At the heart of every meaningful business is a story rooted in purpose, and Annie DiVello’s journey is a beautiful example of just that. From her small-town beginnings in rural West Virginia to building a private practice in coastal Maine, Annie has devoted her career to giving children with selective mutism the tools, support, and encouragement they need to find their brave voices.
As the founder of Our Brave Voices, Annie partners with families and school teams across New England to provide compassionate, specialized care for children navigating this often-misunderstood condition. Her work goes far beyond education and therapy, it’s about empowering kids to be heard, seen, and supported in every part of their lives.
In this feature, Annie shares her inspiring story, the moment that led her to this calling, and the quiet power of creating space for children to speak up in their own time.
Lynn Davey: Tell me a little about yourself! Where are you from, and what inspires you every day?
Annie DiVello: My name is Annie DiVello. I grew up in rural West Virginia in an area so small, it isn’t even listed on a map! After grad school, I ventured out into the world. I spent a summer in LA, then moved to Atlanta for the southern experience before coming to New England. I fell in love with the Northeast, though the winters are hard for this southern belle.
I currently live in beautiful Kennebunk, ME where I operate my private practice, Our Brave Voices. I feel inspired every day, helping families and school teams support children who have selective mutism.
LD: How would you describe your business in one sentence?
AD: My company helps families and school teams support children who have selective mutism.
LD: What does your business do, and who do you serve?
AD: Our Brave Voices offers specialized support for selective mutism to school teams and families across New England.
LD: What inspired you to start your business, and what was the moment you knew this was the path for you?
AD: When I was working as a home visitor in Early Supports and Services, a sibling of a child I was serving was never able to speak to me. Watching them struggle to navigate the evaluation and support process, I knew there was an unmet need and I sought to fill the gap.
LD: What’s one thing you wish more people knew about your industry or the work you do?
AD: I wish people understood that selective mutism is not a choice. It’s an invisible disability that causes immense suffering.
LD: What do you love most about running your business?
AD: Seeing children find their brave voices.
LD: How does your business make a difference, either in your community, industry, or for your clients?
AD: Our Brave Voices makes a difference every day by giving children the gift of their brave voice.
LD: What’s a project, initiative, or moment in your career that you’re most proud of?
AD: I don’t have one moment I am most proud of. My biggest sense of pride comes from how many children, families, and school teams we have helped.
LD: Are there any causes or organizations you support that align with your mission?
LD: What’s one of the biggest challenges you’ve faced as a business owner, and how did you overcome it?
AD: Getting the word out! Word of mouth referrals helped me, and continue to help me, reach new school teams and new families every week.
LD: Coffee or tea? How do you take it?
AD: Both! And I enjoy a cup of each every morning. I love coffee with cashew milk, stevia, and a splash of maple syrup. I love green tea with honey and lemon.
LD: What’s your favorite way to unwind after a busy day?
AD: I love putting my toddler down for the night. I think her bedtime routine is as relaxing for her as it is for me!
LD: Where can people find you or learn more about your business?
JH: You can find me at ourbravevoices.com as well as on LinkedIn and Facebook.
A Voice for the Quietest Among Us
Annie DiVello’s work with Our Brave Voices is a testament to what can happen when empathy, expertise, and purpose align. Her passion for helping children with selective mutism isn’t just a profession… it’s a calling that transforms lives, one brave voice at a time.
Through her unwavering commitment, Annie is not only creating breakthroughs for the children and families she serves, but also shifting how schools and communities understand and support this invisible challenge. Her impact is quiet, steady, and deeply powerful—just like the kids she helps every day.
Annie reminds us that even the softest voices deserve to be heard. And sometimes, making a difference starts with simply creating space for someone to speak.
Know another inspiring woman business owner who should be featured? Send me an email! I’d love to share more stories like Annie’s.
Hi, I’m Lynn!
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Hi, I’m Lynn!
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