Therapists in Des Moines, IA
Akaisha Blackhawk
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Des Moines, IA 50311 (Online Only)
I am stoked to be where I am today, having an opportunity to serve you. I have experience with crisis intervention, primarily serving young adults and families. I consider myself mellow and empathetic. I enjoy working with adolescents and adults. I strive to provide a safe and unbiased place, where we can partner together in identifying areas of concern in your life and develop a treatment plan that works for you. I also offer telehealth options as part of the response to COVID 19 concerns.
I am stoked to be where I am today, having an opportunity to serve you. I have experience with crisis intervention, primarily serving young adults and families. I consider myself mellow and empathetic. I enjoy working with adolescents and adults. I strive to provide a safe and unbiased place, where we can partner together in identifying areas of concern in your life and develop a treatment plan that works for you. I also offer telehealth options as part of the response to COVID 19 concerns.
Darcy Jones-Cook
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Des Moines, IA 50315 (Online Only)
Do you sense something important is missing? You may have achieved a certain level of success in life, such as in your work and career, relationships, family. Or perhaps you feel out of balance, with one part of life on track while other parts struggle. Depending on many factors you may be focusing your attention in one area at the expense of other aspects of personal growth. Are stress-provoking events in the world increasingly “getting to you” and leaving you with even more distress? You're not alone. Whether you're new to therapy or a long time user, feel free to reach out to me.
Do you sense something important is missing? You may have achieved a certain level of success in life, such as in your work and career, relationships, family. Or perhaps you feel out of balance, with one part of life on track while other parts struggle. Depending on many factors you may be focusing your attention in one area at the expense of other aspects of personal growth. Are stress-provoking events in the world increasingly “getting to you” and leaving you with even more distress? You're not alone. Whether you're new to therapy or a long time user, feel free to reach out to me.
Callie Brass
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Des Moines, IA 50312
Therapy is an opportunity to build connections within yourself, your personal relationships, and community. My philosophy is that you are whole, possessing all of the tools that you need in order to execute your desired change. My role as a therapist is to help connect you to your inner strengths, beliefs, and values to enhance your life experience and achieve your goals. I am currently am working with individuals experiencing a variety of life stressors that include: life transitions, academic or vocational stressors, grief and loss, depression, anxiety, emotional dysregulation and trauma.
Therapy is an opportunity to build connections within yourself, your personal relationships, and community. My philosophy is that you are whole, possessing all of the tools that you need in order to execute your desired change. My role as a therapist is to help connect you to your inner strengths, beliefs, and values to enhance your life experience and achieve your goals. I am currently am working with individuals experiencing a variety of life stressors that include: life transitions, academic or vocational stressors, grief and loss, depression, anxiety, emotional dysregulation and trauma.
Laurene Franco
Counselor, LMHC, MS, MA
Verified Verified
Des Moines, IA 50312
Not accepting new clients
Hello! Are you seeking a safe, nonjudgmental space to navigate life's challenges and transitions? Look no further! I'm here to support you on your journey towards greater well-being and happiness. My focus is on helping teens and adults deal with issues like anxiety, depression, grief and loss, trauma, and life transitions. I specialize in working with women of all ages, college students, and young adults as they navigate their unique life paths. Life can be overwhelming, but I'm here to guide you towards healing and increased joy.
Hello! Are you seeking a safe, nonjudgmental space to navigate life's challenges and transitions? Look no further! I'm here to support you on your journey towards greater well-being and happiness. My focus is on helping teens and adults deal with issues like anxiety, depression, grief and loss, trauma, and life transitions. I specialize in working with women of all ages, college students, and young adults as they navigate their unique life paths. Life can be overwhelming, but I'm here to guide you towards healing and increased joy.
Matthew Becker
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Des Moines, IA 50309
I have worked with individuals and couples for eight years and utilize Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy. I enjoy helping adults learn new skills to deal with anxiety, codependency, romantic relationships, depression, grief and loss, life transitions, peer relationships, personal growth, low self-esteem, spirituality, stress, trauma & PTSD, and work-life balance.
I have worked with individuals and couples for eight years and utilize Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy. I enjoy helping adults learn new skills to deal with anxiety, codependency, romantic relationships, depression, grief and loss, life transitions, peer relationships, personal growth, low self-esteem, spirituality, stress, trauma & PTSD, and work-life balance.
Malay Bouaphakeo
Counselor, tLMHC, CPC, ELI-MP
Verified Verified
Des Moines, IA 50312
My belief is if we are disconnected with ourselves, we aren't showing up to this world authentically it is impacting our relationships with others and most importantly, ourselves. We allow ourselves to be defined by our experiences we've had and trauma we've endured, we lose a sense of self, leaving us feeling lost and "broken". So I welcome you to get lost with me because I'll be right there with you when you find your way.
My belief is if we are disconnected with ourselves, we aren't showing up to this world authentically it is impacting our relationships with others and most importantly, ourselves. We allow ourselves to be defined by our experiences we've had and trauma we've endured, we lose a sense of self, leaving us feeling lost and "broken". So I welcome you to get lost with me because I'll be right there with you when you find your way.
Heather Monaghan
Counselor, MS, tLMHC
Verified Verified
Des Moines, IA 50309
Waitlist for new clients
Mental health problems don't define who you are. They are something you experience. You walk in the rain and you feel the rain, but, importantly, you are not the rain. - Matt Haig. As a clinician, I aim to promote the overall being of my clients by establishing a therapeutic environment that is free from judgment. I use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy in addition to other mindfulness practices. I also incorporate other approaches and techniques to tailor the therapeutic experience to the individual needs of those I work with.
Mental health problems don't define who you are. They are something you experience. You walk in the rain and you feel the rain, but, importantly, you are not the rain. - Matt Haig. As a clinician, I aim to promote the overall being of my clients by establishing a therapeutic environment that is free from judgment. I use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy in addition to other mindfulness practices. I also incorporate other approaches and techniques to tailor the therapeutic experience to the individual needs of those I work with.
Susan Houts
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LISW
Verified Verified
Des Moines, IA 50312
During my years in practice, I have noticed that many people feel like they are living their lives the way others would like them to live. This can create or contribute to depression, anxiety, and a general feeling of disconnection from oneself. Whether you're dealing with depression, anxiety, childhood or recent trauma, or sexuality issues, my work is dedicated to helping you find your most authentic voice so that you can create the life that you've always wanted to live.
During my years in practice, I have noticed that many people feel like they are living their lives the way others would like them to live. This can create or contribute to depression, anxiety, and a general feeling of disconnection from oneself. Whether you're dealing with depression, anxiety, childhood or recent trauma, or sexuality issues, my work is dedicated to helping you find your most authentic voice so that you can create the life that you've always wanted to live.
Jill Niswander
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MS, tLMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Des Moines, IA 50309
Not accepting new clients
My name is Jill Niswander (she, her), and I am a temporary licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. My approach to therapy is strength based and client focused. I consider myself an ally to marginalized members of our community and seek to remain culturally humble when working with clients who live, work, speak, love, and worship differently than I do. I believe that clients have within them the resources and skills they need to create the change they seek. I utilize a systemic, narrative model of therapy to help clients achieve their goals.
My name is Jill Niswander (she, her), and I am a temporary licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. My approach to therapy is strength based and client focused. I consider myself an ally to marginalized members of our community and seek to remain culturally humble when working with clients who live, work, speak, love, and worship differently than I do. I believe that clients have within them the resources and skills they need to create the change they seek. I utilize a systemic, narrative model of therapy to help clients achieve their goals.
Hollie Schechinger
Counselor, LMSW
Verified Verified
Des Moines, IA 50303 (Online Only)
Life can be hard sometimes. Even when things are difficult, I can assist you in learning new skills to help you grow into the individual you aspire to be. I provide a variety of therapy interventions such as CBT, solution focused therapy, motivational interviewing, and many others. I have experience in seeing people of all ages, couples, and individuals.
Life can be hard sometimes. Even when things are difficult, I can assist you in learning new skills to help you grow into the individual you aspire to be. I provide a variety of therapy interventions such as CBT, solution focused therapy, motivational interviewing, and many others. I have experience in seeing people of all ages, couples, and individuals.
Kristin Moore
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Des Moines, IA 50313
Waitlist for new clients
My work is to support individuals and families facing challenges that stem from co-occurring mental health, developmental, and cognitive disabilities. I believe in partnering with you to offer individualized services that serve to enhance overall independence, resilience, and wellbeing. We will work together collaboratively, connecting and integrating both mind, body, and spirit to heal, grow, develop, and acquire new skills. I specialize in working with individuals and families to decrease maladaptive behavior and build regulation, social, and safety skills. My approach is non-judgmental, playful, educational, and supportive.
My work is to support individuals and families facing challenges that stem from co-occurring mental health, developmental, and cognitive disabilities. I believe in partnering with you to offer individualized services that serve to enhance overall independence, resilience, and wellbeing. We will work together collaboratively, connecting and integrating both mind, body, and spirit to heal, grow, develop, and acquire new skills. I specialize in working with individuals and families to decrease maladaptive behavior and build regulation, social, and safety skills. My approach is non-judgmental, playful, educational, and supportive.
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Adria Booth
Counselor, MS, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Des Moines, IA 50310
I am a Licensed Mental Health Therapist (LMHC) that provides therapy suited to fit individual needs. My clinical experience includes; child, adolescent, adult, Trauma/PTSD life transition, depression/anxiety, and general life issues. I specialize in sexual issues and mental health, across the life span, with an emphasis on healing from sexual trauma. I provide a safe place to discuss concerns within the realm of sex, such as concerns over intimacy, concerns about sexual desire or arousal, sexual anxieties, sexual interests, or orientation.
I am a Licensed Mental Health Therapist (LMHC) that provides therapy suited to fit individual needs. My clinical experience includes; child, adolescent, adult, Trauma/PTSD life transition, depression/anxiety, and general life issues. I specialize in sexual issues and mental health, across the life span, with an emphasis on healing from sexual trauma. I provide a safe place to discuss concerns within the realm of sex, such as concerns over intimacy, concerns about sexual desire or arousal, sexual anxieties, sexual interests, or orientation.
Ashley Parker
Licensed Master Social Worker, LMSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Des Moines, IA 50309
Not accepting new clients
Let's face it, you've been in survival mode for far too long. You're tired of letting intense emotions and past hurts get in the way of moving forward, and you’re ready to take action to build a life worth living. I can help! I'm passionate about working with clients struggling with anxiety, big life changes, emotional intensity, relational trauma, and self acceptance. I'm a neurodivergent affirming provider with both lived and professional experience and a One Iowa LGBTQ+ inclusive therapist. My goal is to help you discover your own power to learn, heal, and grow from adversity in order to find peace, connection, and purpose.
Let's face it, you've been in survival mode for far too long. You're tired of letting intense emotions and past hurts get in the way of moving forward, and you’re ready to take action to build a life worth living. I can help! I'm passionate about working with clients struggling with anxiety, big life changes, emotional intensity, relational trauma, and self acceptance. I'm a neurodivergent affirming provider with both lived and professional experience and a One Iowa LGBTQ+ inclusive therapist. My goal is to help you discover your own power to learn, heal, and grow from adversity in order to find peace, connection, and purpose.
Megan Wych
Counselor, MS, LMHC
Verified Verified
Des Moines, IA 50309
Do you feel like you've tried everything, and it is just not 'clicking' for whatever reason? Has your child's personality shifted? Do you recognize struggles where there have not been any? Are you uncertain about what to do next and afraid that whatever this is, it might get worse? You might not have the words to describe what's happening, or maybe you're left second-guessing your thoughts, feelings, or purpose.
Do you feel like you've tried everything, and it is just not 'clicking' for whatever reason? Has your child's personality shifted? Do you recognize struggles where there have not been any? Are you uncertain about what to do next and afraid that whatever this is, it might get worse? You might not have the words to describe what's happening, or maybe you're left second-guessing your thoughts, feelings, or purpose.
Addison Malinski
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LMSW
Verified Verified
Des Moines, IA 50309
Our world is fast paced. So, it makes sense that many individuals struggle with feelings of anxiety, isolation, or shame when they want to feel grounded, connected, and at peace. I help my clients to explore these and similar concerns and express themselves authentically.
Our world is fast paced. So, it makes sense that many individuals struggle with feelings of anxiety, isolation, or shame when they want to feel grounded, connected, and at peace. I help my clients to explore these and similar concerns and express themselves authentically.
Danielle L Sodergren
Counselor, LMHC, IAADC, RPT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Des Moines, IA 50312
Waitlist for new clients
My goal is to help clients gain understanding and insight into the underlying causes of thoughts and behaviors that may no longer serve them. I take an integrative approach to psychotherapy, using a number of different evidence based therapeutic techniques tailored to meet the individual needs of each of my clients.
My goal is to help clients gain understanding and insight into the underlying causes of thoughts and behaviors that may no longer serve them. I take an integrative approach to psychotherapy, using a number of different evidence based therapeutic techniques tailored to meet the individual needs of each of my clients.
Rachel Boothroyd
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Des Moines, IA 50313
Waitlist for new clients
You know yourself better than anyone, but if you are struggling with emotions, thoughts, or behaviors that you would like to change, I can help. Together, we’ll address issues keeping you from living joyfully using Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, mindfulness, and structured activities that give you actionable steps toward healing.
You know yourself better than anyone, but if you are struggling with emotions, thoughts, or behaviors that you would like to change, I can help. Together, we’ll address issues keeping you from living joyfully using Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, mindfulness, and structured activities that give you actionable steps toward healing.
Susin Bredice
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW, RPT-S
Verified Verified
Des Moines, IA 50322
Making the decision to start therapy can be a very vulnerable time, whether it be for you or your child. In therapy you will have a safe and judgement free space to meet your goals. I enjoy working with children and adults to recognize strengths and build on them to assist you in meeting your well being needs. Whether you are struggling to overcome an incident or event, wanting to make specific changes in your life, or looking to improve your overall quality of life and feel better about yourself, we will work together.
Making the decision to start therapy can be a very vulnerable time, whether it be for you or your child. In therapy you will have a safe and judgement free space to meet your goals. I enjoy working with children and adults to recognize strengths and build on them to assist you in meeting your well being needs. Whether you are struggling to overcome an incident or event, wanting to make specific changes in your life, or looking to improve your overall quality of life and feel better about yourself, we will work together.
Jennifer Roberts
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Des Moines, IA 50312
I am currently accepting new clients ages 16+. I enjoy working with people from varied backgrounds. I have experience working with individuals experiencing trauma, grief/loss, PTSD, depression, anxiety, addiction and homelessness. I have been a Medical Social Worker for 12+ years which provides me a unique perspective when working with individuals experiencing crisis and gives me extensive knowledge regarding medical diagnosis/concerns.
I am currently accepting new clients ages 16+. I enjoy working with people from varied backgrounds. I have experience working with individuals experiencing trauma, grief/loss, PTSD, depression, anxiety, addiction and homelessness. I have been a Medical Social Worker for 12+ years which provides me a unique perspective when working with individuals experiencing crisis and gives me extensive knowledge regarding medical diagnosis/concerns.
Judy Nemmers
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW
Verified Verified
Des Moines, IA 50310 (Online Only)
To those around you, you may look like you have it all together. But on the inside, you are screaming. You're hiding the obsessive thoughts and "crazy" compulsions you engage in so you can maybe lower your level of anxiety. You can't sleep due to your anxiety. You've tried to make changes, but it never gets better. These are secrets that you think no one will understand.
To those around you, you may look like you have it all together. But on the inside, you are screaming. You're hiding the obsessive thoughts and "crazy" compulsions you engage in so you can maybe lower your level of anxiety. You can't sleep due to your anxiety. You've tried to make changes, but it never gets better. These are secrets that you think no one will understand.
See more therapy options for Des Moines
Nearby Searches for Des Moines
How does your Therapist compare?
Number of Therapists in Des Moines, IA
400+
Average cost per session
$150
Therapists in Des Moines, IA who prioritize treating:
95% | Anxiety |
90% | Depression |
81% | Relationship Issues |
80% | Self Esteem |
76% | Trauma and PTSD |
76% | Stress |
72% | Coping Skills |
Average years in practice
10 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
85% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
75% | Wellmark BCBS |
51% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
How Therapists in Des Moines, IA see their clients
79% | In Person and Online | |
21% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
81% | Female | |
18% | Male | |
1% | Non-Binary |
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling
How can I find a therapist in Des Moines?
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.