Livvy Kramer grew up with SM. By the time she graduated from high school, she stood up and bravely gave a speech in front of her whole school.

What helped her overcome SM? What does she wish she would have known back then? Join us as Dr. Melissa Giglio, child clinical psychologist specialising in SM, chats with Livvy about her success story.

About Livvy

"My name is Livvy Kramer, and I am currently a sophomore at Emory University in Atlanta, Georgia. I am majoring in Psychology and Linguistics, a decision I made largely in part due to my personal experiences as a child.

At around eight years old, I was diagnosed with selective mutism after years of struggling to communicate in social situations, even with close family and friends. This caused tremendous stress, sadness and frustration for my family –who were relieved to finally get a diagnosis so we could forge ahead.

Join me to hear my success story which began the day I met Dr. Melissa Giglio. Not only am I thriving socially and academically, but I love meeting new people and having new experiences."

- Livvy

About Dr. Melissa Giglio

Dr. Melissa is an American child clinical psychologist and mom of three who specializes in the treatment of SM, child anxiety and ADHD. She is the director of a multidisciplinary practice in Hong Kong and offers caregiver and educator trainings.

Together with Assistant Psychologist Daisy Geddes, Dr. Melissa has co-authored of a picture book for children with SM, Bravery Grows.

About Bravery Grows

“I try to play, I try to shout, but my brave voice just won’t come out”.

Bravery Grows is a children’s book (ages 2-10) about a girl who is working on growing her “brave muscles”, with the loving support of her parents, and lots of brave practice! Written by child psychologists and SM specialists, it has been endorsed by the Selective Mutism Association, the Child Mind Institute, Dr. Steven Kurtz, and other experts as a helpful tool for children struggling with an anxiety disorder.