Early Childhood Mental Health Conference
We Can’t Wait

Coming September 2026

The ECMH Conference began in 2009 and is dedicated to equipping providers with practical, evidence-based strategies that support the mental well-being of children 0-6 years old. Designed to foster resilience and strengthen connections within families and communities, the conference highlights innovative approaches to improving outcomes for children across diverse care settings.

Our event is designed for professionals dedicated to nurturing the well-being of children and families. Whether you work in healthcare, education, mental health, or community advocacy, this conference offers valuable insights and connections. We invite a wide range of practitioners: from psychologists, psychiatrists, social workers, therapists, educators, and nurses to child welfare staff, developmental specialists, and early childhood educators.

Join us as we create a space to reflect, learn, and strengthen the networks that support children and families—because presence, compassion, and collaboration are the foundations of lasting change.

Special Thanks to our Funding Support Partners:

  • County of San Diego Health and Human Services Agency, Behavioral Health Services  
  • San Diego Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry

Course Directors and Chairs

  • Pradeep Gidwani, MD, MPH, FAAP. Medical Director, Healthy Development Services, American Academy of Pediatrics, California Chapter 3
  • Natalie Elms, MA Manager, KidSTART Center. Rady Children’s Hospital San Diego

Conference Managers

  • Tami Magaro, San Diego Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry
  • Vanessa Pulido, LMFT, San Diego Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry

Committee Members

  • Stacey Annand, PhD, LMFT, Vista Hill
  • Ana Briones-Espinoza, MBA, Optum Public Sector, San Diego
  • Mark Chenven, MD, Psychiatrist, Vista Hil
  • Linda D. Espinoza, LMFT, Optum
  • Ali Freedman, PsyD, MBA, IFECMH, HorsePlay Collective
  • Emily Gaines, LMFT, County of San Diego
  • Kristin Gist, MS, Consultant, First 5 Riverside County and Zero To Three
  • Mary Ho, RN, PHN, CLC, County of San Diego (Health & Human Services Agency)
  • Shannon Jackson, LPCC, Behavioral Health Services, County of San Diego Health and Human Services Agency
  • Marta V. Leyva, MA, Education Professional, Voz de Victoria, Educational Consulting & Advocacy
  • Charmi Patel Rao MD, DFAACAP, Co-Medical Director, Vista Hill Foundation
  • Jeffrey Rowe, MD, DFAACAP, San Diego Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry
  • Renee Sievert, RN, LMFT, PCC, Training and Leadership Consultant, Executive Coach, Equus Master Facilitator