FORT WORTH, Texas — Texas Health Resources is expanding access to mental health care with the recent launch of a faith-based outpatient behavioral health program that integrates clinical treatment with spiritual support.

The program, first begun at Texas Health Behavioral Health Center Alliance in north Fort Worth, has now expanded to a second location, Texas Health Behavioral Health Center Rockwall. The program is designed for adults seeking evidence-based mental health care in an environment that also honors their faith and values.

“This program combines proven therapeutic approaches with a faith perspective that many patients already rely on during difficult times,” said Ken Jones, Psy.D., LCSW-S, behavioral health clinical officer at Texas Health. “It gives people a space to explore not only their mental health challenges but also the deeper questions about purpose, meaning and belief that often accompany them.”

Bridging a gap in care

The intensive outpatient program was developed to address what behavioral health specialists see as a gap in traditional mental health services — particularly for patients who turn first to faith leaders during times of struggle.

Research shows many individuals often seek support from clergy before connecting with a licensed mental health provider. A survey from the American Psychiatric Association found that while 60% of adults say faith or spirituality supports their well-being, only about half of those in religious communities say mental health is discussed openly and without stigma.

 The new program helps bridge that gap.

“Faith and mental health have often been treated as separate conversations,” Jones said. “This approach enables us to bring them together in a clinically appropriate way.”

The program is offered in a group setting and uses established methods such as cognitive behavioral therapy to treat patients facing anxiety, depression, trauma or life transitions.

Licensed therapists with both clinical expertise and experience in faith-informed care guide patients in identifying and challenging harmful thought patterns — both psychological and spiritual — while building resilience and a sense of hope.

During treatment, patients can openly discuss topics such as:

• The role of faith in recovery
• Spiritual questions tied to trauma or hardship
• Belief-related thoughts that may be influenced by depression or anxiety

Open to all, rooted in understanding

While grounded in a Christian worldview, the program is open to individuals of all faiths.

“Our goal is not to exclude but to create a safe and welcoming space,” Jones said. “Patients from different backgrounds can engage in meaningful conversations, drawing from their own beliefs while receiving quality care.”

Since launching earlier this year, the program has seen growing participation and positive feedback from patients.

“We’re continuing to evolve our behavioral health programs to better meet patients where they are,” Jones said. “This is one more way we’re improving access and making care more meaningful for those we serve.”

Individuals can schedule a free behavioral health assessment online by clicking here or by calling 682-236-6023. Care teams will help determine the most appropriate level of care and match patients with available programs, including specialty offerings like the faith-based track.