About MHFC

In 1979, Mt. Hope Family Center (MHFC) began as a therapeutic preschool program for children affected by violence in their home or community. We have grown into an award-winning, nationally and internationally respected center that combines scientific research, clinical services and hands-on mentoring and training in one facility. Today, we provide evidence-based intervention and prevention services to thousands of children and families annually in our community.

At Mt. Hope Family Center, we focus on supporting children. We also collaborate with caregivers to develop the skills needed to better understand child development, effective communication, and non-violent conflict resolution. We work to support children and families to strengthen the family relationship and help to interrupt the cycle of maltreatment.

Our researchers study how violence, abuse, neglect and trauma influence child development and family relationships. We translate those scientific findings into evidence-based therapies and programs that are proven to work. Our center’s innovative research can be found in national and international journals and academic publications. Since 1979, our researchers have published nearly 1,000 scientific articles.

Mt. Hope Family Center is affiliated with the Department of Psychology at the University of Rochester. Our team of professionals includes psychology faculty, clinical social workers, mental health counselors, research staff, information analysts, and administrative personnel. A partial listing of staff with program affiliations is available on the contact page.