Austin Substance Use & Addiction Counseling

Substance use can affect anyone, regardless of background or life circumstances. At Austin Family Counseling (AFC), we offer a compassionate, supportive environment where you can address substance use and begin your journey toward recovery — in person at our Westlake and Northwest Hills offices, or through virtual therapy anywhere in Texas.

If you or someone you love needs immediate support, the SAMHSA National Helpline is available 24/7 at 1-800-662-4357 (free and confidential).

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Care You Can Count On

    Serving Austin

    Since 2014 — locally owned group practice

    Who We See

    20+ clinicians specializing in substance use & addiction counseling

    Our Team

    3 clinicians specializing in self-harm recovery

    Where

    • Westlake
    • Northwest Hills
    • Virtual across Texas

Recognizing When Use Becomes a Concern

What Is Substance Use Disorder?

Substance use disorder develops when alcohol or drug use begins to disrupt daily life, leading to challenges at work, school, or home. While not all use indicates a disorder, it’s important to recognize when it’s becoming problematic. Risk factors include family history, co-occurring mental health conditions, and life stressors.

Symptoms of Substance Use Disorder

  • Withdrawal from friends and family.
  • Sudden changes in behavior.
  • Engaging in risky behaviors.
  • Developing a high tolerance (and thus a need for increased used) and withdrawal symptoms.
  • Feeling like drugs are necessary in life to function.

Substances Often Used

  • Alcohol
  • Antianxiety and sedative drugs (like Xanax, Clonazepam, Trazodone)
  • Cannabis / THC (such as marijuana and synthetic cannabinoids)
  • Hallucinogens (including LSD and phencyclidine)
  • Inhalants (like paint, paint thinner, and glues)
  • Opioids (such as fentanyl, morphine, and oxycodone)
  • Stimulants (including amphetamines and cocaine)

Talk With Us About What You're Experiencing

How Therapy Can Help

Substance use is often rooted in deeper emotional or psychological pain. Our therapists work with you to understand these underlying causes and develop healthier, more effective coping strategies. Through therapy, you’ll have the opportunity to:

  • Identify triggers that contribute to substance use and learn how to manage them in healthier ways.
  • Explore the emotional impact of past experiences, such as trauma or stress, that may be fueling the cycle of use.
  • Strengthen relationships by improving communication and building a support network.
  • Develop practical tools for managing cravings and navigating life’s challenges without relying on substances.

Whether you’re at the beginning of your recovery journey or looking to maintain long-term sobriety, we tailor our approach to meet your unique needs and goals.

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Licensed therapists serving Austin, TX

Meet Our Team

Our licensed counselors bring warmth, expertise, and a genuine commitment to your well-being. We'll match you with the right therapist from day one.

mark steel licensed professional counselor therapist

Mark Steele

Preteens, Teens, Young Adults (18-30), Adults, Elders (65+)

Not sure who to pick? We can Help!

FAQs

Have questions about getting started, fees, or finding the right therapist in Austin? We're here to help.

How do I know if I — or someone I love — has a substance use problem?

Warning signs include withdrawing from friends and family, sudden changes in behavior, increased tolerance, or feeling like substances are necessary to function. If use is disrupting daily life, it’s worth reaching out for support.

What happens in the first session?

We’ll take time to understand your relationship with substance use, what’s contributed to it, and your goals — whether that’s reducing use, maintaining sobriety, or something in between. There’s no judgment, only support.

Do you offer support for families of someone struggling with substance use?

Yes. We help strengthen relationships and communication for the people around someone in recovery, not just the individual.

Do you offer this support near Westlake or Northwest Hills?

Yes. We have two Austin office locations, one in Westlake and one in Northwest Hills. We also offer virtual sessions for clients anywhere in Texas.

Do you take insurance?

We don’t accept insurance directly, but we provide a superbill you can submit to your insurance provider for possible out-of-network reimbursement. We’re happy to walk you through how that works before your first session.

Can substance use counseling be done virtually?

Yes. We offer virtual sessions for clients across Texas, so you can get support in whatever setting is most convenient.