Susan Bates is a licensed chemical dependency counselor and respected art therapist with over 20 years experience. She has been working in the field of mental health and addiction since 1994.

Her experience includes working in a group home setting with adolescent girls. She was responsible for assisting them in daily living skills. Susan also worked in a psychiatric hospital and as

a case manager for adults with mental health and addiction.

After completing her Master’s degree in Clinical Counseling and Art Therapy,  Susan worked for The Meadows, a world- renowned treatment center in Wickenbug, AZ. Susan was trained by Pia Mellody, well-known author of over four books in codependency and love addiction, as well as Patrick Carnes, the world-renowned expert in sexual addiction. Susan worked as the Art Therapist, specializing in working with adults facing trauma, addiction and depression. In addition, Susan worked as a primary counselor at The Melody House, working with individuals with post-traumatic stress disorder.

Susan is Vice-President of the Texas Association of Addiction Professionals and has been teaching

for the chemical dependency program at Austin Community College.

Currently, Susan has a private practice located in central Austin, Texas. In addition, she contracts with some of the finest addiction treatment centers in Texas.

Susan’s nature is one of non-judgment. She is skillful and empathetic when working with clients and families. Her belief

 that through our own willingness to heal and move forward,

the journey has already begun. Giving ourselves permission

to change or discover new ways of being opens new doors. Susan’s deep passion stems from her belief that within each

of us rests the innate ability to heal.

​Susan works with her clients to discover new paths and empowers them to take the next step in their journey.

She creates a safe and nurturing place for her clients to freely and openly express themselves. Susan considers it a privilege

to be a therapist and respects the uniqueness of each person’s story.