Chapter: Finding Her Voice
The next therapy session began with nervous anticipation for Billie. Today’s focus was something that had been on her mind since her last session: learning to say words. The thought made her stomach twist, but Odessa’s gentle encouragement had reassured her over the past week.
As she entered Dr. Parker’s office, Billie clutched her weighted blanket tightly. Odessa sat beside her, offering a supportive smile. Dr. Parker greeted them warmly, her demeanor calm and patient as always.
“Good morning, Billie,” Dr. Parker signed and said simultaneously. “Today, we’ll work on trying to say a word or two. Are you ready to give it a go?”
Billie hesitated, glancing at Odessa, who signed, You’ve got this. Finally, Billie nodded, her fingers fluttering slightly in nervous stims.
---
Starting Small
Dr. Parker began by picking a simple, comforting word. “Let’s try the word hello first,” she suggested, signing as she spoke.
Billie’s lips trembled as she tried to form the word. Her throat tightened, and her mind raced with thoughts of failure. She shook her head quickly, signing, Too hard.
Dr. Parker smiled reassuringly. “That’s okay, Billie. Let’s take a deep breath and try again. Remember, it doesn’t have to sound perfect.”
With Odessa holding her hand, Billie tried again. She parted her lips and let out a soft, breathy sound that resembled huh-lo. It wasn’t clear, but it was there.
“That’s amazing, Billie!” Dr. Parker clapped gently, her smile widening. Odessa signed excitedly, You did it!
Billie’s cheeks flushed, and her hands flapped uncontrollably in excitement. She felt a small burst of pride but quickly hid her face in her hands, overwhelmed by the attention.
---
A New Word
After a few minutes of resting, Dr. Parker suggested another word. “How about something meaningful to you? Maybe music or love?”
Billie tilted her head thoughtfully before signing, Music.
“Okay, let’s try music,” Dr. Parker said gently. She pronounced the word slowly, showing Billie how to move her lips. Odessa signed along, mirroring the motion to help Billie feel more comfortable.
Billie took a deep breath and tried to say it. Her first attempt was barely audible, a whispery mu- that trailed off. She frowned, her tics beginning to surface—soft neck jerks and rapid hand flaps.
“It’s okay,” Odessa signed quickly. You’re doing great.
Billie tried again. This time, the word came out clearer: “M-music.”
Dr. Parker and Odessa both lit up. “Yes, Billie!” Odessa said aloud while signing, You said it!
Billie’s hands shot into the air in a burst of excited stims. She let out a series of happy vocal tics—“Hm! Ah! Tss!”—as her entire body swayed with the joy of the moment.
---
The Rest of the Session
The rest of the session focused on celebrating Billie’s success. Dr. Parker encouraged her to practice saying music a few more times, but she didn’t push too hard, allowing Billie to bask in the excitement of her accomplishment.
“You did something incredible today, Billie,” Dr. Parker signed and spoke. “You found your voice, even if it’s just one word for now. That’s huge.”
YOU ARE READING
mute
Fanfictionbillie has severe autism and is mute. as she grows old she meets a friend. Billie is always bullied in school for being mute and having Tourette's.
