ABOUT THE CLINIC

The Selective Mutism Clinic provides assessment and treatment of selective mutism and extreme shyness in preschoolers and school-aged children. Services are also available at the clinic for other childhood emotional and behavioural problems.

Families who attend the clinic first undergo a comprehensive assessment.  A programme is then tailored for each child that aims to reduce their anxiety about speaking and communication.  The programme involves the child and parent and uses specific exercises to teach the child how to manage their anxiety in preschool/school and in public, thus enabling them to enjoy communicating and lead a less-anxious childhood.

Telephone consultations for parents and schools are available through the clinic’s outreach service for families who live in rural/remote areas or where there are no specialised services for selective mutism.

The clinic is headed by Dr Elizabeth Woodcock (B.Sc.(Psychol.)(Hons), M.Psychol. (Clinical), PhD), a registered Clinical Psychologist and member of the Australian Psychological Society.  Elizabeth previously worked at a psychiatric service for children and their families at Westmead Hospital and was Head of Psychological Research for a leading mental health organisation in London.  She has provided assessment and treatment for preschool and school-aged children with selective mutism, extreme shyness, and other childhood psychological and behavioural problems in both the public and private sectors.