Who is this retreat for?

This retreat is designed for moms of children and teens who experience Selective Mutism. A formal diagnosis is not required to attend. The content is relevant for parents of both children and adolescents, but may be less helpful for moms of young adults.

Will this help my child, or is it just for me?

This retreat is designed to support you—and what supports you ultimately supports your child. When moms have space to rest, connect, and recharge, they return home with renewed energy and clarity to advocate for their child. Throughout the retreat, Dr. Aimee Kotrba will also lead guided discussions and learning experiences, offering practical strategies and clear next steps you can take home to support your child with Selective Mutism.

Is there follow-up support or connection after the retreat?

Absolutely. Connection is a core part of this retreat, and you’ll have many opportunities to build meaningful relationships with other moms that can continue well beyond the weekend. If you’d like additional professional support afterward, Dr. Aimee Kotrba also offers ongoing consultation and guidance through online sessions.

Is this retreat appropriate if my child also has autism?

Yes. This retreat is appropriate for families whose child has both Selective Mutism and autism. Some strategies may look a bit different or move at a different pace, and a private consultation with Dr. Aimee Kotrba during the retreat can help individualize the guidance for your child.

Does my child need to be working with a therapist already?

No, your child doesn't need to be in treatment to benefit from the information, relaxation, and comradery that this retreat specializes in. 

What will we be doing during the retreat?

The retreat is designed to give moms space to rest, connect, and feel genuinely supported. You’ll have time to relax and care for yourself, build meaningful connections with other moms who truly understand the journey, and learn from a leading expert in Selective Mutism. Our goal is for you to leave feeling refreshed, seen, and supported—with clarity and confidence about the next steps for your child. The schedule is thoughtfully designed to balance all of this.

How much will I be expected to socialize and share?

Your level of socializing and sharing is completely up to you. There will be opportunities to connect with the group, as well as plenty of downtime for rest and quiet reflection. All participants will sign a confidentiality agreement to help create a safe, supportive space. This is a judgment-free environment for moms who may feel exhausted, overwhelmed, frustrated, guilty, or unsure—and you are welcome exactly as you are.

Who is leading the retreat? 

The retreat is led by Dr. Aimee Kotrba, a child psychologist and expert in Selective Mutism. She has a special passion for supporting parents and is excited to guide discussions and learning throughout the retreat. Dr. Kotrba will be on-site during the day (approximately 12pm-5pm Friday, 9am-5pm Saturday, and 9am-12pm Sunday) to lead group sessions, answer questions, assist with retreat activities, and provide private consultations, but will be off-site in the evenings, giving moms the chance to fully relax and connect with one another in the retreat setting.

What are the accommodations?

Our retreat location is the beautiful Olde Stone Acres near Uniontown, OH (there are two Uniontowns in Ohio - this is between Akron and Canton, approximately 2.5 hours from Metro Detroit). This location was chosen for the peaceful setting, large manor house, and extra space for pickleball and yoga! It is just outside of Canton, OH, and only 10 minutes from the Akron/Canton Airport (50 miles from the Cleveland Airport). You can find out more info at https://www.oldestoneacres.com/. 

What is included in the cost?

The cost of the retreat includes lodging for 2 nights (Friday-Sunday) in a private or shared room, 4 meals (Friday evening dinner, Saturday breakfast, Saturday dinner, Sunday breakfast - Saturday lunch is on your own in town), a yoga class, access to the full offerings of the Manor (e.g., pickelball, walking areas around the lake, pool table, table tennis, coffee, linens and toiletries), materials (workbook and paper for notes), and guided discussions and mini-workshops with Dr. Aimee Kotrba, an expert in Selective Mutism. 

What should I bring?

You should bring warm clothing for the weekend, any information on SM that you would like to discuss with the group, and anything that makes you feel relaxed, cared for, or grounded. Drugs are not prohibited and smoking is not prohibited on the property; alcohol use is up to the participant but will not be provided by the retreat. 

Is there a refund or cancellation policy?

Participants who provide written requests of cancellation more than thirty (30) calendar days before the scheduled start date of the Retreat will receive a refund of amounts paid, less a non-refundable administrative fee equal to fifteen percent (15%) of the total Retreat fee. Cancellation with 30 days or less before the retreat will not qualify for a refund. 

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We require a minimum number of participants to hold the retreat. If that minimum is not met, the retreat may be canceled, and all registered attendees will be notified and fully refunded.

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We strongly recommend travel insurance in case of illness, weather, retreat cancellation, or other trip interruptions. Allianz Travel Insurance or World Nomads Travel Insurance are recommended, and inexpensive insurance can be purchased on their websites.