Texas Tech University

New Faculty Spotlight: Heather Austin-Robillard, Community, Family, and Addiction Sciences

Ashley Brister

September 28, 2020

Cuevas

Austin-Robillard says Texas Tech felt like home, wants to help Couple, Marriage, and Family Therapy students prosper

Heather Austin-Robillard, Ph.D., LMFT-S joins the Department of Community, Family, and Addiction Sciences this semester as an assistant professor. Having earned a B.S. in Psychology from the University of North Texas, a master's degree in Marriage and Family Therapy from Texas Tech, and a Ph.D. in Marriage and Family Therapy from Texas Tech, Lubbock was a familiar location that she says felt like home.

"I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and Supervisor," Austin-Robillard said. "My family of origin was a big reason I wanted to do couple and family therapy. I also took a few undergraduate classes in marriage and family therapy which inspired me. I love being able to help people and enjoy getting to hear other perspectives of their unique lives."

When interviewing at Texas Tech, Austin-Robillard said the college environment was warm and welcoming. She says she has found this to be true as she works through her first semester, always feeling like her presence is needed and wanted in the department.

Austin-Robillard's primary research and teaching is focused on addiction and recovery, working with relationships within addictive systems, and also has an interest in behavioral addictions.

"I am looking forward to working with the students the most. I love getting to see my students grow in prosper in our field. I want students to know that I am always open to helping when it comes to professional development. I look forward to hearing their perspectives and continuing to learn from their discussions."