Selective mutism is an anxiety disorder and is a stand-alone diagnosis, meaning that it isn’t part of other diagnoses, like autism, but can co-occur alongside autism and other diagnoses. Selective mutism is best thought of as a ‘speech phobia’. It is a complex anxiety disorder characterized by patterns of inability to speak and communicate effectively in select social settings but with the possibility to speak in other settings when feeling comfortable, secure and confident. It's important to note that Selective  Mutism is not a choice or willful refusal to speak. It is a complex anxiety disorder that requires understanding and support from parents, teachers, and mental health professionals.

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