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Understanding Depression in Teens. A Guide for Families. 

John Swanson, MD, Director of Behavioral Health and Child and Adolescent Psychiatrist   
Heather Hart Gause, LCSW-S, Associate Director of Behavioral Health and Behavioral Health Consultant 
May 18, 2026

May is Mental Health Awareness Month, an important time to talk about one of the most common challenges facing families today: depression in teens. While adolescence is naturally a period of change, depression is more than just “moodiness”—it is a treatable medical condition that can affect every aspect of a young person’s life. 

Why This Matters to You 

Depression impacts not only teens, but also their families, friendships, and overall wellbeing. Addressing mental health early can improve school performance, strengthen relationships, and prevent long-term health complications. Most importantly, early intervention works. Recognizing the signs and seeking support can provide relief and lead to a healthier, happier future as they navigate adulthood.

Key Facts Every Parent and Teen Should Know 

  • It is common: Roughly 1 in 7 adolescents experience a major depressive episode. 
  • It looks different in teens: Unlike adults who may appear sad, teens experiencing depression often appear irritable, frustrated, or angry. 
  • It is physical: Depression can cause unexplained headaches, stomachaches, and extreme fatigue. 

Practical Tips for Supporting Your Teen 

  • Validate, Don’t Fix 
    Sometimes, a teen simply needs to feel heard. Instead of offering immediate solutions, try saying, “I can see you’re going through a lot.” I’m here for you.” 
  • Encourage Small Wins 
    Focus on basic self-care routines such as a 10-minute walk, a consistent sleep schedule, or eating a balanced meal. Small habits can make a meaningful difference. 
  • Monitor Tech Usage 
    Social media can sometimes worsen feelings of isolation or inadequacy. Encourage “digital breaks” where the whole family puts phones away and reconnects in person.  

Common Misconceptions 

  • Myth: “It’s just a phase.”  
    Reality: Depression is a clinical condition that often requires professional support to treat and manage.
  • Myth: “Asking about it makes it worse.”
    Reality: Talking openly about emotions or thoughts of self-harm can reduce risk by helping teens feel safe, supported, and understood. 
  • Myth: “They are just being lazy.”  
    Reality: Depression drains physical energy and motivation. What looks like laziness is often a symptom of the illness. 

When to Take Action 

It may be time to reach out to a healthcare provider if you notice these behaviors lasting more than two weeks: 

  1. Withdrawal: Quitting sports, hobbies, or avoiding friends. 
  2. Sleep Changes: Sleeping all day or being unable to fall asleep at night. 
  3. Academic Drops: A sudden, significant change in grades or school attendance. 
  4. Self-Harm: Any talk of “not wanting to be here” or signs of physical self-injury. 

Teens Are Navigating a Different World 

Today’s teenagers are growing up during a time of constant change and stress. Many experienced increased isolation during the COVID-19 pandemic, and social media and technology now play a larger role in daily life than ever before. While technology can help teens stay connected, they can also create pressure, comparison, and feelings of loneliness. 

Many young people are also aware of challenges happening around them, from school safety concerns to financial stress and difficult news online. For teens who have experienced trauma or instability, these stressors can feel even heavier. Sometimes what looks like irritability, withdrawal, or “acting out” is actually a sign that a teen needs support and connection. 

The good news is that positive relationships make a difference. Spending time together, listening without judgment, encouraging healthy routines, and helping teens feel supported can strengthen emotional well-being and remind them they are not alone. 

How to Start the Conversation with a Provider 

You do not need to have all the answers before asking for help. A simple conversation with your primary care provider can be the first step. You can say: 

“I’ve noticed some changes in my teen’s mood lately and I’m concerned. Can we schedule with a Behavioral Health Consultant?” 

At CommUnityCare Health Centers, integrated behavioral health services are available within primary care settings. Behavioral Health Consultants can help teens and families develop coping skills and navigate stressors, while psychiatric providers can assist with medication management when appropriate. These care team members work alongside primary care providers to support patients experiencing depression symptoms and other behavioral health concerns with compassion and expert care. 

If you or a loved one are in immediate distress, call or text 988 for the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, available 24/7. 

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CommUnityCare Health Centers Earns Advocacy Center of Excellence Silver Status from NACHC 

CommUnityCare Health Centers has been recognized as an Advocacy Center of Excellence (ACE) at the Silver level by the National Association of Community Health Centers, highlighting the organization’s strong commitment to advancing community health advocacy and strengthening access to care across Central Texas. 

The ACE program recognizes Community Health Centers nationwide that demonstrate excellence in advocacy efforts that support and protect access to affordable, high-quality healthcare. Organizations earning ACE designation are recognized for building sustainable advocacy programs that amplify the voices of Community Health Centers and the patients and communities they serve. 

“Advocacy is not separate from healthcare delivery — it is part of how we protect access to care for the patients and communities we serve,” said Tara A. Trower, Deputy CEO and Chief Strategy Officer of CommUnityCareHealth Centers. “Earning Silver Advocacy Center of Excellence recognition in our first year participating reflects the deep commitment of our staff, leadership, and board to advancing policies that strengthen community health centers and improve health outcomes across Central Texas. At a time when safety-net systems are under increasing pressure, advocacy matters more than ever.” 

Community Health Centers play a critical role in increasing access to primary care, behavioral health, women’s health, dental care, and other essential services for underserved and historically marginalized communities. Through advocacy efforts, health centers help ensure patients continue to have access to affordable, comprehensive care close to home. 

CommUnityCare Health Centers joins Community Health Centers across the country recognized through the ACE program for leadership and commitment to advocacy excellence. The recognition is valid through April 30, 2028.

For NACHC ACE Health Center Listings, click here. 

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Keeping Your Kids Healthy. What Parents Should Know About Vaccines. 

Tara Greendyk, MD, FAAP, Director of Child and Adolescent Health 
May 8, 2026

Taking care of kids is not easy. From knowing when to start solid foods to figuring out what to do when your child has a fever, parents are constantly making choices to keep their children healthy and safe.  

At CommUnityCare Health Centers, we’re here to offer support and guidance through those choices and to be a trusted partner for your family. 

It’s Okay to Have Questions 

We know that decisions around immunizations are a big part of keeping children healthy and on track to being their best selves. At the same time, there’s a lot of information out there about vaccines—on the news, online, and across social media—and it can be difficult to know what’s accurate and who to trust. If you’re feeling unsure or have questions, you’re not alone. That’s exactly where we come in. 

Let’s Walk Through What to Expect 

At CommUnityCare Health Centers, we follow the immunization schedule recommended by the American Academy of Pediatrics. Children will still get common illnesses, but many vaccine-preventable diseases can be serious and are not worth the risk.  

Vaccines can cause mild side effects like soreness or a low-grade fever, but these usually go away quickly. Extensive research continues to show that vaccines are safe and effective, and they are carefully monitored to ensure they meet high safety standards. You may also come across questions or concerns about vaccines and conditions such as autism. It’s understandable to want clear answers, especially when it comes to your child. Research has consistently found no link between vaccines and autism. 

We’re here to talk through your questions, hear your concerns, and help you feel confident in the decisions you’re making for your child. 

Why Vaccines Matter

Studies show that vaccines are one of the main reasons many serious childhood diseases are now rare. Polio is a powerful example. Thanks to widespread vaccination, polio was eliminated in the United States decades ago. Before a vaccine was developed in 1955, it was a disease that every parent feared. It mostly affected children, causing meningitis, paralysis, and sometimes death. 

While some vaccines protect against diseases we rarely see anymore, others protect against illnesses that are still affecting communities today. On May 7, 2026, Austin Public Health reported a measles case in Travis County, serving as an important reminder that vaccine-preventable diseases still exist and can spread when vaccination rates decline. 

Measles is highly contagious and can lead to complications like pneumonia or meningitis. The most effective way to protect against measles is through the measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine. Two doses are recommended for full protection.  

Measles symptoms usually appear 7 to 14 days after exposure to the virus. Common symptoms include fever, cough, rash, red or watery eyes, runny nose, and small white spots inside the mouth or throat. 

If you believe you may have been exposed to measles or are experiencing symptoms, contact your healthcare provider before visiting a clinic or hospital and stay home to help prevent spreading the virus to others. 

Protecting children from these illnesses doesn’t just happen one family at a time, it depends on the health of the whole community. When most people are vaccinated, it helps protect those who are most vulnerable, including babies who are too young to be fully vaccinated. This is what we call herd immunity. 

We’re in this together. Our team is here to listen, support your decisions, and partner with you in caring for your child. Talk with your pediatric provider about any concerns at your next visit. 

Resources

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CommUnityCare Health Centers Names Dr. Karen Welch as Vice President of Health Informatics 

CommUnityCare Health Centers is excited to announce the promotion of Dr. Karen Welch, MD, to Vice President of Health Informatics (VPHI), marking a significant step in strengthening system-wide integration of clinical care, technology, and data-driven innovation. 

In her new role, Dr. Welch will serve as the health informatics executive for the health system, with oversight of enterprise strategy, governance, and performance at the intersection of clinical care, digital technology, analytics, and operational transformation. She will lead the clinical informatics function across ambulatory, inpatient, specialty, and population health settings, ensuring that technology investments and digital innovation support quality, access, equity, workforce well-being, and value-based care. 

The announcement follows the recent unification of the CommUnityCare Health Centers and Central Health Epic teams into a single, integrated department designed to support a more coordinated, system-wide approach to Epic and clinical technology. 

“I’ve always loved the intersection of technology and care — how do we use it to help us all flourish? When health data is captured well and used thoughtfully, it becomes one of our most powerful tools for reducing disparities, supporting our teams, and building healthier communities,” said Dr. Karen Welch. 

Dr. Welch has been with CommUnityCare Health Centers since 2017 and most recently served as Director of Clinical Informatics. In that role, she led optimization of Epic and integrated clinical technologies to enhance patient care and population health outcomes, including the successful pilot and rollout of ambient documentation tools. 

Previously, as Director of Primary Care, she served as the ambulatory lead for the organization’s initial Epic implementation, guiding the transition from multiple legacy systems. She also played a key role in the rapid expansion of telehealth services at the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic and contributed to the development and optimization of the organization’s long-term care model strategy. 

A board-certified physician in Family Medicine and Clinical Informatics, Dr. Welch continues to practice clinically and is deeply committed to improving quality outcomes and the clinician experience. Her leadership has helped drive coordinated efforts across clinical informatics, Epic, and quality improvement teams, contributing to national recognition, including consecutive Epic Pinnacle Awards for user experience and the HRSA Silver Quality Badge. 

Dr. Welch earned her undergraduate degree in mechanical engineering from The University of Texas at Austin and her medical degree from the University of Texas Medical Branch in Galveston, where she also completed her family medicine residency. She has a longstanding commitment to medical education, having served as faculty at UTMB and currently as Affiliate Faculty at Dell Medical School at The University of Texas at Austin. 

Outside of her professional work, Dr. Welch enjoys spending time with her family, being outdoors, and working on creative projects, including renovating a salvaged caboose into a tiny home in the Texas Hill Country. 

Her appointment reflects CommUnityCare Health Centers’ continued commitment to leveraging innovation and technology to advance high-quality, equitable care for the communities it serves.

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Get Ready for Back to School with CommUnityCare Health Centers  

As families across Central Texas prepare for the 2026-2027 school year, CommUnityCare Health Centers continues its dedicated work to make it easier for students to start the year healthy and ready to learn. In honor of National Health Center Week (August 2–8), CommUnityCare Health Centers will host a series of back-to-school events that combine vaccine clinics, opportunities to establish care, and backpack and school supply giveaways for families.  

National Health Center Week highlights the essential role community health centers play in expanding access to high-quality, affordable care. Through these back-to-school events, CommUnityCare Health Centers continues its commitment to serving low-income, uninsured and underinsured families. These events are designed to meet families where they are, whether at school districts, in neighborhoods, or at their health centers, to help remove common barriers to care. Event details vary, see below for full details. 

 

Back to School Events 

Event Flyer: ENGLISH | SPANISH  

🎒 Bastrop ISD Back-to-School Event  

When: July 28, 2026 | 5:00 p.m. – 7:30 p.m. 

Where: Cedar Creek High School | 793 Union Chapel Rd., Cedar Creek, TX 78612 

What: Back-to-school efforts will kick off in partnership with Bastrop ISD during the district’s annual back-to-school event. Families can stop by the CommUnityCare Health Centers booth to receive:  

  • No Cost Backpacks and School Supplies (While Supplies Last. First-Come, First-Served) 
  • Medical, Dental, and Eligibility Appointment Scheduling 
  • Community Resources 

💉 Bastrop Health Center Vaccine Clinic  

When: Saturday, August 1, 2026 | 8:00 a.m.–12:00 p.m. 

Where: Bastrop Health Center 

What: CommUnityCare Health Centers will be offering no-cost children’s immunizations. An appointment is REQUIRED: CLICK HERE 

💉🎒 New This Year: Weekday Vaccine Appointments  

When: August 3-7, 2026 | 8:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m. 

Where: Carousel Pediatrics: North Lamar  

What: To better support families during the busy back-to-school season, CommUnityCare Health Centers is now offering dedicated weekday vaccine appointments. This week-long event helps improve access, reduce wait times, and gives families a chance to establish care for their children. Appointments are limited. An appointment is REQUIRED: CLICK HERE 

Families who complete their appointment will receive: 

  • Required Vaccines 
  • A Backpack and School Supplies (While Supplies Last) 

🎒 Del Valle ISD Back-To-School Event  

When: August 5, 2026 | 5:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m. 

Where: Del Valle High School | 5201 Ross Rd., Del Valle, TX 78617 

What: CommUnityCare Health Centers is proud to partner with Del Valle ISD for the first time, where it will join the district for its annual back-to-school event. Families can stop by the CommUnityCare Health Centers booth to receive: 

  • No Cost School Supplies. (While Supplies Last. First-Come, First-Served) 
  • Medical, Dental, and Eligibility Appointment Scheduling 
  • Community Resources 

💉 Del Valle Health Center Vaccine Clinic  

When: Saturday, August 8, 2026 | 8:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. 

Where: Del Valle Health Center 

What: CommUnityCare Health Centers will be offering no-cost children’s immunizations. An appointment is REQUIRED: CLICK HERE

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Skip the Phone Call. Schedule Your Visit Online in Minutes. 

Camille Evans, Program Manager, Telehealth Operations 
April 30, 2026

Finding time to schedule a doctor’s appointment isn’t always easy, especially when you’re balancing work, family, and everything in between. 

With MyChart Direct Scheduling, you can book a visit anytime—day or night—without calling the clinic. 

It’s fast. It’s easy. And you stay in control of your care. 

What Is Direct Scheduling? 

Direct Scheduling lets you choose and book your appointment through your online MyChart account. 

That means you can: 

  • Schedule an appointment when its most convenient for you 
  • See available appointments in real time 
  • Schedule from your phone, tablet, or computer 
  • No waiting on hold. No back-and-forth calls.

How It Works 

Getting started is quick and easy!  

After logging into your MyChart account, select the option to schedule an appointment from the home screen. From there, you’ll choose the type of visit you need—such as a check-up, follow-up, or sick visit—and select your provider. 

You may be able to schedule with your regular provider or choose the next available appointment. Once you select a date and time that fits your schedule, simply review the details and confirm your visit. You’ll receive a confirmationthrough MyChart so you know everything is set. 

Who Can Use It 

Direct Scheduling is available for established patients of CommUnityCare Health Centers who have an active MyChart account.  

While many visit types can be scheduled online, some appointments may still need to be scheduled by phone. If you don’t see the option you need, care teams at CommUnityCare Health Centers are always ready to help. 

New to MyChart? 

MyChart is a free and secure way to manage your health in one place. You can schedule appointments, view test results, message your care team, and keep track of your health information. 

If you don’t have a MyChart account yet, sign up today! To get started, CLICK HERE.   

Making Care Easier 

At CommUnityCare Health Centers, the goal is to make care more accessible and easier to navigate for Central Texas families. Direct Scheduling is one more way to support that, giving you more flexibility and control over how you receive care. 

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Important Notice: Recall of TRUE METRIX Blood Glucose Meters 

Published April 30, 2026

CommUnityCare Health Centers is sharing an important update to help keep you safe and informed about your diabetes care. 

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has issued a Class I recall, the most serious type, for all TRUE METRIX blood glucose meters due to a software issue that may affect how results are displayed.  

TRUE METRIX meters may show an “E-5” error message. According to the FDA, this message can mean two different things: 

  • Blood sugar is extremely high (over 600 mg/dL), or  
  • There is a problem with the test strip or device 

Because of this, patients may delay care or treat themselves incorrectly, which can lead to serious health risks. 

In some cases, this confusion has been linked to serious outcomes, including dehydration, loss of consciousness, and other complications when treatment is delayed or incorrect. 

What you should do 

You can continue using your TRUE METRIX meter for now. However, if you have access to another blood glucose meter, it is recommended that you use that instead when possible. For your safety, do not change your insulin or other diabetes medications based only on an “E-5” error message. 

Trividia Health is offering free replacements for certain TRUE METRIX® blood glucose meters. You should contact Trividia Health to verify if your meter is affected and to get a replacement. 

How to Contact for Replacement:

If you have an E-5 error and feel unwell: 

  • Call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room if symptoms are severe 
  • Contact your provider right away, or  
  • Call the CommUnityCare Patient Navigation Center at 512-978-9015 

Resources:  

FDA: Blood Glucose Monitor Recall: Trividia Health Issues Correction for TRUE METRIX Blood Glucose Monitoring Systems 

FDA: Risks of Using TRUE METRIX Blood Glucose Monitoring Systems by Trividia Health: FDA Safety Communication 

URGENT: MEDICAL DEVICE CORRECTION – UPDATED Trividia Health Correction for TRUE METRIX Blood Glucose Monitoring Systems (May 1, 2026)

 

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CommUnityCare Health Centers Names Dr. Michael Stefanowicz as Chief Health Officer 

CommUnityCare Health Centers is pleased to announce the appointment of Dr. Michael Stefanowicz as its new Chief Health Officer (CHO), a role designed to further integrate clinical care, quality, safety, and population health across the organization. 

The appointment follows a national search and reflects the continued evolution of CommUnityCare Health Centers as it grows in scale and complexity, with an increased focus on delivering coordinated, high-quality care to the communities it serves. 

“Throughout the search, we prioritized a leader who could operate at the intersection of clinical excellence and system execution—someone capable of translating strategy into day-to-day practice across a large, multidisciplinary organization and within our broader working relationship with Central Health,” said Chief Executive Officer Dr. Nicholas Yagoda. “Dr. Stefanowicz has already demonstrated this ability, and we couldn’t be more confident in his leadership.” 

Dr. Stefanowicz most recently served as Associate Chief Medical Officer, where he led complex, system-level initiatives and demonstrated a strong ability to align clinical strategy with operational execution. His leadership has been especially impactful in high-priority areas, including care for patients living with HIV, individuals experiencing homelessness, and those in recovery. 

A fellowship-trained HIV specialist and board-certified family medicine physician, Dr. Stefanowicz has dedicated his career to advancing care for underserved populations. His experience in nontraditional care settings underscores his commitment to innovation, interdisciplinary collaboration, and building trust with patients and communities. 

As Chief Health Officer, Dr. Stefanowicz will focus on strengthening clinical quality, supporting care teams, and advancing an integrated model of care that improves access, outcomes, and patient experience across the system. 

“I am humbled and profoundly appreciative of the trust that our leaders and colleagues have vested in me. As it has been for many of our patients and our team members alike, I have called CommUnityCare home for some time now, and I am honored to partner in our growth and successes together in this next chapter” said Dr. Stefanowicz. “I am grateful to the many friends, mentors, colleagues and patients who have shaped me into the physician leader I am today and for teaching me what it truly means to place the patient at the center of our work. Finally, my deepest gratitude goes out to the countless frontline healthcare workers who lead with love each and every day.” 

The organization also recognizes Dr. Susan Dubois for her leadership as Interim Chief Medical Officer during a pivotal period. Her steady guidance and continued contributions over the last 18 months have helped support clinical teams and ensure continuity of care. 

Dr. Stefanowicz’s appointment marks an important step forward as CommUnityCare Health Centers continues to enhance coordination across clinical services and expand its impact in Central Texas communities. 

 

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Central Health Opens Hancock Phase 1, Bringing Comprehensive Care to the Heart of Austin 

April 24, 2026

AUSTIN, Texas — Central Health and CommUnityCare Health Centers today opened the doors of Central Health Hancock to patients, marking a significant milestone in its ongoing efforts to expand access to high-quality, coordinated care for Travis County.  

Located at 1000 E. 41st St. at the Hancock Center—the former site of Austin’s flagship Sears store—the Phase 1 opening of the $150 million facility brings together the David Powell Health Center, pharmacy services, and lab services through Quest Diagnostics, offering patients a one-stop care experience in Central Austin for the first time.  

The Central Health system—which includes CommUnityCare Health Centers and Sendero Health Plans—designed the campus to bring coordinated, whole-person care together under one roof.  

“This is a major milestone for our system and an important step forward for the future of care in Travis County,” said Dr. Pat Lee, president and CEO of Central Health. “Hancock represents exactly where the Central Health system is headed: bringing services closer together, making care more connected and convenient, and creating a better experience for the patients we serve. As we open our doors, we are especially proud to welcome patients to the new home of the David Powell Health Center, where they will continue to receive the compassionate, high-quality care they deserve. We are so proud to open our doors and grateful to the partners, elected leaders, and taxpayers who helped make this remarkable project possible.”  

A New Home for a Decades-Long Legacy 

Among the services now operating at Central Health Hancock is the CommUnityCare David Powell Health Center, one of the most recognized HIV care clinics in Central Texas. Founded in 1990 and named after HIV/AIDS advocate David Powell, the clinic has provided comprehensive medical care and support services to thousands of patients living with HIV for more than three decades.  

The relocation to Central Health Hancock allows the CommUnityCare David Powell Health Center to continue its legacy of care in a modernized, expanded environment—one designed to meet the growing needs of patients while remaining rooted in the values of dignity, access, and community. Co-locating the clinic within a larger health care campus also helps reduce the stigma associated with HIV care, ensuring patients are met with respect at every step of their care journey.  

“Central to everything that we do as a system, as practitioners, is upholding the dignity of our patients, ensuring their full, whole-person needs are addressed,” said Dr. Nicholas Yagoda, CommUnityCare Health Centers CEO and executive vice president of ambulatory services at Central Health. “This is one of the greatest realizations of that promise—primary care, specialty care, behavioral health, dentistry, acute walk-in clinics, laboratory services, diagnostic services, all woven together so that this is not a one-size-fits-all. This is a one-size-fits-one, and each individual will have their unique experience when they walk through these doors.” 

One-Stop Care for Travis County Residents 

Phase 1 services now available at Central Health Hancock include: 

  • David Powell Health Center — HIV treatment and prevention services, relocating from its longtime location to a modernized clinical environment. 
  • Pharmacy services — On-site CommUnityCare pharmacy serving patients across the Central Health system. 
  • Lab services — Quest Diagnostics on-site, providing convenient diagnostic services for patients.  

 CommUnityCare Convenient Care services, currently operating at the Central Health Capital Plaza Specialty Clinic, are set to begin services by mid-May.  

A Building With History, Reimagined for the Future 

The Central Health Hancock site transforms the former Sears department store—a fixture of the Central Austin community since it opened in 1963—into a health care hub with 90,000 square feet of clinical space as part of a nearly 200,000-square-foot campus. Construction began in fall 2024 and represents a $150 million investment for the Central Health system, approved by the Central Health Board of Managers in fiscal year 2021.  

The project was financed through certificates of obligation—a form of long-term municipal debt—allowing Central Health to spread costs over time and preserve reserves for patient care. Owning the property also saves taxpayer dollars down the road, avoiding the ongoing expense of leasing comparable space. This approach reflects Central Health’s commitment to fiscal stewardship and maximizing the value of every public dollar.   

Looking Ahead: Phase 2 and the Full Hancock Opening 

Phase 1 represents the first step in a broader transformation of the Central Health Hancock facility. When construction on the full facility is complete—anticipated in 2027—the nearly 200,000-square-footsite will become the flagship headquarters of the Central Health system, housing: 

  • Expanded primary and specialty care services 
  • Administrative offices for Central Health, CommUnityCare Health Centers, and Sendero Health Plans 
  • Central Health Board of Managers meeting space and community rooms 
  • Additional clinical capacity to reduce wait times and serve patients 

At completion, Central Health Hancock will be the largest facility in the Central Health system, designed to serve as both a clinical hub and the operational heart of a unified, patient-centered system of care.  

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About CommUnityCare Health Centers 

Central Texas Community Health Centers, dba CommUnityCare is a 501.c.3 tax-exempt charitable corporation operating a network of 30+ federally qualified health centers (FQHCs) in Central Texas. Our mission is to strengthen the health and well-being of the communities we serve. The services at CommUnityCare Health Centers are available regardless of insurance status or household income. For more information, please visit https://communitycaretx.org. 

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About Central Health  

Central Health is the hospital district serving Travis County. Created by voters in 2004, Central Health plans, pays for, and provides care for residents with low income, ensuring care is free or highly affordable for those who need it most. Together with CommUnityCare Health Centers and Sendero Health Plans, the Central Health system forms a unified, publicly accountable health system focused on expanding access, reducing wait times, and delivering measurable value for patients and taxpayers across Central Texas. 

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Little Wins, Big Confidence. The Power of Occupational Therapy.

Allyson Basse, MSOT, OTR, Occupational Therapist  
April 23, 2026

Kids are always learning through play, movement, and everyday routines. But when small tasks start to feel big, it can impact a child’s confidence and a family’s daily routine. 

That’s where Occupational Therapy (OT) can help. 

At CommUnityCare Health Centers, occupational therapists support children in building the skills they need to take on everyday tasks with confidence, at home, at school, and out and about in the community. From infancy through young adulthood, our teams develop individualized treatment plans to target deficits and overcome challenges to help children grow and thrive.  

April is Occupational Therapy Month, a time to recognize the important role these everyday skills play in helping children thrive. 

Does my child need Occupational Therapy? 

Every child develops at their own pace. But if daily routines feel harder than they should, extra support can make a big difference. Occupational Therapy (OT) benefits children who struggle with the skills and confidence that they need to be independent in everyday life.  

Challenges may include:  

  • Fine Motor Skills: zipping their jacket, holding a pencil/markers, or using utensils  
  • Gross Motor Skills: climbing on the playground, coordination going up stairs, or keeping up with daily routines such as bathing 
  • Processing Sensory Input: over or under responding to sounds, textures, movement, light, or clothing 
  • Executive Function Skills: managing emotions, problem-solving, or organizing thoughts 
  • Visual Motor Integration: putting together puzzles, using scissors, or playing catch 
  • Daily Self-Care Tasks: brushing teeth, getting dressed, or using the toilet  
  • Handwriting: forming letters, writing clearly, or finishing schoolwork  
  • Attention and Focus Abilities: managing distractions at school, following directions (like set the table), or ability to move from one activity to the next 

If some of these challenges sound familiar, you’re not alone. Many families have similar concerns, and support is available. 

Pictured: Seven-year-old Navaeh Mondragon throws and catches a balloon during her occupational therapy visit with Crystal Wagner, Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant.

Pictured: Navaeh practices her fine motor skills by using utensils to cut Play-Doh during her OT session at the CommUnityCare Carousel Pediatrics Springdale Clinic.

Everyday Activities That Support Your Child’s Development 

If your child seems to have lots of energy or is always on the move, “heavy work” activities can help them feel calmer and more focused. Heavy work uses your child’s muscles and joints to help their body feel more organized and aware of where they are in their surrounding space. 

The best part? You can build it into your everyday routine, no special equipment needed. 

Try a few of these “heavy work” activities at home: 

  • Push or pull a laundry basket or wagon  
  • Carry couch cushions to build a fort or obstacle course  
  • Drink a thick smoothie through a straw 
  • Blow bubbles in the bath  
  • Scoop and pour rice, beans, or sand in a sensory bin  
  • Rip cardboard or hole punch paper to make confetti 
  • Help water plants at home or in a community garden  
  • Join a free hands-on kids workshop at a local store (ex. Home Depot) 
  • Climb, jump, and play at your neighborhood park (ex. Alliance Children’s Garden) 

Navaeh’s Story: How Occupational Therapy Is Helping Her Thrive 

Inside the CommUnityCare Carousel Springdale Pediatrics Clinic, seven-year-old Navaeh Mondragon works through a series of small but meaningful movements with her occupational therapy care team. Each stretch, each attempt, each moment of focus represents progress, progress that is building her confidence and helping her navigate everyday life. 

For her mother, Maria Magdalena Mondragon, those moments mean everything. 

“From the very first day she was born, she has been a Carousel Pediatrics patient. They have always taken wonderful care of us. They care about Navaeh very much,” said Maria Mondragon. “She already knows where to go, she knows which room to go to. She feels at home here.” 

Like many parents, Maria wants her daughter to grow with independence and confidence. At a very young age, she noticed Navaeh was experiencing developmental delays, tasks that required extra patience, guidance, and support. Navaeh was later diagnosed with autism. Seeking answers and support, Maria turned to her CommUnityCare pediatric care team, who connected Navaeh to a range of therapy services, including occupational, physical, and speech therapy. 

Through occupational therapy, Navaeh is developing essential skills for daily life, strengthening coordination, improving mobility, and building the confidence to engage more fully with the world around her. 

Maria sees that impact every day. 

“It has helped her so much. It has helped her tremendously with socialization. When she started, she couldn’t be around anyone in a public setting. Because of her autism, she didn’t want to be in public. She cried a lot,” Maria shared. “But she has made so many advancements. I can take her to stores and to the park now. She socializes more with other kids. She wants to try new food. Before, her food options were very limited. She also recognizes shapes and colors now.” 

Little by little, Navaeh is gaining new abilities. The changes may seem small to others, but to her family, they represent meaningful milestones, signs of growth, resilience, and possibility. 

Equally important is the support Maria receives as a parent. Providers take time to explain what Navaeh is working on, answer questions, and ensure Maria feels confident continuing that support at home. 

“I am very happy with all the services they have provided for my daughter and me. We are treated very well. My experience has been phenomenal,” Maria said. 

Pictured: Navaeh practices daily self-care exercises by brushing her hair during her OT session.

Pictured: Navaeh practices identifying and expressing emotions during her OT session.

You Don’t Have to Figure It Out Alone 

If any of these struggles sound familiar, the CommUnityCare Occupational Therapy team is available to help! The dedicated team is here to support your family every step of the way. If you are experiencing any concerns, speak to your pediatrician today and request an evaluation with one of our passionate occupational therapists. We can’t wait to help your child build skills, confidence, and independence over time.