You Matter Behavioral Health - Elvira Soto, International Leadership of Texas Charter School
Positive Climate Programs

The International Leadership of Texas Charter School’s crisis counseling team has built a trauma-informed, relationship-centered system where students have consistent access to trusted adults, early intervention, and practical coping supports. A key component of the program is the You Matter Behavioral Health therapeutic sessions, which are offered to students at no charge. These sessions increase access to timely mental health care and help students develop emotional regulation and problem-solving skills. The program also provides parent workshops that equip families to recognize warning signs and respond effectively to concerns such as anxiety, depression, bullying, stress, and conflict.

As more students build coping skills and trust with supportive adults, campuses have experienced fewer escalations, stronger student-staff relationships, and a calmer learning environment. Parent workshops strengthen the home-school partnership by helping caregivers recognize warning signs, respond effectively to bullying and mental health concerns, and support help-seeking in a trauma-informed way. Coordinated implementation by counseling teams and administration ensures consistent, supportive practices across campuses. Overall, students report feeling more supported and connected; staff have clearer pathways to respond, and the campus culture is more respectful, regulated, and learning focused.