Dr. Julie Jones
PSYCHOTHERAPY
SELECTIVE MUTISM
HOPE BEGINS NOW
It’s personal. I’ve been there. My son had SM.
Years ago, I was accused of abusing my inhibited child. His behavior was misunderstood, and I was blamed for it. By the time he was three, I learned there was a term for what was happening. My professional journey in counseling started that day. I flew around the country to meet with experts, joined parent groups, added to my education, and became the resource that didn’t exist in Texas. I hosted the International Conference on Selective Mutism in Houston. More than 20 years later, I see at least ten families with SM per week. I am truly fortunate to share in the success as so many kids break through the silence and unleash the anxiety that previously held them captive.
I treat SM as a family therapist. Change happens in the systems around the child, including the school, the community, and the family. My treatment often includes participation from more than one parent and school personnel. Education is a crucial component in opening therapeutic pathways.
I only work online. I help families create realistic goals, and they activate them between sessions. Talking to me is never a goal. Communicating and thriving in the natural environment are the primary goals.
Noah and I compete in triathlons together. People ask me about how stubborn persistence will pay off later in life. He is an Ironman. This is a great example!
How long is treatment?
I can provide an estimate after I have completed an initial evaluation. Therapy is shorter for younger children and families who actively do the homework. Treatment is also shorter when school personnel participate in the process. I ask families to commit to a minimum of six sessions.
How often is treatment?
I typically meet with families every other week for a minimum of six sessions.
Do you meet with school personnel?
Yes! I work with teachers and supportive staff members as often as they are available.
Do you see young children?
Yes! I work with kids aged two and up. I only work with kids who actively have SM with a parent present.
Do you see teenagers with SM?
It depends on the severity of the symptoms. I do not work with teens who are suicidal or who are actively engaging in self-harm.
Does my child have to talk in session?
No. I typically ask questions through a parent. A child can whisper to a parent, write an answer, or use nonverbal communication to indicate an answer. Sometimes kids play in the background as we talk.