KIDS COUNT Data Center
The Annie E. Casey Foundation’s KIDS COUNT® is a premier source of data on children, youth and families in the United States. Find a wide range of statistics and indicators…
The Annie E. Casey Foundation’s KIDS COUNT® is a premier source of data on children, youth and families in the United States. Find a wide range of statistics and indicators…
The American Academy of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry’s (AACAP) Facts for Families provide concise and up-to-date information on issues that affect children, teenagers, and their families.
The Jordan Porco Foundation is committed to preventing suicide in the high school, college, and college entry student population. Through awareness, education, and innovative programming, JPF is challenging stigma around mental…
The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) offers facts sheets on anxiety disorder, attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), bipolar disorder, depression, first episode psychosis, and obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). SAMHSA developed…
The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline provides free and confidential emotional support to people in suicidal crisis or emotional distress 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Since its inception,…
Since January 2012, the CT Suicide Advisory Board (CTSAB) has functioned as the single state-level suicide advisory board in CT that addresses suicide prevention and response across the lifespan. It…
The American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP) raises awareness, funds scientific research and provides resources and aid to those affected by suicide.
Cerebral Palsy Group is a national organization that was created so that it may serve the individuals and families who have been diagnosed with cerebral palsy. They are here to…
This webpage provides important information about Autism and helps raise awareness about the issue.
Excellent pointers on how to help your child who is experiencing anxiety.
This excellent resource was developed by 15 nonprofit organizations who have joined forces to support parents of the one in five children with learning and attention issues throughout their journey.…
The Clay Center for Young Healthy Minds at Massachusetts General Hospital is a web-based resource that educates parents and other caregivers about the psychological development and emotional well-being of children, adolescents,…
The annual publication focuses on trends in child well-being.
The Spanish edition of the Children of Incarcerated Parents Library (CIPL) is now available, and is part of the ongoing collaboration between CT Parent Power and Church World Service (CWS)…
This website connects people, identifies areas of need and helps create solutions for the best care and support for people living with OCD and their families.
Autism Speaks has put together a list of important resources for families. To go directly to this webpage please click on the link below.
April is National Autism Awareness Month! Click the links below to read about the information and resources kidsmentalhealthinfo.com provides on Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD). Autism Services & Resources Connecticut,…
The CDC has general facts about Autism, information about screening and diagnosis, as well as treatments and resources for families affected by Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). They provide up-to-date research…
Autism Services & Resources Connecticut, Inc. (ASRC) provides training, family support, and does advocacy for those affected by Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD) and their families. Go to the website to…
Information and resources all about Autism for Connecticut residents. To go directly to the website, click on the link below.
This website provides excellent information about Cerebral Palsy including an overview about the disorder, treatment, therapy options and other helpful information. Please click on the link below to go directly…
Cognitive Behavioral Intervention for Trauma in Schools (CBITS) is a school-based group intervention that has been shown to reduce PTSD and depression symptoms and psychosocial dysfunction in children who have experienced trauma.…
Nutrition is part of a healthy body and mind. The following article points to the hidden sugar in foods that you would not expect to find! To go directly to…
The Children’s Mental Health Network provides weekly news and unbiased analysis of key issues focused on children, youth and families’ mental health and well-being. To go directly to this website,…
Romantic relationships in adolescence can shape experiences during and after that time period. Marriage and relationship education programs can help adolescents develop the knowledge and skills to form healthy relationships…
This guide provides resources for Connecticut residents for postpartum mood and anxiety disorders (maternal depression).
This brochure provides CT residents with important resources and community help for peripartum mood disorders and maternal depression.
This guide explains all about the different types of rehab centers and details the options open to you, along with important questions you can ask before you settle on a…
This website provides information about cerebral palsy, treatment options, community support groups and resources. Please click on the link below to go directly to the website.
MATCH-ADTC (Modular Approach to Therapy for Children with Anxiety, Depression, Trauma, or Conduct Problems) is an evidence-based treatment designed for children ages 7 – 15. Unlike most treatment approaches that…
Eating disorders are complex mental health disorders that occur in many different forms, including anorexia, bulimia, binge eating disorder and eating disorders not otherwise specified. The following website provides information…
The Court Support Services Division (CSSD) oversees pretrial services, family services, divorce and domestic violence, probation supervision of adults and juveniles as well as juvenile residential centers including Juvenile Detention.…
The mission at CerebralPalsySymptoms.com is to provide the public with accurate and up to date information on the many aspects of cerebral palsy and other birth injury complications. Their team…
Below, please find directions on how to use the provider search tool on the Behavioral Health Partnership website.
The following is a list of Connecticut providers who are trained in the evidence-based treatment called,Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT). To search for a Connecticut Provider trained in TF-CBT click…
This site has Information from the CT Department of Children and Families Bureau of Behavioral Health and Medicine. To go directly to this website, click on the link below.
Nonprofit, nonpartisan professional development organization based in Washington, DC, provides learning opportunities for policymakers, practitioners, and researchers working on youth and education issues at the national, state, and local levels.…
The American Speech-Language-Hearing Association is the professional, scientific, and credentialing association for 140,000 members and affiliates who are speech-language pathologists, audiologists, and speech, language, and hearing scientists in the United…
CASRC focuses on mental health care issues for vulnerable children, including children in public service sectors. In addition, CASRC specializes in longitudinal studies of children. To go directly to this…
Mission and aims are to improve outcomes for young people by enhancing the field of mental health in schools. To go directly to this website, please click on the link…
An association of almost 1,000 public and private nonprofit agencies that assist over 2.5 million abused and neglected children and their families each year with a wide range of services.…
Child Trends is a nonprofit, nonpartisan research organization that studies children, youth, and families through research, data collection, and data analysis. To go directly to this website, please click on the…
The Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services (DMHAS) promotes and administers comprehensive, recovery-oriented services in the areas of mental health treatment and substance abuse prevention and treatment throughout Connecticut.
CDF, provides a strong, effective voice for all the children of America who cannot vote, lobby, or speak for themselves. CDF pays particular attention to the needs of poor and…
The Children’s Bureau seeks to provide for the safety, permanency and well being of children through leadership, support for necessary services, and productive partnerships with States, Tribes, and communities. To…
ECT Online Education was developed by Division 53 of the American Psychological Association (Society for Clinical Child and Adolescent Psychology) in collaboration with the Center for Children and Families at…
The Depression and Bipolar Support Alliance (DBSA) is the leading patient-directed national organization focusing on the most prevalent mental illnesses. The organization fosters an environment of understanding about the impact and…
The Office of the Healthcare Advocate can assist Connecticut residents who belong to managed care/HMO health plans. If you have questions about managed care, need to understand the referral or…
Healthy People contains 467 objectives, and 22 topics that focus on mental health. Search the objectives by selecting Topic: mental health and mental disorders to identify them. Use HealthFinder to look…
University of Connecticut Health Center Library’s consumer health information program for Connecticut residents and public libraries. For CT Residents, if you have a medical question you can call the Healthnet…
FFT is an empirically grounded, well-documented and highly successful family intervention for at-risk and juvenile justice involved youth. To go directly to this website, please click on the link below.
Through a family and youth driven approach, children and youth with emotional, behavioral and mental health challenges and their families obtain needed supports and services so that children grow up…
The core mission of the IRSF is to fund research for treatments and a cure for Rett syndrome while enhancing the overall quality of life for those living with Rett…
Help for Depression provides a comprehensive explanation of the various approaches and treatments for depression as a critical starting point for individuals and/or their loved ones. To go directly to this…
Private, not-for-profit charity dedicated to serving the critical behavioral and mental health needs of children, pre-adolescents and teens. Since 1882, KidsPeace has been helping kids develop the confidence and skills…
If you’re looking for information you can trust about kids and teens that’s free of “doctor speak,” you’ve come to the right place. KidsHealth is the most-visited site on the…
Jewish Family Services of Greater Hartford is a social service agency helping individuals and families deal with life cycle transitions and adversity. Guided by the highest professional standard in counseling,…
Contains a selective list of authoritative health information sources for consumers and health professionals on a wide range of mental health and behavior topics. Offers links to Web sites and…
A research tool from the Mayo Clinic. Mayo Clinic is a not-for-profit medical practice dedicated to the diagnosis and treatment of virtually every type of complex illness. To go directly…
Parents, educators, advocates, and attorneys come to Wrightslaw for accurate, reliable information about special education law, education law, and advocacy for children with disabilities. Begin your search in the Advocacy…
Parent-led, not-for-profit, Web-based membership organization of families raising children diagnosed with, or at risk for, pediatric bi-polar disorder. To go directly to this website, please click on the link below.
Founded in 1972 in Bayside New York, the national Tourette Syndrome Association is the only national voluntary non-profit membership organization in this field. Our mission is to identify the cause…
TurningPointCT.org was developed by young people in Connecticut who are in recovery from mental health and substance use issues. Their mission is to empower teens and young adults in their…
StopBullying.gov provides information from various government agencies on how kids, teens, parents, educators and others in the community can prevent or stop bullying. If you or someone you know is…
Psych Central is the Internet’s largest and oldest independent mental health and psychology network. Since 1995, it has been run by mental health professionals offering reliable, trusted information and over…
NCHS is a good source of information about America’s health. As the Nation’s principal health statistics agency, they compile statistical information to guide actions and policies to improve the health…
The National Center for Youth Opportunity for Justice was established in July 2001 to assist the field in developing improved policies and programs for youth with mental health disorders in…
Provides technical assistance and training to 115 school districts and communities that receive grants from the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) of the U.S. Department of Health…
NIDA’s mission is to lead the Nation in bringing the power of science to bear on drug abuse and addiction. This charge has two critical components. The first is the…
MST is a research-proven and cost-effective treatment for youth with serious behavioral problems. This organization’s mission is to help communities implement MST to improve the lives of youth with anti-social…
This group promotes lifelong access and opportunities for persons within the autism spectrum and their families, to be fully included, participating members of their communities through advocacy, public awareness, education,…
Bazelon center’s mission is to protect and advance the rights of adults and children who have mental disabilities. To go directly to this website, please click on the link below.
This organization is composed of child and adolescent psychiatrists and other interested physicians. Information is provided as a public service to aid in the understanding and treatment of developmental, behavioral,…
The New York University Child Study Center is dedicated to advancing the field of child mental health through evidence-based practice, science and education. To go directly to this website, please…
A federal agency funding state,local and tribal organizations to provide family assistance (welfare), child support, child care, Head Start, child welfare, and other programs relating to children and families. To…
The National Center for Children in Poverty (NCCP) collects and analyzes data and publishes a range of reports and tools on child poverty, early childhood mental health, and related issues.…
The Federal Interagency Forum on Child and Family Statistics (Forum) fosters collaboration among 23 Federal agencies that produce and use statistics on children and families. The Forum annually updates all…
Nationwide, 4.1% of children under age 18 in the U.S. do not have health insurance coverage. In Connecticut, 3.5% of children (approximately 26,000) did not have health insurance coverage as…
Facts for Families on Teens: Alcohol and Other Drugs This information is from the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry. To go directly to this page, please click on…
Facts for Families on Schizophrenia This information is from the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry. To go directly to this page, please click on the link below.
Since 1995, the Health Care Reform Tracking Project (HCRTP) has been tracking publicly-financed managed care initiatives and their impact on children with mental health and substance abuse (i.e., behavioral health)…
Facts for Families on Panic Disorder.This information is from the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry. To go directly to this page, please click on the link below.
Facts for Families on Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). This information is from the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry. To go directly to this page, please click on the…
Facts for Families on Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD).This information is from the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry. To go directly to this page, please click on the link below.
Facts for Families on Oppositional Defiant Disorder. This information is from the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry. To go directly to this page, please click on the link…
The site provides researchers and policy analysts with an overview of the measures of child and adolescent mental health and use of mental health services in various surveys of the…
Facts for Families on hair pulling or Trichotillomania.This information is from the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry. To go directly to this page, please click on the link…
The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) offers guides for public officials in developing illness-management and recovery mental health programs that emphasize personal goal-setting and actionable strategies for…
Facts for Families on eating disorders in teens. This information is from the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry. To go directly to this page, please click on the…
The Connecticut School-Based Diversion Initiative (SBDI) was developed with support from the MacArthur Foundation; the Judicial Branch’s Court Support Services Division (CSSD), and the Department of Children and Families and…
Facts for Families on Depression or depressed children.This information is from the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry. To go directly to this page, please click on the link…
Facts for Families about Conduct Disorder.This information is from the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry. To go directly to this page, please click on the link below.
A briefing report about promising strategies for improving children’s mental health services. To go directly to this website, please click on the link below.
See more publications from CHDI on children’s mental health.
A report from the National Center for Children in Poverty. This report was based on a meeting of youth and family members of children and youth who experience mental health…
Facts for Families on Bipolar Disorder.This information is from the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry. To go directly to this page, please click on the link below.
Facts for Families on Apergers Disorder.This information is from the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry. To go directly to this page, please click on the link below.
The National Resource Center on ADHD: A Program of CHADD was established with funding from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) as a national clearinghouse of information…
Information on specific mental disorders, diagnosis and treatment, “Mental Illness in America”, Consensus Conference proceedings, NIMH long range plans & research reports, information on the DEPRESSION Awareness, Recognition, & Treatment…
Part of the National Institutes of Health, the biomedical research arm of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. The CDB Branch develops scientific initiatives and supports research and…
The National Association of Parents with Children in Special Education is dedicated to ensuring that all children and adolescents with special needs receive the best education possible. NAPCSE serves the…
Helpguide’s mission is to help people understand, prevent, and resolve many of life’s challenges.They empower people with knowledge and hope. Their goal is to give you the information and encouragement…
Part of the Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry website. This site can help you better understand certain mental illnesses as well as point you towards more resources.
Facts for Families- Children Who Can’t Pay Attention/Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder This is a publication from the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Pshychiatry. To go directly to this page, please click…
Works to improve the lives of people with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) through education, advocacy, and support. To go directly to this website, please click on the link below.
The National Survey of Children’s Health (NSCH) supports national efforts to improve the health and development of our children. The U.S. Health Resources & Services Administration (HRSA) funds and directs…
Child Advocate is a non-profit organization that serves the needs of children, families and professionals while addressing mental health, medical, educational, legal and legislative issues. To go directly to this…
This organization is a scientific and professional organization that represents psychology in the United States. To go directly to this website, please click on the link below.
If an evaluation is needed, a team which includes the parents (In Connecticut this is called a Planning and Placement Team, PPT) will meet to share information about the child’s…
This website offers information about addiction, rehab intervention and treatment (state specific) and general information about addiction and behavioral health. Please click on the link below.
This publication is published by the National Institute of Mental Health. This fact sheet addresses common questions about diagnosis and treatment options for children with mental illnesses. Disorders affecting children…
This guide explains the juvenile justice system and helps parents understand and access needed services for their children. Also available in Spanish (En Espagnol). To go directly to this website,…
Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, as amended, is a civil rights law that prohibits discrimination on the basis of disability. This law applies to public elementary and…
A brief overview of the process by which children are identified as having a disability and in need of special education and related services and ten basic steps to follow.…
Attached is a list of resources for parents, teachers and providers to help them cope with the recent school tragedy. These resources provide ways to talk about the traumatic event…
IDEA—the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act, IDEA, the Individual with Disabilities Education Act, is our nation’s special education law. The IDEA guides how states, school districts, and public agencies provide…
School-based health interventions are generally provided using a three-tiered or pyramid approach. The majority of services are provided to the general school population (the base of the pyramid), select students…
A one page sheet about the Connecticut School-Based Diversion Initiative. Files available for selected publication:
Connecticut School-Based Diversion Initiative Program Brochure. Files available for selected publication:
This publication offers parents facts about school refusal and separation anxiety. To go directly to this publication, please click on the link below.
Bullying is a common experience for many children and adolescents. Surveys indicate that as many as half of all children are bullied at some time during their school years, and…
Over the last several decades schools have become increasingly reliant upon the use of seclusion and restraint to help manage students who display challenging behaviors. For example, the Government Accountability…
This article discusses the stressors that today’s teen face. It gives advice on how to help your teen with these stressors. To go directly to this article, please click on…
Passed by the Congress and signed into law by the President in July 1990, the ADA is the first comprehensive declaration of equality for people with disabilities. The ADA protects…
Needs assessment conducted for Connecticut Department of Public Health on maternal, infant and early childhood Home visiting programs. To go directly to this publication, click on the link below. Files…
The National Center for Children in Poverty (NCCP)published this issue brief which reflects NCCP’s continuing commitment to ensuring that every low-income child enters school with the skills to succeed, and…
This resource is primarily intended for use by those supporting infants within group settings. This may include staff such as, Early Head Start center-based teachers, family, group and centerbased childcare…
The single best way to address challenging behaviors in young children today is to take steps to make sure that they never occur. While there is no universal panacea for…
This series of free flyers provide answers to important questions that parents and caregivers have about the psychological development of infants and toddlers. They are written by experts at the…
This series of free flyers provide answers to important questions that parents and caregivers have about the psychological development of infants and toddlers. They are written by experts at the…
Searchable list of promising, effective and model programs. Check out the Programs-at-a-glance matrix to compare programs. To go directly to this website, please click on the link below.
This document provides information for parents, guardians and other family members about laws, regulations, and policies affecting special education programs and services. These protections, rights and opportunities will best help…
IDEA—the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act, IDEA, the Individual with Disabilities Education Act, is our nation’s special education law. The IDEA guides how states, school districts, and public agencies provide…
Serious depression in parents and caregivers can affect far more than the adults who are ill. It also influences the well-being of the children in their care. The first joint…
Published by Zero to Three this publication gives you some ideas of hte many ways you can support your child’s early learning through everyday activities To go directly to this…
CPP is an intervention for children aged birth through age 5 who have experienced at least one traumatic and, as a result, are experiencing behavior, attachment, and/or mental health problems,…
Facts for Families- Children Who Can’t Pay Attention/Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder This is a publication from the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Pshychiatry. To go directly to this page, please click…
This Building Blocks for a Healthy Future Guide is designed for parents and caregivers of children ages 3 to 6. It is organized around six main topics to help you…
Facts for Families on bedwetting or Enuresis This information is from the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry. To go directly to this page, please click on the link…
Facts for Families on Autism. To go directly to this page, please click on the link below.
Passed by the Congress and signed into law by the President in July 1990, the ADA is the first comprehensive declaration of equality for people with disabilities. The ADA protects…
Facts for Families on understanding violent behavior.This information is from the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry. To go directly to this page, please click on the link below.
Facts for Families on separation anxiety or school refusal.This information is from the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry. To go directly to this page, please click on the…
Facts for Families on teen suicide. This information is from the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry. To go directly to this page, please click on the link below.
Attached is a list of resources for parents, teachers, and providers to help them cope with the recent school tragedy. These resources provide ways to talk about the traumatic event…
Facts for Families on self-injury in adolescents.This information is from the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry. To go directly to this page, please click on the link below.
This Bulletin discusses the National Survey of Children’s Exposure to Violence (NatSCEV), the most comprehensive nationwide survey of the incidence and prevalence of children’s exposure to violence to date, sponsored…
This paper was commissioned by The California Endowment to inform their Building Healthy Communities strategic plan. The purpose of this paper is to promote understanding of the role of trauma…
Searchable list of promising, effective and model programs. Check out the Programs-at-a-glance matrix to compare programs. To go directly to this website, please click on the link below.
Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) is a cognitive-behavioral treatment approach with two key components: a behavioral, problem-solving focus blended with acceptance-based strategies, and an emphasis on dialectical processes. “Dialectical” refers to…
An article on the front page of the May 11th Hartford Courant, “Connecticut Paves New Path for Treating Traumatized Children” relates to CHDI’s work with the Department of Children and…
The Connecticut Collaboration on Effective Practices for Trauma (CONCEPT) will enhance development of a trauma-informed child welfare workforce that can identify, support, and refer children impacted by trauma to appropriate…
Information about child traumatic stress from the Connecticut Collaborative on Effective Practices for Trauma. National studies estimate that as many as 71% of all children are exposed to a potentially…
CPP is an intervention for children aged birth through age 5 who have experienced at least one traumatic and, as a result, are experiencing behavior, attachment, and/or mental health problems,…
AF-CBT is an intervention that targets individual child and parent characteristics related to the abusive experience, and the family context in which abuse or aggression occurs. This approach emphasizes training…
The Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) governs how states and public agencies provide early intervention, special education, and related services to more than 7.5 million (as of school year…
The U.S. Department of Justice funded a series of three comprehensive national surveys called the National Survey of Children’s Exposure to Violence (NatSCEV) in 2008, 2012, and 2014. The survey…
In a nationally representative survey of 12- to 17-year-old youth, 8 percent reported a lifetime prevalence of sexual assault, 17 percent reported physical assault, and 39 percent reported witnessing violence.…
Neighborhood characteristics and family income can be risk factors that impact young children’s social-emotional health and development. Young children in low-income neighborhoods are more likely to experience behavioral problems than…
Between 9.5 and 14.2 percent of children between birth and five years old experience social emotional problems that negatively impact their functioning, development and school-readiness. Approximately 9 percent of children…
Multiple studies over the past two decades have found that expulsion rates in public and private preschools nationwide are significantly higher than expulsion rates in K-12 education. According to the…
Severe neglect appears to be at least as great a threat to child health and development as physical abuse—possibly even greater. This working paper from the National Scientific Council on the Developing…
The Early Childhood Technical Assistance (ECTA) Center puts together a list of databases and reports related to Early Childhood statistics and supports state IDEA Part C and Part B, Section 619 programs…
Bestcolleges.com provides an excellent resource for college students on how to manage stress. The guide covers information on how to manage stress as well as getting help with stress and…
This website provides support to parents who have children that struggle with with learning and attention issues. The goal of this website is to empower parents to understand their children’s…
Operating under the auspices of the School Mental Health Project at UCLA, the national Center for Mental Health in Schools was established in 1995. Their mission and aims are to…
Search Institute® is an independent, nonprofit, nonsectarian organization committed to helping create healthy communities for every young person. Because they believe that “all kids are our kids,” they create books and…
In existence since 1998, the Center for School-Based Mental Health Programs (CSBMHP) at Miami University operates within the Department of Psychology. Faculty, graduate students and community partners are involved in…
Also known as School-Wide Positive Behavior Supports (SWPBS) seeks to improve academic and behavior outcomes for all students by providing a decision-making framework for schools to promote effective instructional and…
This website provides specific information about school-based health centers in Connecticut and also provides general information on child and adolescent health, behavioral health, and school safety. To go directly to…
The National Association of School Psychologists represents and supports school psychology through leadership to enhance the mental health and educational competence of all children. To go directly to this website,…
The Connecticut State Department of Education is the administrative arm of the Connecticut State Board of Education. Through leadership, curriculum, research, planning, evaluation, assessment, data analyses and other assistance, the…
The Center on the Social and Emotional Foundations for Early Learning is a five-year project designed to strengthen the capacity of Head Start and child care programs to improve the…
PROMOTING FIRST RELATIONSHIPS is a training program at the Barnard Center for Infant Mental Health and Development at the University of Washington. We are dedicated to promoting children’s social-emotional development…
The Center was founded in 1997 to improve the treatment of child psychiatric disorders through scientific practice, research, and education, and to eliminate the stigma of being or having a…
The Circle of Security is a relationship based early intervention program designed to enhance attachment security between parents and children. Decades of university-based research have confirmed that secure children exhibit…
The Strengthening Families Program (SFP) is a nationally and internationally recognized parenting and family strengthening program for high-risk and regular families. SFP is an evidence-based family skills training program found…
The Head Start locator is a searchable directory that provides locations, addresses, and driving directions for Head Start programs, centers, and grantees. To find a Head Start or Early Head…
The Center for Early Education and Development (CEED) at the University of Minnesota has spent over 30 years helping children from infancy through age eight to learn and develop to…
This is a Connecticut state program that helps parents and caregivers meet the developmental and health-related needs of their infants and toddlers who have delays or disabilities. To go directly…
Help Me Grow is a prevention program of the Connecticut Children’s Trust Fund. This program helps to identify children at risk for developmental or behavioral problems and to connect these…
MTB is an intensive home visiting program for first-time young mothers and their families living in New Haven, Connecticut. This program brings together a home visiting team including a pediatric…
Postpartum Support International is dedicated to helping women suffering from perinatal mood and anxiety disorders, including postpartum depression, the most common complication of childbirth. They educate family, friends and healthcare…
Child Development Infoline (CDI) is a specialized unit of United Way of Connecticut. Care Coordinators are available to answer the phone Monday through Friday from 8am-6pm, except on holidays. Messages…
The Ages & Stages Child Monitoring Program offered by Help Me Grow, can help you learn about your child’s development and identify potential delays as early as possible. The Ages…
The National Dissemination Center for Children with Disabilities website provides a detailed explanation of the “early intervention” system. This site covers the basics of understanding early intervention as well as…
This publication from KidsHealth talks about five of the best strategies to improve nutrition and encourage smart eating habits in your children. To go directly to this website, click on…
The Zero to Three website has put together helpful resources for parents and caregivers on how to establish healthy eating habits in young children.
Zero to Three publishes very helpful tips and facts about how to handle challenging behavior in young children. To go directly to this website, please click on the link below.
A national technical assistance consortium working to support states, jurisdictions, and others to improve services and results for young children with disabilities and their families. To go directly…
Connecticut Association for Infant Mental Health, Inc. began its leadership work in 2001 and received its 501c(3) non profit status in 2009. CT-AIMH offers professional development opportunities to those working…
The Center on the Developing Child at Harvard University was founded in 2006 on the belief that the vitality and sustainability of any society depend on the extent to which…
The Center for Early Childhood Mental Health Consultation was created through a grant from the Office of Head Start. Our target audience includes: Mental Health Consultants Head Start Program Administrators…
Website by PBS, The Whole Child devoted to child development. Children grow and develop at different rates. While their pathways through childhood differ, most pass a set of predictable milestones…
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention list of developmental milestones for your child age newborn to 5. To go directly to this website, please click on the link below.
The Infant Toddler Temperament Tool (IT3) was developed for the Center for Early Childhood Mental Health Consultation, an Innovation and Support Project funded by the Office of Head Start. The…
A national program that provides comprehensive developmental services to low-income, pre-school children ages three to five and social services for their families. To go directly to this…
This is an organization dedicated to the health, safety and well-being of infants, children, adolescents and young adults. To go directly to this website, please click on the link below.
This is a private charitable organization dedicated to helping build better futures for disadvantaged children in the United States They publish, The Kid’s Count Data book that ranks states on…
NAMI (the National Alliance on Mental Illness) is the nation’s largest grassroots mental health organization dedicated to improving the lives of persons living with serious mental illness and their families.…
State by state profiles with different statistics about children. To go directly to this website, please click on the link below.
A public, charitable foundation, the Children’s Fund focuses its resources on developing comprehensive, effective, community-based health and mental health care systems for children and their families. The Child Health and…
SAMHSA’s mission within the Nation’s health system is to improve the quality and availability of prevention, treatment, and rehabilitation services in order to reduce illness, death, disability, and cost to…
The National Center for Education in Maternal and Child Health provides national leadership to the maternal and child health community in three key areas of program development, policy analysis and…
A national, nonprofit organization dedicated solely to advancing the healthy development of babies and young children. To go directly to the website, click on the link below.
The Connecticut Office of the Child Advocate’s mission is to oversee the protection and care of children and to advocate for their well-being. In order to fulfill the responsibilities of…
SERC is a nonprofit agency that serves as a resource for educational research and best practices. SERC provides schools and the community with professional development, information dissemination, training, and technical…
The Connecticut State Department of Education is the administrative arm of the Connecticut State Board of Education. Through leadership, curriculum, research, planning, evaluation, assessment, data analyses and other assistance, the…
Yale-New Haven Children’s Hospital is a dedicated pediatric hospital with world-class experts who offer a full spectrum of primary and specialized medical care.
Connecticut Children’s Medical Center is dedicated to improving the physical and emotional health of children through family-centered care, research, education and advocacy. It is located in Hartford, CT.
CPAC is a statewide nonprofit that offers information and support to Connecticut families of children with any disability or chronic illness age birth to 26. To go directly to this…
AFCAMP provides parent to parent support; information and referral; training for families and professionals; information on disability laws and services; advocacy for better services; and support at PPT meetings when…
Keep the Promise Coalition is dedicated to advocating for a comprehensive, community mental health system for adults, children and families in Connecticut. The Children’s Committee of the Keep the Promise…
Lawyers at the Center for Children’s Advocacy operate on the belief that every child, no matter the circumstances, deserves justice, equity and access. The Center promotes and protects the legal…
It is the mission of the National Center for Children Exposed to Violence (NCCEV) to increase the capacity of individuals and communities to reduce the incidence and impact of violence…
CTparenting.com is a central hub of useful parenting information brought to you by the Connecticut Department of Children and Families. At this one site, you can find thousands of fully…
Important parenting information is provided by the CDC for infants and toddlers. On this site you will find information about diseases, safety in the home, development of your infant and toddler…
Essentials for Parenting Toddlers and Preschoolers is a free, online resource developed by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Designed for parents of 2 to 4 year olds,…
Zero to Three website publishes a series of handouts abaout your young child and their brain development. Click on the links to access each of the publications. Many of the…
RehabInfo.net is a comprehensive guide for the entire treatment process – from spotting issues to finding and enrolling into rehabilitation. It’s also an extensive educational resource that includes up to date…
The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Service Administration (SAMHSA) an online Mental Health Treatment Services Locator which helps users search more than 8,000 mental health treatment facilities and programs. SAMHSA…
2-1-1 is an integrated system of help via the telephone – a single source for information about community services, referrals to human services, and crisis intervention. It is accessed toll-free…
Information about how your child gets treatment and where to start. To go directly to this website, click on the link below.
The National Center for Children in Poverty is the national leading public policy center dedicated to promoting the economic security, health, and well-being of America’s low-income families and children. Using research…
NAMI is a national family and consumer advocacy organization dedicated to improving the lives of people with serious mental illnesses and their families. This site is for the Connecticut chapter.…
The Department of Children and Families and the Department of Social Services have formed the Connecticut Behavioral Health Partnership (CT BHP) to plan and implement an integrated public behavioral health…
AAIDD promotes progressive policies, sound research, effective practices, and universal human rights for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. To go directly to this website, please click on the link…
This site was developed to educate the public and professionals about mental health treatments that have the strongest scientific support, and are most likely to work. This site is offered…
The Anxiety Disorders Association of British Columbia (AnxietyBC™) is a non profit organization which was started in early spring of 1999 by a group of concerned consumers, family members, and…
It is the mission of the National Center for Children Exposed to Violence (NCCEV) to increase the capacity of individuals and communities to reduce the incidence and impact of violence…
The Clifford Beers Clinic is a place where thousands of children and their families turn when they are in crisis or need mental health services. They offer a safe haven where…
The Traumatic Stress Institute (TSI) of Klingberg Family Centers promotes excellence in trauma-informed services both within Klingberg and to organizations nationally and internationally who treat clients with histories of psychological…
The Center for Pediatric Traumatic Stress (CPTS) at The Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia addresses medical trauma in the lives of children and families. Founded in 2002 as a multidisciplinary intervention…
PCIT is a parent-child treatment program that helps parents of children aged 2-7 years old with behavioral problems (aggression, non-compliance, defiance, and temper tantrums). PCIT focuses on promoting positive parent-child…
The Anxiety Disorders Association of America (ADAA) is the leader in advocacy, education, training, and research for anxiety and stress-related disorders. ADAA leads the way, improving the lives of millions…
EMDR is a form of psychotherapy that uses a structured eight-phase approach to address the past, present, and future aspects of a traumatic or distressing memory that has been stored…
Child First, developed by Dr. Darcy Lowell, is an innovative evidence-based model which effectively decreases emotional and behavioral problems, developmental and learning problems, and abuse and neglect among very vulnerable…
From the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry website, this is a resource center filled with information about different mental illnesses. To go directly to this website, please click…
Intermittent explosive disorder is characterized by repeated episodes of aggressive, violent behavior in which you react grossly out of proportion to the situation. Road rage, domestic abuse, and angry outbursts…
The mission of the NCTSN is to raise the standard of care and improve access to services for traumatized children, their families and communities throughout the United States. …
Over the past 20 years we have learned a great deal more about which services work best for children who have mental health issues. Services that have been found to…
It is important for parents to be honest and use words your children can understand. A good place to start is by asking your child to talk about what is…
If you talk to your child’s brothers and sisters, use words that are right for their age and that they can understand. Be careful not to burden your other children with too…
How your child acts at school may or may not be affected by his/her mental health issue. It depends upon the type of issue. Many times, it is helpful to…
Parents and caregivers often say that talking to other parents is one of the most useful forms of support. Connecticut has many family advocacy and support centers where trained parents…
Both boys and girls can have mental health concerns and sometimes these issues show themselves in different ways. The way in which mental health issues develop depend on many things, but…
It is common for people to worry about what others think and have concerns about the stigma (shame) of mental health issues. Stigma can sometimes get in the way of…
Like other health problems your child may face, many mental health problems take care of themselves with time and the right treatment. It is important to get treatment for your…
It is not likely that your child will take medications forever. How serious and what type of diagnosis your child has will affect how long your child will need his/her…
It is a common feeling for parents to blame themselves for their children’s issues. Children’s mental health issues are a result of many different things including biological (genes), environmental, family,…
Side effects differ with each medication. Common side effects include symptoms such as drowsiness and changes in appetite. It is best to ask your doctor and/or the pharmacist about the…
Medications that have been approved for use for children must go through an intense review by the Federal Drug Association (FDA). All medications have risks and it is important to…
Medications differ in price and in some cases can be expensive. Most common psychiatric medications are paid for by insurance plans and HUSKY. If your family is getting HUSKY/Medicaid coverage…
Depending on the type, how serious and how long your child has had the symptoms, your pediatrician or child psychiatrist may prescribe medication for your child. Often, medication is prescribed…
Typically, no. Medications will not usually significantly change personality, but should affect your child’s symptoms. This is a common concern for parents because giving your child any medication is always a concern.…
Testing is a generic term that can be used in different places and often means that a professional, such as a teacher, pediatrician, counselor or special education consultant wants to…
There are many types of treatments for children who have mental health issues. Individual outpatient treatment is where your child will see a counselor one or more times weekly to…
Some parents choose faith-based support, recreational activities, native or local healers, or nutritional plans to help with their child’s mental health concerns. Parents must find out whether these treatments have worked…
The most important question to ask a therapist is about their background and if they have experience working with children, and with children who have had some of the same…
The mental health field has come a long way in knowing which treatments work best for some issues and concerns, but there are often not easy answers. If your child…
If your child is in crisis and is at risk for hurting himself or others, you should get help right away by calling 911 or get help through the 211…
If you have private insurance, you may need to choose a provider in your network. Families may also choose out of network providers but may have to pay some costs…
There are many types of professionals that provide mental health services to children. When choosing a therapist it is best to seek the services of a licensed mental health professional or…
As the person who cares for your child, you usually know your child better than anyone else. As your child develops and grows, they may have problems from time to time.…
It is sometimes hard to know whom to turn to when your child has mental health concerns. A good place to start is your child’s doctor or pediatrician. You can…
If a child is less than three years old and it is suspected that he or she may have a disability or significant delays, the child may be referred to…
A child who is eligible for special education and related services, if possible, must be educated with his/her non-disabled peers in the general education class in the school that the…
The Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA 2004)The Individuals with Disabilities Education Act ensures that all children with disabilities have available to them a free appropriate public education that offers special…
The IEP must include a statement of how the child’s progress will be measured. An explanation of how parents will be given information of that progress should be included in…
A 504 plan, which falls under civil-rights law, is a plan to allow students with disabilities to participate freely and safely in school to get the same opportunities as everyone…
If the PPT team decides that the child is not eligible for special education, the school district must tell the parents and caregivers of this decision in writing and explain…
If a child is found eligible to receive Special Education services, the IEP is a written plan that describes in detail your child’s special education program. All students receiving special…
A PPT is a made up of certified and / or licensed professionals who represent: The child’s regular education teacher At least one special education teacher An individual who can…
The first PPT meeting will document the referral to special education and will discuss the evaluation process. The team will look at information that is already available about how the…
To be eligible for special education and related services a child must be between 3 and 21 years old and have one or more of the following disabilities, determined by…
There are two ways that a child may be identified as possibly needing special education and related services: the system known as Child Find (which operates in each state), and…
If an evaluation is needed, a team which includes the parents (In Connecticut this is called a Planning and Placement Team, PPT) will meet to share information about the child’s…
Before a child is considered for a referral to special education services, other procedures and programs must have been attempted with that child and where appropriate, put into place in…
It is important to find out why a child may be having trouble at school. In some cases, a child may have a mental health issue or a disability. By…
Meeting the educational needs of a child in school is important to their success. It is important for parents and caregivers to understand the process which can be confusing. There…
School-based mental health services include a broad range of activities and services, including: formal assessment, prevention strategies, or interventions such as counseling, consultation, and referrals for services and supports in…
You can get help from your child’s pediatrician or from community mental health providers. To find a qualified mental health professional, you can talk with your private insurance company who…
As a parent, you usually know your child better than anyone else. There are a variety of signs that might suggest your child is having difficulties at school. Some possible things to…
When you have concerns about your child’s behavior in school or are worried that their mental health problems may be interfering with their academic performance, the best thing to do…
It is very important to get help for any concerns you have about your child’s ability to play well with others or to respond well to adults. When young children don’t…
For very young children, the treatment typically involves working with parents and their children together. It often includes visiting with parents at home to find out what their concerns are…
You may want to talk to your child’s teacher to find out as much as you can about what is going on: when does this harmful behavior occur, who is…
When you meet with your pediatrician or doctor, he/she is going to try to understand your concerns. Your doctor will ask you questions about your child’s symptoms, when they occur…
Trauma refers to an overwhelming, unanticipated danger or event that cannot be mediated or processed by the individual. Traumatic events are a direct threat to a person’s wellbeing. When confronted…
Some early warning signs can include: the lack of ability to be soothed, lack of regular sleep/awake cycles, and serious issues with feeding. Although all children experience these problems from time…
You do not have to worry alone. If you have concerns about your infant or toddler call your child’s pediatrician as soon as you can. Discuss your concerns and ask if these…
Being a parent or caregiver is hard work and very demanding. Feeling sad and having lack of energy after giving birth is normal for 50-80% of new mothers. Many new mothers will…
Some children have temperaments or personalities that make it hard to be a good parent. Their parents and caregivers have challenges in searching for the right way to sooth, comfort, and…
When we talk about infant/early childhood mental health we mean the early relationships infants and toddlers have with their parents or caregivers and their ability to experience emotion and explore…
Here is what to look for in your young child that will show good mental health: Babies are alert and willing to explore toys and play with caregivers. They enjoy being…
Parents and caregivers of infants and toddlers can best support good mental health very early in development, even before the baby is born. Good prenatal care is very important to how…
Treatments that research shows can reduce child traumatic stress are called “evidence-based treatments”. There are many evidence-based treatments available in many states through qualified mental health professionals and agencies. Please…
There are many resources both nationally and locally (CT) to help parents and caregivers cope and find treatment for childhood traumatic stress. One great resource is called Get Help Now,…
A child’s primary care doctor can conduct a short trauma history for the child, or your child can be screened directly by a mental health specialist. Screenings are completed by the…
In some cases child traumatic stress symptoms may or may not meet the criteria for Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). Children can show their PTSD symptoms differently than adults. These PTSD…
It is important to talk with your primary care doctor about your child’s symptoms to help you determine if your child’s symptoms are unusual or worrisome and if you should…
Symptoms of PTSD in children (also referred to more broadly as “childhood traumatic stress”) typically fall into four major categories: Traumatic Repetitions Traumatic play Play reenactment Nightmares Flashbacks and dissociation…
If you are concerned about your child, it is best if you consult a qualified mental health specialist who has been trained to work with traumatic stress reactions. If left untreated,…
It is important to understand that most children will likely develop some stress reactions if they have been the victim of a traumatic experience. In many cases, some acute reactions…
Trauma occurs when a child experiences an intense event that threatens or causes harm to his or her emotional and physical well-being. Some events are more likely to be traumatic…
When children experience a traumatic event, they may react in both a psychological and physical way. Their heart rate may increase, and they may begin to sweat, to feel agitated,…