Therapists in 50250
Is your child struggling with big emotions, challenging behaviors, anxiety, depression or anger? This can leave parents feeling helpless, frustrated, overwhelmed and exhausted. I am here to help. I specialize in using play therapy techniques to help children communicate and process their emotions in a safe and supportive environment.
Is your child struggling with big emotions, challenging behaviors, anxiety, depression or anger? This can leave parents feeling helpless, frustrated, overwhelmed and exhausted. I am here to help. I specialize in using play therapy techniques to help children communicate and process their emotions in a safe and supportive environment.
I have a diverse background in mental health and my private practice is conveniently located off I-235. Most therapists can provide the therapy types listed, but it takes focus and good listening skills to discern how to effectively "help" others.
I have a diverse background in mental health and my private practice is conveniently located off I-235. Most therapists can provide the therapy types listed, but it takes focus and good listening skills to discern how to effectively "help" others.
More Therapists Nearby
I help clients through a blend of modalities such as Internal Family Systems (IFS) and EMDR.
My style is warm, intuitive, and grounded in trauma-informed care. I work with adults and teens navigating anxiety, trauma, relationship challenges, and life transitions. Many feel stuck in patterns that no longer serve them and want support that leads to real emotional relief.
I help clients through a blend of modalities such as Internal Family Systems (IFS) and EMDR.
My style is warm, intuitive, and grounded in trauma-informed care. I work with adults and teens navigating anxiety, trauma, relationship challenges, and life transitions. Many feel stuck in patterns that no longer serve them and want support that leads to real emotional relief.
I specialize in helping those struggling with trauma, depression, anxiety, and addiction to unhealthy cycles; especially lesser thought-of issues such as addictions to toxic relationships, pornography, sex, gaming, health, and social media. I'm also a philosophy buff and love working with those looking to gain a sense of belonging or purpose in life. I am located in a relaxing office space and work alongside other amazing therapists. I accept all major insurance, including Medicaid.
I specialize in helping those struggling with trauma, depression, anxiety, and addiction to unhealthy cycles; especially lesser thought-of issues such as addictions to toxic relationships, pornography, sex, gaming, health, and social media. I'm also a philosophy buff and love working with those looking to gain a sense of belonging or purpose in life. I am located in a relaxing office space and work alongside other amazing therapists. I accept all major insurance, including Medicaid.
I currently have some availability, e-mailing me with your name, insurance provider and general concerns is the easiest way to connect. I desire to create a collaborative relationship that is grounded in mutual respect and positive regard so you can address the real issues that are affecting your quality of life. I will help you establish reasonable goals to guide the therapy. I have experience working with relational challenges, traumatic experiences, LGBTQ+ and neurodivergent individuals and family members. I approach the process from the perspective of 'what happened to you?', not 'what is wrong with you?'
I currently have some availability, e-mailing me with your name, insurance provider and general concerns is the easiest way to connect. I desire to create a collaborative relationship that is grounded in mutual respect and positive regard so you can address the real issues that are affecting your quality of life. I will help you establish reasonable goals to guide the therapy. I have experience working with relational challenges, traumatic experiences, LGBTQ+ and neurodivergent individuals and family members. I approach the process from the perspective of 'what happened to you?', not 'what is wrong with you?'
Welcome! I'm so honored that you're here. You have already started on a journey of healing and if/when you're ready for more support, I'd be honored to join you. At some point, we all go through difficult life transitions or experiences. Perhaps you are feeling discouraged, confused, stuck, or frustrated with the patterns you're noticing in your behavior, relationships, or careers. Perhaps you've had trauma, a painful childhood, difficult relationships or loss. Exploring these experiences and patterns with compassion and curiosity can bring so much clarity and pave the way for deep healing and change.
Welcome! I'm so honored that you're here. You have already started on a journey of healing and if/when you're ready for more support, I'd be honored to join you. At some point, we all go through difficult life transitions or experiences. Perhaps you are feeling discouraged, confused, stuck, or frustrated with the patterns you're noticing in your behavior, relationships, or careers. Perhaps you've had trauma, a painful childhood, difficult relationships or loss. Exploring these experiences and patterns with compassion and curiosity can bring so much clarity and pave the way for deep healing and change.
My goal is to create a safe, open, supportive environment for you to come and express feelings and successfully work through life's struggles. I strive for you to feel safe, accepted and validated. I use CBT, TFCBT, and I am newly trained in EMDR. I am nurturing, nonjudgmental, supportive, and like to use humor when appropriate. I enjoy working with individuals. Kids (10 and up), teens, and adults. I accept Wellmark Blue Cross/Blue Shield insurance, Aetna, Midlands Choice, Wellpoint, as well as United Health Care Insurance. I look forward to meeting you!
My goal is to create a safe, open, supportive environment for you to come and express feelings and successfully work through life's struggles. I strive for you to feel safe, accepted and validated. I use CBT, TFCBT, and I am newly trained in EMDR. I am nurturing, nonjudgmental, supportive, and like to use humor when appropriate. I enjoy working with individuals. Kids (10 and up), teens, and adults. I accept Wellmark Blue Cross/Blue Shield insurance, Aetna, Midlands Choice, Wellpoint, as well as United Health Care Insurance. I look forward to meeting you!
Hello, my name is Makayla. I am a t-LMHC. I am being supervised by Deborah Helt, MFT, at Light Gets in Therapy Center. Prior to becoming a therapist, I spent several years working and gaining experience in the mental health field. I have worked in an inpatient mental health facility, school-based therapeutic classrooms, and in the home as a social worker. I have learned how to meet my clients where they are at in life and work together with them to make positive changes. My view of therapy is very person-centered and narrative. I hope to guide my clients to discover their own potential.
Hello, my name is Makayla. I am a t-LMHC. I am being supervised by Deborah Helt, MFT, at Light Gets in Therapy Center. Prior to becoming a therapist, I spent several years working and gaining experience in the mental health field. I have worked in an inpatient mental health facility, school-based therapeutic classrooms, and in the home as a social worker. I have learned how to meet my clients where they are at in life and work together with them to make positive changes. My view of therapy is very person-centered and narrative. I hope to guide my clients to discover their own potential.
Sometimes life begins to feel like you're living the life others expect of you instead of the life that feels true to who you are. You may be doing everything you "should" do, yet still feel anxious, depressed, disconnected, or unsure of who you are anymore. I believe therapy is about more than reducing symptoms. Therapy is most powerful when it helps you reconnect with yourself so you can build a life that feels genuine, meaningful, and true to who you are.
Sometimes life begins to feel like you're living the life others expect of you instead of the life that feels true to who you are. You may be doing everything you "should" do, yet still feel anxious, depressed, disconnected, or unsure of who you are anymore. I believe therapy is about more than reducing symptoms. Therapy is most powerful when it helps you reconnect with yourself so you can build a life that feels genuine, meaningful, and true to who you are.
At Biological Roots Therapy, PLLC, we work with adults, athletes, and high performers navigating anxiety, trauma, chronic illness, life transitions, and performance-related stress. Many clients come to therapy feeling overwhelmed, emotionally exhausted, disconnected, or stuck in patterns that no longer serve them despite functioning well outwardly. Using evidence-based approaches including Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), we provide trauma-informed care focused on healing, resilience, emotional balance, and meaningful personal growth.
At Biological Roots Therapy, PLLC, we work with adults, athletes, and high performers navigating anxiety, trauma, chronic illness, life transitions, and performance-related stress. Many clients come to therapy feeling overwhelmed, emotionally exhausted, disconnected, or stuck in patterns that no longer serve them despite functioning well outwardly. Using evidence-based approaches including Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), we provide trauma-informed care focused on healing, resilience, emotional balance, and meaningful personal growth.
Dr. Mark Poeppe ("Peppy") specializes in psychological, neuropsychological, and forensic assessment for ages 6-85. Common testing referrals include ADHD, ASD, ID Waivers, civil and criminal litigation, personality disorders, etc. Typical therapy or counseling referral reasons include anxiety, depression, adjustment issues, relational concerns, life transitions, and self-improvement. Dr. Poeppe provides counseling to adults and adolescents. His approach is grounded in empathy, respect, and a deep commitment to enhancing your well-being. Immediate to near immediate openings as of 4-20-26
Dr. Mark Poeppe ("Peppy") specializes in psychological, neuropsychological, and forensic assessment for ages 6-85. Common testing referrals include ADHD, ASD, ID Waivers, civil and criminal litigation, personality disorders, etc. Typical therapy or counseling referral reasons include anxiety, depression, adjustment issues, relational concerns, life transitions, and self-improvement. Dr. Poeppe provides counseling to adults and adolescents. His approach is grounded in empathy, respect, and a deep commitment to enhancing your well-being. Immediate to near immediate openings as of 4-20-26
I am a Licensed Independent Social Worker and have been practicing in the Des Moines Metro area for 18 years. I received my Master’s degree in Social Work, from the University of Iowa. I have provided therapy in a variety of settings including homes, schools and community mental health centers. I work with school age children, adolescents and adults in individual and family sessions. I use a strengths based approach and specialize in family relationship issues, issues with life transitions, adolescent issues, anxiety, and depression.
I am a Licensed Independent Social Worker and have been practicing in the Des Moines Metro area for 18 years. I received my Master’s degree in Social Work, from the University of Iowa. I have provided therapy in a variety of settings including homes, schools and community mental health centers. I work with school age children, adolescents and adults in individual and family sessions. I use a strengths based approach and specialize in family relationship issues, issues with life transitions, adolescent issues, anxiety, and depression.
You function well enough that other people may not realize how much effort life takes. Yet your body still reacts to old experiences—through anxiety, shutdown, people-pleasing, perfectionism, or relationships that never seem to unfold the way you'd hoped. You've read the books, gained insight, and perhaps even tried therapy before. Now you're looking for change that reaches beyond understanding into the patterns your nervous system still carries.
You function well enough that other people may not realize how much effort life takes. Yet your body still reacts to old experiences—through anxiety, shutdown, people-pleasing, perfectionism, or relationships that never seem to unfold the way you'd hoped. You've read the books, gained insight, and perhaps even tried therapy before. Now you're looking for change that reaches beyond understanding into the patterns your nervous system still carries.
I am passionate about supporting children, adolescents and teens (ages 4-17) as they navigate a variety of difficulties, including anxiety, panic disorders, depression, OCD, attachment issues, self-esteem concerns, and the complexities of relationships and divorce.
I am passionate about supporting children, adolescents and teens (ages 4-17) as they navigate a variety of difficulties, including anxiety, panic disorders, depression, OCD, attachment issues, self-esteem concerns, and the complexities of relationships and divorce.
Do you feel as if you have lost your way, like connections that were once there have somehow been severed due to trauma, anxiety or depression? Have you wondered how to regain or re-kindle those relationships with others? Sometimes on the journey through life, our ability to navigate can become overwhelming and confusing. It is during these times that having someone to support and encourage you in finding ways to mend relationships or make new connections can be useful.
Do you feel as if you have lost your way, like connections that were once there have somehow been severed due to trauma, anxiety or depression? Have you wondered how to regain or re-kindle those relationships with others? Sometimes on the journey through life, our ability to navigate can become overwhelming and confusing. It is during these times that having someone to support and encourage you in finding ways to mend relationships or make new connections can be useful.
I strive to provide a warm and welcoming environment for people to feel safe, genuine, and accepted, to work through issues. With over 20 years of experience, I work with many men who can be real about struggles with life changes, relationship issues, depression, anxiety, and substance use. I also see women, couples, and adolescents. I enjoy the balance of working with a variety of people, and also feel passionate about making counseling a healthy place for men too. I take people serious and we can have fun too. Typical sessions involve more laughter than tears and are sprinkled with talk of sports, current events, and family.
I strive to provide a warm and welcoming environment for people to feel safe, genuine, and accepted, to work through issues. With over 20 years of experience, I work with many men who can be real about struggles with life changes, relationship issues, depression, anxiety, and substance use. I also see women, couples, and adolescents. I enjoy the balance of working with a variety of people, and also feel passionate about making counseling a healthy place for men too. I take people serious and we can have fun too. Typical sessions involve more laughter than tears and are sprinkled with talk of sports, current events, and family.
Our ideal client is an adult who feels overwhelmed, stuck, or emotionally exhausted and is ready for meaningful change. They may be struggling with anxiety, trauma, relationship stress, life transitions, or the lingering impact of past experiences. They want clarity, emotional stability, and healthier ways to cope and connect with others. They are looking for a therapist who feels safe, grounded, and practical—someone who can help them understand patterns, build resilience, and move forward with confidence and purpose.
Our ideal client is an adult who feels overwhelmed, stuck, or emotionally exhausted and is ready for meaningful change. They may be struggling with anxiety, trauma, relationship stress, life transitions, or the lingering impact of past experiences. They want clarity, emotional stability, and healthier ways to cope and connect with others. They are looking for a therapist who feels safe, grounded, and practical—someone who can help them understand patterns, build resilience, and move forward with confidence and purpose.
Counseling Associates of Central Iowa
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
1 Endorsed
West Des Moines, IA 50266
We are a group of experienced, caring professionals who are committed to collaborate and meet you at your specific place in life. We can provide support and guidance by empowering you to develop the strength, wisdom and courage to cope with the challenges in your life. Whether you are struggling with a difficult life situation or need some encouragement and understanding to help you make personal changes, we can help. Please call or email us for a therapy consultation today.
We are a group of experienced, caring professionals who are committed to collaborate and meet you at your specific place in life. We can provide support and guidance by empowering you to develop the strength, wisdom and courage to cope with the challenges in your life. Whether you are struggling with a difficult life situation or need some encouragement and understanding to help you make personal changes, we can help. Please call or email us for a therapy consultation today.
It is such a privilege to be able to help children and adolescents as they navigate the many challenges of growing up. I specialize in working with children (ages 5+) and adolescents, with a special passion for supporting middle schoolers through the challenges of this important transitional stage. I believe that every child deserves to feel heard, understood, and valued in a safe, supportive space.
It is such a privilege to be able to help children and adolescents as they navigate the many challenges of growing up. I specialize in working with children (ages 5+) and adolescents, with a special passion for supporting middle schoolers through the challenges of this important transitional stage. I believe that every child deserves to feel heard, understood, and valued in a safe, supportive space.
Life can bring challenges that feel overwhelming, and you don’t have to navigate them alone. I provide a supportive, nonjudgmental space where you can feel heard and understood while working toward meaningful change. My approach is collaborative, compassionate, and tailored to your unique needs.
My counseling style is warm, down-to-earth, and focused on creating a safe environment where you can show up authentically. I draw from evidence-based approaches while also recognizing the importance of your individual story and strengths.
Life can bring challenges that feel overwhelming, and you don’t have to navigate them alone. I provide a supportive, nonjudgmental space where you can feel heard and understood while working toward meaningful change. My approach is collaborative, compassionate, and tailored to your unique needs.
My counseling style is warm, down-to-earth, and focused on creating a safe environment where you can show up authentically. I draw from evidence-based approaches while also recognizing the importance of your individual story and strengths.
How does your Therapist compare?
Number of Therapists in 50250
< 10
Therapists in 50250 who prioritize treating:
| 100% | Anxiety |
| 100% | Parenting |
| 100% | Trauma and PTSD |
| 100% | Behavioral Issues |
| 100% | Social Anxiety |
| 100% | Complex PTSD |
| 100% | Health Anxiety |
Average years in practice
17 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
| 100% | Wellpoint | Amerigroup |
| 100% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
| 100% | Blue Cross |
How Therapists in 50250 see their clients
| 100% | In Person and Online |
Gender breakdown
| 100% | Male |
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling
How can I find a therapist in 50250?
Search for nearby therapists or counselors by inputting your city, town, or suburb; or zip code; or a provider’s name into the search bar. From there, you can filter providers by the issues they treat, cost, insurance, gender, and other factors to find providers who are well-suited to your needs. To navigate between locations within the same country, enter a new city or zip code into the search bar.
Learn more about how to find a therapist
Learn more about how to find a therapist
Is everyone in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory a licensed therapist?
The Psychology Today directory lists providers who offer legitimate mental health services to the public, including psychologists, psychiatrists, social workers, and counselors.
Many have been licensed by the country or state where they practice; providers whose license or primary credential has been verified by Psychology Today are signified by a “Verified” symbol. Some clinicians or organizations provide services for which their state or country does not offer licenses, such as pastoral counseling. They may be selectively included without the “Verified” seal.
Many have been licensed by the country or state where they practice; providers whose license or primary credential has been verified by Psychology Today are signified by a “Verified” symbol. Some clinicians or organizations provide services for which their state or country does not offer licenses, such as pastoral counseling. They may be selectively included without the “Verified” seal.
What’s the difference between a psychologist, a therapist, and a counselor?
Therapists, psychologists, and counselors are all licensed mental health professionals. In the US, psychologists have earned a doctoral degree. The terms “therapist” and “counselor” are used somewhat interchangeably, but generally therapists offer longer-term, mental health care, while counselors offer shorter-term care that may focus on one domain, such as marriage, career, or academic challenges.
Clients should consider factors such as insurance coverage and their primary reason(s) for seeking therapy to determine the type of professional best suited to their needs. Someone struggling with mental health challenges such as depression or anxiety, for example, may wish to seek out a clinical psychologist or therapist, while someone navigating career obstacles or marital upheaval may benefit from seeing a counselor who can offer short-term, targeted support.
Clients should consider factors such as insurance coverage and their primary reason(s) for seeking therapy to determine the type of professional best suited to their needs. Someone struggling with mental health challenges such as depression or anxiety, for example, may wish to seek out a clinical psychologist or therapist, while someone navigating career obstacles or marital upheaval may benefit from seeing a counselor who can offer short-term, targeted support.
What type of therapy is right for me?
The type of therapy best suited to a particular individual depends on several factors, including their primary reason for seeking therapy, their preferred timeline (some therapy types last for a set number of sessions, while others are open-ended), and their personality and preferences—some may prefer a more structured approach. For many individuals, multiple types of therapy could provide a good fit.
How much does therapy cost?
The cost of therapy depends on a number of variables, including location and the therapist’s experience and training. On average, a therapy session in the United States could cost between $100 and $200 or more. If you have insurance, the expense of mental health care is typically lower, but it varies based on your insurance plan details and whether you choose an in-network or out-of-network mental healthcare provider.
What are more affordable or low cost therapy solutions?
Many therapists offer sliding scale payments, usually on a limited number of slots, which consists in an agreement between the therapist and a client to pay a reduced rate. Therapists who provide such arrangements often consider the client's income or ability to pay, but the extent of the discount is ultimately at the therapist's discretion. Furthermore, while group therapy may have different goals and benefits compared to individual therapy, it can be a more affordable solution to address certain types of issues.
Is online therapy cheaper than in-person therapy?
Many therapists charge the same amount for online therapy as they do for in-person therapy—though clients may still find this cost-effective if it cuts down on their transportation costs. Health insurance plans often offer equivalent coverage for online and in-person therapy; indeed, in many places, they are legally required to do so. Text-based or on-demand therapy apps may be cheaper than traditional one-on-one psychotherapy; however, the practice may be less effective and is not likely to be covered by insurance.
Is online therapy a good option?
Therapy conducted online can be just as effective as in-person therapy, as long as there is a strong alliance between the client and the therapist. To find a therapist who provides telehealth services to clients in your area, click “Online Therapy” on the directory homepage and search by your city or town or your zip code.
Are therapy sessions confidential?
Confidentiality is a crucial part of the therapeutic relationship. Therapists in the United States are bound by the regulations set out by the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996 (HIPAA), which aims to protect sensitive health information. With very few exceptions, a therapist will only discuss their client with others when the client has given their written permission. The instances in which a therapist would be required to disclose personal information are: if a client poses a danger to themselves or others, if the therapist suspects the abuse of a child or an elderly or otherwise dependent adult, or if they are legally forced to by court order. These exceptions to the confidentiality agreement are usually discussed with a client before their first session.