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
  • Yes
Code of Ethics
  • Signed
Endorsement® Agreement
  • Signed
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
  • Yes
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®.

Ready for your IMHS Endorsement®?

Start the Process

This is just a summary; for the full description of the requirements by Endorsement® category, please consult the Competency Guidelines®