Nationally Recognized Expertise in Selective Mutism and Childhood Anxiety
Helping Children Build Brave Voices in The School and Community
Dr. Aimee Kotrba is a licensed child psychologist, nationally recognized Selective Mutism expert, speaker, author, and founder of Thriving Minds Behavioral Health. She specializes in helping children with anxiety and Selective Mutism build confidence, communication skills, and meaningful connection across school, home, and community settings.
Known for her warm, practical, and evidence-based approach, Dr. Kotrba works closely with families, schools, and professionals to support children who struggle with speaking, social anxiety, school participation, and related anxiety challenges.
Dr. Kotrba has been featured in People Magazine, The New York Times, podcasts, webinars, and professional trainings focused on childhood anxiety and Selective Mutism.
Speaking and Interview Topics
Dr. Kotrba is available for:
Podcasts
Television interviews
Parent workshops
School trainings
Conference speaking
Professional webinars
Media commentary and expert interviews
Popular Topics Include:
Selective Mutism
What Selective Mutism actually is — and what it is not
The difference between shyness and anxiety disorders
Helping children find their “brave voice”
Effective treatment approaches for Selective Mutism
Supporting students with SM at school
Childhood Anxiety
Rising anxiety in children and teens
Helping anxious children build confidence
What parents often misunderstand about anxiety
Parents & Families
Supporting parents of anxious children
Helping families reduce avoidance behaviors
Practical tools parents can use at home
Parenting children with high anxiety
Schools & Professionals
Supporting anxious students in classrooms
Accommodations and school strategies for Selective Mutism
Building confidence in school settings
Evidence-based intervention approaches
Dr. Aimee Kotrba earned her doctorate in clinical child psychology from Wayne State University and founded Thriving Minds Behavioral Health in 2012. She is an internationally recognized speaker and author specializing in Selective Mutism and childhood anxiety.
She is the author of:
Dr. Kotrba also co-directs Confident Kids Camp and provides training and consultation for families, schools, therapists, and professionals nationwide.
Her work focuses not only on supporting children, but also empowering parents, schools, and communities to become effective “brave coaches” for anxious children.
Available upon request:
Professional headshot
Speaker bio
Panel and podcast interview topics
Camp and program information
Previous media appearances
Selective Mutism educational resources