Application Process
Getting Started
The North Carolina Infant and Early Childhood Mental Health Association (NCIMHA) supports applicants throughout the process, ensuring you have the resources needed to succeed. This approach also offers a pathway to building cross-disciplinary relationships with other applicants.
To pursue the Culturally Sensitive, Relationship Focused Infant and Early Childhood Mental Health Endorsement® credential, follow these three easy steps:
Step 1: Select a category to apply
Review the different categories of Endorsement on our Categories and Requirements page. Use this information to determine which category is the best match for your scope of work, skills, expertise, and experience.
Need help making sense of which Endorsement category is right for you?
We’ve got your back!
- Watch Endorsement 101 informational video
- We frequently hold Endorsement 101 classes. Check our events calendar to see if one of them works for you.
- If you get stuck, use our contact page to send an email to our Endorsement Coordinator.
Step 2: Let us know you are interested
Use the button below to register your interest in applying for Endorsement. If you work within an agency that has a group (10 or more) that would like to apply for Endorsement together, please reach out to the Endorsement Coordinator.
Looking for scholarship opportunities? View our Endorsement Scholarship interest form.
Step 3: Review your experience
Prior to applying for Endorsement, individuals may find it helpful to review their experience using the Getting Started Guide. This self-assessment offers Endorsement applicants an opportunity to identify any gaps in knowledge or skill they may need to address prior to the completion of the Endorsement application. Click the button below to download a PDF copy of the guide.
Application Timeline
Applications are keyed and processed in the Endorsement Application System, often abbreviated as "EASy". The following chart illustrates what a typical applicant might experience from expressing interest to receiving their Endorsement. A separate chart will provide more details on the total cost.
Exam & Renewal Requirements
Fee Schedule
(IFA or ECFA)
(IFS or ECFS)
(IMHS or ECMHS)
(IMHM or ECMHM)
(ERS)
*I/ECMHM category processing fees are substantially higher due to the need to contract with exam reviewers, initially through the Alliance for the Advancement of Infant Mental Health and then within a trained pool of NCIMHA exam reviewers.
Your Endorsement Journey
Use the button below to download a printable packet developed by the Alliance titled Your Endorsement Journey. It contains a wealth of information for those who want to go deep.
Still have questions?
We are here to guide you every step of the way. Whether you need help picking the right category, navigating the EASy application system, or something unique – just click the button below and send us a message!