Attachment-based Therapists in Iowa

Photo of Tyler L Gray, Counselor in Iowa
Tyler L Gray
Counselor, MEd, LMHCt, NCC, RYT
Verified Verified
Cedar Rapids, IA 52402
I find myself grounded in an Attachment-based, somatic, and existential approach working with ages 3-77+. As humans, we each are the experts of our lives and lived experiences. It is through that expertise that we hold the capability to heal. As a play therapist, I believe that children communicate and heal through play and utilize integrative and synergetic approaches, sand tray, attachment-based play, and EMDR to assist children and their families. With some clients, I will evaluate systemic norms and how the client can be empowered by examining the role of power structures as they relate to the impact of developing identity.
I find myself grounded in an Attachment-based, somatic, and existential approach working with ages 3-77+. As humans, we each are the experts of our lives and lived experiences. It is through that expertise that we hold the capability to heal. As a play therapist, I believe that children communicate and heal through play and utilize integrative and synergetic approaches, sand tray, attachment-based play, and EMDR to assist children and their families. With some clients, I will evaluate systemic norms and how the client can be empowered by examining the role of power structures as they relate to the impact of developing identity.
(319) 474-5868 View (319) 474-5868
Photo of Shelly Johnson (Ifs 🫶 Therapist), Counselor in Iowa
Shelly Johnson (Ifs 🫶 Therapist)
Counselor, LMHC, CIFST
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
West Des Moines, IA 50265  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
IFS is a powerful modality for reclaiming one’s vitality in life! It is an intuitive, psycho-spiritual, attachment-based model.
Life is a journey that we are all navigating through in an effort to find who we really are, what our passions are, & what we truly desire; this is necessary to have an embodied experience of authentic healing, self-expression, and living. My ‘deepest’ intention for my clients is that they feel uplifted & more closely aligned w/ their hearts’ true desires. I encourage clients to cultivate a genuine & authentic approach to life, regardless of earlier life experiences, beliefs, or messaging. Are you ready to take that inner journey of exploration & discovery, without having to do it alone?
IFS is a powerful modality for reclaiming one’s vitality in life! It is an intuitive, psycho-spiritual, attachment-based model.
Life is a journey that we are all navigating through in an effort to find who we really are, what our passions are, & what we truly desire; this is necessary to have an embodied experience of authentic healing, self-expression, and living. My ‘deepest’ intention for my clients is that they feel uplifted & more closely aligned w/ their hearts’ true desires. I encourage clients to cultivate a genuine & authentic approach to life, regardless of earlier life experiences, beliefs, or messaging. Are you ready to take that inner journey of exploration & discovery, without having to do it alone?
(515) 446-7351 View (515) 446-7351
Photo of Cindy Schloss Calhoun, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Iowa
Cindy Schloss Calhoun
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW, RPT-S
Verified Verified
Clive, IA 50325
Hello and Welcome! I am an LISW therapist (Licensed Independent Social Worker) and a Registered Play Therapy Supervisor. As a therapist, I work with children adolescents, families and adults. I provide a unique combination of expressive and more traditional therapies. I have obtained highly specialized training in play and sand tray therapy, attachment, trauma, and Theraplay. I am EMDR certified with both children and adults. I am also a SoulCollage (R) Facilitator. This practice uses printed images to create a visual journal of one's life.
Hello and Welcome! I am an LISW therapist (Licensed Independent Social Worker) and a Registered Play Therapy Supervisor. As a therapist, I work with children adolescents, families and adults. I provide a unique combination of expressive and more traditional therapies. I have obtained highly specialized training in play and sand tray therapy, attachment, trauma, and Theraplay. I am EMDR certified with both children and adults. I am also a SoulCollage (R) Facilitator. This practice uses printed images to create a visual journal of one's life.
(515) 278-5191 View (515) 278-5191
Photo of Kim Feeney, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Iowa
Kim Feeney
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW, RPT-S
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Davenport, IA 52804
Is your child struggling to cope with strong emotions? Is this causing stress for your family? Is your child or family, coping with trauma and other social, emotional, and behavioral issues? Counseling can help your child become emotionally expressive. Your child will build confidence and self-esteem though a strengths-based play therapy approach. Your child will receive empathy and compassion during sessions, but may also be challenged. I work with clients experiencing traumatic events (abuse/neglect, car accident), depression and anxiety, grief and loss, ADHD, school difficulties/bullying, life transitions (moving, divorce).
Is your child struggling to cope with strong emotions? Is this causing stress for your family? Is your child or family, coping with trauma and other social, emotional, and behavioral issues? Counseling can help your child become emotionally expressive. Your child will build confidence and self-esteem though a strengths-based play therapy approach. Your child will receive empathy and compassion during sessions, but may also be challenged. I work with clients experiencing traumatic events (abuse/neglect, car accident), depression and anxiety, grief and loss, ADHD, school difficulties/bullying, life transitions (moving, divorce).
(563) 214-0140 View (563) 214-0140
Photo of Jenna Wagemester, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Iowa
Jenna Wagemester
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Hiawatha, IA 52233
I am a social worker passionate about utilizing a trauma-informed, attachment-based, and systems approach in my work to serve clients.
The human experience is to each their own, consisting of various experiences, emotions, parts, and relationships that make up each story. The power behind sharing your story can be irreplaceable, and I believe it is a privilege to embark on that journey alongside clients. Therapy can be intimidating, especially during challenging times. As a clinician, my goal is to empower clients with an approach tailored to each client’s specific needs.
I am a social worker passionate about utilizing a trauma-informed, attachment-based, and systems approach in my work to serve clients.
The human experience is to each their own, consisting of various experiences, emotions, parts, and relationships that make up each story. The power behind sharing your story can be irreplaceable, and I believe it is a privilege to embark on that journey alongside clients. Therapy can be intimidating, especially during challenging times. As a clinician, my goal is to empower clients with an approach tailored to each client’s specific needs.
(319) 250-1267 View (319) 250-1267
Photo of Kara Hensley, Counselor in Iowa
Kara Hensley
Counselor, MS, LMHC, LIMHP
Verified Verified
I'm a certified EMDR therapist through EMDRIA. I work from an attachment based and needs approach addressing areas of struggles that stem from childhood and how they impact present relationships with others and one's self. Being more present in one's experiences through increased insight and awareness is a common goal for my clients. A colleague and I also provide group EMDR (via private pay) for those who have undergone recent traumatic experiences or life changing events with on-going consequences.
I'm a certified EMDR therapist through EMDRIA. I work from an attachment based and needs approach addressing areas of struggles that stem from childhood and how they impact present relationships with others and one's self. Being more present in one's experiences through increased insight and awareness is a common goal for my clients. A colleague and I also provide group EMDR (via private pay) for those who have undergone recent traumatic experiences or life changing events with on-going consequences.
(712) 218-3471 View (712) 218-3471
Photo of Lexy Howell, Marriage & Family Therapist in Iowa
Lexy Howell
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, RPT
Verified Verified
Cedar Rapids, IA 52402
Immediate openings for new clients. Are you struggling with anxiety, self-image, trauma, transitions, parenting, or attachment-based concerns? I can help you use your strengths to achieve your goals. Through our work, you will discover the confidence you deserve and start to feel that life is meaningful once again.
Immediate openings for new clients. Are you struggling with anxiety, self-image, trauma, transitions, parenting, or attachment-based concerns? I can help you use your strengths to achieve your goals. Through our work, you will discover the confidence you deserve and start to feel that life is meaningful once again.
(319) 988-2329 View (319) 988-2329
Photo of Humble Hearts Counseling Services LLC, Counselor in Iowa
Humble Hearts Counseling Services LLC
Counselor, LCPC-S, LPC-S, LMHC, CPT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Des Moines, IA 50325
Is your child struggling at home, school or just in any social setting? Is your family in chaos during family events? Are you searching for answers and help to equip your child with the skills needed to maintain? Here at Humble Hearts Counseling we use attachment based therapy methods to help children and families sort things out and get back on track. Humble Hearts Counseling provides high quality therapy services. We practice Play Therapy and CBT Play therapy to help children express their emotions and communicate effectively.
Is your child struggling at home, school or just in any social setting? Is your family in chaos during family events? Are you searching for answers and help to equip your child with the skills needed to maintain? Here at Humble Hearts Counseling we use attachment based therapy methods to help children and families sort things out and get back on track. Humble Hearts Counseling provides high quality therapy services. We practice Play Therapy and CBT Play therapy to help children express their emotions and communicate effectively.
(913) 286-7113 View (913) 286-7113
Photo of Gabriela Jump, Licensed Professional Counselor in Iowa
Gabriela Jump
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Dubuque, IA 52001
I specialize in the following therapy approaches: acceptance and commitment therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, attachment-based modalities, emotionally-focused modalities, and solution focused brief therapy.
​Hi, my name is Gabi. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor for Wisconsin. I am also licensed for Telehealth therapy for the State of Iowa. I hope to join you on your current journey! I understand it can be intimidating to search for a therapist. I have extensive experience working with clients who experience anxiety, depression, low self-esteem/self-worth, career unease or dissatisfaction, perfectionism, relationship conflict, breakups, family conflict, life transitions, and emerging adulthood. I have served a multitude of clients in marginalized communities, including people of color, women, LGBTQ+, and low-income communities.
I specialize in the following therapy approaches: acceptance and commitment therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, attachment-based modalities, emotionally-focused modalities, and solution focused brief therapy.
​Hi, my name is Gabi. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor for Wisconsin. I am also licensed for Telehealth therapy for the State of Iowa. I hope to join you on your current journey! I understand it can be intimidating to search for a therapist. I have extensive experience working with clients who experience anxiety, depression, low self-esteem/self-worth, career unease or dissatisfaction, perfectionism, relationship conflict, breakups, family conflict, life transitions, and emerging adulthood. I have served a multitude of clients in marginalized communities, including people of color, women, LGBTQ+, and low-income communities.
(608) 470-7843 View (608) 470-7843
Photo of Healing Rock Counseling , Counselor in Iowa
Healing Rock Counseling
Counselor
Verified Verified
Altoona, IA 50009
The providers are Healing Rock Counseling are committed to assisting you on your journey towards healing. We believe that you don't have to have it figured out to move forward. We have therapists available for individual, family, and couples counseling sessions.
The providers are Healing Rock Counseling are committed to assisting you on your journey towards healing. We believe that you don't have to have it figured out to move forward. We have therapists available for individual, family, and couples counseling sessions.
(515) 758-7375 View (515) 758-7375
Photo of Molly Chambers, Marriage & Family Therapist in Iowa
Molly Chambers
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Cedar Rapids, IA 52403
Reach out by email for fastest contact. The most powerful predictor of whether therapy will be effective is your relationship with your therapist. Finding the right one can feel overwhelming but you are already on your way. My approach is warm, empathetic and straightforward. I am accepting and direct in nature while focusing on strengths and growth. I do not "beat around the bush" as they say, while also being understanding and kind. I know how important it is to find the right "fit" with a therapist so I offer free 30 minute intro sessions so you can determine if I am the right therapist for you.
Reach out by email for fastest contact. The most powerful predictor of whether therapy will be effective is your relationship with your therapist. Finding the right one can feel overwhelming but you are already on your way. My approach is warm, empathetic and straightforward. I am accepting and direct in nature while focusing on strengths and growth. I do not "beat around the bush" as they say, while also being understanding and kind. I know how important it is to find the right "fit" with a therapist so I offer free 30 minute intro sessions so you can determine if I am the right therapist for you.
(319) 327-8120 View (319) 327-8120
Photo of Teja Huntley, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Iowa
Teja Huntley
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW
Verified Verified
Iowa City, IA 52240
I enjoy working with adults and older teens (16+) on issues related to understanding yourself, why you might feel the way you do, and what to do about it. Other areas of interest include helping clients navigate relationships, build healthy communication skills, understand their strengths, and to examine the role our environment as a child can show up in our current lives. I consider myself a process-oriented therapist; meaning I am always looking for themes and patterns in our sessions that might give us insight into what could be helpful to focus on in our time together.
I enjoy working with adults and older teens (16+) on issues related to understanding yourself, why you might feel the way you do, and what to do about it. Other areas of interest include helping clients navigate relationships, build healthy communication skills, understand their strengths, and to examine the role our environment as a child can show up in our current lives. I consider myself a process-oriented therapist; meaning I am always looking for themes and patterns in our sessions that might give us insight into what could be helpful to focus on in our time together.
View
Photo of Rise Family Therapy Center, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Iowa
Rise Family Therapy Center
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW, CTP
Verified Verified
North Liberty, IA 52317
The decision to start therapy for yourself or a family member is a big decision. As a therapist, I am passionate about helping individuals feel comfortable seeking mental health treatment and achieve emotional wellbeing. Regardless of your age, you are welcome here. I offer a safe, inclusive, and non-judgmental environment for individuals to begin making the progress they hope to see. While life and circumstances are constantly changing, the one constant we have is the ability to choose our response to such changes.
The decision to start therapy for yourself or a family member is a big decision. As a therapist, I am passionate about helping individuals feel comfortable seeking mental health treatment and achieve emotional wellbeing. Regardless of your age, you are welcome here. I offer a safe, inclusive, and non-judgmental environment for individuals to begin making the progress they hope to see. While life and circumstances are constantly changing, the one constant we have is the ability to choose our response to such changes.
(319) 670-3158 View (319) 670-3158
Photo of Shanon A. Claussen, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Iowa
Shanon A. Claussen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW, RPT-S, CADC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oskaloosa, IA 52577
Shanon Claussen LISW, RPT-S, CADC, Certified EMDR Therapist, has been providing mental health therapy since 2006, Shanon's clinical experience includes work with individuals (children 18 months & older, adolescents, adults, couples, & families). Shanon utilizes techniques appropriate to each client, individualizes treatment plans, & meets clients where they are at.
Shanon Claussen LISW, RPT-S, CADC, Certified EMDR Therapist, has been providing mental health therapy since 2006, Shanon's clinical experience includes work with individuals (children 18 months & older, adolescents, adults, couples, & families). Shanon utilizes techniques appropriate to each client, individualizes treatment plans, & meets clients where they are at.
(641) 321-3760 View (641) 321-3760
Photo of Kristin Thom, Marriage & Family Therapist in Iowa
Kristin Thom
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Marion, IA 52302
Waitlist for new clients
I believe in creating a safe and trusting therapeutic setting where individuals, children and families are able to explore themselves and relationships. I work to instill home, encourage growth and listen to understand you unique experience. I enjoy working with a variety of concerns; such as anxiety, depression, relational conflict, and trauma to name a few. There is never a guarantee with any service, but if you are looking for someone who can provide a safe, supportive listening ear while simultaneously challenging you to meet your goals. We could be a great fit!
I believe in creating a safe and trusting therapeutic setting where individuals, children and families are able to explore themselves and relationships. I work to instill home, encourage growth and listen to understand you unique experience. I enjoy working with a variety of concerns; such as anxiety, depression, relational conflict, and trauma to name a few. There is never a guarantee with any service, but if you are looking for someone who can provide a safe, supportive listening ear while simultaneously challenging you to meet your goals. We could be a great fit!
(319) 469-8906 View (319) 469-8906
Photo of Ashley Paulson, Counselor in Iowa
Ashley Paulson
Counselor, MA, LMHC, LIMHP, NCC
Verified Verified
Waukee, IA 50263  (Online Only)
Feeling stuck or anxious? Overthinking or losing sleep? Not feeling good enough in relationships or in parenting? I help adults let go of what's holding them back from living fully including anxious thinking, people pleasing, perfectionist tendencies, feelings of unworthiness, and trauma. I also help parents who are feeling defeated to create more peace and joy at home through connection. I work specifically with parents of children aged 7 and under. All services are online - I provide Telehealth only.
Feeling stuck or anxious? Overthinking or losing sleep? Not feeling good enough in relationships or in parenting? I help adults let go of what's holding them back from living fully including anxious thinking, people pleasing, perfectionist tendencies, feelings of unworthiness, and trauma. I also help parents who are feeling defeated to create more peace and joy at home through connection. I work specifically with parents of children aged 7 and under. All services are online - I provide Telehealth only.
(515) 902-0316 View (515) 902-0316
Photo of Sarah Wagener, Counselor in Iowa
Sarah Wagener
Counselor, MS, tLMHC
Verified Verified
Van Meter, IA 50261  (Online Only)
The journey to and through parenthood can be a wild ride. So much is changing within you, and maybe life is changing a lot around you, too. It can be hard to build confidence in yourself when you're struggling with anxiety, self-doubt, mom/dad guilt, or picking up the pieces after trauma and loss. There’s so much pressure to be perfect, and to do it all with little to no help. Maybe you compare yourself to others – they got pregnant right away, and I didn’t. They make this look so easy… why am I struggling so much? I just want to feel like myself again. Yep, I see you! It's possible to grow through this, not just go through it.
The journey to and through parenthood can be a wild ride. So much is changing within you, and maybe life is changing a lot around you, too. It can be hard to build confidence in yourself when you're struggling with anxiety, self-doubt, mom/dad guilt, or picking up the pieces after trauma and loss. There’s so much pressure to be perfect, and to do it all with little to no help. Maybe you compare yourself to others – they got pregnant right away, and I didn’t. They make this look so easy… why am I struggling so much? I just want to feel like myself again. Yep, I see you! It's possible to grow through this, not just go through it.
(515) 516-6475 View (515) 516-6475
Photo of ABCD Therapy & Consulting, LLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Iowa
ABCD Therapy & Consulting, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW
Verified Verified
Huxley, IA 50124  (Online Only)
We are a team of highly skilled folks who serve a wide variety of client needs. Our agency specifically focuses on support people who have struggled with trauma or complex trauma needs, including child sexual abuse, sexual assault, domestic violence, religious trauma, refugee experiences and survivors of torture. We also support clients who are navigating key identity struggles including transgender and gender diverse clients, racial identity and trauma, grief and loss, and relationship and life transitions. We are experts in multicultural care, and in experiences of anxiety, depression, PTSD, addiction and BPD.
We are a team of highly skilled folks who serve a wide variety of client needs. Our agency specifically focuses on support people who have struggled with trauma or complex trauma needs, including child sexual abuse, sexual assault, domestic violence, religious trauma, refugee experiences and survivors of torture. We also support clients who are navigating key identity struggles including transgender and gender diverse clients, racial identity and trauma, grief and loss, and relationship and life transitions. We are experts in multicultural care, and in experiences of anxiety, depression, PTSD, addiction and BPD.
(515) 824-5002 View (515) 824-5002
Photo of Kayla Sellers, Marriage & Family Therapist in Iowa
Kayla Sellers
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, tLMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
North Liberty, IA 52317
I strive to offer you a genuine, empathetic presence and safe space to help you navigate your way toward healing and growth. I see the ways that life stressors, stuck patterns, uncertainty, trauma, and grief impact day to day life. I believe that change takes place through relationships and I am committed to providing you warmth and support within the therapeutic relationship. Whether we are honoring difficult emotions or sharing a laugh, I strive to always meet you with authenticity and trust through a collaborative approach. I am dedicated to respecting your lived experience, autonomy, and goals.
I strive to offer you a genuine, empathetic presence and safe space to help you navigate your way toward healing and growth. I see the ways that life stressors, stuck patterns, uncertainty, trauma, and grief impact day to day life. I believe that change takes place through relationships and I am committed to providing you warmth and support within the therapeutic relationship. Whether we are honoring difficult emotions or sharing a laugh, I strive to always meet you with authenticity and trust through a collaborative approach. I am dedicated to respecting your lived experience, autonomy, and goals.
(319) 435-4871 View (319) 435-4871
Photo of Myriah Brookhart, Marriage & Family Therapist in Iowa
Myriah Brookhart
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
It is my belief that everyone has the potential to grow. I am passionate about creating a safe space while empowering clients to identify and explore their emotional experiences, so they can live healthier and more satisfying lives.
It is my belief that everyone has the potential to grow. I am passionate about creating a safe space while empowering clients to identify and explore their emotional experiences, so they can live healthier and more satisfying lives.
(515) 517-6884 View (515) 517-6884
Attachment-based Therapists

Is attachment-based therapy the same as attachment therapy?

Attachment-based therapy may be confused with what is called “attachment therapy” (sometimes called “holding therapy”), a discredited and dangerous approach to treating children with attachment disorders, autism, or other mental health concerns. Attachment therapy—not attachment-based therapy—may involve restraining a child, forcing eye contact, and other coercive or abusive techniques. None of these practices are used in attachment-based therapy and the two modalities are in no way related.

What should I expect from attachment-based therapy?

Attachment-based therapy is based on attachment theory, which posits that children’s early relationships with their caregivers strongly influence their ability to navigate the world later in life. Thus, adults who seek attachment-based therapy should expect to deeply explore their childhood, identifying the dynamics or experiences that disrupted their attachment and the steps necessary to overcome challenges that arose as a result. Parents and children should expect to explore the possible factors that disrupted the parent-child relationship and work toward restoring trust and connection.

How long does attachment-based therapy last?

Certain forms of attachment-based therapy, especially those designed for parents and children, last for a set number of sessions; for example, Attachment and Biobehavioral Catch-Up, a specific attachment-based approach for young children who have undergone early adversity, unfolds over 10 one-hour sessions. When attachment-based therapy is practiced on adults or combined with other modalities, it may not last a specific length of time; clients may wish to ask prospective therapists how long they expect treatment to take.

Does attachment-based therapy work?

Most of the research on attachment-based therapy focuses on children and adolescents. Some of this research shows a positive effect, especially for attachment-based family therapy (ABFT). Other studies, however, have found that attachment-based therapy is no more effective than other approaches to childhood depression, anxiety, or suicidality. Less is known about the therapy’s efficacy on adult populations.