Dallas’ Metrocare has scored a $1.7M grant from the United States’ Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA). The funds will be used for the “implementation of the nationally recognized Integrative Treatment for Complex Trauma (ITCT), an evidence-based trauma program for children and adolescents in Dallas County.”
The five-year program will “focus on youth ages five to 18 and their families who have experienced multiple traumatization” with Metrocare’s goals to
- reduce symptoms of depression, anxiety and post-traumatic stress in youth,
- increase environmental safety for program participants,
- enhance cognitive and emotional regulation capacities and
- eliminate self-endangering behaviors.
According to Metrocare CEO Dr. John W. Burrus, “Our children define our future, and they deserve the best possible outcome we can give. I am proud to see Metrocare bring national best practices to Dallas and to continue focusing on child trauma as a mental health priority.”
During Metrocare’s 2020 fiscal year 20,852 youth assessments were completed with 18% of the youngsters indicating a trauma history and “18% of this sub-group reporting trauma causing them and/or their family moderate to severe problems.”
Thanks to the grant, the “ITCT program will target 600 unduplicated youth over the next five years based on referrals and trauma assessments completed by a licensed psychologist.”
As Metrocare Chief Clinical Officer Kelli Laos explained, “The ITCT program brings us one step closer to bridging the gaps of quality care and stopping the cycle of generation trauma. Now, our youth and families, regardless of socioeconomic status, will receive the comprehensive assessments and treatment recommendations typically only afforded to those with private insurance and the ability to pay thousands out of pocket.”
Of the $62.4M grants awarded nationally by SAMHSA, Texas received six grants with Metrocare being the only North Texas recipient.
* Graphic/photo courtesy of Metrocare