(PS5-8) Building Expertise: FOCUS Education Model for Clinicians Treating Selective Mutism

Selective Mutism (SM) is a complex childhood anxiety disorder characterized by a child's inability to speak in specific social situations despite speaking in others. The number of patients awaiting services for SM highlighted a significant gap in the availability of trained clinicians capable of providing effective treatment within our hospital system. Addressing this gap is crucial, as untreated SM can lead to long-term social and academic challenges for affected children. To bridge this gap, our hospital implemented a FOCUS (Fostering Ongoing Clinical Understanding and Skills) training program. This program aims to enhance clinician competency in treating SM through a comprehensive educational approach. The training includes an online module, a half-day in-person workshop, and six virtual consultation sessions adapted from the ECHO model. This multi-faceted approach ensures that clinicians receive both theoretical knowledge and practical guidance from subject matter experts.

To evaluate the effectiveness of the training, we will implement pre/post knowledge measures, use competency rating scales while reviewing session recordings, and conduct pre/post satisfaction surveys. These data collection methods will provide insights into the improvement in clinician knowledge, competency, and satisfaction with the training program. By equipping clinicians with the necessary skills and knowledge, we aim to improve treatment outcomes for children with SM and expand the network of qualified professionals. This initiative not only addresses the immediate need for more trained clinicians but also sets a standard for future training programs in the field.