Staff Reports | Free Press Philanthropy
When stories of young children struggling with emotional and behavioral challenges make headlines, one question often arises — how do we ensure that families have the support they need in the earliest years of a child’s life?
With the growing awareness of childhood anxiety and the impact of stress on developing minds, infant and early childhood mental health has never been more relevant.
Southwest Human Development’s Harris Infant and Early Childhood Mental Health Training Institute is tackling this issue head-on, providing comprehensive, expert-led training for professionals who work with infants, toddlers, and their families.
This 1-year and 2-year cohort-based program is designed for those looking to deepen their knowledge of early childhood mental health and make a lasting impact in their field and community.
The program is led by Dr. Alison Steier, a nationally recognized expert in infant and early childhood mental health and the Vice President of Mental Health Services at Southwest Human Development.
With decades of experience, Dr. Steier has helped shape national conversations around early intervention, attachment, and trauma-informed care, making this program a must-attend for professionals seeking the best training available in Arizona.
This intensive learning experience provides professionals with specialized training in understanding emotional and social development in infants and toddlers. These skills support families and professionals through trauma-informed, culturally responsive practices.
“Harris Institute graduates are shaping the future of infant mental health in Arizona,” says Denise Lopez, training specialist at Southwest Human Development. “This training empowers professionals to make a lasting difference in the lives of children and families, ensuring they get the best possible start.”
The upcoming Harris Institute cohort graduation on May 16, 2025 will celebrate a new group of dedicated professionals who have completed this intensive 1 and 2-year training program.
