Weathering the Storm Together: Reflections and Support After the Texas Floods
By: Jennifer Buffalo, LPC-S, LMFT-S
Introduction: A Weekend That Changed Everything
This past weekend, Texas was battered by devastating floods that left communities reeling. As the owner of Luminary Counseling, a private practice in Austin, I have witnessed firsthand the heartbreak, confusion, and resilience that have surfaced in our sessions. Our clients’ stories echo a chorus of grief, loss, and—remarkably—hope. In these moments, the urge to help is overwhelming, but so is the need for wisdom and compassion in how we respond.
The Social Work Lens: Personal, Interpersonal, and Political
Empowerment Theory in social work teaches us that meaningful change and support can be channeled through three veins: the personal, the interpersonal, and the political. Yet, trying to address all three at once can leave us spread too thin, exhausted, and ultimately less effective.
Personal: How we care for ourselves, process our own emotions, and maintain our well-being.
Interpersonal: The support we offer directly to others—listening, comforting, and being present.
Political: Advocacy, systemic change, and community-wide efforts.
In times of crisis, it’s wise to focus on just two of these areas at a time. For most of us, the personal and interpersonal are the most accessible and impactful right now. This isn’t about ignoring the political—systemic change is vital—but about honoring our limits so we can be truly helpful where we are most needed.
The Compassionate Urge to Help—and Its Pitfalls
The outpouring of support from Texans has been awe-inspiring. People want to help, to give, to do something—anything—to ease the suffering of their neighbors. But sometimes, well-intentioned help can inadvertently create new burdens.
For example:
Communities have been inundated with donated items—clothes, canned goods, furniture—so much so that local shelters are now overwhelmed with the logistics of sorting, storing, and distributing these goods. The result? Volunteers and survivors alike can feel more stressed and less supported.
What does this teach us?
Help is most effective when it’s thoughtful and responsive to actual needs, not just our desire to do something.
Sometimes, less is more. A simple act of kindness or a well-timed donation can mean more than a mountain of items that no one knows what to do with.
How to Help: Practical Ways to Make a Difference
Donate Wisely
Organizations like the American Red Cross are equipped to respond to disasters and know exactly what is needed. Monetary donations are often the most helpful, as they allow for flexibility and targeted support.
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American Red Cross: Provides emergency shelter, food, and supplies. You can donate directly through their website or by texting REDCROSS to 90999 to make a $10 donation.
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Local Food Banks: Financial contributions help restock shelves quickly and efficiently.
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Community Foundations: Many have set up specific funds for flood relief.
Small Acts, Big Impact: Personal and Interpersonal Support
Not all help needs to be grand or public. Some of the most meaningful support happens quietly, one-on-one, in the spaces between the headlines.
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Listen Without Fixing: Sometimes, the best thing you can do is simply listen. Let your friend, neighbor, or colleague share their story without rushing to offer solutions.
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Offer Presence: Invite someone for coffee. Sit with them in silence. Let them know they’re not alone.
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Share What You Have, Not What You Don’t Need: If you have resources someone specifically requests, offer them. Otherwise, check with local organizations before donating goods.
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Check In Regularly: Grief and trauma don’t follow a timeline. Continue to reach out in the weeks and months ahead.
A Personal Note: Grieving With You
Over 15 years of clinical work, I have sat with people who have lost beloved pets, homes, and even family members to disasters like this. The pain is real and raw. If you are grieving the loss of a cherished loved one or pet, know that your sorrow is valid and seen.
One thing I’ve learned: those who have lost everything do not want you to forsake what you have. They want you to cherish it—to hold your loved ones close, to appreciate your home, to savor the ordinary moments. Your gratitude honors their loss. It says, “I see what you’ve lost, and I do not take what I have for granted.”
Holding Each Other Accountable and Loving Harder
As Texans, we pride ourselves on resilience and neighborliness. Now is the time to hold each other a little tighter, to love a little harder, and to stand together as we weather this storm. Suffering is not a competition; it is a call to compassion.
Let’s be gentle with ourselves and with each other. Let’s ask, “How can I help in a way that truly supports you?” rather than assuming we know what’s best.
Beyond Texas: Remembering Rural Communities
While the spotlight is on Texas, let’s not forget rural areas in West Virginia and elsewhere that are also grappling with devastating floods but receiving far less attention. These communities often have fewer resources and less media coverage, making their recovery even more challenging.
If you have the means, consider supporting organizations that serve these underreported areas. Every act of kindness, no matter how small, ripples outward.
Encouragement: Reach Out for Mental Health Support
If you are struggling in the aftermath of this disaster—whether you’ve lost a family member, your home, your pet, your sense of safety, or just feel overwhelmed—you are not alone. At Luminary Counseling, we are here for you.
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Free Consultations: We offer a free consultation with any of our providers to help you determine the best next steps for your mental health.
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Pro Bono Sessions: We reserve a number of pro bono sessions specifically for those experiencing devastating loss from natural disasters.
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You Matter: Your pain is real, and your healing matters. Please reach out. Sometimes, the bravest thing you can do is ask for help.
Final Thoughts
Helping is an act of love, but it is also a practice that requires thoughtfulness, humility, and respect for the dignity of those we serve. As we rebuild—physically, emotionally, and spiritually—let’s do so together, with open hearts and open hands.
If you or someone you know needs support, please don’t hesitate to contact us. Together, we can weather this storm and emerge stronger, more connected, and more compassionate than ever
Resources to Support Texans:
American Red Cross: Text REDCROSS to 90999 or visit their website for more information about Emergency shelter, food, supplies, and crisis support
Central Texas Food Bank: Food assistance for affected families or donate to them here
Texas Health and Human Services: Disaster mental health and financial assistance
National Disaster Distress Helpline: 1-800-985-5990 or text "TalkWithUs" to 66746: 24/7 crisis counseling for disaster survivors
Central Texas Flood Resources and How to Help
TexasFlood.org: Recovery Resources
