Group therapy for selective mutism - a parents' and children's treatment group

To evaluate the feasibility and effectiveness of group therapy for children with selective mutism and their parents.

Five children (mean age 6.1 years) with a diagnosis of selective mutism were administered group therapy over an 8-week period. Parents simultaneously attended a second group, aimed at providing education and advice on managing selective mutism in everyday situations, and in the school environment.

At post-treatment, all children increased their level of confident speaking in school, clinic and community settings. Parents indicated a reduction in their own anxiety levels, from pre- to post-treatment on self-rating scales.

Findings support the feasibility and effectiveness of group therapy for children with selective mutism and their parents.