Our hearts go out to everyone affected by the recent flooding in Central Texas. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, grieving, or struggling to make sense of it all, please know you’re not alone.
At Austin Family Counseling, we have trauma-trained therapists ready and willing to support you and your loved ones through this difficult time. Whether you prefer in-person or virtual sessions, we’re here to help. Contact our Client Care Team by filling out our intake form to get connected with a therapist that can support you and your family.
If you or someone you love needs additional support, here are some trusted mental health and community resources for Central Texas flood survivors:
Austin Child Guidance Center
Free 1–2 therapy sessions for youth (up to age 25) and families affected by the floods. In-person or telehealth. Bilingual services available.
Disaster Distress Helpline
A vital part of the support and resources for Central Texas flood survivors, this free, confidential emotional support service is available 24/7. Call or text 1-800-985-5990 to speak with a trained crisis counselor.
5 Ways to Talk to Kids About Traumatic News Events
This Instagram carousel offers practical and compassionate tips for discussing difficult events like natural disasters with children in age-appropriate ways.
Talking to Kids About the Flooding
A helpful article on how to talk with children about the recent floods, validate their emotions, and foster a sense of safety and support.
How to Talk With Children About Tragic Events
A helpful PDF that covers setting the emotional tone, providing truthful information, encouraging expression, managing media exposure, and anticipating common developmental reactions.
Additional grief and trauma resources:
Children’s Books
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A Terrible Thing Happened by Margaret M. Holmes
A gentle story for children who have witnessed or experienced something frightening or traumatic. -
The Invisible String by Patrice Karst
A comforting book that reassures children of the unbreakable connections between loved ones, even when apart. -
What to Do with Your Whirly Swirly Thoughts by Jennie Allen
A faith-based book that teaches kids how to calm racing thoughts and anxious feelings. -
When Dinosaurs Die: A Guide to Understanding Death by Laurie Krasny Brown
An accessible and compassionate explanation of death and grief, designed for young readers. -
Grief Is Like a Snowflake by Julia Cook
Helps children understand that everyone grieves in their own way, at their own pace. -
Breaking News by Sarah Lynne Reilly
A thoughtful story about how kids can manage big emotions and make a positive difference in the world during hard times.
Books for Adults
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Finding Meaning by David Kessler
Offers guidance for navigating grief and discovering purpose after loss. -
The Finding Meaning Workbook by David Kessler
A companion to Finding Meaning, this workbook provides exercises and journaling prompts to deepen healing after loss. -
Every Moment Holy, Vol. II
A collection of liturgies and reflections designed for times of grief, mourning, and lament. - The Grief Companion by Ngaio Parr
A supportive guide with creative exercises, comforting illustrations, and thoughtful prompts to help you move through grief in your own way.
