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The Early Childhood Mental Health Program has been making a difference in the lives of young children and their families for nearly four decades (About Us). Our mission is:

To foster healthy development in infants and young children who are at risk, abused, neglected, emotionally disturbed, or affected by family substance abuse, by providing comprehensive mental health treatment and early education services to them and to their families.

Our trained and licensed social workers, family therapists, psychologists, and preschool teachers fulfill this mission through an array of services. But regardless of the manner in which we work, our goal remains the same: to strengthen, support, and nurture families struggling with issues that can accompany poverty, lack of education, substance abuse, and other life stressors.

Neglect, abuse, exposure to drugs—these and other traumas can not only stunt emotional development but can physically alter the structure of a child’s brain. (Learn more.) Healthy brain development in the first two years of life is the foundation for mental health in the years that follow. Prevention and early intervention, therefore, can positively direct the path that leads to adulthood.

To learn more about our work please contact Lynn Martin at (510) 412-9200.

Groups for Spanish-speaking parents Familias Seguras For mothers who have experienced or are now experiencing domestic violence.    Thursdays, 4:30-6:30 pm    Details: Bilingual flyer Ser Mamá A support group for mothers that answers questions about your child, and offers support from other moms.    Wednesdays, 10-11:30 AM    Bilingual flyer Madres en el Postpoarto Addresses the depression, irritability and other feelings that new mothers sometimes experience.    Fridays, 10-11:30 AM.    Bilingual flyer Support groups for homeless families For both parents and children living at the GRIP shelter, in Richmond. These groups help parents care for and nurture their young children through one of the most stressful events a family can experience – homelessness. More information, register For more infomration or to register for any of these groups, call 510.412.9200 during business hours, 8:30 am to 5 pm, Monday through Friday. More details: Parent Support Groups

Wraparound helps families under stress Wraparound services help families set and meet goals so parents can focus on building healthy relationships with their children. This short article by FirstFive offers a real example. ECMHP partners with GRIP Thanks to a grant from the East Bay Community Foundation, we have partnered with GRIP (Greater Richmond Interfaith Program) to provide support groups for both parents and children living at the GRIP homeless shelter. See left column for more information. New leadership at Early Childhood In late 2011, our Board of Directors selected Lynn Martin, MHS, to succeed Arlette Merritt as Executive Director. Learn more about Lynn Martin.