Inaugural Summit Strengthens Mental Health and Justice Collaboration Across Texas
The Texas Behavioral Health and Justice Technical Assistance Center, in partnership with the Texas Health and Human Services Commission, organized the first statewide conference focused on improving collaboration between mental health and justice systems. Representatives from more than 120 Texas counties attended the event, called The Summit, on Aug. 14–15 in San Marcos.
The Summit brought together mental health professionals, justice system leaders and community advocates to improve relationships, streamline cross-agency processes and foster stronger collaboration.
Conference sessions covered topics including the role of local mental and behavioral health authorities (LMHAs and LBHAs), courts, peace officers, county jails, peer specialists, and the Texas Correctional Office on Offenders with Medical or Mental Impairments. Attendees also explored lessons learned, substance use disorder treatment and available community resources.
Keynote Highlights Ongoing Challenges
Brian Shannon, distinguished professor at Texas Tech University School of Law and appointee on the Texas Judicial Commission on Mental Health, delivered the keynote address. He discussed the intersection of mental illness and the criminal justice system, highlighted recent milestones, and shared resources such as the Texas Mental Health and Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities Law Bench Book.
Reentry Simulation Offers Firsthand Perspective
The OnPoint Reentry Consortium conducted a reentry simulation allowing participants to experience firsthand the challenges people face when reintegrating into society after incarceration. Attendees were assigned identities and scenarios about housing, employment, transportation, community services, payment and court to navigate.
Community Engagement Offers
The Summit hosted a clothing drive to benefit people in need upon release from or residing within Texas county jails and state hospitals.
Artwork from the Texas Mental Health Creative Arts Contest was also displayed throughout the venue, offering creative perspectives on mental health.