North Texas Behavioral Health Authority

04/14/2026

NTBHA Presentation to DISD School Counselors and Social Workers
Tim Jackson, BA, LCDC, met with approximately 18 DISD school counselors and social workers at the Arcadia Park Public Library. He presented information on programs of the North Texas Behavioral Health Authority (NTBHA) that can assist people needing mental health or substance use recovery support. Tim especially focused on families with troubled youth. Tim is a Counselor with NTBHA’ Outreach, Screening, Assessment and Referral (OSAR) Team, and provided information to the school professionals on NTBHA’s MultiSystemic Therapy (MST) program, that focuses on assisting youth at risk of removal from the home, arrest, and expulsion from school. MST is an evidence-based approach that involves the teen’s whole support system, including immediate and extended family members as well as school staff, neighbors, members of the family’s faith community and others who may be influential in the teen’s life. Results show a significant decrease in truancy, arrest, and incarceration for those who complete the program.
Photos show Tim Jackson presenting, and class members gathered around tables.

04/10/2026

Corsicana Spring Family Fun Fest
The Spring Family Fun Fest at the Corsicana Public Library, was a tremendous success, sponsored by the Navarro County Early Childhood Coalition and Presbyterian Children’s Homes and Services.
North Texas Behavioral Health Authority (NTBHA) staff members Sarah Abatan and Leslie Lopez, hosted a resource table to connect families with mental health and substance use recovery services and support.
The event brought together several local early childhood providers who shared valuable resources and information with families in the community. Children enjoyed a variety of activities, including a bounce house and other engaging entertainment, creating a fun and welcoming atmosphere for all attendees. Complimentary hot dogs and cookies added an extra touch, making the day even more memorable for families.
The event saw an impressive turnout, reflecting strong community interest and engagement.

04/09/2026

Thank you to the City of Dallas for sponsoring a community event in recognition of Public Health Week. North Texas Behavioral Health Authority’s Community Health Workers were proud to provide resources and connect with attendees at the event, which was held at Dallas College West Dallas Center.
Thank you for your commitment to strengthening our community by promoting access to valuable behavioral health information and resources.

04/08/2026

North Texas Behavioral Health Authority (NTBHA), in partnership with Rockwall Friendship Baptist Church, would like to extend our sincere appreciation to Greg Ellis for his impactful presentation at the MindShift Mental Health Summit for teenagers and parents.
As the keynote speaker and a former Dallas Cowboys player, Greg Ellis shared powerful insights and personal experiences that deeply resonated with attendees. His message fostered meaningful reflection and encouraged open dialogue around mental health.
The summit also featured small-group discussions at each table, creating a comfortable and supportive environment for participants to engage, share, and connect on important topics. Thank you for all that you do to support and strengthen our community.

04/07/2026

Social -Kim Samples Award April 7, 2026

Congratulations to Kim Samples of North Texas Behavioral Health Authority!

Congratulations to Kim Samples of North Texas Behavioral Health Authority, who has been recognized statewide for her outstanding work in Mental Health First Aid (MHFA). The Texas Council of Community Centers announced Kim as the February 2026 Koalafied Outreach Worker Star Award (KOWSA) recipient. Calling to mind the Koala bear mascot of MHFA and its Australian roots, the Koalafied Outreach Worker Star Award recognizes the impactful work of MHFA Outreach Workers across the state.

Among several strong nominees, Kim stood out for her exceptional contributions. Highlights of her nomination include:
• Actively contributing and providing valuable support during virtual collaborative calls.
• Demonstrating courage in sharing her personal and professional experiences.
• Consistently applying and sharing her knowledge to benefit others.
Kim’s dedication, authenticity, and willingness to uplift those around her exemplify the spirit of this award. Congratulations, Kim, on this well-deserved recognition.

04/07/2026

April 7, 2026-Public Health Week Celebration-9:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.
at Dallas College West Center-3330 N. Hampton Road, Dallas, Texas 75212

Please visit the NTBHA table for free Narcan, valuable information, and community resources.

04/06/2026

NTBHA’s Chad Anderson, Chief of Intensive and Forensic Services will be presenting at the
Midlothian Police Department-Crisis Intervention Unit-Mental Health Summit
Pathways to Community Resiliency
Thursday, April 9, 2026—8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
Midlothian Conference Center—1 Community Drive, Midlothian Texas 76065
Tickets--$75 on Eventbrite
Admission includes a continental breakfast and lunch.
TCOLE credit and other professional CEUs available.
Hotel accommodations are available at the Marriott Dallas Midlothian Hotel, which is adjacent to the Midlothian Conference Center. A discount for conference attendees is available using a link on the registration form or by mentioning the Summit Code that you will receive when you register for the conference.

Crisis does not wait. Neither can we. The Midlothian Police Department Mental Health Summit brings together Law Enforcement, Courts, Behavioral Health, Hospitals, Education, Youth Services and Community Leaders in a powerful day of action, innovation and collaboration.

Attendees will gain fresh insight from two dynamic keynote speakers, engage in targeted breakout sessions and build partnerships that drive meaningful change.
This is not just another conference. It’s where voices unite, strategies sharpen, and pathways to healing and resiliency are built. Be part of the momentum. Be part of the solution.



For more information, please click on this link:
https://ow.ly/xnHl50YuWfC

04/06/2026

A great big shout-out to Rockwall Friendship Baptist Church for hosting a powerful one-day Mental Health Summit for teenagers (8th–12th grade), parents, and guardians.
The event featured engaging breakout sessions tailored to both teens and parents, creating meaningful opportunities for learning, connection, and open dialogue. The summit provided a safe and supportive space for families to gain practical tools to address anxiety, stress, identity, and overall emotional wellness.
A special highlight was the keynote address from Greg Ellis, former Dallas Cowboys player, who shared impactful insights and personal experiences.
Mental health resources were also available, ensuring attendees left with valuable information and support. North Texas Behavioral Health Authority was proud to serve as a sponsor for this meaningful event.

04/02/2026

Kaufman County Community Resource Coalition Meeting at the Resource Connection Office in Kaufman, Texas featured a presentation by 211 Texas, a vital connection point for individuals and families seeking services.

In addition, we heard how Impact Communities is helping right here in Kaufman County.

NTBHA values being a part of the collaboration and energy that comes from this group it truly makes a difference in Kaufman County!

04/01/2026

Upcoming Classes From North Texas Behavioral Health Authority (NTBHA)

Please join NTBHA for Mental Health First Aid (MHFA), Youth Mental Health First Aid (YMHFA), Su***de Prevention and Postvention, and other classes this month. Classes are offered both in-person and online. Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) is an evidence-based, early-intervention course that teaches participants about mental health and substance use challenges. All MHFA classes are free for Texas residents.

If you are interested in hosting an in-person Mental Health First Aid class in Texas in Dallas, Ellis, Hunt, Kaufman, Navarro or Rockwall Counties, please contact Kim Samples at 469-607-0420.

APRIL 2026

Wednesday, April 1-Vaping Trends in Young People-12:00 noon to 1:00 p.m.
https://ow.ly/oBrQ50YBQar

Wednesday, April 8-Adult Mental Health First Aid-8:30 - 3:00pm. ONLINE
Pre-work is required to be completed to attend the virtual instructor-led session.
Registration:
https://ow.ly/SMHj50YBQau

Thursday, April 9-Youth Mental Health First Aid-8:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. ONLINE
Pre-work is required to attend the virtual instructor-led session.
Registration:
https://ow.ly/Uiuz50YBQap

Wednesday, April 15-Neurodivergence and Substance Use-12:00 noon to 1:00 p.m.
https://ow.ly/RAnx50YBQal

Thursday, April 16-Adult Mental Health First Aid-8:30 - 3:00pm. ONLINE
Pre-work is required to be completed to attend the virtual instructor-led session.
Registration:
https://ow.ly/yawc50YBQaA

Wednesday, April 22- Adult Mental Health First Aid-8:30 - 3:00pm. ONLINE
Pre-work is required to be completed to attend the virtual instructor-led session.
Registration:
https://ow.ly/Zki950YBQax

MAY 2026

Wednesday, May 6-Fentanyl Awareness and Naloxone-12:00 noon-1:00 p.m.
https://ow.ly/m4Qs50YBQam

Tuesday, May 12-Youth Mental Health First Aid-8:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. ONLINE
Pre-work is required to attend the virtual instructor-led session.
Registration Link:
https://ow.ly/mbKE50YBQaq

Wednesday, May 13-Adult Mental Health First Aid-8:30 a.m. - 3:00 pm. ONLINE
Pre-work is required to be completed to attend the virtual instructor-led session.
Registration:
https://ow.ly/ou2y50YBQas

Sabado, 16 de Mayo-Primeros Auxilios Para La Salud Mental de los Jovenes
8:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. EN LINEA-POR INTERNET
Pre-trabajo: Aprendizaje online a ritmo propio - aproximadamente 2 horas
Registración:
https://ow.ly/VWVf50YBQao

Tuesday, May 19-Adult Mental Health First Aid-8:30 - 3:00 pm. ONLINE
Pre-work is required to be completed to attend the virtual instructor-led session.
Registration:
https://ow.ly/T1a150YBQay

Wed., May 20-988 Su***de and Crisis Lifeline: Information and Updates-12:00 to 1:00 p.m.
https://ow.ly/1Hum50YBQaj

Saturday, May 30-Adult Mental Health First Aid – 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. IN-PERSON
DeSoto Public Library, 211 E. Pleasant Run Rd., Suite C, DeSoto Texas 75115
Register in person or by phone: 972-230-9661

JUNE 2026

Wednesday, June 3-Most Common Substances and Trends-12:00 noon-1:00 p.m.
https://ow.ly/G3hi50YBQaz

Wednesday, June 17-Su***de Prevention Basics-12:00 noon to 1:00 p.m.
https://ow.ly/8kPO50YBQaw

Learn common Signs and Symptoms and Basic steps to help someone having Suicidal thoughts and behaviors.

03/30/2026

Mental Health First Aid Classes at APAA
Kim Samples and Issac Rodriguez of the North Texas Behavioral Health Authority taught Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) to the staff at the Association of Persons Affected by Addiction (APAA).
MHFA is an evidence-based training that teaches non-professionals how to assist a person experiencing a mental health crisis using de-escalation techniques, and directing the person to appropriate care.
APAA offers recovery support for people experiencing mental health, substance use, or co-occurring challenges. APAA support is 100% peer-centered and peer-led.

03/26/2026

North Texas Behavioral Health Authority (NTBHA) participated in a resource fair hosted by Adult Protective Services (APS). NTBHA staff had the opportunity to engage with APS case workers, supervisors, and management across the DFW District, sharing information about available services and the referral process for APS clients. The event also provided a valuable platform to strengthen partnerships, network, and collaborate with organizations serving shared populations. The DFW District/Region 3 serves a total of 19 counties, including the six counties in the NTBHA region: Dallas, Ellis, Hunt, Kaufman, Navarro and Rockwall Counties.