Selective Mutism H.E.L.P. and SoundEmotive are excited to announce the 2026 Selective Mutism International Conference happening September 25th-27th! 

​Join us in-person at the Red Lion Hotel in Salisbury, Wiltshire, UK 
or Virtually from anywhere!

Selective Mutism is often viewed through the lens of speech and anxiety, but what if the silence is only the surface of a much deeper story?

​Beneath the Silence: The Inner World of Selective Mutism explores the often-overlooked physiological, sensory, emotional, and nervous system factors that can contribute to a person's inability to speak in certain environments. This conference brings together clinicians, educators, researchers, and lived-experience voices to examine Selective Mutism through a holistic & neurodiversity-affirming lens.

Participants will gain insight into how sound processing differences, nervous system dysregulation, retained primitive reflexes, sensory-motor development, vocal psychotherapy, restrictions of the fascia, demand avoidance, feeding challenges such as ARFID, and other mind-body factors may influence communication and participation. Through presentations, case studies, and practical strategies, attendees will develop a deeper understanding of what may be happening beneath the silence and learn approaches that support safety, connection, regulation, and authentic communication.

Whether you are a parent, educator, therapist, medical professional, or advocate, this conference invites you to move beyond symptom-focused perspectives and explore the complex inner experiences of individuals with Selective Mutism.
Schedule of Events
Day 1 Virtual
Today is all about celebrating the creativity of those who may not always get a chance to show how talented they are. You'll see a variety of poems, stories, artwork, and even some dances.
Day 2 In-Person or Virtual 10:00am-5:00pm
Times in UK, please check your timezone if attending virtually

Speakers and Presentation Topics:
Catherine Bates, SMiRA
 Overview of Selective Mutism and Resources

Danielle Jata-Hall
 Pathological Demand Avoidance

Charlotte Davies
Tomatis Method and Primitive Reflex Integration

Sarah Gummett-Hart
Vocal Psychotherapy

Joanna Turner
Power of Rhythms
Day 3 In-Person or Virtual 10:00am-5:00pm
Times in UK, please check your timezone if attending virtually
​
Speakers and Presentation Topics:
Paola Falcoski
Avoidant/Restrictive Food Intake Disorder (ARFID)

Libby Hill
​The Teenage Inner World

​Lucy
Therapeutic Tutoring
​
Kelly Melhorn
Understanding Behavior Through a Nervous System Lens

Autum Romano
Using Body-Based Practices to Support the Nervous System

SM Panel
Lived Experiences of Overcoming Selective Mutism
Special In-Person Events Included:
Book Signing
Tomatis Demonstrations
Fascia Release Interactive Session
Support Tool Demonstrations
Tea Breaks
Click Below for Registration Options:
(All presentations will be recorded for Lifetime Access)

Selective Mutism International Conference 2026

Register

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MISSION STATEMENT
At Selective Mutism H.E.L.P. (Home Educational Learning Program), our mission is to spread awareness, offer support, and provide an individualized approach to help those diagnosed with Selective Mutism. Through compassionate understanding, we aim to create a partnership to empower parents, schools, and other practitioners to make a difference in the lives of those affected by Selective Mutism."