Youth Crisis Outreach Teams in Texas

Youth Crisis Outreach Teams (YCOTs) are modeled after Mobile Response and Stabilization Services (MRSS), recognized by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Service Administration (SAMHSA) as an evidence-informed practice for addressing immediate and crisis-level mental health needs among children, youth, and families through a home-, community-, and team-based approach. MRSS for children, youth, and families is an intervention designed to de-escalate behavioral health crises; provide immediate, community-based intervention and stabilization; and prevent unnecessary emergency room visits or justice system involvement.

In 2024, the 88th Texas Legislature made a historic investment in children’s mental health by funding the state’s first eight YCOTs.

The 89th Texas Legislature saw the benefits of the eight initial YCOTs and increased the investment in the program from $14M to $54M for the 2026-2027 biennium. This investment allowed the program to more than double the number of service areas and prioritize delivery of YCOT resources in urban areas with the highest demand. Beginning in 2026, the Texas YCOT program will serve 56 counties, with 18 total teams.

View or download the full white paper Youth Crisis Outreach Teams (MCOTs).