Strengthening Texas’ Mental Health and Substance Use Systems
Thursday, October 8, 2026
8:30 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Thompson Conference Center at The University of Texas at Austin
2405 Robert Dedman Drive, Austin, Texas
Healthy Minds Texas invites you to join policymakers, behavioral health professionals, advocates, community leaders, and people with lived experience for the 2026 Behavioral Health Policy Summit. As Texas prepares for the 90th Legislative Session, the Summit will bring together voices from across the state to discuss practical policy solutions for strengthening mental health and substance use services.
Registration is now closed!
Conversations at this Year’s Summit
Explore strategies for strengthening Texas’ behavioral health workforce and expanding access to care, including allowing Medicaid reimbursement for counseling services provided by LMSWs, LPC Associates, and LMFT Associates.
Examine what is needed to maintain an accessible, connected, and sustainable continuum—from early intervention and treatment to peer support and long-term recovery.
Join Capitol staff for a candid and engaging lunchtime conversation about the people, priorities, and political dynamics likely to shape the upcoming legislative session.
Discuss opportunities to close gaps between prevention, crisis response, ongoing care, and recovery through programs such as the YES Waiver, the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, and behavioral health step-down services.
From the front lines to the Capitol, our members are bringing their voices—and their priorities—to the table. Hear what organizations are working on and what they’re most excited about as we head into session and let’s hear from YOU!