This project develops and pilots a statewide model for Infant and Early Childhood Mental Health Consultation (IECMHC) in Texas. Through the Preschool Development Grant (PDG), the initiative aims to strengthen the capacity of early childhood systems to support the social and emotional development of infants and young children.
UT-TIEMH leads the design of a comprehensive IECMHC model that includes core competencies, orientation materials, recommended training, and evaluation guidance for mental health consultants across the state. The project works with community-based organizations to establish and implement pilot consultation programs, providing training, ongoing technical assistance, reflective supervision, and structured implementation support. These pilot programs serve as demonstration sites to test the effectiveness of IECMHC across diverse early learning settings.
The project further contributes to statewide workforce development by training professionals in IECMHC practices, assessment tools, child development, and reflective supervision. This investment helps build a sustainable network of qualified mental health consultants equipped to support children, families, and early childhood providers.
Through collaboration, evaluation, and dissemination activities, the project seeks to improve child social–emotional outcomes, enhance provider capacity, reduce challenging behaviors and provider burnout, and strengthen the overall quality of early learning environments in Texas.