Celebrate Babies Week is being observed, highlighting the importance of infant mental health. The event is supported by the New Jersey Association for Infant Mental Health (NJ-AIMH), Montclair State University Center for Autism and Early Childhood Mental Health (CAECMH), and the Alliance for the Advancement of Infant Mental Health, among others.
Infant and Early Childhood Mental Health (IECMH) focuses on children's social and emotional development from birth to age three. Positive early interactions are linked to better physical and mental health throughout life, while negative experiences can have lasting adverse effects. Various stakeholders, including parents, service providers, and policymakers, contribute to ensuring healthy early relationships for children.
New Jersey has made strides in enhancing infant mental health services. Since 2021, over 170 professionals have received training through a collaboration with the Department of Children and Families, Children’s System of Care, and Montclair State CAECMH. As of December 2023, NJ-AIMH endorsed 98 professionals in this field.
The partnership between New Jersey Department of Human Services (NJ DOH) and Montclair State CAECMH has tripled the number of infant mental health consultants in the state over five years. These consultants work with educators to promote children's social and emotional development.
Legislation signed in January 2024 requires Medicaid reimbursement for behavioral health services provided by Clinical Social Workers, Professional Counselors, and Marriage and Family Therapists. This expands access to mental health services for families enrolled in NJ FamilyCare.
Funding has been allocated to establish a program through NJ DOH's Division of Medical Assistance and Health Services that enhances payments for well-child visits at HealthySteps sites. This program integrates child development professionals into pediatric healthcare settings to provide mental health screenings and support services.
The New Jersey Early Intervention Services (NJEIS) emphasizes early relational health as part of its mission. It collaborates with Montclair State University and NJ-AIMH to offer training in this area.
Three clinics—Montclair State CAECMH, Children’s Home Society, and Care Plus—received grants from the US Health and Human Services Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA). These grants aim to improve outcomes for children up to age 12 by enhancing mental health promotion and treatment services.
Diane Dellanno states that "infant mental health is everyone’s business." More information can be found through NJ-AIMH or related organizations.
