7/4/2008 1:35:53 PM
To facilitate true system transformation and achievement of the President’s New Freedom Commission (NFC) goals for mental health, the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) issued the Mental Health Transformation (MHT) State Incentive Grant in 2005. Recognizing that this award provided the opportunity to bring together agencies and stakeholders, the Governor of Texas directed the Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS) to submit an application on behalf of the state and to serve as the administrative home of the grant. The Governor directed 14 state agencies and consumers/family members to form the MHT Transformation Working Group (TWG), with each signing a memorandum of agreement to fully participate in transformation activities.
Upon receiving the award, the TWG and numerous interested stakeholders began meeting to discuss the challenging work of mental health system transformation and to identify priorities. The TWG hosted numerous meetings, public forums, and conducted an extensive review of the state’s mental health needs and resources. Particularly important to these activities was seeking out consumer and family voice on the system and needed changes. These activities culminated in the completion of the Voices Transforming Texas: Assessment of Mental Health Needs and Resources and release of the Comprehensive Mental Health Plan for Texas.
After listening to the needs and preferences of Texas consumers, family members and youth, the TWG established six content area workgroups for further study. Learn more about issue-driven workgroups →