ALVA, Okla. — The Northwestern Oklahoma State University Department of Social Work is pleased to announce the 2026 Infant and Early Childhood Mental Health (IECMH) practicum stipend recipient.
Itzel Castillo, a senior social work major from Laverne, received the honor this year.
“Receiving the IECMH stipend has been such a meaningful support in my professional journey,” said Castillo. “It has allowed me to expand my knowledge and skills. I’m truly grateful for the investment in my education and in the future of infant and early childhood mental health.”
Castillo’s practicum opportunity is part of Northwestern’s newly established IECMH Training Academy, funded by a $40,000 Child Welfare Professional Enhancement Program Student Payback Fund Grant. This academy supports targeted university coursework, advanced training for social service professionals and paid practicum experiences for students preparing to enter child and family serving fields.
Infant and early childhood mental health focuses on the social-emotional development of children from birth through age five. This field emphasizes the foundational importance of nurturing parent-child relationships, noting that adverse experiences early in life can disrupt brain development, emotional regulation and social skills.
Through the new academy, students like Castillo gain specialized preparation in areas such as: brain development in infants and young children, emotional regulation and social bonding, cognitive and relationship development and preventive interventions that strengthen family well-being.
Dr. Kylene Rehder, chair of the Northwestern Department of Social Work and professor of social work, emphasized that these initiatives reflect the department’s commitment to preparing students for diverse and meaningful roles in social work by providing comprehensive, real-world experiences that challenge them to think critically, adapt quickly and develop innovative solutions to complex issues.
“By advancing the field’s understanding of infant and early childhood mental health, professionals are uniquely positioned to promote healthier developmental trajectories for young children, ensuring they receive the comprehensive emotional and mental support necessary for long-term well-being,” Rehder said.
For more information, contact Rehder at kdrehder@nwosu.edu or (580) 327-8135 or visit the Northwestern Department of Social Work webpage.
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Media Contact:
Sean J. Doherty, University Relations Specialist
Email: sjdoherty@nwosu.edu
Phone: (580) 327-8480