our story

kids do well when they can

Clarity Child Guidance Center recognizes there are underlying causes to a child’s struggle at home and school. When kids are equipped with what they need, they can be successful. This belief is key to working with children in a collaborative manner.

Our goal is to equip children with the skills and tools they need to grow up healthy, happy, and successful in life!

mission

To support children and families in their pursuit of mental wellness

vision

To ensure that every child and family that needs our services receives our services

values

compassion

Understand and care for kids unconditionally

respect

Respect kids, families, and one another

integrity

Be honorable and trustworthy in all our actions

accountability

Explain everything we are going to do and follow through

dignity

Acknowledge and value the inherit worth of everyone we work with

history

Clarity Child Guidance Center’s roots go back to 1886 when thirteen women formed an orphanage called the Protestant Home for Destitute Children. They found the children who struggled to get adopted often had mental health challenges.

By the 1960s, the San Antonio Children’s Center (as it was known then) specialized in treatment of children with behavioral and emotional disorders. Over time, the organization grew into the Southwest Mental Health Center, which was a hospital, diagnostic and treatment center, and educational training facility.

Another nonprofit leader in mental health was the Child Guidance Center of San Antonio. Established in 1956, this organization provided outpatient mental health services for children, adolescents, and families. The staff also worked with schools and other social agencies in the community.

In 2010, the Southwest Mental Health Center and the Child Guidance Center of San Antonio merged and selected a new name to reflect their shared mission: Clarity Child Guidance Center!