Programs

360 Bridge Model

A framework for relationship-based consulting

Early Childhood Mental Health Consultation Approach

The ECMHC program utilizes the 360 Bridge Model for Early Childhood Mental Health Consultation Framework for relationship-based consulting. This unique approach operationalizes the flow of the consultation engagement into distinctive, guided phases grounded in the relationship between the provider and consultant.

The 360 Bridge Model aligns with and builds upon the Illinois Model for Infant/Early Childhood Consultation which establishes a clear foundation by defining the consultant’s role, identifying the competencies of a consultant, and articulating the components of consultation.

Orientation

Initial contact with site and review of services, introductory material
Assessment and collaborative development of consultative plan
Site tour and informal observations
Reflective learning

Transitional

Bi-weekly or weekly visits
Consultation plan implemented and reviewed every 4-6 weeks
Pyramid Model used in concert with consultation to build staff capacity
Intentional coaching, professional development, and group consultation
General and individual observations
Evaluative discussion and movement to monitoring phase

Monitoring

Follow-up activities related to consultation plan
Reduced coaching frequency, more check ins and fewer child-specific observations
Spot check general observations
Referrals for individual observation continue
Evaluative discussion and movement to maintenance phase

Maintenance

1-2 hour visits as needed
Consultant plans with provider to transition responsibility for plan-capacity-building
Active consultation transitions to a close after 60-90 days
Provide may still reach out for support as needed

Expected Outcomes of an Early Childhood Mental Health Consultation Engagement

Increased teacher and director/administrator knowledge of child development and ability to intentionally teach social-emotional learning.
Decreased use of suspensions and expulsion, as well as instances or perception of behavior challenges in the classroom.
Improved communication between programs and families.
Increased SEL competencies within adults, including a decrease in adult desire to “control” activities and behaviors.
Decreased teacher/administrator stress, burnout and turnover.
Improved quality of relationships between parents/guardians and children, teachers and children, teachers and parents/guardians, and within teaching teams.

Connect with an Early Childhood Mental Health Consultant!

CALL

312.310.1783

773.230.3366

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