Early Childhood Mental Health Consultant
Southwest Human Development is Arizona’s largest nonprofit dedicated to early childhood development. The first five years of life are the most critical in a child’s development. Our services improve lives and help families by supporting young children and their caregivers during this important time.
About the role
We are seeking experienced mental health professionals to serve as early childhood mental health consultants within the Smart Support program. This nationally recognized program partners with early care and education settings—including center-based and home-based childcare, school district preschools, and home visiting programs—to enhance educators' capacity to meet the mental health needs of young children across urban, rural, and tribal communities.
Responsibilities
- Engage in relationship-based work that supports healthy caregiver-child attachment and encourages responsive, nurturing learning environments
- Demonstrate sensitivity to linguistic, cultural, social, economic, individual, and role differences among persons and families served
- Help providers understand the effects of stress and trauma on families and consider all levels of influence to support young children and their caregivers
- Assist providers with identifying behavioral or emotional needs of young children through classroom observation and provide community resources as needed
- Collaborate with childcare staff, directors, and families to generate suggestions and strategies promoting optimal mental health in all children
- Provide training on social and emotional wellness, including child development, emotional regulation, communication, self-care, and related topics
- Join a state-wide effort to reduce preschool expulsion
Requirements
- Completed Master’s degree in Social Work, Counseling, or Marriage and Family Therapy, eligible for licensure through the AZ Board of Behavioral Health
- Possess an insured and registered vehicle and a valid AZ driver’s license
- Travel to the office at least once per week and to multiple community sites for consultation, collaboration, and trainings
- Valid Arizona Fingerprint Clearance Card or qualification for a Level One Fingerprint Clearance Card
- DES Criminal Affidavit required
Qualifications
- At least one year of post-master’s experience
- Clinical experience working with children aged birth to five and their families
- Experience working in a classroom setting or consulting with teachers
- Experience working in a home visiting program
Why candidates love working here
- Engage in meaningful work that helps children and families build strong foundations for the future
- Comprehensive benefits package, including medical, dental, vision, wellness plans, generous paid time off, and 401(k) with employer contribution every paycheck
- Comprehensive onboarding program with professional development activities, including monthly professional book club, individual and group reflective supervision, and new consultant competency training
- Great Place to Work® Certified organization with a culture shaped by employee feedback, built on trust, support, and collaboration
- Work/life balance with a part-time or full-time manageable caseload
- Weekly reflective supervision to support you in this role
- Supportive and collaborative mental health work environment that prioritizes staff well-being