-esteem or body awareness

4. Parent Coaching & School Collaboration

Therapists often work with families and teachers to:

• Develop communication goals
• Provide consistent support across home and school
• Create safe, encouraging environments for speech practice