Infant Mental Health (IMH) Virtual Conference
The state of Mississippi is undeniably moving in a positive direction. It was truly an honor to be part of the planning team for the first-ever Infant Mental Health (IMH) Virtual Conference held in our state, an important milestone for early childhood and infant mental health professionals across Mississippi.
This inaugural conference brought together a dynamic group of speakers from across the United States, spanning from Michigan to Mississippi. Each presenter generously shared their time, expertise, and lived experience to strengthen the collective knowledge of professionals working with infants, young children, and families. We extend our sincere gratitude to all presenters whose contributions made this event such a success.
The conference opened with welcoming remarks from the Mississippi Department of Mental Health Executive Office, setting the tone for collaboration and systems-level impact. The keynote address was delivered by Chy’Leetzia Johnson, MS, LPC, IMH-E, Integrated Perinatal Health Director at Starfish Family Services out of Detroit, Michigan, whose insights powerfully grounded the conference in both practice and purpose.
Additional presenters included:
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Halle Ricketts, LCSW-C, Consultant and President, Mississippi Association for Infant Mental Health
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Ashley Jenkins, LLMSW, Therapist and Founder, Influential Touch LLC
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Valecia Davis, MS, Reflective Supervisor and Consultant, Mississippi Association for Infant Mental Health
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Sharita Stover, LCSW, Co-Owner and Social Worker, MindoK
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Todd Klunk, MSL, Senior Program Officer, W.K. Kellogg Foundation
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Chad Allgood, PhD, Division Director, Early Childhood Care & Development, Mississippi State Department of Human Services
Closing remarks were provided by Nadeane Cattrell, LCSW, Executive Director of Mississippi Families for Kids and Logistics/Endorsement Coordinator for the Mississippi Association for Infant Mental Health.
With over 150 participants in attendance, the conference centered on the theme “Cultivating Relationships: The Power of Early Childhood Systems.” Presentations emphasized not only systems building and collaboration, but also the physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual well-being of professionals who serve families every day.
Feedback from attendees was overwhelmingly positive and reinforced a clear message: this conference must continue. The Mississippi Association of Infant Mental Health exemplified the spirit of collaboration, proving that teamwork truly makes the dream work.
This landmark event laid a strong foundation for the future of infant mental health in Mississippi—and the excitement is already building. Be sure to mark your calendars, because the next IMH Conference is scheduled for 2026. We look forward to continuing this important work together.
Conference Recording Link (Youtube):
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GPtVr34_7iw&feature=youtu.be
