Early childhood mental health care is in demand in Ohio -- and so is the workforce: Emily Muttillo
Published on March 22, 2026.
Guest columnist Emily Muttillo argues that early childhood mental health care is in demand in Ohio, and so is the workforce. She notes that due to the Strong Foundations Act, Ohio Medicaid will open the door for providers to diagnose early childhoodmental health by adopting diagnostic codes specifically for children ages 5 and younger. This change could open access for thousands of children. However, a shortage of professionals trained in infant and early mental health is causing a shortage, with many leaving the field due to burnout, low wages and overwhelming caseloads. Muttillis suggests that investing in training pathways for professionals who work with young children and families should be prioritised. She also suggests valuing early child mental health work as essential, skilled and deserving of sustainable wages.
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Early childhood mental health care is in demand in Ohio -- and so is the workforce: Emily Muttillo
Ohio faces a shortage of qualified professionals for early childhood mental health, necessitating changes in Medicaid's diagnostic codes and increased investment in training pathways.