Therese Ahlers, MS, MPA, IMH-E® (IV- Policy) is a Senior Technical Assistance Specialist for Infant and Early Childhood Mental Health (IECMH) at ZERO TO THREE.
Ms. Ahlers is part of the Policy Center working on the Infant and Early Childhood Mental Health (IECMH) team. As a Senior Technical Assistance Specialist, she promotes the integration of infant mental health practices and policies across service delivery areas. Support and consultation are provided to state and community leaders and advocates. Common topics include developing infrastructure, securing diversified funding, starting and sustaining an effective infant mental health association, and building parent leadership in collaborative system-building.
Prior to joining ZERO TO THREE, Ms. Ahlers started the Wisconsin Alliance for Infant Mental Health, a statewide agency promoting infant and early childhood mental health awareness, professional development, collaboration, and public policy. As the Executive Director, she worked with both state agencies and private providers promoting the integration of relationship-based practices within early childhood service delivery. Ms. Ahlers worked in state government for 10 years both in Medicaid and in mental health. In addition, Ms. Ahlers has ten years of clinical experience working with adults with disabilities and over 30 years of experience working on mental health policy. Ms. Ahlers is in Ferryville, Wisconsin along the shore of the Mississippi River.
Additional highlights include:
- Infant Mental Health Endorsement: 2011 Policy IV Category
- ZERO TO THREE 18-month Leadership Development Initiative Fellowship; 2002 – 2003
- University of Wisconsin Madison; Robert M. La Follette School of Public Affairs
o Master of Arts – Public Administration – 1995 - University of Wisconsin Madison; Studies in Behavioral Disabilities
o Master of Science – 1985 - University of Wisconsin Madison; Behavioral Disabilities and Elementary Education
o Bachelor of Science – 1983; Student teaching experience in Ireland