Every child deserves to grow up feeling safe, loved, understood, and connected.
We support infants and young children, their caregivers, and the professionals who care for them across New Jersey.
About Us
Meet CAECMH
The Center for Autism and Early Childhood Mental Health (CAECMH) is part of the College for Education and Engaged Learning (CEEL) Center Consortium at Montclair State University (MSU). Our focus is the earliest years of a child's life, from pregnancy through adolescence.
Our work spans four connected areas that build on each other: clinical services for families/caregivers, professional formation, student training, and systems change across New Jersey.
Who We Serve
We're Here For You
Three paths through our work. Choose the one that's yours.
I am a Parent/Caregiver
You don't have to figure it out alone.
Clinical services, family support groups, and school-based mental health - for your child from birth through age 12. Available in English and Spanish.
I am a Professional
Deepen your practice. Strengthen your impact.
Workshops, reflective consultation, coaching, and the nationally unique Professional Formation Center - for early childhood and mental health practitioners.
I am a Student
Start your career where relationships change lives.
Fellowships, graduate coursework, internships, and assistantships at Montclair State University - in infant mental health and early relational health.
Our Impact
How We Are Changing Early Childhood Together
Every number represents a real child, caregiver, or professional whose life was touched by this work - in FY2026.
11,600+
seat filled in workshops and reflective sessions
2,600+
hours of mental health services provided to children and families
200+
programs receiving coaching and consultation services
400+
activities to enhance coordination efforts across local, state, national and international level
Voices From Our Community
Real people. Real change.
The people at the heart of our work, in their own words.
"Thank you for caring for my son and for seeing his strengths."
Parent - Outpatient Clinical Services
"I honestly enjoyed this workshop more than any other professional development I have ever participated in. It was engaging, relevant, and impactful."
Workshop Participant
"I have learned so much from this course that I will take with me as I work with children in the future!"
Graduate Student
Help us make a difference in the early years
Your support helps bring new ideas to life, expand programs that work, and keep essential services available to children and families.
helpful resources
Start With Something Small Today
Why relationships come first
Whether you're a caregiver, a professional, or a student learning the field, each of us has opportunities to create moments where children feel seen, safe, supported, and connected.
The moments we notice
The moments we share
The moments we show up
Together, these everyday experiences shape how children grow and develop.
Early Relational Health (ERH) gives us a way to understand, and strengthen, the power of these relationships.