Texas Behavioral Health Executive Council honors Gloria Canseco and welcomes new board members

Under the soft glow of city hall lights, the Texas Behavioral Health Executive Council convened on June 24, 2025, marking a significant moment as John Balamowitz took the helm as chair for the first time. The meeting began with a roll call, acknowledging the presence of council members and the absence of Dr. Christopher Taylor, who was excused with unanimous consent.

Balamowitz opened the session with a heartfelt tribute to former chair Gloria Canseco, who played a pivotal role in establishing the Behavioral Health Executive Council as a new state agency. He praised her leadership and commitment to enhancing mental health services across Texas, emphasizing the importance of her efforts in unifying various mental health professions under one umbrella. The council adopted a resolution honoring Canseco, recognizing her dedication to public service and her significant contributions to improving access to mental health care.

As the meeting progressed, Balamowitz introduced new board members appointed by the governor, expressing optimism about their potential to advance mental health initiatives in the state. The new appointees included professionals from various fields, such as psychology, social work, and marriage and family therapy, signaling a fresh wave of leadership within the council.

A key highlight of the meeting was the announcement of the council's budget approval by the governor, which included funding for the development of a homegrown examination for mental health professionals. This initiative aims to reduce barriers to entry in the profession and enhance access to care. Balamowitz detailed the council's ongoing efforts to address concerns surrounding the existing examination processes, including a previous antitrust complaint filed with the FTC, which was ultimately withdrawn as discussions with other states progressed.

The council's decision to pursue a tailored examination reflects a broader commitment to improving the quality of mental health services in Texas. Balamowitz noted that the legislative support for this initiative indicates a strong vote of confidence in the council's direction and priorities.

As the meeting concluded, the council members expressed their collective determination to build on the foundation laid by Canseco and to continue advocating for mental health resources and accessibility across the state. The discussions underscored a renewed focus on collaboration and innovation in addressing the pressing mental health needs of Texans, leaving attendees with a sense of purpose and anticipation for the future.