Inaugural STISD Mental Health Conference: Paving the Way for Student Well-Being
On Friday, November 7, the South Texas Independent School District (STISD) will launch its first-ever Mental Health Conference, welcoming school counselors and mental health professionals from across the Rio Grande Valley. This significant event, themed "Paving the Way: Advancing School Mental Health Supports in South Texas," aims to equip attendees with practical tools and innovative strategies to enhance mental health support for students.
Event Details
When:
November 7, 2025
Time:
8:30 AM to 1:00 PM
Where:
South Texas ISD Central Administration Building
Teaching & Learning Center
7001 E. Expressway 83, Mercedes, TX 78570
Schedule Highlights
The conference will commence at 9:00 AM with a welcome address by Dr. Brenda De La Garza, the Executive Director for Special Programs at STISD. Following this, Hidalgo County Judge Richard Cortez will deliver the keynote presentation, focusing on the vital initiatives of the Hidalgo County Mental Health Coalition.
Engaging Learning Opportunities
Participants can look forward to a variety of informative sessions throughout the morning. A key panel discussion on Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) in school counseling will be held, offering valuable insights into effective mental health interventions. Attendees can choose from several concurrent sessions covering essential topics such as:
- Bridging Wellness Together: Family Support & Mental Health and How NAMI South Texas RGV Is Bridging the Gaps
- Healing Beyond the Classroom: Understanding Trauma in Children and Youth Experiencing Homelessness
- Enhancing Student Resilience: DBT-Informed Approaches for Reducing Self-Harm in Schools
- A Trauma-Informed Approach with Students: Fostering Connection and Regulation Through a Polyvagal Lens
- From Crisis to Continuity: Redefining School Mental Health Through Integrated Care Models
- Practical Tools from DBT: Supporting Students with Anxiety and Depression
Self-Care and Community Connections
In addition to the educational sessions, a Self-Care Lounge will be set up for attendees to rejuvenate in between sessions. The conference will also feature an exhibit hall showcasing several community partners dedicated to mental health support, including:
- Hidalgo Co. Mental Health Coalition
- HOPE Family Health Center
- PSYCH
- DHR Health Counseling and Psychiatry Center
- UTRGV
- Angels of Love
- Children’s Bereavement Center Rio Grande Valley
- Behavioral Health Solutions
- Nuestra Clinica Del Valle
- National Alliance on Mental Illness – South Texas Rio Grande Valley
- Texas Child Health Access Through Telemedicine (TCHATT)
- Palms Behavioral Health
- Empowered Counseling Services
These organizations represent a vital network of community support, providing resources that can have a positive impact on mental health services available to students.
The Importance of Mental Health in Education
The STISD Mental Health Conference is not merely an event; it is a pivotal step towards fostering a supportive environment for students’ mental health in schools across South Texas. By offering resources and a networking platform for mental health professionals, the conference addresses the growing concern for student well-being and aims to promote practical strategies for intervention.
Why Mental Health Matters
Advancements in our understanding of mental health have highlighted its profound impact on academic success and overall well-being. Schools play a crucial role in identifying mental health challenges and providing necessary support systems. Therefore, taking proactive steps toward mental health education is essential for educators and counselors alike.
For insightful resources on mental health initiatives in education, visit NAMI or Mental Health America.
Conclusion
The inaugural STISD Mental Health Conference promises to be a transformative experience for mental health professionals and educators. By gathering experts for shared learning and collaboration, STISD is taking vital steps towards ensuring the mental health needs of students are met. This event represents a shared commitment to creating a healthier future for all students in the Rio Grande Valley.
Join the movement to enhance student mental health—your participation can make a significant difference!
