Infant Mental Health

The first years of life lay the foundation for lifelong health, learning, and emotional well-being. Infant mental health focuses on supporting babies’ social and emotional development, helping them form secure attachments, manage stress, and thrive in their environment. Early experiences shape the brain in ways that have lasting impact, making this period a critical opportunity for intervention. Promoting infant mental health isn’t just a responsibility; it’s an opportunity to make a lifelong impact. By understanding how infants communicate their needs and emotions, caregivers and professionals can create environments that support healthy development and resilience.

VCU’s Infant Mental Health training program helps teachers, counselors, and early childhood professionals deepen their understanding of these critical first years. Participants explore attachment, brain development, and relationship-based practices that strengthen their ability to observe, assess and respond to the mental health needs of children from birth to age six.