It is well-known that anxiety disorders co-exist with ASD but much less is known about how to treat anxiety specific to speaking – that is, selective mutism (SM) – in the context of ASD. This is problematic as SM compounds core social-communication deficits in ASD. While there is an urgent need to treat SM in youth with ASD, there is also a lack of skilled clinicians with expertise in both disorders.
This 15 minute presentation provides information about the treatment of SM in children with ASD, using evidence-based behavioural intervention for SM modified for ASD. This presentation offers suggestions for clinicians treating SM in youth with ASD.
Learning Objectives
- Review the core aspects of Selective Mutism treatment
- Examine how core symptoms of ASD may influence treatment
- Review clinical considerations for the behavioural treatment of Selective Mutism in youth with ASD.
- Explore the utility of this treatment approach for school-aged youth with ASD and Selective Mutism.
Ainsley Boudreau, PhD
Part 1: Diagnostic Criteria; Selective Mutism Frequency; Importance of Early Treatment
Part 2: Evidence-based Treatment for Selective Mutism