Parent-Child Interaction Therapy for Selective Mutism (PCIT-SM)

Parent-Child Interaction Therapy for Selective Mutism (PCIT-SM) is an adaptation of PCIT designed to help children with selective mutism. It focuses on improving verbal communication by coaching you to encourage and reinforce your child speaking in a gradual, supportive manner within a structured environment.

Dr. Denese has extensive training in PCIT-SM and is a member of the Selective Mutism Association. She also trained at the Child Mind Institute’s Anxiety Disorders Center, a leading institution in Selective Mutism treatment, including the renowned Brave Buddies program.

She is one of the few BIPOC psychologists with extensive training in this modality. When selective mutism intersects with cultural or racial stressors (like experiences of discrimination or being a linguistic minority), meeting with a culturally responsive provider can be especially beneficial.

What does PCIT-SM help with?

Increasing Verbal Communication:

  • Gradually increases your child's ability to speak in situations where they previously remained mute.

Reducing Anxiety:

  • Addresses the anxiety that underlies selective mutism.

Strengthening Parent-Child Relationship:

  • Enhances the emotional bond and trust between you and your child.

Improving Parental Techniques:

  • Equips you with effective strategies to support your child’s communication and manage their anxiety.

Generalizing Communication Skills:

  • Ensures that improvements in verbal communication are maintained and transferred to various environments.

Enhancing Social Skills:

  • Helps your child develop better social interactions and reduces social withdrawal.

Building Confidence:

  • Increases your child’s self-esteem and confidence in speaking.

Shy young Asian girl covering one eye with her hand, holding a white teddy bear

Key Components:

Child-Directed Interaction (CDI):

  • Focus: Building a positive relationship through play and following your child’s lead.

  • Techniques:

    • PRIDE Skills: Praise, Reflection, Imitation, Description, and Enthusiasm.

    • Verbal Encouragement: Encouraging any form of verbal communication during play.

    Verbal-Directed Interaction (VDI):

    • Structuring interactions to encourage speaking and manage anxiety.

      • Gradual Exposure: Introducing your child to speaking tasks that increase in difficulty.

      • Shaping and Reinforcement: Using praise and rewards to reinforce verbal communication.

      • Systematic Desensitization: Gradually reducing your child’s anxiety about speaking.

    Live Coaching:

    • Real-time feedback and guidance from me observing parent-child interactions.

    Collaboration with School and Community:

    • Involving teachers and other key figures in your child’s life.

Classroom scene with teacher and students, one student raising hand.

Schedule Free Consultation Today

If interested, please schedule a free 15-minute consultation call by calling (508) 281-9103 or send a message through the website.