To increase access to competency-informed trainings, the Alliance developed an online site as a resource for AIMHs and the workforce. The goal is for this site to serve as a ‘one-stop-shop’ resource for AIMHs and the workforce. The site features asynchronous trainings, webinars, in-person options from a variety of AIMHs. The site will be updated on a quarterly basis, so be sure to check back regularly! If you would like a training to be featured, please complete the form found HERE.
All are welcome to use the training hub site as a way to find resourceful trainings! Please be sure to view and share the training hub site. For more information, please email kjackson@allianceaimh.org or kdieffenbaugher@allianceaimh.org.
Childcare and Development Fund (CCDF) Partners Training and Events
Please click any of the logos below for access to all of our partners’ trainings and events.
Play by Stages: From Peekaboo to Pretend
Play by Stages: From Peekaboo to Pretend
Date: July 17th, 2025
Time: 10-12pm CST/ 11-1pm EST
Description: This is a two-part training series that dives into the powerful role of play in early development—from sensory exploration in infancy to symbolic play in toddlerhood. Learn how specific forms of play align with each developmental stage from birth to age three. Explore how to recognize, support, and scaffold these natural behaviors to promote secure relationships, emotional growth, and cognitive development. Discover strategies to partner with children and families in creating playful, purposeful environments that foster resilience and connection in the earliest years.
*This training is catalogued with Train TN as a Health & Safety ECE licensure training in accordance with TN Department of Human Services Licensure Rules for Child Care Agencies.
Presenter(s): Elizabeth Ramsey, Ph.D., CFLE Associate Professor, Human Ecology Assistant Director, TN Tech Center for Addiction Prevention & Support, Assistant Director
Trust-based Relational Intervention (TBRI), Part-Two: Correcting Behavior while Meeting Needs and Keeping Connection
Trust-based Relational Intervention (TBRI), Part-Two: Correcting Behavior while Meeting Needs and Keeping Connection
Date: July 18th, 2025
Time: 10am - 12pm CST/ 11am - 1pm EST
Description:
This session builds on Part One. Trust-based Relational Intervention (TBRI) is an attachment-based, strength-focused intervention, which provides a framework for healing through the trusting connections children need to grow. These workshops will cover how challenging experiences change the brain, body, biology, belief system and behavior for children who have experienced a variety of barriers. Participants will learn Connecting Principles to meet attachment needs, Empowering Principles to meet physiological needs and Correcting Principles to disarm fear-based behaviors, promoting growth and well-being.
Presenter(s): Deidra Love, M. Ed., TBRI Practitioner
TN IECMH ECHO Doula Training: Compassionate Care: Supporting Grieving Mothers Through Loss and Beyond
Title: Compassionate Care: Supporting Grieving Mothers Through Loss and Beyond
Date: July 21st, 2025
Time: 12- 1pm CST / 1-2pm EST
Description: Come together for a brief presentation followed by collaborative opportunities to discuss best practices and strategies regarding maternal and infant mental health, share feedback, and offer support. This session will highlight the value of Reflective Practice. Emphasizing self-awareness, emotional regulation, and relational engagement is a wonderful tool to care for yourself as you support your clients.
This virtual community is open to doulas in Tennessee!
The ECHO platform is centered around sharing knowledge so ALL are welcome whether you're new in the field or have 20+ years of experience!
Presenters: Cree Cosby, FNP-C
Play All Day, The Outdoor Way
Title: Play All Day, The Outdoor Way
Date: July 23rd, 2025
Time: 10-11:30am CST/ 11- 12:30pm EST
Description: Outdoor play for children may be more important than ever before. In just a few decades, children’s unstructured outdoor play has decreased by 50%. What has changed? We will reflect on the benefits of outdoor play for children and how it supports their growth and development. Participants will be inspired to reimagine outdoor play as a vital, enriching part of childhood. Practical strategies and activity ideas will be shared to help create outdoor environments that spark curiosity and maximize children’s engagement.
*This training is catalogued with Train TN as a Health & Safety ECE licensure training in accordance with TN Department of Human Services Licensure Rules for Child Care Agencies.
Presenter(s): Michael Lantz, CCR&R Coach, Outdoor Learning Specialist
Thrive to Survive: Balance Amidst the Busyness
Title: Thrive to Survive: Balance Amidst the Busyness
Date: July 30th, 2025
Time: 10am CST/ 11am EST
Description:
“Self-care is never a selfish act. It is simply good stewardship of the only gift I have, the gift I was put on Earth to offer others”- (Parker J Palmer).
This training allows a space for reflection on how we are currently stewarding ourselves. As professionals, the busyness of life can often feel like it has control of our ability to pour into ourselves. Through this workshop, we will explore what self-care is and how to intentionally implement self-care in our day. We will create space to wonder, express, and share, allowing each of us time to reconnect with ourselves.
*This training is catalogued with Train TN as a Health & Safety ECE licensure training in accordance with TN Department of Human Services Licensure Rules for Child Care Agencies.
Presenter(s): Josie Davis, BA, MA, IECMH-E®
T.R.E.N.D.S that Stick: Making Temperament, Environment, and Attunement Work for You
T.R.E.N.D.S that Stick: Making Temperament, Environment, and Attunement Work for You
Date: July 31st, 2025
Time: 10-12pm CST/ 11-1pm EST
Description: Get ready to dive into T.R.E.N.D.S.—a fresh, practical approach that helps professionals tune into unique aspects that drive children’s growth: their temperament, responsiveness, environment, nurturement, DAP and Supervision. In this dynamic session, participants will unpack simple, research-informed strategies to better understand and support children’s developmental needs and well-being. Through hands-on examples and education, participants will walk away with ready-to-use insights that boost confidence, enhance relationships, strengthen developmental outcomes, and create a more supportive and enriching environment for the children they serve.
Whether you’re navigating big feelings, shifting routines, or diverse learning styles, this training equips you to respond with positive intention and impact, feeling energized and empowered—ready to create more responsive, nurturing, and growth-rich environments for every child in your care."
*This training is catalogued with Train TN as a Health & Safety ECE licensure training in accordance with TN Department of Human Services Licensure Rules for Child Care Agencies.
Presenter(s): Leslie Hamlett, MS, TECTA Coordinator, TTU
STEM from the Start: Welcoming All Learners into Wonder and Exploration
STEM from the Start: Welcoming All Learners into Wonder and Exploration
Date: August 14th, 2025
Time: 9am-11amCST/ 10am-12pmEST
Description: Kick off your year with curiosity! In this session, we’ll explore how early STEM experiences—rooted in inquiry, play, and everyday moments—can support learning for infants, toddlers, and preschoolers, including children with and without disabilities. Grounded in welcoming, developmentally appropriate practices, we’ll share strategies for sparking engagement across those with a variety of abilities and settings. No matter what kind of program you’re in, you’ll leave with practical ideas to create STEM-rich environments. Participants will reflect on their own settings and plan how to integrate STEM experiences that invite all children into joyful discovery.
Presenter(s): Amie A. Perry, M.A. & Alissa A. Lange, Ph.D.
Unlocking the Power of Play: Balancing Structured & Unstructured Fun
Unlocking the Power of Play: Balancing Structured & Unstructured Fun
Date: August 22nd, 2025
Time: 10am-11:30am CST/ 11am-12:30pm EST
Description: This session will take professionals through the dynamic stages and types of play that unfold in early childhood, highlighting how each stage unlocks new learning opportunities and developmental milestones. Professionals will have the opportunity to dive deep into the brain’s pivotal role in shaping and enhancing the play process, discovering how play is not just fun, but also a powerful engine for cognitive, emotional, and social growth. Professionals will explore the vibrant world of free play versus guided play, breaking down how each style nurtures different skills and allows children to explore their creativity, curiosity, and problem-solving abilities in unique ways. Professionals will gain a clear understanding of the core skills that emerge through play, from language development and motor skills to social interactions and emotional regulation. And, most importantly, professionals will walk away with practical, hands-on strategies to promote and maximize these skills in young children, ensuring that every play session is a steppingstone toward their future success. Get ready to turn playtime into a learning adventure that’s both fun and impactful!
Presenter(s): Mandy Royston, B.S., IECMH®
Coffee & Connection: Nurturing Learning Spaces for Children and Their Learning
Coffee & Connection: Nurturing Learning Spaces for Children and Their Learning
Date: August 27th, 2025
Time: 11:30- 1pm CST/ 12:30- 2pm EST
Description: Join us for our next Coffee and Connection session designed for early childhood educators, coaches, and directors as we explore how to create responsive learning spaces where children feel seen, heard, and valued through the newly developed Nurturing Learning Spaces framework.
This conversation will offer practical strategies for fostering safe, welcoming environments that support children's growth, relationships, and well-being. We’ll highlight the work of Su Casa Ministries Learning Center, featuring Dr. Cherise Clark, who will share how their team supports children and families by honoring traditions, communication styles, and ways of being.
*This training is bilingual.
*
Presenter(s): Dr. Cherise Clark, Ph.D., Deputy Director
Introducción al Endoso
Título: Introducción al Endoso
Fecha: 14 de julio de 2025
Hora: 11:30 a. m. CST/ 12:30 p. m. EST
Descripción: Esta es una sesión introductoria diseñada para aquellos interesados en solicitar el Endoso® de Salud Mental Infantil o el Endoso de Salud Mental en la Primera Infancia®. AIMHiTN tiene un respaldo nacional, utilizando la capacitación que los educadores de la primera infancia ya deben tomar según los requisitos estatales anuales. ¿Por qué no obtener su capacitación y obtener el respaldo nacional como profesional de la salud mental infantil o de la primera infancia? Los participantes aprenderán más sobre las categorías de endoso, los requisitos para cada categoría y el proceso para solicitar el endoso en Tennessee. Se proporcionará tiempo para preguntas específicas y discusión.
Presentador(es): Flor Abarca, BA, EICMH-E®
Endorsement 101
Title: Endorsement 101
Date: July 10th, 2025
Time: 10am CST/ 11am EST
Description: This is an introductory session tailored toward those interested in applying for Infant Mental Health Endorsement® or the Early Childhood Mental Health Endorsement®. Participants will learn more about the categories of Endorsement, requirements for each category, and the process for applying for Endorsement in Tennessee. Time will be provided for specific questions and discussion for DCS/ Child Welfare/ Safe Baby Court/ Foster Care.
*This training is for Child Welfare, DCS, and Safe Baby Court Professionals.
Presenter(s): Brittany Bowman, B.A, ECMH-E®, Kristin Williams, BS, IECMH-E® & Laura Thorn, MA, IMH-E®
The Impact of Play in Infant and Early Childhood Mental Health
The Impact of Play in Infant and Early Childhood Mental Health
Date: July 10th, 2025
Time: 10am-11am CST/ 11am-12pm EST
Description: In this session, we will explore the critical role of play in children's development and how educators can effectively incorporate it into learning experiences. Participants will learn about the importance of play in fostering growth and development, how to use serve-and-return interactions to strengthen connections, and the various stages of play that children engage in. Throughout the session, we’ll highlight the crucial role of caregivers in providing a secure, supportive environment that encourages children to explore and learn through play. By the end, you’ll have practical strategies for integrating play in a way that supports children's development and enhances their learning experiences.
Presenter(s): Mandy Royston, B.S., IECMH®
Beat the Heat: Summer Safety Tips
Title: Beat the Heat: Summer Safety Tips
Date: July 1st, 2025
Time: 12:30pm CST/ 1:30pm EST
Description: Summer brings sunshine, play, and exploration- but with that, it also introduces unique safety needs for infants, toddlers, and young children as their world expands to the outdoors. This training equips infant and early childhood mental health professionals with the knowledge and tools to support families and caregivers in maintaining physical and practical safety during the summer months.
Attendees will explore key seasonal concerns—including but not limited to, identifying safety warning signs, heat-related awareness, sun precautions, water safety, and outdoor play tips- as well as leave with know-hows and strategies that will assist in sailing through the summer fun with a soothing experience for all.
Presenters:
Bettina Jones, Signal Centers Health, Safety, & Supervision Statewide Coordinator & Ebony Triplett, Signal Centers Health, Safety, & Supervision Assistant Coordinator
Fomentar Interacciones Seguras y Atentas: Crear entornos de aprendizaje para los niños
Título: Fomentar Interacciones Seguras y Atentas: Crear entornos de aprendizaje para los niños
\Fecha: 27 de junio de 2025
Hora: 11 a. m. CST/ 12 p. m. EST
Descripción: Todos los días tienes la oportunidad de dar forma a cómo los niños se ven a sí mismos. Creas un espacio seguro para que asuman riesgos, generen confianza a través de los errores y fomenten la curiosidad que impulsa el descubrimiento. Al fomentar interacciones seguras y atentas, resalta la importancia de tener un sentido de identidad y un espacio acogedor. En esta sesión, explorará cómo crear un entorno en el que los niños se sientan vistos, valorados y apoyados en su viaje de aprendizaje. Comprenderás la importancia de las relaciones y la seguridad emocional en el proceso de aprendizaje. Identificará estrategias para crear un ambiente de aprendizaje que fomente la identidad y ayude a los niños a sentirse bienvenidos. Por último, desarrollará habilidades para cultivar un espacio de apoyo para todos los estudiantes.
Presentador(es): Flor Abarca, BA, EICMH-E®
Protecting Vulnerable Children: Understanding Human Trafficking and Its Impact
Title: Protecting Vulnerable Children: Understanding Human Trafficking and Its Impact
Date: June 27th, 2025
Time: 9:30am CST/ 10:30am EST
Description:
Human trafficking is a hidden epidemic that disproportionately affects vulnerable children, especially those in foster care, with over 60% of survivors having spent time in the system. This 2-hour session will educate attendees on what human trafficking is, the foster care to human trafficking pipeline, the signs of trafficking, the role social media plays in recruitment and exploitation, the practical steps they can take to protect the children they serve, and how to report a suspected case of human trafficking. Attendees will leave with a deeper understanding of the issue, tools for identifying potential victims, and resources for preventing trafficking and supporting at-risk youth.
Presenter(s): Kait Poppa, MS, Anti-Trafficking Program Manager at The No More Foundation
Fuel Your Drive: Strong Body, Strong Mind
Title: Fuel Your Drive: Strong Body, Strong Mind (Part 3/3)
Date: June 26th, 2025
Time: 11am CST/ 12pm EST
Description:
This engaging and interactive training serves as part three to the continuation of the emotional well-being workshop series. “Fuel Your Body: Strong Body, Strong Mind,” focuses on the enhancement of emotional well-being, exploring how the physical body plays a pivotal role in our own self-care journey. This training looks at three different factors of the physical body, including sleep hygiene, breathing, and movement. Weaving each factor into the tapestry of each of our individual self-care journeys, attendees will leave with increased education, an understanding of the why behind these necessary tools, and initial application tips, furthering their own self-care plans.
*This training is catalogued with Train TN as a Health & Safety ECE licensure training for self-care.
Presenter(s): Josie Davis, BA, MA, IECMH-E®
Strengthening Your Circle: Empowerment through Warmline & Reflection for Foster Parents
Title: Strengthening Your Circle: Empowerment through Warmline & Reflection for Foster Parents
Date: June 24, 2025
Time: 11-12pm CST/ 12-1pm EST
Description: Foster parenting can bring both meaningful connection and emotional complexity. This training introduces two powerful support tools designed to walk alongside placement parents: The Warmline and Reflective Spaces. Participants will learn how the Warmline serves as an early childhood help line, offering immediate, evidence-based consultation on issues such as behavioral challenges, grief and loss, difficult transitions, and more. The training will also explore how Warmline consultations often connect naturally to Reflective Spaces—ongoing therapeutic spaces held over Zoom where foster parents can process their experiences, build emotional insight, and feel less alone. Together, these supports aim to reduce placement disruptions and promote caregiver confidence. Join us to better understand how to access, promote, and engage with these resources to enhance your caregiving and professional practice.
Presenters: Jessica Barna, MSW & Sarah Manley Judkins, MSW, ECMH-E®
Healing through Connections: Nurturing the Developing Brain
Title: Healing through Connections: Nurturing the Developing Brain
Date: June 20th, 2025
Time: 10am CST/ 11am EST
Description: This is a transformative training session designed to deepen participants’ understanding of how challenging life experience shapes the developing brain and influences behavior in children. Participants will explore the science behind early life stressors' impact on brain development and how those effects often manifest emotionally, socially, and behaviorally in infant and early childhood.
Through an engaging blend of research-based insights and real-world application, participants will learn practical, relationship-centered strategies to support healing and resilience in children. Whether you’re a caregiver, educator, mental health professional, or service provider, this training will equip you with tools to foster connection, promote regulation, and create healthy attachment-based environments where children can thrive.
Presenter(s): Loryn E. Smith, MSW
Introducción al Endoso
Título: Introducción al Endoso
Fecha: 19 de junio de 2025
Hora: 12 p. m. CST/ 1 p. m. EST
Descripción: Esta es una sesión introductoria diseñada para aquellos interesados en solicitar el Endoso® de Salud Mental Infantil o el Endoso de Salud Mental en la Primera Infancia®. AIMHiTN tiene un respaldo nacional, utilizando la capacitación que los educadores de la primera infancia ya deben tomar según los requisitos estatales anuales. ¿Por qué no obtener su capacitación y obtener el respaldo nacional como profesional de la salud mental infantil o de la primera infancia? Los participantes aprenderán más sobre las categorías de endoso, los requisitos para cada categoría y el proceso para solicitar el endoso en Tennessee. Se proporcionará tiempo para preguntas específicas y discusión.
Presentador(es): Flor Abarca, BA, EICMH-E®
Beat the Heat: Summer Safety Tips
Title: Beat the Heat: Summer Safety Tips
Date: June 19th, 2025
Time: 10-11am CST/ 11-12pm EST
Description: Summer brings sunshine, play, and exploration- but with that, it also introduces unique safety needs for infants, toddlers, and young children as their world expands to the outdoors. This training equips infant and early childhood mental health professionals with the knowledge and tools to support families and caregivers in maintaining physical and practical safety during the summer months.
Attendees will explore key seasonal concerns—including but not limited to, identifying safety warning signs, heat-related awareness, sun precautions, water safety, and outdoor play tips- as well as leave with know-hows and strategies that will assist in sailing through the summer fun with a soothing experience for all.
Presenters:
Bettina Jones, Signal Centers Health, Safety, & Supervision Statewide Coordinator & Ebony Triplett, Signal Centers Health, Safety, & Supervision Assistant Coordinator
Best Practice for Working with Interpreters: Building Effective and Respectful Communication
Best Practice for Working with Interpreters: Building Effective and Respectful Communication
Date: June 18th, 2025
Time: 10am CST- 11am CST/ 11am EST- 12pm EST
Description: This training aims to empower professionals by providing the essential knowledge and skills to collaborate effectively with interpreters when interacting with multilingual families. Participants will gain a clear understanding of the interpreter's role, their responsibilities, and the best practices to follow. They will learn techniques for accurate communication through a smooth partnership with interpreters. Additionally, professionals will discover strategies to build trust and enhance family engagement.
Presenter(s): Flor Abarca, BA, IECMH-E®
Unpacking the Life of Young Children in Foster Care
Title: Unpacking the Life of Young Children in Foster Care
Date: June 16th, 2025
Time: 11am CST/ 12pm EST
Description: This training provides a foundational understanding for early childhood educators when building connections with young children in foster care. This training will walk educators through the TN DCS child welfare processes, explore the different systems and professionals who provide services to young youth in foster care, and share stories that provide context, as well as a deeper understanding of their daily lives. The goals of this training are to assist early childhood educators in expanding their lens of the complex world of child welfare, including how the meaningful work they do every day directly correlates to improved positive health outcomes for these children.
*This training is catalogued with TrainTN as a Healh & Safety ECE licensure training for engaging families.
Presenter(s): Sarah Manley Judkins, MSW, ECMH-E®
Facilitating Attuned Interaction (FAN)
Title: Facilitating Attuned Interaction (FAN) Training
Date(s): June 16th & June 17th, 2025 (both days are required)
Time: 8:30am - 3:30pm CST/ 9:30 - 4:30pm EST each day
Description: This is a training for Child Welfare workers and Foster Parents. Facilitating Attuned Interactions is a model from the Erikson Institute that promotes self-awareness of providers and increased attunement to caregivers that results in improved professional/parent relationships and improved service recipient outcomes. FAN has been a core framework for pediatricians, mental health clinicians, home visitors, and child welfare professionals across the US. The model emphasizes slowing down interactions with service recipients to increase focus on relationships, which has been shown through research to decrease the amount of time for families to reach their identified goals. FAN is a huge asset to a number of TN's workforce sectors, and we're so excited to bring this opportunity to child welfare.
*Both days (2) must be attended in entireity to recieve a certificate.
*FAN will not allow any recording of the training. No recording will be allowed or provided.
Presenters: Alison D. Peak, LCSW, IMH-E® & Dr. Diana Morelen
Trust-based Relational Intervention (TBRI), Part-One: Unlocking the Power of Healing through Trust-Based Relational Intervention
Title: Trust-based Relational Intervention (TBRI), Part-One: Unlocking the Power of Healing through Trust-Based Relational Intervention
Date: June 13th, 2025
Time: 10am - 12pm CST/ 11am - 1pm EST
Description:
This training is a two-part series. Trust-based Relational Intervention (TBRI) is an attachment-based, strength- focused intervention model, which provides a framework for healing through the trusting connections children need to grow. These workshops will cover how challenging experiences change the brain, body, biology, belief system and behavior for children who have experienced a variety of barriers, and participants will learn Connecting Principles to meet attachment needs, Empowering Principles to meet physiological needs and Correcting Principles to disarm fear-based behaviors, promoting growth and well-being.
Presenter(s): Deidra Love, M. Ed., TBRI Practitioner
Facilitating Attuned Interactions: (FAN) Model Overview
Facilitating Attuned Interactions: (FAN) Model Overview
Date: June 6th, 2025
Time: 10am CST- 12pm CST/ 11am EST- 1pm EST
Description: This session will provide a thorough introduction to the Facilitating Attuned Interactions (FAN) approach, enhanced by a reflective space at the end of the training for participants to reflect on ways the Model applies to their own beliefs, life experiences and values that impacts their work. Participants will explore the key components of FAN, including mindful self-regulation, the core elements of the model, and how it supports the development of healthy, positive relationships. Attendees will gain insight into how FAN promotes attunement, connection, and reflective practice in their work with children and families.
*This is a Member's Only training. Those that are Endorsed are Members. Those that purchase Membership are Members. You can also obtain Membership by attending AIMHiTN's Conference each year and/or purchasing Membership online at aimhitn.org.
Presenter(s): Kristin Dunn, MS, CTRS, IECMH-E® & Flor Abarca, BA, IMH-E®
Endorsement 101
Title: Endorsement 101
Date: June 6th, 2025
Time: 10am CST/ 11am EST
Description: This is an introductory session tailored toward those interested in applying for Infant Mental Health Endorsement® or the Early Childhood Mental Health Endorsement®. Participants will learn more about the categories of Endorsement, requirements for each category, and the process for applying for Endorsement in Tennessee. Time will be provided for specific questions and discussion.
Presenter(s): Brittany Bowman, B.A, ECMH-E®, Kristin Williams, BS, IECMH-E® & Laura Thorn, MA, IMH-E®
From Chaos to Clarity: The Role of Visuals in the Classroom
From Chaos to Clarity: The Role of Visuals in the Classroom
Date: June 5th, 2025
Time: 11am- 12pm CST/ 12pm- 1pm EST
Description: This interactive training is designed to empower early childhood educators with effective, evidence-based visual support strategies tailored for young children with developmental disabilities. Participants will explore a variety of tools—including choice boards, visual schedules, and emotion regulation charts—that can be seamlessly integrated into daily routines and classroom settings.
Through real-world examples and hands-on activities, educators will learn how to use visual supports to enhance communication for children who may be nonverbal or have limited language skills, helping them express their needs, preferences, and feelings more clearly. They will also discover ways to foster independence by breaking tasks into manageable steps and offering consistent visual cues that support self-guided learning. In addition, the training will focus on using visual tools to support emotional regulation, helping children identify, understand, and manage their emotions in constructive ways. By promoting predictability and structure, these strategies contribute to classroom environments that reduce anxiety, increase engagement, and encourage positive behavior.
Participants will leave with a toolkit of customizable, ready-to-implement resources and the confidence to apply them immediately in their own settings. This training is especially valuable for those working with young children who have a range of developmental needs.
*This training is catalogued with Train TN as a Health & Safety ECE licensure training in accordance with DHS Child Care regulations.
Presenter(s): Charlie Dugger, M.Ed., ECMH-E
Before the Diagnosis: How to Hold-On Through the Unknown
Title: Before the Diagnosis: How to Hold-On Through the Unknown
Date: May 29th, 2025
Time: 10:30amCST/ 11:30amEST
Description: As mental health professionals, having to navigate difficult conversations with others, often becomes an art form that is perfected through healthy boundary setting, supportive collaboration, and focused guidance to the families and children we serve. This training will focus on the topic of the difficulty for families to be in the season of unknown, where answers are being searched for without finding immediate resolution: unknown situations, unknown life changes, unknown solutions, unknown behavior management success. Often, families find this uncertain season to be a very frustrating and confusing time for the family unit. As professionals, it is important to learn, practice, and implement how to handle conversations that are hard with strength and grace. This training will offer self-reflection, education, and supportive skill-building tools professionals can utilize, fostering positive and healthy support and guidance while focusing on what is known.
Presenter: Lisa Spurlock, Siskin Manager of Family Support Services
Unpacking the Life of Young Children in Foster Care
Title: Unpacking the Life of Young Children in Foster Care
Date: May 28th, 2025
Time: 10am CST/ 11am EST
Description: This training provides a foundational understanding for early childhood educators when building connections with young children in foster care. This training will walk educators through the TN DCS child welfare processes, explore the different systems and professionals who provide services to young youth in foster care, and share stories that provide context, as well as a deeper understanding of their daily lives. The goals of this training are to assist early childhood educators in expanding their lens of the complex world of child welfare, including how the meaningful work they do every day directly correlates to improved positive health outcomes for these children.
Presenter(s): Sarah Manley Judkins, MSW, ECMH-E®
Introducción al Endoso
Title: Introducción al Endoso
Date: May 26th, 2025
Time: 1:30pm CST/ 2:30pm EST
Description: Esta es una sesión introductoria diseñada para aquellos interesados en solicitar el Endoso® de Salud Mental Infantil o el Endoso de Salud Mental en la Primera Infancia®. AIMHiTN tiene un respaldo nacional, utilizando la capacitación que los educadores de la primera infancia ya deben tomar según los requisitos estatales anuales. ¿Por qué no obtener su capacitación y obtener el respaldo nacional como profesional de la salud mental infantil o de la primera infancia? Los participantes aprenderán más sobre las categorías de endoso, los requisitos para cada categoría y el proceso para solicitar el endoso en Tennessee. Se proporcionará tiempo para preguntas específicas y discusión.
Presenter(s): Flor Abarca, BA, EICMH-E®
Grounded, Not Guarded: Building Boundaries that Support Your Purpose
Title: Grounded, Not Guarded: Building Boundaries that Support Your Purpose
Date: May 23rd, 2025
Time: 10am - 12pm CST/ 11am- 1pm EST
Description: Boundaries are often misunderstood as barriers, but in reality, they are one of the kindest and most protective tools we have—both for ourselves and those we work with. In the mental health field, where relationships are at the heart of the work, boundaries are not just helpful; they are ethical, essential, and often complex to navigate.
This interactive training explores how to build and maintain boundaries that honor your values, protect your well-being, and support ethical, compassionate care. We’ll dive into the tricky situations that arise with both clients and co-workers, offering practical strategies and reflective exercises to help you create boundaries that work for you, not against you. Whether you’re new to the field or a seasoned professional, you’ll walk away with greater clarity, confidence, and connection to further promote community well-being for all.
Presenter(s): Julie W. Hunt, MSSW, LCSW
Coffee & Connection: Well-Being from Within
Title: Coffee & Connection: Well-Being from Within
Date: May 22nd, 2025
Time: 11- 12:30pm CST/ 12- 1:30pm EST
Description: This specialized training is designed for all professionals working with children 0-6 who dedicate themselves to nurturing others while often neglecting their own well-being. In high-demand caring professions, burnout isn't just a personal challenge—it's a professional hazard that affects quality of care and career longevity. Participants will explore how to integrate customized "micro-practices" into their busy workdays, build emotional boundaries while maintaining compassionate connections, and develop sustainable self-care habits for high-pressure periods.
Through interactive discussions and expert guidance, attendees will collaborate, share solutions, and foster a supportive community. They’ll leave with actionable strategies to sustain their passion while thriving professionally.
Presenter(s): Taylor Barnes, BS, IMH-E®
Endorsement 101
Title: Endorsement 101
Date: May 21st, 2025
Time: 12:30pm CST/ 1:30pm EST
Description: This is an introductory session tailored toward those interested in applying for Infant Mental Health Endorsement® or the Early Childhood Mental Health Endorsement®. Participants will learn more about the categories of Endorsement, requirements for each category, and the process for applying for Endorsement in Tennessee. Time will be provided for specific questions and discussion.
Presenter(s): Brittany Bowman, B.A, ECMH-E®, Kristin Williams, BS, IECMH-E® & Laura Thorn, MA, IMH-E®
Revive to Feel Alive: Sowing Seeds to Flourish in Self-Compassion (2/3) (Copy)
Title: Revive to Feel Alive: Sowing Seeds to Flourish in Self-Compassion (Part 2/3)
Date: May 16th, 2025
Time: 10am CST/ 11am EST
Description:
This engaging and interactive training serves as part two to the continuation of the foundational emotional wellness course, Thrive to Survive. Participants will deepen their personal emotional wellness journey by building upon daily routines and practices introduced in the initial training. Through a focus on practical tools, attendees will gain a comprehensive understanding of essential strategies, including establishing healthy boundaries, reframing negative thought patterns, and cultivating positive self-talk.
The session emphasizes collaboration, self-reflection, and increased self-awareness, allowing participants to explore the application of these tools in both their personal and professional lives. For professionals in the infant and early childhood mental health field, nurturing our own well-being is vital as we dedicate ourselves to nurturing the children and families we serve.
*This training is catalogued with Train TN as a Health & Safety ECE licensure training for self-care.
Presenter: Josie Davis, BA, MA, IECMH-E®
Safe Sleep for Infants: Let's Talk Tips, Myths, & Must-Knows
Title: Safe Sleep for Infants: Let's Talk Tips, Myths, & Must-Knows
Date: May 9th, 2025
Time: 10-12pm CST/ 11-1pm EST
Description: This presentation will engage mental health professionals in a critical conversation on the importance of safe sleep practices, rooted by the desire for all children to feel loved, secure, and wrapped in a sense of community. It will provide the latest evidence-based guidelines, including the ABCs of safe sleep, and how to identify and address unsafe sleep environments, as professionals aim to reduce the risk of Sudden Unexpected Infant Death (SUID), including SIDS and accidental suffocation for children up to one year old. Special attention will be given to traditional considerations, real-life case studies, and strategies for respectful and effective communication with parents, caregivers, and colleagues. Professionals will also receive resources and tools to support families in creating safe sleep environments, that foster supportive education, collaboration, and reflection. Through interactive discussions and practical scenarios, this training will empower mental health professionals to advocate for and promote infant sleep safety within their communities.
Presenter(s): Kathrin Auger, ret. RN, CD/PCD/PDT(DONA), CLES
United by Strengths: The Power of Embracing All Abilities
Title: United by Strengths: The Power of Embracing All Abilities
Date: May 6th, 2025
Time: 10-11am CST/ 11am- 12pm EST
Description: This training is designed to provide educators with a comprehensive understanding of the significant benefits and importance of students with disabilities the classroom. By exploring how differing abilities enrich the learning environment, Educators will learn how these differences contribute to building stronger, more compassionate communities within schools. The training will emphasize the value of embracing students' unique strengths and challenges, showing how doing so fosters empathy, mutual respect, and meaningful collaboration. Through practical strategies and real-world examples, participants will discover how to cultivate a supportive atmosphere that not only enhances individual growth but also promotes teamwork, creativity, and problem-solving skills among all students. Ultimately, this training will equip educators with the tools and insights needed to create classrooms that celebrate differences and support the development of every student, regardless of ability.
Presenter(s): Charlie Dugger, M.Ed., ECMH-E
Powerful Practices, Part Two: Application of Focused Life Skills Teaching
Title: Powerful Practices, Part Two: Application of Focused Life Skills
Date: May 2nd, 2025
Time: 9am- 11am CST/ 10- 12pm EST
Description:
This session builds on Part One by providing practical application of the six essential life skills. Participants will bring along the knowledge gained in Part One of Powerful Practices to engage fully in rich discussion and problem-solving activities, applying the six essential life skills to their interactions with young children and families. The resulting powerful practices will give participants skills to identify, connect, and teach life skills so that children and families may build a structure for social-emotional health across the lifespan.
*This training is catalogued with Train TN as a Health & Safety ECE licensure training for developmental screening.
Presenter(s): Martha Howard, Ph.D., IECMH-E®
Emergency Response Toolkit: Recovering, Resiliency, and Relationships (Part 3/3)
Title: Emergency Response Toolkit: Recovering, Resiliency, and Relationships (Part 3/3)
Date: April 29th, 2025
Time: 5:30 pm CST/ 6:30 pm EST
Description:
Emergency Response Toolkit, Recovering, resiliency, and relationships is a three-part series. This training will be part three of three, digging deeper into AIMHiTN's Emergency Response Toolkit. This training will focus on the third pillar, Recovery, of the toolkit. The training will highlight recovery in a supportive and developmentally appropriate way when working with infants, children while in foster care. Caregivers will discuss how to support themselves and the children in their care in recovering from an emergency or disaster.
Please reference the Emergency Response Toolkit link below for a free download of the toolkit.
https://www.aimhitn.org/emergency-preparedness
*This training is for the STARS program, targeting the Child Welfare sector.
Presenter: Mandy Royston, B.S., IECMH®
Thrive to Survive: Balance Amidst the Busyness
Title: Thrive to Survive: Balance Amidst the Busyness
Date: April 23rd, 2025
Time: 10am CST/ 11am EST
Description:
“Self-care is never a selfish act. It is simply good stewardship of the only gift I have, the gift I was put on Earth to offer others”- (Parker J Palmer).
This training allows a space for reflection on how we are currently stewarding ourselves. As professionals, the busyness of life can often feel like it has control of our ability to pour into ourselves. Through this workshop, we will explore what self-care is and how to intentionally implement self-care in our day. We will create space to wonder, express, and share, allowing each of us time to reconnect with ourselves.
Presenter(s): Josie Davis, BA, MA, IECMH-E®