How do I Get Started with My Application for Endorsement?
First, you should review the information about Endorsement Levels and their requirements (go to Endorsement Materials) and the Endorsement Overview (go to Endorsement Materials). If, after reviewing this information, you feel you meet the requirements for endorsement and are clear about which level would be right for you, you can download the Preliminary Application, complete it and mail it to NMAIMH with a copy of your resume and the necessary dues and fees.
Dues and Fees?
Current membership in the NMAIMH is a requirement of endorsement. Annual membership dues are $30 ($15 with copy of current student id). Our membership year goes from January through December.
There is a Preliminary Endorsement Application fee of $15 for levels 1 & 2 and $25 for levels 3 & 4.
Membership Dues and Endorsement Fees are Non-Refundable
How Can I Receive Help Deciding at Which Level to Apply? If, after reading the materials on the website, you want to talk with someone about the endorsement process and the appropriate level for you, please either send an e-mail message to info@nmaimh.org or call (505) 331-7138 and leave a clear message with your name, telephone number and what you are calling about. This is a message phone. Your request will be responded to by one of our endorsement volunteers. What Happens Once I send in My Preliminary Application? The volunteer Endorsement Chairperson will review your preliminary application and ask for an endorsed NMAIMH member to serve as your Endorsement Advisor. Once the Advisor has been identified, you will be sent a full application packet. Then you contact your advisor and start preparing your endorsement portfolio. It is very important that you work closely with your Advisor as you develop your portfolio. Are there Endorsement Application Timelines I should be Aware of? The endorsement system is operated by NMAIMH members who themselves are endorsed and have volunteered to support this infant mental health workforce development through the endorsement process. Since the process is implemented by volunteers who each have full time jobs in addition to their volunteer work, we have found it necessary to establish two timelines related to endorsement applications:
It takes 4-6 weeks for volunteer teams to review and accept completed portfolios. This is important to the candidates only if they have a deadline they need to meet; or
For candidates who are applying at Level 3 (Infant Mental Health Specialist) or Level 4 (Infant Mental Health Mentor), once their portfolio has been approved and accepted by the review team, they are invited to sit for the required written examination. This written exam is offered once each spring and once each fall. Completed portfolios must be submitted at least 6 weeks before the next scheduled exam if a candidate wants to sit for that exam. The next written exam will be scheduled in the Spring of 2009. A written exam is not required for candidates at Levels 1 and 2.
