West Texas Centers

01/16/2026

January IDD Spotlight

Edna Guevara has been a Direct Service Professional for West Texas Centers for the past four years. Edna's warm and caring nature makes our consumers feel valued and loved, with a sense of belonging that is vital to their well-being. Edna is a hard worker, whether she is organizing the home, providing one-on-one support, or simply lending a listening ear. Her positive attitude and infectious enthusiasm uplift the spirits of both staff and consumers alike, making our group home a warmer, more welcoming place.

01/16/2026

January ECI Spotlight

ECI Peer Nominated Employee Spotlight: Nikki Findley-Keeton, OT, is the most helpful person when it comes to strategies to help the kids with all kinds of concerns. She is always willing to take time to discuss each child and family as individuals. Nikki is very knowledgeable, whether it concerns gross or fine motor, emotional, sensory, or oral motor... Her skills are too numerous to count. She has a good attitude and is dedicated to her job. She rarely gets the recognition she deserves.

I'm amazed by how Nikki maintains her performance while taking on even more kids. Nikki always has her work done, and she is always on time with everything she does for ECI. Thank you for going Above and Beyond! ECI is lucky to have Nikki, and I appreciate all your hard work and dedication.

Nikki is amazing, beautiful, and friendly inside and out.

01/16/2026

January MH Spotlight

Maddye Sumners consistently demonstrates tireless effort and an indomitable commitment to ensuring the company mission is not only met but exceeded. Her work is distinguished by both exceptional clinical skill and genuine compassion for the consumers we serve. She is routinely the first to volunteer to provide coverage for teammates during absences, ensuring continuity of care and operational stability. In addition, Ms. Sumners has played a significant role in the training and onboarding of new case managers and MCOT staff, contributing directly to team development and service quality across the region. Her dedication to duty and mission success reflects great credit upon the Northern Region, West Texas Centers, and the broader field of Behavioral Health. Ms. Sumners exemplifies the professionalism, commitment, and service excellence that this recognition is intended to highlight.

12/30/2025

12/22/2025

Addressing Holiday Blues, Stress, and Depression — West Texas Centers 24/7 Support

The holiday season can bring joy, but it can also intensify stress and trigger depressive symptoms. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, help is available around the clock.

🌟 Overview
Holiday-related stress is common and can affect mood, sleep, and daily functioning.
Distinguishing temporary anxiety from depressive symptoms is important for seeking appropriate support.
West Texas Centers offers 24/7 crisis support to individuals and families in need.

🧭 Common Symptoms to Watch For
Prolonged sad mood, irritability, or tearfulness
Fatigue, sleep disturbances, changes in appetite
Anxiety, racing thoughts, difficulty concentrating
Loss of interest in activities once enjoyed
Feeling overwhelmed by family dynamics, finances, or obligations

🔔 When to Seek Immediate Help
Thoughts of self-harm or su***de, or any intent to harm oneself
Severe or persistent depression interfering with work, school, or home life
Intense anxiety or panic that cannot be managed with coping strategies

If you or someone you know is in immediate danger, call emergency services (911) right away.

🏥 West Texas Centers — 24/7 Support 1-800-375-4357
Available 24/7 for crisis intervention, assessment, and connection to resources
Licensed professionals trained to listen, validate, and help plan next steps
Confidential, non-judgmental, and focused on your safety and well-being

How to Reach Us
24/7 Crisis Line:1-800-3765-4357Provide
Website:https://www.westtexascenters.org — resources, contacts, and service details
Text/Chat: 988
In case of emergency, call 911 or your local emergency number

🧭 Coping and Self-Care (Professional Suggestions)
Maintain a consistent daily routine: regular meals, sleep, and moderate physical activity
Set realistic expectations for holiday activities and financial commitments
Practice brief grounding techniques (e.g., 5-4-3-2-1 sensory exercise) during high-stress moments
Limit alcohol and caffeine in the evening to improve sleep quality
Schedule brief check-ins with a trusted person or mental health professional
If planning ahead, consider brief, goal-oriented therapy or coaching for holiday planning and coping strategies

12/15/2025

December ECI Spotlight

Sandra Lopez, EIS/SC has an amazing gift for building strong, meaningful connections with the families and children she serves. Her positivity and warmth brighten every interaction, and her dedication truly makes a difference. We are so blessed to have Sandra on our ECI team!

12/15/2025

December IDD Spotlight

Gloria Lujan has dedicated the past 21 years of her career to working for West Texas Centers IDD, consistently taking on the most challenging night shifts. Her commitment to supporting individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities shows her exceptional resilience and compassion. Gloria's decision to work the toughest hours reflects her deep sense of responsibility and strong connection to the community she serves. During the quiet, often unnoticed hours of the night, she provides essential care and stability, embodying the true spirit of dedication and selflessness that leaves a lasting impact on those around her.

12/15/2025

December MH Spotlight

Erlinda Correa consistently demonstrates excellence in client support, staff coordination, and community engagement. She has been instrumental in ensuring a smooth transition for new staff, frequently stepping in to provide onboarding, workflow guidance, and cross-training even to staff outside holding different positions. Her proactive involvement ensures operations remain steady during change. She reliably keeps clients up to date and connected to the services they need, reflecting her strong commitment to high-quality care. Erlinda has also repeatedly represented our organization at local resource fairs and events, showcasing strong professionalism and helping build positive relationships throughout the community. Her Spanish language skills have been essential in supporting our Spanish-speaking clients. She improves communication access, strengthens rapport, and ensures equitable service delivery for families who might otherwise encounter barriers to care. Erlinda’s positive attitude, reliability, and consistent willingness to go above and beyond make her a model representative of our mission. The North Region is stronger because of her efforts, and I am proud to nominate her for the MH Spotlight of the Month award.

12/12/2025

West Texas Centers Howard County Votech successfully hosted its annual Christmas Party on December 11th, bringing together consumers, their families, and staff in a celebratory event. With delicious meal and heartwarming moments, the event promoted unity and festivity, allowing everyone to look forward to the new year. Gratitude is extended to everyone who contributed to the event's success. Wishing everyone a joyful, safe, and prosperous holiday season!

12/11/2025

West Texas Centers Employee Recognition Ceremony Day 2

On December 10th, West Texas Centers held its Employee Recognition Luncheon, celebrating staff dedication and recognizing employees with notable tenure across its 23-county service area. The event paid tribute to employees' commitment in Mental Health, Intellectual & Developmental Disabilities, and Early Childhood Intervention programs. According to Rodney Jones, CEO, "Employee dedication is vital to our success." The two-day ceremony allowed for participation without disrupting operations. Gratitude is expressed to all team members for their dedication, making a difference in the communities.

12/11/2025

On December 9th, West Texas Centers held its Employee Recognition Luncheon, celebrating staff dedication and recognizing employees with notable tenure across its 23-county service area. The event paid tribute to employees' commitment in Mental Health, Intellectual & Developmental Disabilities, and Early Childhood Intervention programs. According to Rodney Jones, CEO, "Employee dedication is vital to our success." The two-day ceremony allowed for participation without disrupting operations. Gratitude is expressed to all team members for their dedication, making a difference in the communities.