Therapists in Iowa
I enjoy connecting with clients by using a down-to-earth approach (and a little humor at times) to achieve the very best outcomes from therapy. I work with adults on a variety of concerns, including (but not limited to): anxiety, depression, adjustment difficulties, college stress, phase of life concerns, divorce, blended family concerns, serious acute/chronic illness, grief/loss, and trauma/PTSD. I am LGBTQ+ allied. I also enjoy working with corrections employees, law enforcement, firefighters, EMT, dispatch, and professionals in ER settings. We are all a work in progress!
I enjoy connecting with clients by using a down-to-earth approach (and a little humor at times) to achieve the very best outcomes from therapy. I work with adults on a variety of concerns, including (but not limited to): anxiety, depression, adjustment difficulties, college stress, phase of life concerns, divorce, blended family concerns, serious acute/chronic illness, grief/loss, and trauma/PTSD. I am LGBTQ+ allied. I also enjoy working with corrections employees, law enforcement, firefighters, EMT, dispatch, and professionals in ER settings. We are all a work in progress!
Welcome! Life is a continual journey of healing the mind, body, and spirit. I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and I provide individual and family therapy. My passion is working with people from multi-cultural populations who have experienced trauma, PTSD, depression, anxiety, suicidal ideation, grief/loss, anger, irritability, stress, and substance abuse. I am a Certified EMDR Therapist and Consultant, (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing), and offer Mindfulness, Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy and Client Centered Therapy,
Welcome! Life is a continual journey of healing the mind, body, and spirit. I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and I provide individual and family therapy. My passion is working with people from multi-cultural populations who have experienced trauma, PTSD, depression, anxiety, suicidal ideation, grief/loss, anger, irritability, stress, and substance abuse. I am a Certified EMDR Therapist and Consultant, (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing), and offer Mindfulness, Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy and Client Centered Therapy,
I have used EMDR successfully for depression, anxiety, fears, and many other challenges you may face.
I am a Licensed Independent Social Worker with varied experiences covering all ages and many conditions. I entered the field of helping others in 2003 as a Chemical Dependency Counselor. I have since worked with troubled adolescents of varied backgrounds in a residential setting; the Chronically Mentally Ill in a community supported living program. I also have extensive Crisis Management experience. I have experience working with substance abuse, depression, anxiety, anger management, social anxiety, sexual trauma, combat trauma, family relationships, physical abuse, and behavior problems.
I have used EMDR successfully for depression, anxiety, fears, and many other challenges you may face.
I am a Licensed Independent Social Worker with varied experiences covering all ages and many conditions. I entered the field of helping others in 2003 as a Chemical Dependency Counselor. I have since worked with troubled adolescents of varied backgrounds in a residential setting; the Chronically Mentally Ill in a community supported living program. I also have extensive Crisis Management experience. I have experience working with substance abuse, depression, anxiety, anger management, social anxiety, sexual trauma, combat trauma, family relationships, physical abuse, and behavior problems.
I have experience working with career development, stress management, self-esteem, personal development and identity, trauma, anxiety, depression, grief, domestic violence, relationship conflicts, substance use, and chronic and terminal illness.
It can be very challenging and difficult to talk to someone about your mental health. Reaching out to a therapist is a brave first step towards healing. I aim to provide a warm, safe, and non-judgmental environment where I assist my client in constructing a treatment plan that works best for their current needs and lifestyle. In session, I utilize a combination of Person-Centered, Narrative, Cognitive-behavioral, and Solution Focused approaches to meet my client’s individualistic or holistic needs. I also specialize in the technique of brain-spotting and am currently working to earn certification.
I have experience working with career development, stress management, self-esteem, personal development and identity, trauma, anxiety, depression, grief, domestic violence, relationship conflicts, substance use, and chronic and terminal illness.
It can be very challenging and difficult to talk to someone about your mental health. Reaching out to a therapist is a brave first step towards healing. I aim to provide a warm, safe, and non-judgmental environment where I assist my client in constructing a treatment plan that works best for their current needs and lifestyle. In session, I utilize a combination of Person-Centered, Narrative, Cognitive-behavioral, and Solution Focused approaches to meet my client’s individualistic or holistic needs. I also specialize in the technique of brain-spotting and am currently working to earn certification.
Stephanie De Roo
Counselor, LMHC, NCC, MS
Verified Verified
Iowa City, IA 52240
Waitlist for new clients
Welcome! Working through depression, anxiety, relationship issues, life transitions, and other mental health concerns can be difficult and intimidating to do alone. Therapy can be a helpful tool if you are feeling stuck and looking for a change. I work to provide non-judgmental insight, while recognizing that each client is their expert of their own experiences.
Welcome! Working through depression, anxiety, relationship issues, life transitions, and other mental health concerns can be difficult and intimidating to do alone. Therapy can be a helpful tool if you are feeling stuck and looking for a change. I work to provide non-judgmental insight, while recognizing that each client is their expert of their own experiences.
Dr. Tracy's Counseling Services
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW, PhD
Verified Verified
Grimes, IA 50111
Waitlist for new clients
I have 34 years of experience helping adults with many different issues including but not limited to anxiety, depression, addictions, relationship issues and grief. We work together to meet your goals. Thank you for the opportunity to work with you. I know reaching out for help is often difficult.
I have 34 years of experience helping adults with many different issues including but not limited to anxiety, depression, addictions, relationship issues and grief. We work together to meet your goals. Thank you for the opportunity to work with you. I know reaching out for help is often difficult.
Emili Lair
Counselor, LMHC, MA, MEd
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Estherville, IA 51334 (Online Only)
Emili has experience treating individuals struggling with anxiety disorders, all severities of depression, employment issues, chronic health issues, relationship distress, as well post-traumatic stress disorder. She is most passionate about helping individuals struggling to cope with the complexities of grief and loss of all forms, including those struggling to understand the most unimaginable tragedies in life. Emili has an interest providing couple’s counseling to partners wanting to improve communication, addressing ongoing conflict and/or betrayal in relationships, and experiencing new stages.
Emili has experience treating individuals struggling with anxiety disorders, all severities of depression, employment issues, chronic health issues, relationship distress, as well post-traumatic stress disorder. She is most passionate about helping individuals struggling to cope with the complexities of grief and loss of all forms, including those struggling to understand the most unimaginable tragedies in life. Emili has an interest providing couple’s counseling to partners wanting to improve communication, addressing ongoing conflict and/or betrayal in relationships, and experiencing new stages.
I have a passion to work with individuals ranging from children/adolescents/teens to adults and couples that are experiencing challenges associated with everyday life struggles including anxiety, depression, grief/loss, trauma, self-esteem, relationship problems, and behavioral issues in children.
Hey there! If you are reading this, I want to let you know that I am already proud of you for taking the first step in seeking help. My goal as a therapist is to work alongside you in achieving whatever challenges you are facing that is preventing you from living your best life. You can rest assured that working with me will be judgement-free.
I have a passion to work with individuals ranging from children/adolescents/teens to adults and couples that are experiencing challenges associated with everyday life struggles including anxiety, depression, grief/loss, trauma, self-esteem, relationship problems, and behavioral issues in children.
Hey there! If you are reading this, I want to let you know that I am already proud of you for taking the first step in seeking help. My goal as a therapist is to work alongside you in achieving whatever challenges you are facing that is preventing you from living your best life. You can rest assured that working with me will be judgement-free.
John is mental health counselor that has been working with clients for over 15 years. His professional experience includes: bereavement, divorce issues, trauma work, bullying, depression, anxiety and group work with adults, adolescents and youth. John uses a non-judgmental approach to create a comfortable environment to work through the difficult challenges life brings. Specific interventions such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Client Centered counseling techniques are used to establish a high quality of individual wellness that will help each person achieve personal goals and reach levels of desired self-awareness & comfort.
John is mental health counselor that has been working with clients for over 15 years. His professional experience includes: bereavement, divorce issues, trauma work, bullying, depression, anxiety and group work with adults, adolescents and youth. John uses a non-judgmental approach to create a comfortable environment to work through the difficult challenges life brings. Specific interventions such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Client Centered counseling techniques are used to establish a high quality of individual wellness that will help each person achieve personal goals and reach levels of desired self-awareness & comfort.
Jeni Nash, LISW - Anxiety, Trauma and Depression
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Urbandale, IA 50322
You can get relief from anxiety, depression and trauma.
Does your mind race with past problems or future worries? Do you need to heal from a recent or past trauma? Do you feel persistently down or depressed? Are your challenges affecting your work and home life? In therapy, you can learn practical strategies that can help you cope. Difficult childhood experiences in your past or mental health struggles in the present don't have to dictate your future. You can develop the skills to cope with anxiety and depression, recover from trauma, build self-esteem, have better relationships, and move past grief. Build hope and support tangible progress. Reach out to schedule your free consultation.
You can get relief from anxiety, depression and trauma.
Does your mind race with past problems or future worries? Do you need to heal from a recent or past trauma? Do you feel persistently down or depressed? Are your challenges affecting your work and home life? In therapy, you can learn practical strategies that can help you cope. Difficult childhood experiences in your past or mental health struggles in the present don't have to dictate your future. You can develop the skills to cope with anxiety and depression, recover from trauma, build self-esteem, have better relationships, and move past grief. Build hope and support tangible progress. Reach out to schedule your free consultation.
I work with all age groups, and I specialize in treating grief, loss, end of life issues, crisis intervention, chronic illness, stress, anxiety, depression, and anger management, among others.
It can be hard asking for help, but I am eager to get to know you and your story and help you create a positive change in your life. I serve both children and adults in need of a safe space to find the skills they need to thrive. I have a designated play room where children can express their creativity and feel comfortable talking with me. My office is also a safe, confidential environment where adults can feel empowered to share their thoughts and feelings and know their voices are heard.
I work with all age groups, and I specialize in treating grief, loss, end of life issues, crisis intervention, chronic illness, stress, anxiety, depression, and anger management, among others.
It can be hard asking for help, but I am eager to get to know you and your story and help you create a positive change in your life. I serve both children and adults in need of a safe space to find the skills they need to thrive. I have a designated play room where children can express their creativity and feel comfortable talking with me. My office is also a safe, confidential environment where adults can feel empowered to share their thoughts and feelings and know their voices are heard.
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I have years of experience and specialize in treating depression, anxiety, eating disorders, anger management, autism in children and teens, sensory processing disorders, and children in foster care and adoptive homes.
I’m constantly inspired by each of the clients I am privileged to serve, and I’m honored to play even the smallest part in helping them build a brighter future. My office is a safe, nonjudgmental space where Iowa children, adults, couples, and families can find the hope and healing they need to thrive. Together, my clients and I build the customized treatment plan that is the best fit for them.
I have years of experience and specialize in treating depression, anxiety, eating disorders, anger management, autism in children and teens, sensory processing disorders, and children in foster care and adoptive homes.
I’m constantly inspired by each of the clients I am privileged to serve, and I’m honored to play even the smallest part in helping them build a brighter future. My office is a safe, nonjudgmental space where Iowa children, adults, couples, and families can find the hope and healing they need to thrive. Together, my clients and I build the customized treatment plan that is the best fit for them.
Brian L Bentley
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, CADC, EMDR
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Urbandale, IA 50322
I am an emotion focused and cognitive behavioral therapist that incorporates a systemic, relational perspective to my work. I am passionate about helping individuals and couples create the relationship they desire, providing families with the tools necessary to create meaningful relationships, and assisting those in need of support and counsel with a variety of mental health issues. I use 28 years of marital and family counseling experience to provide therapy in the areas of marital therapy, affair reconciliation, divorce adjustment, sexual & drug addictions, depression, and anxiety.
I am an emotion focused and cognitive behavioral therapist that incorporates a systemic, relational perspective to my work. I am passionate about helping individuals and couples create the relationship they desire, providing families with the tools necessary to create meaningful relationships, and assisting those in need of support and counsel with a variety of mental health issues. I use 28 years of marital and family counseling experience to provide therapy in the areas of marital therapy, affair reconciliation, divorce adjustment, sexual & drug addictions, depression, and anxiety.
I specialize in trauma, anxiety, depression, grief and loss and can help people with chronic pain and illnesses.
I am a Licensed Mental Health Therapist and Registered Art Therapist. I am certified in EMDR and Mindfulness Based Cognitive Therapy. I have been helping people of all ages navigate mental health and life challenges for over 25 years. Together, we can tailor your therapy to meet your individual needs so you can move beyond whatever is holding you back and begin to experience the relief and change you are seeking. My approach is non-judgmental, compassionate and collaborative.
I specialize in trauma, anxiety, depression, grief and loss and can help people with chronic pain and illnesses.
I am a Licensed Mental Health Therapist and Registered Art Therapist. I am certified in EMDR and Mindfulness Based Cognitive Therapy. I have been helping people of all ages navigate mental health and life challenges for over 25 years. Together, we can tailor your therapy to meet your individual needs so you can move beyond whatever is holding you back and begin to experience the relief and change you are seeking. My approach is non-judgmental, compassionate and collaborative.
Currently accepting new clients! Working at Mental Health Associates! Ashley prides herself in being a kind and compassionate person and has always had a passion for helping others, of all shapes and sizes from all different ages. With experience in using Dialectical Behavioral Therapy and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, specializing in Anxiety, Depression, Grief, Trauma, and Sports Performance. While also working with couples and families. Ashley would love to work with Athletes and their mental health as well.
Currently accepting new clients! Working at Mental Health Associates! Ashley prides herself in being a kind and compassionate person and has always had a passion for helping others, of all shapes and sizes from all different ages. With experience in using Dialectical Behavioral Therapy and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, specializing in Anxiety, Depression, Grief, Trauma, and Sports Performance. While also working with couples and families. Ashley would love to work with Athletes and their mental health as well.
Kevin D West
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LISW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
West Des Moines, IA 50266
I specialize working with adults and children (ages 8 to 17) with a focus in the areas of anxiety, anger control, parenting, ADHD, relationships and depression. Everyone has points in their lives where they may question themselves or have to deal with difficult situations they may, or may not, have been expecting. I want to help people find ways to help them realize their potential. I work with clients by exploring and educating them about the strengths they already have and how they can be a force for positive change.
I specialize working with adults and children (ages 8 to 17) with a focus in the areas of anxiety, anger control, parenting, ADHD, relationships and depression. Everyone has points in their lives where they may question themselves or have to deal with difficult situations they may, or may not, have been expecting. I want to help people find ways to help them realize their potential. I work with clients by exploring and educating them about the strengths they already have and how they can be a force for positive change.
I work with individuals in-person and virtually who are 16 years of age through adulthood who are dealing with life changes, stress, depression, anxiety, substance use, personal growth and self-discovery, relationship issues and trauma.
I work with individuals in-person and virtually who are 16 years of age through adulthood who are dealing with life changes, stress, depression, anxiety, substance use, personal growth and self-discovery, relationship issues and trauma.
I'm passionate about working with adolescents and adults who struggle with a wide range of mental health concerns, such as anxiety, depression, trauma, self-esteem/self-worth, and emotional dysregulation, just to name a few.
My approach to therapy is based on my belief that no two individuals are exactly the same, and what works for one person might not work for the other. With that in mind, I utilize an individualized therapeutic approach to identify and select the most effective method, to address the specific needs of each client. My work with clients has a firm foundation in person-centered and cognitive-behavioral therapies and frequently incorporates; dialectical behavior therapy, acceptance and commitment therapy, and positive psychology.
I'm passionate about working with adolescents and adults who struggle with a wide range of mental health concerns, such as anxiety, depression, trauma, self-esteem/self-worth, and emotional dysregulation, just to name a few.
My approach to therapy is based on my belief that no two individuals are exactly the same, and what works for one person might not work for the other. With that in mind, I utilize an individualized therapeutic approach to identify and select the most effective method, to address the specific needs of each client. My work with clients has a firm foundation in person-centered and cognitive-behavioral therapies and frequently incorporates; dialectical behavior therapy, acceptance and commitment therapy, and positive psychology.
Devon Gilliland-Minard
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LISW
Verified Verified
West Des Moines, IA 50266
My areas of specialty include anxiety, depression and trauma.
I believe all of us manage the ups and downs of life in different ways. Through a collaborative approach, individuals can develop more effective ways to manage these issues. I enjoy working with individuals (adolescents to adults), couples, and families who desire to make changes in their lives to better themselves.
I draw on many approaches to meet your needs and what will work best for you. I believe therapy should be a comfortable process where you leave feeling you have benefited in some way.
My areas of specialty include anxiety, depression and trauma.
I believe all of us manage the ups and downs of life in different ways. Through a collaborative approach, individuals can develop more effective ways to manage these issues. I enjoy working with individuals (adolescents to adults), couples, and families who desire to make changes in their lives to better themselves.
I draw on many approaches to meet your needs and what will work best for you. I believe therapy should be a comfortable process where you leave feeling you have benefited in some way.
Dr. Donald M. Kaesser
Psychologist, PC, PhD
Verified Verified
Des Moines, IA 50312 (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I use 35+ years of DIRECT clinical experience to help in addressing issues that have become obstacles in your life and help you meet your goals in the context of an honest, caring, and direct professional relationship. Individuals, couples/relationships, addictions/substance abuse, depression, anxiety, grief, aging, sexuality, and sexual 'orientation' issues, as well as family matters are among the range of aspects of people's lives with which I effectively work. Counseling may be brief/problem-oriented, or extended/depth psychotherapy depending on your needs. I enjoy individuals, couples, and seniors. Psychotherapy is my calling!
I use 35+ years of DIRECT clinical experience to help in addressing issues that have become obstacles in your life and help you meet your goals in the context of an honest, caring, and direct professional relationship. Individuals, couples/relationships, addictions/substance abuse, depression, anxiety, grief, aging, sexuality, and sexual 'orientation' issues, as well as family matters are among the range of aspects of people's lives with which I effectively work. Counseling may be brief/problem-oriented, or extended/depth psychotherapy depending on your needs. I enjoy individuals, couples, and seniors. Psychotherapy is my calling!
See more therapy options for Iowa
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.