Dr. Jamie Freeny is a visionary leader and accomplished public health practitioner dedicated to transforming the mental and physical health landscape for women and children. With a deep-rooted passion for advocacy and a proven ability to influence policy, she has become a recognized expert in child and adolescent mental health.

As the Director of the Center for School Behavioral Health at MHA of Greater Houston, Dr. Freeny drives strategic initiatives to improve the well-being of school-aged youth. Her expertise lies in bridging the gap between research and practice, translating complex data into actionable solutions that empower communities. By fostering collaboration among healthcare, education, and non-profit sectors, she has built a strong foundation for sustainable change.

A skilled communicator and influential advocate, Dr. Freeny has testified before the Texas House and Senate, shaping legislation to enhance mental health support for children. Recognized by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention as a leading expert, she serves on the School Mental Health Advisory Committee, driving national policy discussions. Dr. Freeny’s research contributions are substantial, with publications in prestigious journals such as the International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health and the Journal of Child & Adolescent Trauma. Her dissertation on adverse childhood experiences and resilience in adolescents underscores their deep expertise in trauma-informed care. This work led to the development of the FACES Assessment tool, an expanded ACEs survey that includes common adversities youth face i.e. experiencing the death of a close friend or loved one and experiencing displacement or hardship after a natural disaster. The FACES Assessment tool allows us to better understand the prevalence and frequency of exposure to adversity among young people in clinical and educational settings, subsequently leading to informed strategic and financial decisions regarding programs, services, and partnerships.

With a distinguished career spanning over two decades, Dr. Freeny has earned the 2021 Texas Child Advocate of the Year award, a testament to her impactful contributions. She also serves on the Board of the Texas Health Institute. Her ability to inspire, collaborate, and achieve tangible results positions her as a driving force in creating a healthier future for generations to come.