Glossary of Terms

Applied Behavior Analysis, a therapy designed to teach skills and change behaviors using a system of measurable goals, rewards, and consequences, typically used to support children with Autism.

An emotional connection with another person that meets important emotional and psychological needs. Between a child and parent, or child and caregiver, good attachment makes a child feel safe, secure, and protected. Attachment sets the tone for one's relationships throughout their entire life.

A condition that includes interpersonal, sensory, behavioral, motor, and speech patterns that are different from what is considered "normal" or "neurotypical." Autism occurs on a spectrum with symptoms that range from mild to severe.

A way to help children behave better by consistently reinforcing good behavior with small rewards such as extra time to play, and discouraging bad behavior with negative consequences such as losing privileges.

In Michigan, local Community Mental Health Service Programs (CMHSP) coordinate mental health services. The Michigan Department of Community Health contracts with more than 46 CMHSP and 10 Prepaid Inpatient Health Plans to provide services. Community Mental Health is known as Network 180.

"Infant mental health" is a therapy model, and refers to how well a child develops emotionally, socially, and psychologically from birth to age 3. Developing safe, trusted relationships is a key factor in infant mental health.

A medical treatment that helps young children learn, develop, or regain skills that allow them to participate fully in family, play, and school.

A mental illness that affects women after giving birth, producing feelings of sadness, loneliness, worthlessness, and anxiety that may last more than a few weeks and become overwhelming.

A medical practitioner who specializes in the diagnosis and treatment (including medication) of mental illness.

A professional who specializes in the study, testing, direction, and/or treatment of mental, emotional, and behavioral disorders.

A process of change through which individuals improve their health and wellness, live a self-sufficient life, and strive to reach their full potential.

The process of helping a person who has suffered an illness or injury restore lost skills and regain maximum self-sufficiency.

The ability to adapt and bounce back quickly in the face of adversity, trauma, tragedy, natural disaster, threats, or stress. Some protective factors, including

• Strong cultural identity
• Access to health care
• Stable housing
• Economic stability-ability to earn a livable wage
• Social support-connections to family and friends
• Affiliation with a supportive religious or faith community increase resilience.

Intervention focused on improving a child's ability to understand language and use language to be understood by others.

Also call psychotherapy or counseling, the process of meeting with a therapist to resolve beliefs, feelings, behaviors, relationships, or physical sensations that are interfering with daily life, and learn to live a happier, healthier, and more productive life.

A psychological, emotional and/or physical response to a single or repeated event that is deeply distressing or disturbing, and interferes with one's ability to live a fully functional and satisfying life.