Houston Stowell substance use disorder recovery alcoholism somatic therapy generational trauma relationships DBT RO DBT

Houston Stowell, MPA, LCSW, Chi for Two® Embodiment Coach, Therapist

she/her

I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Chi for Two® Embodiment Coach with a background in political advocacy, addiction research, and clinical work at institutions like Skyland Trail and Hope House, as well as private practice in Midtown, Oakhurst, Smyrna, and Morningside. These experiences, combined with my own recovery journey, have deepened my dedication to working with people impacted by trauma, addiction, and the lasting effects of early relationships.

I specialize in supporting clients who:

-Struggle with addiction or are exploring their relationship with substances (whether they’re sober-curious, cutting back, or navigating early recovery)

-Have been diagnosed with Borderline Personality Disorder, Narcissistic Personality Disorder, or other Cluster B disorders

-Have been encouraged to “try DBT” and want real tools to manage emotions, reduce distress, and build healthier relationships

-Feel like traditional talk therapy hasn’t been enough and are curious about somatic approaches to healing

-Want to understand how their childhood patterns are showing up in their parenting, partnerships, or sense of self

-Long for more regulation, connection, and a sense of embodiment in their day-to-day lives

My Approach

At the core of my work is Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)—a practical, skills-based model that helps clients hold the “both/and” truths of life. Healing often comes from learning to manage intense emotions while also staying connected to values, relationships, and a sense of meaning. For clients with personality disorder diagnoses (or who have been mislabeled or misunderstood), I offer deep respect, effective tools, and a path forward that moves beyond shame.

I also incorporate Chi for Two®, a polyvagal-informed, somatic approach rooted in nervous system regulation and attachment repair. This work gently supports clients in shifting out of survival patterns and into embodied connection—with themselves and others. Many of the behaviors that no longer serve us were once protective responses to unmet needs. You don’t have to be stuck in them forever.

Why I Do This Work

I’m not just trained in addiction recovery—I live it. I’ve been in long-term recovery myself and come from a family affected by addiction. I know how painful, disorienting, and powerful this process can be. Whether you’re curious about sobriety, freshly out of treatment, or navigating a loved one’s use, I bring both compassion and clarity to help you feel less alone and more empowered.

Being in recovery is hard—and I love it. I want to share both the possibility and the tools with you.

Credentials & Ongoing Learning

I hold a Master of Social Work (MSW), a Master of Public Administration (MPA), and am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW). I’ve completed over 3,000 hours of supervised clinical work, passed two licensure exams, and engage in weekly training focused on attachment, trauma, and nervous system healing through a polyvagal lens. Some of the trainings I have completed focus on suicidality, medication assisted treatment, movement therapy, and pathological resistance. I hope to continue my journey by being ISMETA certified and completing my EMDR training in 2026. 

What It’s Like to Work With Me

My style is collaborative, compassionate, and strengths-based. I believe you already carry the wisdom needed to heal—we'll work together to create the safety, structure, and support to make that possible. If you’ve felt misunderstood or unsupported in past therapy settings, know that this is a space for clarity, connection, and real change.

I work out of our Midtown location at 814 Juniper Street (6th and Juniper) and virtually. I see clients on Monday afternoons, Wednesday and Thursdays between 9AM and 4PM, and on Friday mornings. If you would like to set up a consultation call to get a feel for my style and ask any questions you may have please email me at hstowell@eastatlantacounseling.com.

A little more About Me

I live on the Westside of Atlanta with my husband, toddler son, and aussiedoodle. As a family we enjoy cooking together, playing games, and all the “Crayons” books. I love theater, stand-up comedy, and historical dramas. I am a weekly listener to Las Culturistas, Throughline, and This American Life. I wish I hiked more and love the restaurant scene. 

If you feel we would be a good fit, please feel free to contact me at: Houston@eastatlantacounseling.com, 404-947-5764, or book services now

Houston is located at both our Decatur and Smyrna; on August 1, she will be in our Midtown location for in-person as well as virtual sessions.