Northwest Counseling & Wellness Center

Harvey said the programs help people to detox their bodies, stabilize emotions and prepare for life after the program is finished. Programs range from five to six weeks, and patients are encouraged to return to NCWC for After Care Support Services, where they can come in for follow-up therapy sessions. The cost of programs and treatments vary depending on a patient's health insurance plan. Harvey said one of the goals for patients is to become more emotionally stable.

"Ultimately we want people to get sober, stay sober and make connections [with others]," he said.

Harvey has a master's degree in counseling from the University of Iowa and said he has always had an interest in psychology and helping people. Early in his career, he was exposed to holistic approaches to mental health and wanted to incorporate them into his own business when he established NCWC in 1996 in Northwest Austin.

"I like the idea of holistic medicine. I really think people have an innate healing ability on the inside that I like to help people explore," Harvey said.

NCWC encourages families to be involved in patients' treatments by hosting a family day once a week, when families visit the center with their loved ones and ask questions about substance abuse or mental health diagnoses, Director of Operations Johnny Guinn said.

In keeping with the philosophy of the business, Guinn said NCWC tries to help people heal by confronting their emotions.

"Most medications, a lot of times, are about avoiding feeling badly," Guinn said. "A lot of what we do is try to help people feel comfortable with those negative feelings and know how to work with them rather than just try to avoid it altogether. I think that is one of the more valuable things that we offer."

The center will host a holiday party and open house to showcase its programs Dec. 20 from 5–8 p.m. The event includes food and presentations from practitioners about yoga, nutrition, anxiety and depression.

Eastern healing methods

Auricular (ear) acupuncture—This treatment has been used for more than 15 years at NCWC and helps reduce cravings and anxiety. Acupuncture is also intended to promote calmness and help patients to cope with detoxification.

Qi gong—Qi gong is a type of breath and movement meditation that is intended to promote healing and well-being.

Yoga—Practicing yoga teaches discipline and focus. It promotes strength and balance, and its goal is to join the body, mind and spirit through breathing and posture exercises.

Meditation—As a way to achieve inner calmness and awareness, meditation is practiced at NCWC.

Source: Northwest Counseling & Wellness Center

Northwest Counseling & Wellness Center, 12335 Hymeadow Drive, Stes. 300, 350, 512-250-9355, www.ncwcaustin.com