INFANT MENTAL HEALTH SERVICES

0-3 Years

  • IMH focuses on the emotional growth of infants and toddlers. This is done in a supportive environment with caregivers.

  • IMH provides support to build strong parent/child bonds. The service supports parents and children from birth to age 3 years and 11 months.

  • IMH supports pregnant women and families facing challenges. All while giving them tools to create safe, loving homes for their children.

WHAT IS INFANT MENTAL HEALTH?

  • “90% of a child’s brain develops by age 5” (PBS kids)

  • The early years set the foundation for the child’s ability to learn and grow.

  • Healthy relationships with caregivers support children’s development.

  • Parents who have support can give their child the care needed for safety and love.

  • Strong parent-child bonds now, lead to healthier, happier children in the future.

WHY IT MATTERS

How we can help:

  • IMH helps parents and children build stronger bonds and provides emotional support.

  • We help parents understand their child’s needs and behaviors. We offer tips for positive parenting.

  • Working together, we help children grow. We strive to give parents confidence when caring for their child.

  • Whether facing medical issues, daycare/school concerns, or parenting stress, our team is here to help.

  • Our team is flexible to meet your family’s needs and can even come to you if transportation is a concern.

WHO CAN PARTICIPATE?

  • Medicaid covers IMH services.

  • Families with children from birth to 3 years and 11 months, including pregnant mothers.

  • Families who can participate may include those with:

    • Children with medical issues like premature birth, failure to thrive, etc.

    • Developmental concerns or behavior challenges

    • Sensory processing or regulatory issues

    • Children in foster care

    • Children exposed to substances

    • Parents with mental illnesses, trauma history, or lack of social support

    • Pregnant women with high depression symptoms or substance use concerns

Core components of IMH:

  • Building strong, trusting teams with families.

  • Offering learning guidance tailored to the child’s age.

  • Providing parent-infant therapy. This helps improve social and emotional connection.

  • Enhancing the skills of both parents and children with targeted support.

  • Promoting positive parent-child interactions.

  • Connecting to community resources.

  • Providing ongoing emotional support.

  • Helping families build social networks and coping skills for life.