Texas is funneling $1.2 million into a new therapy program in Williamson County aimed at improving the lives of troubled youths. According to an announcement on the county's official website, the Multisystemic Therapy (MST) program will kick off with half of the funds being allocated for fiscal year 2026, and the remaining for fiscal year 2027. This sizable investment is slated to help adolescents between the ages of 12 and 17, who are struggling with serious behavioral issues including aggression, substance use, and chronic truancy.
“This investment represents a significant step toward improving outcomes for youth and families in Williamson County,” Scott Matthew, executive director of Juvenile Services, said in a statement published on WilCo's website. By introducing MST, the program aims to address behavioral and mental health challenges by involving the whole family in the therapy process. Instead of displacing youngsters, therapists will visit homes, schools, and community settings to provide comprehensive support. Officials hope this approach will cut youth arrest rates by as much as 70% and reduce the need for placing kids in facilities outside the home by up to 50%.
What's more, the program's structure allows each therapist to manage a smaller caseload, ensuring that they are available around the clock, seven days a week. This level of care is intended not just to resolve current issues but also to empower parents and guardians to maintain progress once the therapy concludes. Research underscores MST's effectiveness in boosting school attendance and enhancing family dynamics, further validating the program’s implementation.
Heather Robinson, director of mental health for Juvenile Services, highlighted the need for such a robust program. “There are few options statewide for the level of treatment needed to restore functioning and health in this population,” she emphasized in a piece featured on the county's website. “This intensive, evidence-based treatment has shown significant positive outcomes for lowering such utilization and achieving positive outcomes for youth.” The county's initiative will particularly target young individuals involved in the juvenile justice system or identified as being at high risk.
In a display of gratitude, Juvenile Board Chair Judge Stacey Mathews lauded Sen. Charles Schwertner for his pursuit of the funding. His commitment to community-based solutions was paramount in securing the funding needed for the MST program. “We are especially grateful to Senator Schwertner for championing this initiative and recognizing the needs of youth and families in Williamson County,” Judge Mathews told WilCo's online portal. The Texas Juvenile Justice Department is set to submit a performance report by November 30, 2026, to measure the program's effectiveness, using key performance indicators.
