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.
“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
