Infant Mental Health Specialist (IMHS) – for individuals whose primary focus is therapeutic intervention. This includes mental health clinicians, psychologists, marriage and family therapists, licensed clinical social workers, and others.
Requirements for IMHS Endorsement
Education
- Masters or post-graduate degree
Work Experience
- Minimum 2 years, post-masters, IMH practice working on behalf of the caregiver-infant relationship (example: infant parent psychotherapy)
In-service Training
- Minimum 30 hours, average 75 hours
Membership in Infancy Onward
Code of Ethics
Endorsement Agreement
Reflective Supervision or Consultation (RSC)
- Minimum 50 clock hours within a 12-month to 24-month time period while working with infants, toddlers, & families
Reference Ratings
- Three
1. Current program supervisor, teacher, trainer or consultant.
2. Person providing RSC
3. Another supervisor, teacher, trainer or consultant; colleague; or supervise (if applicant is a supervisor)
Written Exam
Application
- Applicant will submit an application that demonstrates that they have met both the requirements and the competencies specified for the Endorsement for which they are applying. Details about competencies can be found within the Competency Guidelines (MI-AIMH Copyright © 2017).
Ready for your IMHS Endorsement?
This is just a summary; for the full description of the requirements by Endorsement category, please consult the Competency Guidelines.
