Unspoken Words: A Selective Mutism Podcast by Dr. Elisa Shipon-Blum

Episode 69 of the Unspoken Words podcast features a discussion between Dr. Elisa Shipon-Blum and parenting activist and founder of Tilt Parenting, Debbie Reber, on raising neurodivergent children and the connection between neurodivergence and Selective Mutism. In the episode, Dr. E and Debbie explore why Selective Mutism is often overlooked in neurodivergent children and how it co-occurs with autism, ADHD, and anxiety disorders. They examine what Selective Mutism looks like across different environments and discuss the unique factors—sensory processing, social fatigue, and executive functioning—that trigger communication anxiety.--Chapters: (3:48) Introduction to neurodivergence, definitions, and foundational concepts(11:22)  Understanding underlying reasons, the emotional/sensory experience, diagnosis and identification(20:32) Practical strategies and parenting approaches(32:16) Connection, relationships, emotional regulation, nervous system(39:33) Practical tools, strategies, parental mindset, resources - 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- For all podcast inquiries, please contact Dakota Hornak at ⁠dhornak@selectivemutismcenter.org⁠ This podcast was produced and published by New Edition Productions (neweditionconsulting.com)

EP68 of the Unspoken Words podcast features the five most popular chapter cuts from 2025.--Chapters: (02:23) VIA EP45 (SHINING STAR) - NICK’S ADVICE TO TEENS STRUGGLING WITH SELECTIVE MUTISM(11:15) VIA EP47 (ASK DR. E) - WHERE SHOULD TREATMENT START FOR A 4-YEAR-OLD W/ SELECTIVE MUTISM?(22:49) VIA EP48 (SHINING STAR) - ALEX’S UNIQUE BUT RELATABLE EXPERIENCE WITH SELECTIVE MUTISM (27:23) VIA EP51 (ASK DR. E) - HOW TEACHERS CAN HELP STUDENTS WITH SELECTIVE MUTISM(37:35) VIA EP60 (W/ DR. NATALIE WEDER) - RESILIENCE & SELECTIVE MUTISM- 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- For all podcast inquiries, please contact Dakota Hornak at ⁠dhornak@selectivemutismcenter.org⁠ This podcast was produced by New Edition Consulting (neweditionconsulting.com)

EP67 of the Unspoken Words podcast features a discussion between Dr. Elisa Shipon-Blum and licensed Occupational Therapist and the creator and host of Adulting with Autism Podcast, April Ratchford, on the intersection of Autism Spectrum Disorder and Selective Mutism in adulthood. In the episode, Dr. Elisa Shipon-Blum and April Ratchford explore how ASD and Selective Mutism often co-occur and why adults are frequently misdiagnosed or misunderstood. They examine what SM actually looks like across different social settings in adults with ASD, and discuss the unique factors—including sensory processing, social burnout, and executive functioning—that influence communication challenges.--Chapters: (03:57) Understanding Autism vs. Selective Mutism – Key Differences(07:56) How ASD and SM Present Differently Across Social Settings(14:54) The WHYs Behind Mutism – Sensory Processing and Social Burnout(23:20) Tailored Treatment Strategies for Dual Diagnosis Adults(33:17) Practical Tools and Workplace Accommodations for Success- Ask Dr. E a question and we might answer it on a future podcast episode! 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- For all podcast inquiries, please contact Dakota Hornak at ⁠dhornak@selectivemutismcenter.org⁠ This podcast was produced by New Edition Consulting (neweditionconsulting.com)

EP66 features the latest installment of our Shining Stars series, where we sit down with former SMart Center patients – or their parents – and discuss how they overcame Selective Mutism. This episode, we meet former SMart Center patient, Leo.In this episode, Dr. Elisa Shipon-Blum and Leo’s mom, Misty, discuss how her family found the right treatment approach for Leo, concrete examples of Leo’s expanded communication, and advice for families beginning this journey, and more.--Chapters: (03:44) Recognizing Leo's Signs – When Leo's Shyness Became Something More(08:03) The Search for Answers – Explaining Four Years Without Progress(14:24) Finding the SMart Center – A Turning Point For Leo(22:03) The Power of Structure – Crossing the Bridge to Communication(29:47) Trust the Process – Lessons for Families on the Journey- 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. 6.5 CEs/CEUs are available. Learn more about CommuniCamp, our 3+ day intensive group treatment and ALL DAY parent training & support program- For all podcast inquiries, please contact Dakota Hornak at ⁠dhornak@selectivemutismcenter.org⁠ This podcast was produced and promoted by New Edition Consulting (neweditionconsulting.com)

EP65 of the Unspoken Words podcast features a discussion between Dr. Elisa Shipon-Blum and clinical psychiatrist, Dr. Jami Furr, on the critical role parents play in their child's Selective Mutism treatment. In the episode, Dr. E and Dr. Furr explore the importance of gradual exposure techniques, the impact of parental anxiety, the necessity of creating a supportive environment for children and more.--Chapters: (5:16) The Parent's Role – Facilitators of Progress and Change(10:36) Understanding Parental Anxiety and Its Impact on Treatment(16:22) Cognitive Strategies and Prepare Steps for Parents(23:24) Building Confidence Through Gradual Exposure and Practice(37:26) Passing the Baton – Empowering Families for Long-Term Success- 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- For all podcast inquiries, please contact Dakota Hornak at ⁠dhornak@selectivemutismcenter.org⁠ This podcast was produced by New Edition Consulting (neweditionconsulting.com)

EP64 of the Unspoken Words podcast features our latest installment of our Ask Dr. E series, where we answer real questions from our listeners.In this episode, we answer five essential questions about selective mutism; including how to distinguish selective mutism from extreme shyness, recognizing behavioral indicators across different settings, understanding the diagnostic process, common mistakes to avoid when helping children with SM, and knowing when to seek professional help.--Chapters: (3:39) What's the difference between selective mutism and extreme shyness, and how can adults recognize the distinction?(12:52) What are key indicators of selective mutism, and how does it differ at home versus school?(20:25) What's the diagnostic process for selective mutism, and how is it differentiated from social anxiety or speech disorders?(28:40) What common mistakes do parents and teachers make helping children with selective mutism, and what should be avoided?(37:41) When should parents seek professional help for a non-speaking child, and which specialist should they consult?-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 - For all podcast inquiries, please contact Dakota Hornak at ⁠dhornak@selectivemutismcenter.org⁠ This podcast was produced and promoted by New Edition Consulting (neweditionconsulting.com)

EP63 features a discussion between Dr E and Dr. Jenna Blum, a lead Clinical Psychologist at the SMart Center and the Director of the SMart Center’s growing general mental health department, Counseling & Assessments.In this episode, Dr. E and Dr. Jenna discuss the upcoming halloween holiday.They talk through practical strategies for helping children with Selective Mutism navigate Halloween activities successfully, how to make Halloween fun rather than pressure-filled, ways to tailor experiences to each child's comfort level and developmental stage, and more.--Chapters: (3:14) Golden Rules for Halloween Success(05:34) Social Engagement and Front-Line Participation(07:34) At-Home Halloween Activities(13:46) Trick-or-Treating Preparation(18:32) School Halloween Parties- 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 Learn more about our SM in the School self-paced online course, eligible for 5.5 continuing education credits.Learn more about CommuniCamp, our 3+ day intensive group treatment and ALL DAY parent training & support program-Reference Handout(s) discussed during episode: Three Ways to Prepare for Halloween: https://selectivemutismcenter.org/three-ways-to-prepare-for-halloween/Halloween Tips & Tricks: https://selectivemutismcenter.org/tricks-treats-for-a-successful-halloween/-For all podcast inquiries, please contact Dakota Hornak at ⁠dhornak@selectivemutismcenter.org⁠ This podcast was produced and promoted by New Edition Consulting (neweditionconsulting.com)

EP62 features a discussion between Dr E and Dr. Jenna Blum, a lead Clinical Psychologist at the SMart Center and the Director of the SMart Center’s growing general mental health department, Counseling & Assessments.In this episode, Dr. E and Dr. Jenna discuss how to encourage decision making, the importance of fostering self-help skills, developing your child’s problem-solving skills and more.Dr. E and Dr. Jenna Blum discuss strategies for empowering teens and young adults to boost their independence and confidence.--Chapters: (3:41) The Role of Parents in Supporting Independence(9:47) Setting Personal Goals for Teens(22:13) Time Management and Independence(31:21) The Importance of Decision Making(38:50) Fostering Independence and Financial Literacy- 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 Learn more about our SM in the School self-paced online course, eligible for 5.5 continuing education credits.Learn more about CommuniCamp, our 3+ day intensive group treatment and ALL DAY parent training & support programReference Handout discussed during episode: https://selectivemutismcenter.org/fostering-independence-in-elementary-aged-children/ - For all podcast inquiries, please contact Dakota Hornak at ⁠dhornak@selectivemutismcenter.org⁠

EP61 features the latest installment of our Shining Stars series, where we sit down with former SMart Center patients – or their parents – and discuss how they overcame Selective Mutism. This episode, we meet former SMart Center patient, Josiah D’Angelo. In this episode, Dr. Elisa Shipon-Blum and Josiah’s mom, Dr. Amanda D’Angelo, discuss Josiah’s unique but relatable experience with Selective Mutism, breakthrough strategies and surprise moments, going from isolated to “full volume everyone”, and much, much more.--Chapters: (3:23) JOSIAH'S UNIQUE BUT RELATABLE EXPERIENCE WITH SELECTIVE MUTISM(10:10) BREAKTHROUGH STRATEGIES & SURPRISE MOMENTS IN JOSIAH’S SELECTIVE MUTISM JOURNEY(20:01) GOING FROM ISOLATED TO EXTROVERTED: HOW JOSIAH BECAME “FULL VOLUME EVERYWHERE”(32:11) COLLABORATING WITH TEACHERS AND SLOWLY INTEGRATING JOSIAH INTO DIFFERENT SOCIAL ENVIRONMENTS(44:29) ADVICE ON PARENTING A CHILD WITH SELECTIVE MUTISM- Ask Dr. E a question of your own! Learn more about the host, Dr. Elisa Shipon-Blum Explore more 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- For all podcast inquiries, please contact Dakota Hornak at ⁠dhornak@selectivemutismcenter.org⁠ This podcast was produced and promoted by New Edition Consulting (neweditionconsulting.com)

EP60 of the Unspoken Words podcast features a discussion between Dr. Elisa Shipon-Blum and psychiatrist, Dr. Natalie Weder, on how to help young children bounce back from social and emotional setbacks. In the episode, Dr. E and Dr. Weder discuss resilience, reframing, recognizing micro-moments of success and more.Chapters: (3:18) Understanding Resilience Through the Lens of Selective Mutism(20:09) Reframing Setbacks as Opportunities: The Role of the Adult(31:27) Building Micro-Moments of Success: The Foundation of Resilience(34:48) Addressing Trauma, Rejection, and Social Pain in Children with SM(38:20) Protective Factors and Practices that Boost Long-Term ResilienceAsk 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- For all podcast inquiries, please contact Dakota Hornak at ⁠dhornak@selectivemutismcenter.org⁠ This podcast was produced by New Edition Consulting (neweditionconsulting.co)