In this episode, Lisa Weiss, LCSW, and Elaine Harrison-Yau, LCSW, of Brave Minds NJ, dive into the often-misunderstood world of selective mutism.

Elaine, who specializes in working with children experiencing selective mutism, shares her clinical insight into this anxiety disorder, including what selective mutism looks like, why children may struggle to speak in certain settings, and how anxiety can play a role.

Together, Lisa and Elaine explore treatment approaches such as PCIT-SM (Parent-Child Interaction Therapy for Selective Mutism), as well as practical ways parents, teachers, and other caring adults can create supportive environments where children feel safe, understood, and empowered to use their voices.

Whether you’re a parent, educator, mental health professional, or simply looking to better understand selective mutism, this conversation offers education, compassion, and practical tools for supporting children and families.

Leah Behar, LCSW, and Marissa Aitken, MSW Intern, discuss the differences between punishment and natural consequences in parenting. They explore how these approaches impact children's learning, emotional development, and family dynamics, offering practical guidelines for implementing natural consequences effectively.

In this episode, Cristina Varriale, LAC, joins Lisa Weiss, LCSW, to share her journey into positive discipline—what it is, how it differs from traditional punitive methods, and why understanding children's behavior through the lens of mistaken goals matters. They explore the impact of childhood experiences on adult behavior, common misconceptions, and the difference between gentle parenting and positive discipline. Cristina offers practical guidance for parents, reflects on cultural influences, and emphasizes the importance of respect and boundaries in parenting. The conversation wraps up with encouragement for overwhelmed parents and helpful resources for continued learning.