The SLP’s Introduction to Selective Mutism - What Is It and What’s My Role?

This introductory webinar explores foundational information about selective mutism (SM) as it relates to the speech-language pathologist (SLP), including its definition, presentation in school settings, red flags, myths, and common comorbidities. Attendees will learn about the negative reinforcement cycle that drives avoidance of speaking and the SLP’s role in working with students with SM.

Explore Course

Selective mutism (SM) can be confusing and intimidating for school-based speech-language pathologists (SLPs), especially when it’s unclear where to begin. This 30-minute mini-course offers a practical, evidence-based introduction to SM, designed specifically with SLPs in mind. Participants will gain clarity on what SM is (and isn’t), how it commonly presents in school settings, and how it often overlaps with other diagnoses such as anxiety, autism, or speech/language disorders.

The course also addresses common red flags and myths and provides a framework for understanding the powerful negative reinforcement cycle that underlies speech avoidance in SM. Attendees will leave with a clearer picture of their role in the assessment and treatment process and how a better understanding of the underlying behavioral mechanisms can lead to more effective support for these students.

Review the other courses in this series:
The SLP’s Guide to Selective Mutism: Assessment Strategies and Diagnosis
The SLP’s Guide to Selective Mutism: Evidence-based Treatment Techniques

All courses will be available on demand by July 15, 2025.

Presenters

Emily Laracy
M.A., M.S., CCC-SLP
Emily R. (Doll) Laracy, M.A., M.S., CCC-SLP/L is a school-based speech-language pathologist and adjunct professor. Emily has worked extensively with students from preschool through high school with selective mutism in 1:1 treatment, intensive week-long treatment programs, school-based settings, and in consultative roles. She currently serves as the speech pathologist representative and secretary of the Selective Mutism Association's Board of Directors. She is the author of the book Treating Selective Mutism as a Speech-Language Pathologist along with several webinars on the same topic. Her research interests include the role of anxiety and mental health on speech and language development, trauma-informed care, and the benefits of co-teaching models.

Learning Objectives

Describe the diagnostic criteria, common comorbidities, and school-based presentation of selective mutism (SM).
State red flags and behaviors in school settings that may indicate the presence of SM.
Explain the negative reinforcement cycle that contributes to speech avoidance in SM and how it impacts assessment and treatment planning.

Agenda

10 minutes	Introduction, disclosures, definition of SM, historical changes in perception of SM, diagnostic criteria, comorbidities
5 minutes	Red flags and presentation in school settings
5 minutes	SLP’s role in working with students with SM
10 minutes	Negative reinforcement cycle and how this impacts how we think about assessment and treatment

Disclosures

Financial Disclosures:	Emily Laracy is the author of Treating Selective Mutism as a Speech-Language Pathologist as well as several webinars on the topic of SM, and receives royalties from these publications. Emily Laracy is receiving an honorarium for this course.
Non-Financial Disclosures:	Emily Laracy is a member of the Selective Mutism Board of Directors.
Content Disclosures:	Emily Laracy has no additional content information to disclose.

ASHA

This course is offered for .05 ASHA CEUs, Introductory Level, Professional Area

The SLP’s Mini Series on Selective Mutism: From Awareness to Intervention: $65.00
This practical mini-series includes 3 courses and equips school-based SLPs with the confidence and tools to support students with selective mutism. Learn to identify red flags, conduct effective assessments, and implement evidence-based interventions that enhance real-world communication. Includes access to the recorded series and optional ASHA reporting.