Use of Relational Approaches and Talking Mats in Treating Selective Mutism in a Young Adult: A Case Study

Abstract

Treatment for selective mutism (SM) is highly personalised depending on presentation of the client. Collaborating with a nonverbal client to identify goals is challenging, particularly when discussion around goal-oriented behaviours is already a potential source of anxiety for the client. Methods are required to enable presentation of information in a nonconfronting manner and provide additional supports for language processing and consideration of the options. For intervention to be client centred, visual supports such as Talking Mats and application of relational interaction models are helpful to support emotional regulation and communication such as the zones of regulation and the circle of security. Use of these approaches for a young person with SM is described and evaluated in this case study. The interactions are described between these approaches and established management strategies for SM used alongside. Results suggest the value of these approaches and techniques in management for SM and areas for further research.

Keywords::

• Selective Mutism
• Youth
• Mental Health
• Talking Mats
• Relational Approach
• Nonverbal

Disclosure statement

The author has no financial relationships with organisations or products. As a licensed Talking Mats trainer, the author has a nonfinancial relationship with Talking Mats UK and Talking Mats Australia.

Additional information

Notes on contributors

Natalie Leader

Natalie Leader is a certified practising speech pathologist in private practice and a licensed Talking Mats trainer based in South Australia.