Depression Therapists in Mahaska County, IA
We are here to walk with you when you need it most. Lutheran Family Service (LFS) has an expert team of compassionate therapists and counselors to help you with marital and relationship problems, depression and suicidal thoughts, anxiety and worry, trauma or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), personality disorders, grief and loss, parenting concerns, life transitions, work and career concerns, or chronic mental illness.
We are here to walk with you when you need it most. Lutheran Family Service (LFS) has an expert team of compassionate therapists and counselors to help you with marital and relationship problems, depression and suicidal thoughts, anxiety and worry, trauma or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), personality disorders, grief and loss, parenting concerns, life transitions, work and career concerns, or chronic mental illness.
I work with individuals dealing with anxiety, depression, relationship issues, parenting concerns, behavioral issues, stress management concerns, anger issues, existential concerns and life transitions.
It is my passion to be able to help others through the challenges of life. It is always a priority to create a safe and trusting relationship with each client where they feel there is a shared ownership in their treatment outcomes. I provide effective, collaborative and holistic therapy that results in transformation, growth and healing. My primary treatment modality is Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) but I integrate various therapeutic approaches to meet my client's individual needs.
I work with individuals dealing with anxiety, depression, relationship issues, parenting concerns, behavioral issues, stress management concerns, anger issues, existential concerns and life transitions.
It is my passion to be able to help others through the challenges of life. It is always a priority to create a safe and trusting relationship with each client where they feel there is a shared ownership in their treatment outcomes. I provide effective, collaborative and holistic therapy that results in transformation, growth and healing. My primary treatment modality is Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) but I integrate various therapeutic approaches to meet my client's individual needs.
Abby Rickert
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LISW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oskaloosa, IA 52577
My professional background and experience is working with: individual emerging adults (18-29) and adults (30-65) who are struggling with anxiety, depression, challenges in relationships, low self esteem, grief, struggles with boundary setting, life transitions, neurodiversity, chronic health concerns, and related issues.
Have you been feeling unheard, hopeless, overwhelmed, and not sure where to turn? You deserve for your thoughts and feelings to be heard and understood. There is no problem too big or too small. Therapy is not a one ‘size fits all’. My approach is person-centered and strengths based. I focus on building a strong therapeutic relationship that allows us to work together through any issue, and tailor sessions to meet your unique needs. I strive to always offer a safe, laid back, warm, and judgement-free space with a gentle, honest listening ear.
My professional background and experience is working with: individual emerging adults (18-29) and adults (30-65) who are struggling with anxiety, depression, challenges in relationships, low self esteem, grief, struggles with boundary setting, life transitions, neurodiversity, chronic health concerns, and related issues.
Have you been feeling unheard, hopeless, overwhelmed, and not sure where to turn? You deserve for your thoughts and feelings to be heard and understood. There is no problem too big or too small. Therapy is not a one ‘size fits all’. My approach is person-centered and strengths based. I focus on building a strong therapeutic relationship that allows us to work together through any issue, and tailor sessions to meet your unique needs. I strive to always offer a safe, laid back, warm, and judgement-free space with a gentle, honest listening ear.
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.
Online Therapists
I have a wide range of experiences including working with anxiety, codependency, depression, grief and loss, attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder, life stress and transitions, traumatic experiences, self-esteem, and those experiencing relationship and communication issues. I am especially interested in working with those experiencing body image concerns, eating disorders, and disordered eating. No matter the circumstances, I will provide a safe space to experience emotions, talk through life’s challenges, and a provide meaningful therapeutic relationship to grow and foster healing and personal growth.
I have a wide range of experiences including working with anxiety, codependency, depression, grief and loss, attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder, life stress and transitions, traumatic experiences, self-esteem, and those experiencing relationship and communication issues. I am especially interested in working with those experiencing body image concerns, eating disorders, and disordered eating. No matter the circumstances, I will provide a safe space to experience emotions, talk through life’s challenges, and a provide meaningful therapeutic relationship to grow and foster healing and personal growth.
Emily Harsch
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cedar Rapids, IA 52402 (Online Only)
Accepting new clients. Hey there! I'm Em (she/they) and I became a therapist to address the gap that marginalized communities face in accessing inclusive mental health care. My approach is collaborative, creative, & consensual. My goal is to understand my clients as full people - not just what's going on inside, but also paying attention to your identities, environments, and social systems. I work with anxiety, depression, trauma, neurodivergence, conflict, and coping skills. As a therapist committed to liberation, I believe your therapy is yours - and I am invited to your life, so I prioritize client needs and strengths.
Accepting new clients. Hey there! I'm Em (she/they) and I became a therapist to address the gap that marginalized communities face in accessing inclusive mental health care. My approach is collaborative, creative, & consensual. My goal is to understand my clients as full people - not just what's going on inside, but also paying attention to your identities, environments, and social systems. I work with anxiety, depression, trauma, neurodivergence, conflict, and coping skills. As a therapist committed to liberation, I believe your therapy is yours - and I am invited to your life, so I prioritize client needs and strengths.
Gabby Archibald
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW, RPTS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
West Des Moines, IA 50266
I believe in meeting clients where they are in life, using a compassionate and caring approach with the modality that works the best for your needs. I see a clients through the life span from school age children through adults, with a variety of needs including adjustment issues, anxiety, depression, and trauma. I have been trained in EMDR, Trauma Focused CBT, and play therapy, among other therapeutic approaches.
I believe in meeting clients where they are in life, using a compassionate and caring approach with the modality that works the best for your needs. I see a clients through the life span from school age children through adults, with a variety of needs including adjustment issues, anxiety, depression, and trauma. I have been trained in EMDR, Trauma Focused CBT, and play therapy, among other therapeutic approaches.
Leslie Woodris
Counselor, LMHC, ATR
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
West Des Moines, IA 50266
Waitlist for new clients
If you are dealing with depression, anxiety, recent or childhood trauma, or gender/sexuality issues, my work is dedicated to helping you find your most authentic voice so that you can create the life you have wanted to live.
Hello, I am genuinely happy that our paths have crossed. During my years of practice, I have noticed that therapy is sought out when situations in our life are not feeling right. Often this has been going on for years. You are not alone! Change can be overwhelming; know that you have already taken the first step to healing by recognizing that something needs to change. You do not have to continue to feel the way you are right now. There is hope for a better and brighter future.
If you are dealing with depression, anxiety, recent or childhood trauma, or gender/sexuality issues, my work is dedicated to helping you find your most authentic voice so that you can create the life you have wanted to live.
Hello, I am genuinely happy that our paths have crossed. During my years of practice, I have noticed that therapy is sought out when situations in our life are not feeling right. Often this has been going on for years. You are not alone! Change can be overwhelming; know that you have already taken the first step to healing by recognizing that something needs to change. You do not have to continue to feel the way you are right now. There is hope for a better and brighter future.
Annie Kramer
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Des Moines, IA 50312
Waitlist for new clients
Hello! I have earned my Masters in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. I enjoy working with teenagers, adults, and older adults on issues related to depression, anxiety, grief and loss, identity, trauma, and life transitions. In session, I like to be interactive and will use traditional talk therapy along with creative methods for communicating. Many people enjoy using arts, crafts, music, and movement in session, so I help foster an environment that helps people feel safe enough to express themselves through these modalities.
Hello! I have earned my Masters in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. I enjoy working with teenagers, adults, and older adults on issues related to depression, anxiety, grief and loss, identity, trauma, and life transitions. In session, I like to be interactive and will use traditional talk therapy along with creative methods for communicating. Many people enjoy using arts, crafts, music, and movement in session, so I help foster an environment that helps people feel safe enough to express themselves through these modalities.
I enjoy working with a broad array of concerns including trauma recovery, anxiety disorders, depression, identity concerns, eating disorders, body image, emotional dysregulation, relational issues, self-esteem, chronic stress, and family issues.
Hello! My name is Kenlyn, and I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC). I feel my role is to walk alongside you as you come to deeply know yourself and heal from the inside out. A strength of mine is facilitating a safe, open space to address pain, emotional distress, life difficulties, relational concerns, and any other areas we determine are important in enhancing emotional balance and well-being. My approach is collaborative and enthusiastic. I find such meaning in helping you feel deeply known, valued, and understood. Start today in creating the life you want.
I enjoy working with a broad array of concerns including trauma recovery, anxiety disorders, depression, identity concerns, eating disorders, body image, emotional dysregulation, relational issues, self-esteem, chronic stress, and family issues.
Hello! My name is Kenlyn, and I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC). I feel my role is to walk alongside you as you come to deeply know yourself and heal from the inside out. A strength of mine is facilitating a safe, open space to address pain, emotional distress, life difficulties, relational concerns, and any other areas we determine are important in enhancing emotional balance and well-being. My approach is collaborative and enthusiastic. I find such meaning in helping you feel deeply known, valued, and understood. Start today in creating the life you want.
Tari Wilcox
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cedar Rapids, IA 52402
I look forward to helping you seek greater peace and conflict resolution - helping you find an increased overall life balance. I work with individuals, couples, and families to help them work through former and current conflict and stressors. I use cognitive behavioral techniques to assist in challenging distorted thoughts and patterns. I have a focus in helping those who struggle with depression and anxiety, trauma and abuse, relationship or family conflicts, life transitions, and issues surrounding grief and loss.
I look forward to helping you seek greater peace and conflict resolution - helping you find an increased overall life balance. I work with individuals, couples, and families to help them work through former and current conflict and stressors. I use cognitive behavioral techniques to assist in challenging distorted thoughts and patterns. I have a focus in helping those who struggle with depression and anxiety, trauma and abuse, relationship or family conflicts, life transitions, and issues surrounding grief and loss.
I have experience working with clients with depression, anxiety, trauma, relationship issues, life stressors, grief and loss, family conflict, Bipolar, ADD/ADHD, borderline personality disorder, substance use and mood disorders.
I am trained in several different therapeutic approaches including cognitive behavioral therapy, solution-focused therapy, narrative therapy, person-centered therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy, etc. I enjoy working with teens, young adults and adults. I have a passion for giving every client an equal opportunity to thrive in their mental, emotional and behavioral realms. I offer both in person and telehealth therapy. I strive to to create a comfortable environment that allows clients to feel safe and supported.
I have experience working with clients with depression, anxiety, trauma, relationship issues, life stressors, grief and loss, family conflict, Bipolar, ADD/ADHD, borderline personality disorder, substance use and mood disorders.
I am trained in several different therapeutic approaches including cognitive behavioral therapy, solution-focused therapy, narrative therapy, person-centered therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy, etc. I enjoy working with teens, young adults and adults. I have a passion for giving every client an equal opportunity to thrive in their mental, emotional and behavioral realms. I offer both in person and telehealth therapy. I strive to to create a comfortable environment that allows clients to feel safe and supported.
I specialize in the treatment and management of anxiety, depression and PTSD as well as personality and other mood disorders.
I believe that the therapeutic process begins with building a trusting relationship while providing a safe and non judgmental space to share life challenges and stressors. I provide services with a high degree of empathy in a manner that is very down to earth and authentic. I utilize an individualized, holistic, client centered approach that is tailored to meet your unique needs.
I specialize in the treatment and management of anxiety, depression and PTSD as well as personality and other mood disorders.
I believe that the therapeutic process begins with building a trusting relationship while providing a safe and non judgmental space to share life challenges and stressors. I provide services with a high degree of empathy in a manner that is very down to earth and authentic. I utilize an individualized, holistic, client centered approach that is tailored to meet your unique needs.
I am a Mental Health Counselor in the state of Iowa. I received my Bachelor's degree in Psychology from the University of Iowa and my Master's degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Indiana State University. I have also completed the Training for Adoption Competency presented by the Center for Adoption Support and Education. I have worked with ages 8 to adulthood on issues such as anxiety, depression, eating disorders, PTSD, trauma, stress, foster/adoption, and domestic violence.
I am a Mental Health Counselor in the state of Iowa. I received my Bachelor's degree in Psychology from the University of Iowa and my Master's degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Indiana State University. I have also completed the Training for Adoption Competency presented by the Center for Adoption Support and Education. I have worked with ages 8 to adulthood on issues such as anxiety, depression, eating disorders, PTSD, trauma, stress, foster/adoption, and domestic violence.
Meadowlark Psychiatric Services
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
North Liberty, IA 52317
I have a great deal of respect for my clients, and am passionate about helping them overcome depression, anxiety, codependence, and conflict in interpersonal relationships.
My hope for you as my client, is that you move toward caring for yourself, and creating a life that is in line with your values. My therapeutic approach is collaborative, client-focused, and goal-oriented. I use a strengths-based approach to therapy, and believe in taking a practical approach to problem-solving. I primarily work with individual adults and couples. I look forward to supporting you as you go through this journey!
I have a great deal of respect for my clients, and am passionate about helping them overcome depression, anxiety, codependence, and conflict in interpersonal relationships.
My hope for you as my client, is that you move toward caring for yourself, and creating a life that is in line with your values. My therapeutic approach is collaborative, client-focused, and goal-oriented. I use a strengths-based approach to therapy, and believe in taking a practical approach to problem-solving. I primarily work with individual adults and couples. I look forward to supporting you as you go through this journey!
Elise Perea
Counselor, MEd, MS, LMHC
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Cedar Rapids, IA 52402 (Online Only)
It can be hard to find a therapist if you have shift work or a full schedule, so I am offering sessions from 5am-Noon. In our office, we work on life transitions, gaining insights, making changes, improving relationships, and learning how to to feel more calm and settled. Here you can find out more about healthier coping techniques, and reduce the frequency and severity of symptoms of depression, ADHD and anxiety. It is a good and safe place to improve confidence and self-esteem, address parenting, marital and vocational stress, and to explore and express your identity and needs, wants and goals both personally and professionally.
It can be hard to find a therapist if you have shift work or a full schedule, so I am offering sessions from 5am-Noon. In our office, we work on life transitions, gaining insights, making changes, improving relationships, and learning how to to feel more calm and settled. Here you can find out more about healthier coping techniques, and reduce the frequency and severity of symptoms of depression, ADHD and anxiety. It is a good and safe place to improve confidence and self-esteem, address parenting, marital and vocational stress, and to explore and express your identity and needs, wants and goals both personally and professionally.
I am here to sit with you through the hardest parts of your life and help you to be able to live your best life! If you are struggling with trauma, low self-esteem, high stress, hard life transitions, anxiety, or depression, you have come to the right place to heal.
Accepting New Telehealth Clients! Taking the first step towards change, healing & growth can be difficult. I am a laid back therapist who loves seeing clients get to their best selves in a non-judgmental, unbiased space. I pride myself on being down to earth, positive, and relatable. You won't find a traditional atmosphere in my office, which I believe is one of my strengths. I provide individual therapy for clients aged 18 years and older. I am trained in EMDR, DBT, and CBT techniques and utilize strength-based and client-centered approaches.
I am here to sit with you through the hardest parts of your life and help you to be able to live your best life! If you are struggling with trauma, low self-esteem, high stress, hard life transitions, anxiety, or depression, you have come to the right place to heal.
Accepting New Telehealth Clients! Taking the first step towards change, healing & growth can be difficult. I am a laid back therapist who loves seeing clients get to their best selves in a non-judgmental, unbiased space. I pride myself on being down to earth, positive, and relatable. You won't find a traditional atmosphere in my office, which I believe is one of my strengths. I provide individual therapy for clients aged 18 years and older. I am trained in EMDR, DBT, and CBT techniques and utilize strength-based and client-centered approaches.
I have experience in helping clients with depression, relationship issues, grief, self-esteem issues, parenting issues, anger management, attention deficit disorder ,(ADD/ADHD) Sleeping disorders ,Stress, Anxiety, Coping with life changes, Intimacy-related issues, Compassion fatigue, Trauma and abuse Family conflicts, LGBT.
I have experience in helping clients with depression, relationship issues, grief, self-esteem issues, parenting issues, anger management, attention deficit disorder ,(ADD/ADHD) Sleeping disorders ,Stress, Anxiety, Coping with life changes, Intimacy-related issues, Compassion fatigue, Trauma and abuse Family conflicts, LGBT.
Nancy K. Vermeersch
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LISW
Verified Verified
Cedar Rapids, IA 52402
WELCOME! You may be struggling with an unhappy relationship, grieving the loss of a loved one, feeling depressed or anxious, interested in improving your life balance and wellness, or simply wanting a closer relationship with God. If so, I invite you to call me for a consultation. We can identify new patterns, coping skills and strategies so you can feel you are thriving in life with success and joy.
WELCOME! You may be struggling with an unhappy relationship, grieving the loss of a loved one, feeling depressed or anxious, interested in improving your life balance and wellness, or simply wanting a closer relationship with God. If so, I invite you to call me for a consultation. We can identify new patterns, coping skills and strategies so you can feel you are thriving in life with success and joy.
Isabella Burns
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cedar Rapids, IA 52404
I specialize in treating adults with a wide range of issues including depression, anxiety and trauma.
Taking the first step toward therapy is a courageous act of self-care. You are the expert on your life and experiences, and I’m here to honor that. My goal is to create a safe, nonjudgmental space where you feel seen, heard, and valued. Together, we’ll explore your strengths, navigate challenges, and help you heal at your own pace. Whether you’re dealing with trauma, anxiety, or life transitions, your story is central to our work. You deserve support and understanding, and I’m here to walk alongside you on this journey
I specialize in treating adults with a wide range of issues including depression, anxiety and trauma.
Taking the first step toward therapy is a courageous act of self-care. You are the expert on your life and experiences, and I’m here to honor that. My goal is to create a safe, nonjudgmental space where you feel seen, heard, and valued. Together, we’ll explore your strengths, navigate challenges, and help you heal at your own pace. Whether you’re dealing with trauma, anxiety, or life transitions, your story is central to our work. You deserve support and understanding, and I’m here to walk alongside you on this journey
See more therapy options for Mahaska County
Depression Therapists
What is the goal of therapy for depression?
Therapy for depression has several major goals. One is to relieve the mental pain of depression, which distorts feeling and thinking so that sufferers cannot see beyond their current state of mind or envision feeling better. Another is to give people the mental tools to recognize and correct the kinds of distorted thinking that turn a problem into a catastrophe and lead to despair. Therapy also teaches people how to process negative emotions in constructive ways, so they have more control over their own emotional reactivity. And it helps people regain the ability to see themselves positively, the motivation to do things, and the capacity for pleasure.
What happens in therapy for depression?
Perhaps most important, no matter the type of therapy, patients form an alliance with the therapist; that connection is therapeutic in itself, plus it becomes an instrument of change. Patients learn to identify and to challenge their own erroneous beliefs and thoughts that amplify the effects of negative experiences. They learn to identify situations in which they are especially vulnerable. And they learn new patterns of thinking and behaving. They may be given “homework” assignments in which they practice their developing skills. In addition, good therapists regularly monitor patients to assess whether and how much the condition is improving.
What therapy types help with depression?
Several types of short-term therapy have been found effective, each targeting one or more areas of dysfunction. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) helps clients challenge their negative thoughts and beliefs, learn new behavioral strategies, and curb reactivity to distressing situations. Behavioral activation (BA) is a form of therapy often used in conjunction with CBT; it focuses on engagement in rewarding activity as a pathway to changing negative feelings and disturbed mood. Another widely used approach is interpersonal therapy (IPT), which targets the social difficulties that both give rise to and get exacerbated by depression. Therapists may combine approaches as needed.
Can therapy for depression be done online?
Studies have found that online therapy can be highly effective for treating depression, although it may be more challenging to build a good therapist-patient alliance on screen than in person—at least at first. However, online therapy can offer considerable advantages. Accessibility and convenience are tops among them. Some people actually find it easier to talk about problems online than in person. While online therapy typically limits visibility of facial expression and body gestures that give important nonverbal cues to a patient’s state of mind, it can give therapists a glimpse into a patient’s world and life, providing information that can be highly useful in guiding therapy.
How effective is therapy for depression?
Many studies show that therapy is highly effective provided that patients complete the prescribed course of therapy, commonly 16 to 20 sessions. Over the long term, it is more effective than medication and the effects are more enduring. As a result, psychotherapy has the power not just to relieve current suffering but to prevent future episodes of the disorder. Therapy reverses the dysfunction in neural circuitry that disposes individuals to a negative view of themselves, the world, and their future and they acquire coping techniques, problem-solving skills, and understanding of their own vulnerabilities that are useful over the course of a lifetime.