History of Tropical Texas Behavioral Health
In 1967, House Bill 3 passed the Texas Legislature, creating the community mental health and intellectual and developmental disability system. The Bill mandated a continuum of services for individuals with mental illness and intellectual and developmental disabilities, allowing for effective alternatives to treatment in state facilities.
Tropical Texas Behavioral Health — originally called Hidalgo County Mental Health & Mental Retardation Center, then Tropical Texas Center for Mental Health & Mental Retardation — had the distinct honor of being one of the first community mental health and intellectual and developmental disability centers in the State of Texas established under House Bill 3.
The Center began as a small operation. Services commenced in the basement of Grandview Hospital in Edinburg. In the summer of 1967, with only six staff members and an enormous agenda for the citizens of the Lower Rio Grande Valley of Texas, the Center opened its doors. By the third year of operation, things started to change and improve — staff was increased and new programs were developed.
Our Mission
TTBH improves the lives of people with behavioral health needs through the efficient and effective provision of quality services delivered with respect, dignity, cultural sensitivity, and a focus on recovery.
Our Vision
Tropical Texas Behavioral Health continues its commitment to excellence and will be an innovative provider of comprehensive and compassionate recovery-oriented services to individuals with behavioral health needs. We will treat all stakeholders with honesty, fairness, and respect.