On June 15, 2025, the Texas Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC) announced an ambitious expansion of mental health services across the state through the new TeleHealth Texas initiative. This groundbreaking program aims to enhance access to mental health care for Texans in rural and underserved communities by offering telehealth services, allowing individuals to access care remotely.
Addressing Texas’ Mental Health Crisis
Mental health issues have become an increasingly urgent concern in Texas, with recent studies showing that nearly 1 in 5 Texans suffers from a mental health condition. However, access to care is severely limited in rural areas, where there is often a shortage of licensed mental health professionals. TeleHealth Texas seeks to bridge this gap by providing Texans with virtual access to mental health services such as therapy, counseling, and psychiatric consultations.
According to a 2024 report from the Texas Mental Health Department, rural areas of Texas are hit hardest by a lack of mental health care options. Only 20% of rural counties in Texas have access to a licensed psychiatrist, while the demand for mental health services continues to rise. This new initiative will expand access for underserved communities by offering virtual care options, providing both immediate and long-term solutions.
Expanding Access for Vulnerable Populations
The TeleHealth Texas program is designed to provide services to all Texans, with a focus on vulnerable populations, including veterans, children, and individuals struggling with substance use disorders. By offering mental health services remotely, the program will help reduce wait times for therapy sessions and provide much-needed support for individuals who might otherwise go without care.
“TeleHealth Texas is a lifeline for many who need mental health services but can’t access them due to geographic or financial barriers,” said Alan M. Bingham, HHSC Commissioner. “This program will help reduce stigma around seeking care and allow more people to get the help they need.”
The initiative will be particularly impactful for children and adolescents who face significant mental health challenges. According to the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI), nearly 1 in 5 children in Texas struggle with mental health issues. The new program will allow parents to access counseling services for their children without the need to travel long distances.
A Model for Other States
The Texas TeleHealth initiative is poised to be a model for other states grappling with similar mental health care shortages. Texas’ commitment to expanding telehealth for mental health care reflects the state’s broader push to incorporate technology into its healthcare systems to improve access and outcomes.
While the state has made strides in expanding telemedicine for physical health care over the years, the expansion into mental health services is a vital step toward ensuring that all Texans can access affordable and timely care.
