Who we are
ETFI Life Skills and Counseling is a trusted behavioral health provider and life empowerment hub serving Medicaid-eligible individuals and families across Texas. As an extension of the Empower Texas Families Initiative (ETFI) nonprofit, we combine licensed therapy with wraparound support to help families not only survive—but truly thrive.
Rooted in community, our services include counseling, case management, youth mentorship, academic support, financial literacy, and emergency assistance. We work in partnership with city agencies, schools, housing authorities, and healthcare systems to reach families where they are—delivering care that’s accessible, dignified, and culturally responsive.
What makes us different? We don’t just treat symptoms—we build stability, healing, and long-term success. Whether it's a child navigating trauma, a parent rebuilding their finances, or a family in need of crisis support, ETFI is here with comprehensive solutions that uplift the whole person.
Our Vision: A Texas where every family has the mental, emotional, and financial tools needed to thrive—regardless of income or circumstance.
Our Mission: To provide equitable access to life-changing behavioral health services and life skills programming for vulnerable communities across the state.
Our Staff
FAQs
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ETFI provides comprehensive behavioral health services for children, including diagnostic evaluations, skills training and development, medication management, crisis intervention, targeted case management, and individual and group therapy. We focus on supporting children’s emotional growth, resilience, and ability to navigate challenges, fostering a healthier and brighter future. Our services are designed to involve parents or guardians, ensuring a collaborative approach that benefits the entire family.
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ETFI offers a range of behavioral health services for adults, including psychological evaluations, mental health rehabilitation to include skills training and development, psychosocial rehabilitation, medication management, crisis intervention, targeted case management, and psychotherapy. We focus on empowering individuals to manage their mental health challenges, build coping strategies, and improve their overall well-being. Our compassionate team ensures that adults receive personalized care tailored to their unique needs and goals.
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Parent or guardian involvement is integral to behavioral health services at Texas Care, including skills training and development. When a child qualifies for these services, Legal Guardians, Parent(s), and families can also participate and receive support to help improve the emotional and mental wellbeing of the child. This involvement helps parents or guardians learn strategies to reinforce their child’s progress at home and build skills that support the entire family’s well-being. Our clinicians will work with you to create a collaborative treatment approach that benefits both you and your child.
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If you're unsure whether your child needs behavioral health services, look for signs such as significant changes in mood, behavior, or academic performance, difficulty managing emotions, persistent sadness or anxiety, trouble with social interactions, or any behaviors that disrupt daily activities. If these issues are impacting their quality of life, it’s a good idea to consult with a professional for an assessment. Our team at ETFI can help determine the best course of action and provide support tailored to your child's needs.
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For your first appointment, please bring your insurance information, a valid ID, and ensure all intake documents are completed. Having these items ready helps us begin the assessment and treatment process smoothly and efficiently.
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Yes! ETFI uses a HIPAA-compliant, user-friendly electronic health record system to meet with you virtually.
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During the first appointment, you will undergo a comprehensive diagnostic evaluation. This assessment helps us understand your unique needs, strengths, and challenges. Our licensed clinicians will ask questions, gather information, and possibly use standardized tools to create a detailed profile. This initial step ensures we develop an effective, personalized treatment plan to support your mental health and well-being. We also take time to explain the process and answer any questions you may have to make you and you feel comfortable and informed.
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ETFI accepts Medicaid and Managed Care Organizations throughout Texas! Contact your local Texas Care to find out specifically which Managed Care Organizations they accept.
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ETFI focuses on working directly with medicaid funded insurances that cover our services. If you are covered by Texas Medicaid and a Managed Care Organization listed, it is of no cost to you. Contact us for private insurances and self pay rates for psychotherapy services.
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Each program has their own specific requirements to be eligible to receive services. However, if you are struggling and have never received a diagnosis, you will be fully evaluated by a Clinician to determine if you have a mental illness.



