A system of care is a coordinated network of community-based services and supports that are organized to meet the challenges of children and youth with serious mental health needs and their families. Families and youth work in partnership with public and private organizations so services and supports are effective, build on the strengths of individuals, and address each person's cultural and linguistic needs. A system of care helps children, youth and families function better at home, in school, in the community and throughout life¹.

¹ Building Systems of Care: A Primer, Sheila A. Pires, Humans Service Collaborative, Washington, DC, supported by Child, Adolescent and Family Branch; Center for Mental Health Services; and Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services:

System of Care Overview

Texas System of Care Communities

Values and Guiding Principles

Texas System of Care Training Core Competencies

System of Care Related Training

Contact Office of Program Coordination for Children and Youth Staff 

This page was updated 8/25/11