I am fascinated by two puzzling childhood onset social communication conditions: autism spectrum disorders and selective mutism. In my clinical work, I try to contribute to high quality diagnostic assessments, treatment and care for individuals with developmental disorders and their parents, families and teachers. My aims are to diminish anxiety, improve quality of life and help to turn challenging traits into strengths. As the founder of the 'Stichting behandeling selectief mutism'​ I designed the online intervention for selective mutism 'Spreekt voor zich', which helps children, parents, teachers and professionals to overcome this problem jointly. 'Spreekt voor zich' was created and is supported in cooperation with a group of passionate volunteers and collaborators. My research focuses on the behavioral, cognitive and environmental profiles of children and adolescents with autism and selective mutism that may play a role in functioning and outcome. I am interested in questions such as: Which factors influence behavior and development? Why do some children make better developmental progress than others? How can we assist caregivers and educators in fostering development and enhancing competences of children with developmental difficulties?In addition, I am challenged by the question of how we can deploy knowledge, experience and insights from research to improve global mental health. It is so easy to get caught up in the rush of our daily work and to forget that caring is sharing. Sharing knowlegde about mental health across cultures and countries is intriging and an enrichment. I am therefore passionate about my work for the Nour Foundation (see below).Specialties: Autism spectrum disorders Selective mutism Cognitive Behavioral Therapy Psychological and behavioral assessment/diagnostics;Research: Behavioral, cognitive and environmental profiles and correlation with functioning Usability, reliability and validity of diagnostic instruments