Selective mutism is “a complex childhood anxiety disorder characterized by a child’s inability to speak and communicate effectively in select social settings, such as school. These children are able to speak and communicate in settings where they are comfortable, secure, and relaxed”, according to Dr. E. Shipon-Blum from Selective Mutism, Anxiety & Related Disorders Treatment Center.   Selective Mutism Association characterizes children affected by selective mutism as being able to”...understand language use and, although they have the physical and cognitive ability to speak, they demonstrate a persistent inability to speak in particular settings over a particular period of time due to anxiety.“ Commonly, a child with selective mutism may appear “shy.”  However, while shyness is…