Infant and Early Childhood Mental Health Endorsement®

Infant Mental Health Endorsement® (IMH-E®), Early Childhood Mental Health Endorsement® (ECMH-E®), and Infant and Early Childhood Mental Health Endorsement® (IECMH-E®)
Recognizing Excellence Across Lifespan Development in Infant and Family Mental Health

The Michigan Association for Infant Mental Health (MI-AIMH) is proud to offer the Infant Mental Health Endorsement® (IMH-E®), Early Childhood Mental Health Endorsement® (ECMH-E®), and Infant and Early Childhood Mental Health Endorsement® (IECMH-E®). These endorsements represent the highest standard in professional development, demonstrating advanced competency in culturally sensitive, relationship-focused practices that support the social-emotional well-being of infants, young children, and their families.

What is IMH-E®, ECMH-E®, and IECMH-E®?

Endorsement recognizes specialized training and experience in promoting mental health and relational well-being in children from birth through early childhood. Professionals can pursue the following pathways:

1. IMH-E®: Focuses on supporting the mental health of infants and toddlers (prenatal to age 3) and their families.
2. ECMH-E®: Geared toward professionals working with children ages 3–6 and their families, emphasizing relational and social-emotional development.
3. IECMH-E®: For professionals who meet the requirements for both IMH-E® and ECMH-E®, demonstrating comprehensive expertise across the early childhood continuum.

Each MI-AIMH endorsement credential is earned separately, and earning IECMH-E® requires successfully completing both IMH-E® and ECMH-E®.

Reciprocity Across the Alliance for the Advancement of Infant Mental Health

Professionals who earn their endorsement in Michigan benefit from reciprocity with other member organizations of the Alliance for the Advancement of Infant Mental Health. The Alliance includes 36 states and 2 countries, allowing endorsed professionals to transfer their endorsement if they move to another participating state or country. This ensures continuity and recognition of expertise, no matter where your career takes you.

Educational Programs and Competency-Based Learning

MI-AIMH Endorsements are built on evidence-based practices, reflective supervision, and ongoing professional development. Endorsement candidates engage in:

• Specialized Educational Programs: Focused training and coursework in infant and early childhood mental health principles.
• Reflective Supervision/Consultation (RSC): A cornerstone of the process, fostering professional growth and self-awareness.
• Commitment to Ethics: Endorsees uphold a shared Code of Ethics, ensuring the highest standard of culturally sensitive and relationship-based care.

Steps to Earn a MI-AIMH Endorsement Credential

1. Submit an Application through EASy: Document competency-based training, professional experiences, and reflective supervision, three references.
2. There is no exam required for most categories of endorsement, except for Infant Mental Health Mentor, as these individuals are expected to uphold the highest standards of leadership and take on complex, layered responsibilities in the field.
3. Maintain Ongoing Professional Development: Stay active in the Endorsement Registry by participating in continuous education and reflective supervision.

Who Can Pursue Endorsement?

Endorsement is multidisciplinary and welcomes professionals from diverse fields, including:

• Early Childhood Education and Early Intervention
• Nursing, pediatrics, and psychiatry
• Social work and psychology
• Child Welfare
• Public Health
• Policy and Decision Makers
• Anyone who works with or on behalf of 0-6 year olds and their families

IMH-E®, ECMH-E®, and IECMH-E® Registry

Endorsed professionals are recognized on the MI-AIMH Endorsement Registry, showcasing their expertise and commitment to excellence. The registry serves as a resource for families, agencies, and systems seeking qualified professionals.

Why Pursue MI-AIMH Endorsement?

Earning IMH-E®, ECMH-E®, or IECMH-E® highlights your dedication to fostering healthy relationships and advancing mental health for young children and families. The endorsement:

• Enhances your professional reputation and career opportunities.
• Provides reciprocity across 36 states and 2 countries through the Alliance for the Advancement of Infant Mental Health.
• Positions you as a leader and advocate in infant and early childhood mental health.

Whether you specialize in infants, early childhood, or both, MI-AIMH Endorsement offers a meaningful pathway to deepen your impact and grow your career.

Visit our Endorsement Application System (EASy) to learn more and begin your journey toward IMH-E®, ECMH-E®, or IECMH-E® today. Together, we are transforming the future—one relationship at a time.