Building community and belonging
The Family Wellness Program provides strengths-based supports to families within early child care environments. Through individual coaching and parent wisdom groups, our team fosters community and a sense of belonging so that caregivers can tap into their own wisdom, strengthen relationships and provide support that sustains them and their children. Parents can also access mental health interventions for themselves and/or their children if a need is identified.
Explore our services
.Caregivers bring their children to child care so that they can work or find employment. At the same time, child care centers are hubs of care that can support wellbeing and flourishing for families during the critical time of development—the first five years. All families that enter into the child care environment have an initial meeting with a care coach to discuss their wellbeing in different areas and establish a connection with someone at the school. Parents can continue to meet with their coach to check in on their personal goal plan, follow up on resources needed and reflect on opportunities and barriers.
Wellness Assessment and Personalized Coaching
Following up on their wellness assessment with their coach, parents are invited to participate in an 8 week 90 minute group that covers a range of topic related to caregiving. The focus of this group is cultivating relationships among caregivers in the group in order to foster relationships that are sustained once the group ends. Topics include language development, stress and self care, mindfulness, attachment among others. Parents are offered make up sessions which can be 1:1 if they are unable to make it to a group.
Parenting Groups
Early Intervention is critical to maximize optimal outcomes for children with developmental delays. By partnering with child care centers and caregivers, our team is able to provide timely assessments for children to support access to services during this sensitive window of development. Evaluations can also help teachers in classrooms better support students who need tailored assistance.
Because we focus on developing trusting relationships, caregivers are more likely to follow up on referrals and recommendations when developmental needs are identified.
Developmental Evaluations
Mental Health Support
Sometimes caregivers need additional support. The first five years are joyful and also challenging. It is a time when caregivers might experience depression, anxiety or other mental health challenges. Our team has licensed professionals when parents need individualized care.
We also recognize the relationship between parents and young children to be one of the most important protective factors for a lifetime of mental health. Our team specializes in supporting parent-child relationships in the first five years and can provide relationship enhancing therapy interventions when needed.
Teacher and Program Support
Parents aren’t the only caregivers impacting the lives of young children. Teachers play a vital role in the positive early childhood development. Our mental health consultant provides ongoing feedback for teachers so that they can implement best practices that support the entire classroom. We also provide programmatic support at the leadership level so that the entire school community can thrive.
Peer-to Peer-Coaching Training
Parents learn a lot through through parenting journey and are an informal source of support for one another. Our program helps to provide opportunities for parents to use their wisdom and learn new skills to put their every day work into practice. After completing a 5 week training, parents can provide supervised coaching and co-lead groups to enhance their skills, build their resumes and go on to find more permanent employment in the infant and early childhood mental health space.
Get to know us
Dr. Emily Aron, or “Dr. Emily”, is a dynamic and compassionate physician known for her dedication to holistic health and wellness. With a vibrant personality that lights up the room, she skillfully combines her medical expertise with a playful approach to patient care. Dr. Aron believes in the power of laughter as the best medicine, emphasizing that health is not just about treating illnesses but also enjoying life’s little moments. She actively engages families in their wellness journeys, fostering a supportive environment where everyone feels empowered to thrive.
Travis Spencer, LGPC, is a passionate mental health professional committed to guiding individuals and families on their wellness journeys. With a playful yet insightful approach, he creates a warm and inviting atmosphere where clients can explore their thoughts and feelings. Travis combines evidence-based techniques with creative strategies, empowering people to unlock their potential and navigate life's challenges. His dedication to culturally sensitive care, fostering resilience and joy makes him a beloved figure in the community, ensuring that every session feels both impactful and uplifting.
Angel Elliott is a vibrant and dedicated parent and peer support worker who brings a spark of joy and compassion to every interaction. With a relatable approach, she understands the challenges parents face and offers guidance infused with love and a sprinkle of humor. Angel’s personal experiences enrich her support, making her a beacon of hope for families navigating the ups and downs of parenting. Her ability to connect on a personal level transforms challenges into opportunities for growth, empowering parents to embrace their journey.
Shamara Howze, LCPC, is a dedicated child therapist known for her playful approach to therapy that helps children feel safe and understood. With a wealth of experience, she combines evidence-based techniques with a warm and engaging style, making therapy a fun and enriching experience. Shamara believes that every child has a unique story to tell, and she uses creative methods, such as play therapy, to encourage self-expression and emotional growth. Her compassionate nature and insightful guidance empower children to navigate their feelings and develop resilience, ensuring they thrive both in and out of the therapy room.
Brenda Terry-Leonard, PhD, is a mental health consultant who brings a vibrant and playful approach to classrooms, transforming the way educators and students engage with mental health. With her extensive experience and expertise, she provides essential tools and strategies that empower teachers to create a supportive and nurturing environment. By blending education with creativity, she helps schools cultivate a culture where mental health is celebrated, making a positive impact on both child development and personal growth.