DFPS Celebrate Opening of Terrell Center for Youth

Texas Health and Human Services Commission

AUSTIN, TEXAS (News Release) – The Texas Health and Human Services Commission and Texas Department of Family and Protective Services (DFPS) today celebrated the opening of Terrell Center for Youth, a specialized residential youth treatment facility designed to serve adolescents with complex mental health, substance use or intellectual and developmental disability needs.

“Every child deserves access to the care and support they need to thrive,” Gov. Greg Abbott said. “The Terrell Center for Youth will provide a safe place for young Texans to receive the help they need to overcome challenges and build a brighter future.”

The facility increases access to intensive behavioral health treatment for foster care youth with the highest levels of need, providing care in a safe, structured setting. 

“Every young person in foster care deserves to feel supported and hopeful about what lies ahead,” HHS Executive Commissioner Stephanie Muth said. “We are grateful to Gov. Abbott and the Texas Legislature for prioritizing investments in children’s mental health that make facilities like Terrell Center for Youth possible. This center fills a critical gap in services, giving adolescents a safe place to heal, find stability, discover their strengths and take meaningful steps toward a brighter future.”

Operated by HHSC, Terrell Center for Youth will serve up to 30 youth ages 13 to 17 years old who are under DFPS conservatorship. These youth often require a level of specialized care that is not widely available in traditional placement settings. By bringing together clinical treatment, behavioral health services and around-the-clock support, the facility will help ensure youth receive services tailored to their unique needs while preparing them for successful long-term placements.

“This is a significant milestone for Texas’s foster care system. The Legislature’s investment in children’s mental health, and the dedicated work of foster care staff across our state have made a remarkable impact on reducing the number of children without placement,” DFPS Commissioner Audrey O’Neill said. “But we know some youth in our conservatorship have behavioral health needs that only a highly skilled clinical provider can meet. Terrell Center for Youth gives us that option, so these young people can heal and then transition to a less restrictive placement where they can truly thrive.”

Youth at the center will receive instruction from the Terrell Independent School District and may participate in extracurricular activities, including sports and school-related clubs. The center will also focus on helping youth build the skills they need to lead a full and independent life.   

The 89th Texas Legislature appropriated $35.2 million for the Terrell Center for Youth during the 2026-27 biennium.