Continuing the Mission. Expanding the Impact.

FamilyForward is carrying forward the important work and legacy of Mental Health America – Eastern Missouri (MHA-EM), building on a shared commitment to supporting the mental health and well-being of children, families and adults in our community

What's Happening

Through this mission integration, FamilyForward is continuing important work previously offered through MHA-EM. Our focus is on building the clinical expertise and infrastructure needed to sustain this work, preserve its legacy and strengthen our ability to serve our community.

What This Means

The Mission Continues

FamilyForward is continuing important work previously offered through MHA-EM.

Stronger Together

Staff training and clinical development will help sustain specialized approaches and services within FamilyForward.

Legacy Is Preserved

FamilyForward remains committed to honoring MHA-EM’s legacy and the values that guided its work.

Message from Leadership

“We are proud to honor the legacy MHA-EM shared with us. The work you built continues to inform how we support people as they heal, grow and thrive.”

— Karen Nolte, CEO, FamilyForward

Frequently Asked Questions

Is This a Merger?

What Happens to Donors?

Will MHA-EM modalities continue?

FamilyForward is committed to carrying forward important work previously offered through MHA-EM. Our current priorities include building the clinical expertise and staff capacity needed to sustain specialized therapeutic approaches.

Theraplay: FamilyForward is pursuing Level 1 certification and Group Theraplay training for multiple staff members. We are also exploring opportunities to develop internal training capacity by supporting a staff member in becoming a certified trainer.
Child-Parent Psychotherapy (CPP): Staff training began in September 2026. FamilyForward is intentionally training multiple team members to help sustain this approach within the organization.
Other specialized services: FamilyForward continues to assess the training, staffing and implementation needs associated with other services previously offered through MHA-EM. Details about availability will be shared as plans are confirmed.