This spring, Connections for Children, in partnership with Pa’lante Therapy and the Child Care Bridge Program, hosted a free, five-session Provider Mental Wellness Group series designed to support child care providers’ mental health and resilience. Given the recent impact of the LA fires and ongoing societal stresses, the group aimed to promote healing and to strengthen providers’ mental wellness—a vital element in ensuring the high quality of care for children. The series ran weekly on Thursdays from May 15 through June 12, 2025.
Led by Dr. Yanira Hernandez, this trauma-informed support group addressed critical topics such as burnout, compassion fatigue, grief, loss, understanding and navigating anxiety and depression, relaxation strategies, and mental health resources. This series was not a substitute for professional mental health therapy, but rather a supportive space for child care providers to share experiences and strengthen their mental wellness. During sessions, providers learned how to incorporate relaxation techniques and emotional regulation practices into their daily routines—strategies that are also important for creating a calm, nurturing environment for young children.
This series was especially important as it allowed providers to reflect on mental health beliefs influenced by their culture and community as well as connect with colleagues facing similar challenges. The peer support and shared tools from the group helped cultivate a culture of openness around mental health, reducing stigma, and promoting resilience among child care providers. Each participant learned strategies and obtained tangible resources to maintain their mental health. The event aligns deeply with Connections for Children’s mission to foster thriving communities by supporting those who nurture and educate young children.
Check out the special moments captured at the Provider Mental Wellness Series here.
To learn more about CFC’s free, Trauma-Informed Care (TIC) trainings and 1:1 TIC coaching services for child care providers, please contact Joselyn Corado Cornejos, Trauma-Informed Care Advisor at joselync@cfc-ca.org or (310) 452-3325, Ext. 257.
