Early Childhood
Mental Helth Consultation
Available in-person and on-line Spanish and English
Why early childhood programs seek mental health consultation:
In addition for my love for young children, I bring over 20 years as an early childhood psychotherapist for multicultural families, with my expertise in diversity, equity and inclusion, and my specialization in infant mental health (IMH-E® in VA, Level III). I approach complex challenges with a blend of the principles of Infant and Early Childhood Mental Health Consultation, Resilience, and the Pyramid Model.
What is Infant and Early Childhood Mental Health Consultation?
A Day in the Life of an IECMH Consultant.
What is Resilience?
Pyramid Model Overview.
Overview of the Consultation Process
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1. Initial Conversation
We will discuss the nature of your program and your concerns, to determine whether a short term-consultation or longer-term series of coaching and consultations will best meet the needs of your program.
2. Assessment
One or more program site-visits will occur, according the agreed upon scope of the consultation. During each visit I will conduct observations and interviews, in order to assess a child or group of children, skills of the educators, and social-emotional environment of the program. I will assess the children’s social-emotional development, temperament, strengths and risk factors.
3. Recommendations
I will meet with administrators and educators to determine the best strategies for addressing children’s and staff’s social and emotional needs and challenges, informed by evidence- based mental health principles. Recommendations may include tailored interventions for specific children, program-wide supportive policies, social-emotional coaching for the educators, parenting strategies for family members, and connecting families with specialized mental health care for further assessment, therapy or medication if needed.
4. Follow-up support
Follow-up visits over time are essential for sustaining the implementation of new strategies and their integration in daily long-lasting practices. Complex situations may benefit from the formation of a team of stakeholders (educators, parents, administrators and additional service providers), collaborative creation of goals, and regular team meetings for mutual accountability and encouragement.