COURSE CURRICULUM

The Infant & Early Child Mental Health graduate certificate program is an eight-month, intensive program designed to equip professionals with the knowledge and practical skills necessary to support the mental health and development of infants and young children. In the first semester, students explore foundational concepts through courses such as Infant and Early Childhood Mental Health, Dynamics of the Family from a Child’s Perspective, Integrating Attachment and Brain Development, Human Development, and Fundamentals of Communications and Counselling with Families, providing a strong theoretical and practical framework. The second semester focuses on applying this knowledge in real-world settings with courses including Understanding and Responding to the Challenging Behaviour of Young Children, Health Promotion and Education, Advanced Practice in Infant and Early Child Mental Health, Screening and Assessment for Infants, Young Children and Families, and Promoting Resilience in Infants and Young Children Impacted by Stress and Trauma, culminating in a Field Placement that allows students to gain hands-on experience. Throughout the program, students develop skills in assessing developmental needs, identifying and responding to risk and protective factors, implementing evidence-informed early intervention strategies, fostering supportive relationships with families, and communicating effectively with colleagues and professionals. Graduates are prepared to work in clinical, educational, and community settings, promoting positive mental health outcomes for children and families and enhancing professional opportunities in early childhood mental health services.