Our Story
Children First, Inc. Counseling Center began its journey in 1977, originally founded as Family Outreach, in direct response to a growing concern voiced by community members and local leaders: children suffering from abuse were not receiving the help they desperately needed.
Initially a volunteer-driven effort, Family Outreach provided case management for abused children referred by the Texas Department of Protective and Regulatory Services (now Child Protective Services, or CPS).
From 1981 to 1985, the program received direct support from CPS, and in 1985, the organization evolved into Children First, Inc., adopting the name we carry today. Three years later, in 1988, we became a proud affiliate of the United Way. Over time, Children First has grown into a full-service counseling center, offering individual, family, and couples counseling, group therapy, play therapy, anger management, and psychoeducational groups for children, teens, and adults. Every service is provided by licensed professionals or graduate-level counseling interns who are closely supervised by experienced, fully licensed counselors. We currently serve children and families in Dallas, Tarrant, Ellis, and Johnson Counties.
From 1981 to 1985, the program received direct support from CPS, and in 1985, the organization evolved into Children First, Inc., adopting the name we carry today. Three years later, in 1988, we became a proud affiliate of the United Way. Over time, Children First has grown into a full-service counseling center, offering individual, family, and couples counseling, group therapy, play therapy, anger management, and psychoeducational groups for children, teens, and adults. Every service is provided by licensed professionals or graduate-level counseling interns who are closely supervised by experienced, fully licensed counselors. We currently serve children and families in Dallas, Tarrant, Ellis, and Johnson Counties.
What Guides Us
Vision: A society where everyone has the opportunity to thrive.
Mission Focus: Children First, Inc. is committed to offering hope and healing through compassionate counseling and education services for people of all ages.
Holistic Approach: We believe healing is not one-dimensional. Our programs address both the emotional and physical impacts of trauma, supporting the full well-being of every person we serve.
Inclusive Support: Mental health care should be accessible to all. That’s why we provide services across the lifespan—from young children to older adults—ensuring that no one walks their journey alone.
Prevention is Key: We’re not just here to help after harm has occurred. By focusing on prevention, we work to break the cycle of abuse and create a safer, stronger future for everyone.
Empowerment through Education: Knowledge is powerful. Through education, we equip individuals and families with tools to build resilience, overcome challenges, and thrive—no matter their circumstances.
Agency Programs:
General Counseling Program: Children First offers individual, family, couples, and play therapy for clients ages three through adult. Our licensed counselors provide trauma-informed care in a safe, supportive environment. Services include EMDR and are tailored to those facing abuse, neglect, anxiety, grief, and other life challenges, with a focus on healing, growth, and emotional well-being.
Play Therapy:- Children ages 3 - 11 The language of children is play. We observe and allow children to tell us about their lives though play with props of all sorts. Sand Tray Therapy - is a powerful therapeutic technique that involves using a sandbox and a variety of miniature figures to create scenes or express emotions.
Parenting Classes & Specialty Groups: Our parenting classes empower caregivers with practical tools to build strong, healthy relationships with their children. Through evidence-based strategies, participants learn to manage behavior, improve communication, and foster emotional growth in a supportive, judgment-free environment.
Children First offers 8-week group courses that meet weekly and focus on building practical life skills in a supportive setting. Topics include anger management, positive parenting, communication, self-esteem, peer pressure, assertiveness, stress management, and respect. Led by experienced facilitators, these groups help participants grow emotionally, strengthen relationships, and navigate challenges with confidence.
