Jefferson County Comprehensive history

COMTREA chose to develop along the lines of the mental health system rather than legal system because of the increasing community demands for professional counseling on an out-client basis in the areas of psychiatric, family problems, and child abuse. It was one of the first programs in Missouri to be certified by the DMH. "COMTREA Becomes Integral Part of Twin Cities'" read the headlines in early 1978.

In 1981, one newspaper headline stated "Growth and Change Make COMTREA Indispensable." Unfortunately, President Reagan's massive cuts in alcohol and drug funding forced the closing of the Resident Program and the elimination of the Saint Louis branch office.

COMTREA soon became a well-known and admired agency across Missouri and drew positive national attention from ABC World News.By 1985 it became apparent addressing mental illness and domestic violence services were critical needs in Jefferson County.

In 1986 COMTREA, with the encouragement of the County and the DMH, successfully passed a mil tax for mental health care.

1993 COMTREA secured the passage of Children’s First legislation to assist divorcing parents deal with the issues of the children of the marriage

2001 Doctor Huss presented a paper to the Franklin-Covey International Symposium presentation in Salt Lake about the use of 7 Habits for Teens in the Adolescent program; opened the St Louis office on Cherokee St

2003 implemented the COMTREA-School Liaison Project that placed a professional counselor one day a week in each of the 11 public schools in Jefferson County

2008 COMTREA school liaisons were placed in all public school buildings in the county and also served three private schools.

2012 purchase of Bridle Ridge Acres, a 45 acre farm located in the center of the county seat; was designated as a Federally Qualified Health Center and began primary health care service delivery in October