Honoring Voices within Infant and Early Childhood Mental Health

now available!

Honoring Voices within Infant and Early Childhood Mental Health: Relationship-Based Stories from the Field

Edited by Carla Barron, PhD, LMSW, IMH-E® and Karol A. Wilson, LMSW, IMH-E®

Grounded in foundational IECMH theory, “Honoring Voices” illuminates the complex yet rich process that professionals—of all disciplines, experiences, and cultures—engage in when delivering IECMH services for diverse infants, toddlers, young children, and their families.

Using personal stories, this infant mental health book examines relationship-based practice within various contexts, family structures and cultures. In spaces where relationships are central, professionals dig deep to reflect, wonder, make sense of, deepen, and, at times, seek to repair ruptures in relationships—all while keeping the child in mind.

What Readers Say:

A groundbreaking infant mental health book rooted in IECMH theory to support relationship-based practice.

“Each author provides an open and honest personal statement about experiences that have shaped them, positionality in the world, and/or beliefs that guide their work. These personal and professional reflections are gifts. They offer a window into a brave new world of IECMH work, one that requires patience, honesty, and courage.”

Deborah J. Weatherston, PhD, IMH-E Former Executive Director, 2001-2016 Michigan Association for Infant Mental Health

“A thorough and inspiring work of the head, heart, and hands. The authors addressed ways of leaning into vulnerability, bravery and authenticity in relationship, to allow us to deeply think about who we are, how we show up, and how we cultivate connections to harness the power of relationship as change agents helping families and young children heal.”

Dr. Harleen Hutchinson, IMHE-(R) Executive Director, The Journey Institute, Inc.
President, Florida Association for Infant Mental Health

“A gift full of thoughtful examples where writers intentionally focus on equity and inclusion, and critical self-reflection in infant and early childhood mental health. It reminds us that “who you are is as important as what you do” (Thomas, K., Noroña, C. R. & St. John, M. S., 2019) and that relationships sustain us in the work.”

Kandace Thomas, MPP, PhD Executive Director First 8 Memphis

Related Resources

Journal

From Reflection to Revolution: Leadership in the IECMH Field

The 2025 IECMH Emerging Leadership Awardees reflect leadership rooted in relationships, humility, and a long-term vision for change.

Details

Resource

Preventing Burnout in Early Childhood Professionals: Practical Self-Care Strategies

Understanding the common causes and exploring ways to address burnout in early childhood education can help you effectively manage or even prevent it..

Details

Distillation

The Importance of Responsive Parenting: Building Strong Emotional Bonds From Birth

Responsive parenting builds strong emotional bonds between caregivers and their young children. Learn more and get responsive caregiving tips.

Details