EP58: Selective Mutism and the Power of Play w/ Dr. Jody LeVos

EP58 of the Unspoken Words podcast features a discussion between Dr. Elisa Shipon-Blum and Dr. Jody LeVos, exploring the science behind play-based learning and its powerful role in helping children with selective mutism overcome communication challenges.

In the episode, Dr. Elisa Shipon-Blum and Dr. Jody LeVos discuss how different types of play—from structured therapy to free exploration—can be integrated into treatment to support emotional regulation and encourage speech development.

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Chapters: 

(6:03) What Science Tells Us About Play and Anxiety

(12:09) How Play Can Encourage Progression of Communication in Children with Selective Mutism

(18:48) The Intersection of Play and Therapy: How to Integrate Fun into Treatment

(30:29) Play Therapy vs Free Play: Which Works Best for Children with Selective Mutism?

(44:08) The Different Types of Play

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Ask Dr. E a question of your own! 

Learn more about the host, Dr. Elisa Shipon-Blum 

Explore our SMart Center success stories! 

Get started at the SMart Center 

Listen to other Unspoken Words episodes here. 

For the best clips from every episode, follow the podcast on Instagram & YouTube 

Share our upcoming Selective Mutism In The School Virtual Conference with your child or teen’s school staff. 5.5 CEs/CEUs are available. 

Learn more about CommuniCamp, our 3+ day intensive group treatment and ALL DAY parent training & support program

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For all podcast inquiries, please contact Dakota Hornak at ⁠dhornak@selectivemutismcenter.org⁠ 

This podcast was produced by New Edition Consulting (neweditionconsulting.co)