Emotionally Focused Therapists in Polk County, IA

Photo of Jacy Jensen, Marriage & Family Therapist in Polk County, IA
Jacy Jensen
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Des Moines, IA 50312
Waitlist for new clients
I utilize a varied theoretical approach, centered on forms of therapy including marriage and family, cognitive behavioral, brief/solution focused, emotionally focused, and strategic.
Everyone has a story, and each story is different and deserves to be told. Our stories at times can be filled with unexpected and sometimes overwhelming challenges that affect each of us in different ways. Through my own personal and professional story, I have discovered that building a supportive relationship through therapy creates a safe place to explore life struggles, understand difficult issues, develop new skills, enrich relationships, and work through situations to lead a more authentic life.
I utilize a varied theoretical approach, centered on forms of therapy including marriage and family, cognitive behavioral, brief/solution focused, emotionally focused, and strategic.
Everyone has a story, and each story is different and deserves to be told. Our stories at times can be filled with unexpected and sometimes overwhelming challenges that affect each of us in different ways. Through my own personal and professional story, I have discovered that building a supportive relationship through therapy creates a safe place to explore life struggles, understand difficult issues, develop new skills, enrich relationships, and work through situations to lead a more authentic life.
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Photo of Annie Nelson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Polk County, IA
Annie Nelson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LMSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Ankeny, IA 50023
Waitlist for new clients
One of the most elemental parts of being human is the need to be listened to. Sharing our stories with others and doing the work of self-exploration requires a unique courage, and when we feel heard and understood, we are better able to understand our own needs and see our own resourcefulness more clearly. I view you as the expert on your own life and experiences. My top priorities as a therapist are understanding your perspective, learning how this perspective has shaped your life, and partnering with you in support of your goals.
One of the most elemental parts of being human is the need to be listened to. Sharing our stories with others and doing the work of self-exploration requires a unique courage, and when we feel heard and understood, we are better able to understand our own needs and see our own resourcefulness more clearly. I view you as the expert on your own life and experiences. My top priorities as a therapist are understanding your perspective, learning how this perspective has shaped your life, and partnering with you in support of your goals.
(515) 996-4370 View (515) 996-4370
Photo of Elizabeth Young, Marriage & Family Therapist in Polk County, IA
Elizabeth Young
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Des Moines, IA 50312
I am a family systems oriented therapist, although I utilize a variety of therapeutic orientations, including EMDR, Compassion Focused therapy and Emotionally Focused therapy.
I am a licensed Marriage and Family therapy who enjoys working clients 16 and older. My passion is working with both individuals and couples and helping them navigate life graciously and with self compassion. I view the therapeutic relationship to be compassion filled and client-centered, meeting the client where they are at. I believe in utilizing a strength-based, holistic approach in working with clients, and I focus on relationships for the basis of making change.
I am a family systems oriented therapist, although I utilize a variety of therapeutic orientations, including EMDR, Compassion Focused therapy and Emotionally Focused therapy.
I am a licensed Marriage and Family therapy who enjoys working clients 16 and older. My passion is working with both individuals and couples and helping them navigate life graciously and with self compassion. I view the therapeutic relationship to be compassion filled and client-centered, meeting the client where they are at. I believe in utilizing a strength-based, holistic approach in working with clients, and I focus on relationships for the basis of making change.
(515) 575-4291 View (515) 575-4291
Photo of Elizabeth Crimmins, Pre-Licensed Professional in Polk County, IA
Elizabeth Crimmins
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Des Moines, IA 50309
My approach incorporates narrative, internal family systems and emotionally focused therapy to encourage clients in creating space between themselves and their experiences.
I feel honored to walk alongside clients in helping renew freedom in themselves. I strive to offer a warm, supportive, and empathic environment for my clients to begin pursuing change in their lives. I work collaboratively with my clients to help them leave behind things they no longer need- behavioral patterns that lead to inauthentic relationships, difficulty in managing emotions, unhealthy view of themselves, or anything that prevents clients from being their genuine self.
My approach incorporates narrative, internal family systems and emotionally focused therapy to encourage clients in creating space between themselves and their experiences.
I feel honored to walk alongside clients in helping renew freedom in themselves. I strive to offer a warm, supportive, and empathic environment for my clients to begin pursuing change in their lives. I work collaboratively with my clients to help them leave behind things they no longer need- behavioral patterns that lead to inauthentic relationships, difficulty in managing emotions, unhealthy view of themselves, or anything that prevents clients from being their genuine self.
(515) 516-3441 View (515) 516-3441
Photo of Myriah Brookhart, Marriage & Family Therapist in Polk County, IA
Myriah Brookhart
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
When working with couples and families, I utilize an emotionally focused approach.
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.
When working with couples and families, I utilize an emotionally focused approach.
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
Photo of Ronda L Hood, Counselor in Polk County, IA
Ronda L Hood
Counselor, IADC, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Des Moines, IA 50312  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I bring 25+ years of experience, skills & training in Emotion Focused Therapy (EFT), Compassion Focused Therapy (CFT), and Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR) for anxiety, depression, panic attacks, loss, limiting self beliefs, performance anxiety &/or unusual or traumatic life events.
Your life is amazing in so many areas, yet you can’t seem to get your anxiety to step aside and let you live your life to the fullest. You worry, your mind races with directionless thoughts, you’re distracted, and you’re too often irritable. Those awkward moments replay in your head and endless fears play and replay in your head. Then this presents challenges for you and your relationships. Maybe the anxiety is even coming from your relationships. Either way, let me help you come up for air. I know there is a lot on your plate, and these constant struggles with your thoughts, feelings, and moods are the last thing you need.
I bring 25+ years of experience, skills & training in Emotion Focused Therapy (EFT), Compassion Focused Therapy (CFT), and Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR) for anxiety, depression, panic attacks, loss, limiting self beliefs, performance anxiety &/or unusual or traumatic life events.
Your life is amazing in so many areas, yet you can’t seem to get your anxiety to step aside and let you live your life to the fullest. You worry, your mind races with directionless thoughts, you’re distracted, and you’re too often irritable. Those awkward moments replay in your head and endless fears play and replay in your head. Then this presents challenges for you and your relationships. Maybe the anxiety is even coming from your relationships. Either way, let me help you come up for air. I know there is a lot on your plate, and these constant struggles with your thoughts, feelings, and moods are the last thing you need.
(515) 608-8034 View (515) 608-8034
Photo of Ashley Nupp, Counselor in Polk County, IA
Ashley Nupp
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Additionally I have experience and training working with couples using Emotionally Focused Therapy.
We all have the ability to find effective and sustainable solutions to life's challenges, and I enjoy providing the unconditional positive regard that leads to discovery of your self-determination and resilience. I am particularly passionate about assisting clients in finding and addressing the root cause of their present-day symptoms and relationship cycles, and I enjoy working with attachment concerns in adults, teens, and couples. I have experience utilizing mindfulness, cognitive-behavioral therapy, and other techniques that can help transform traumatic experiences into strength and confidence.
Additionally I have experience and training working with couples using Emotionally Focused Therapy.
We all have the ability to find effective and sustainable solutions to life's challenges, and I enjoy providing the unconditional positive regard that leads to discovery of your self-determination and resilience. I am particularly passionate about assisting clients in finding and addressing the root cause of their present-day symptoms and relationship cycles, and I enjoy working with attachment concerns in adults, teens, and couples. I have experience utilizing mindfulness, cognitive-behavioral therapy, and other techniques that can help transform traumatic experiences into strength and confidence.
(515) 493-7968 View (515) 493-7968
Photo of Sean Abramowitz, Counselor in Polk County, IA
Sean Abramowitz
Counselor, tLMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Des Moines, IA 50324
Sean is trained in EMDR for trauma, and in Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) in regard to couples counseling.
Sean Abramowitz, MA tLMHC is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor working out of Des Moines, Iowa with 12 years of human services experience, and one year of experience as a therapist. He specializes in couples counseling and trauma therapy. Drawing from his training in EMDR, and his experience as a meditation teacher, Sean incorporates somatic and body-based approaches to personal change and transformation, and growth within relationships. Utilizing techniques such as mindfulness and EMDR to help clients understand and reprocess trauma, he advocates for a trauma-informed approach to individual therapy, as well as relationships.
Sean is trained in EMDR for trauma, and in Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) in regard to couples counseling.
Sean Abramowitz, MA tLMHC is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor working out of Des Moines, Iowa with 12 years of human services experience, and one year of experience as a therapist. He specializes in couples counseling and trauma therapy. Drawing from his training in EMDR, and his experience as a meditation teacher, Sean incorporates somatic and body-based approaches to personal change and transformation, and growth within relationships. Utilizing techniques such as mindfulness and EMDR to help clients understand and reprocess trauma, he advocates for a trauma-informed approach to individual therapy, as well as relationships.
(515) 949-4862 View (515) 949-4862
Photo of Sharaine Webster, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Polk County, IA
Sharaine Webster
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW, IADC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Urbandale, IA 50322
Waitlist for new clients
I utilize motivational interviewing, CBT, attachment methods and EFT as well as skills from art, music, and narrative therapy.
Are you feeling lost? Alone? Misunderstood? Do you ever wish that you could just talk to someone and they not only understand how you feel, but also allow you to be yourself? If you are looking for someone to listen, to understand, to support and push you necessary, then my hope is that I can help you. My clinical areas of interest and expertise include: addictions (gambling, gaming, drugs and alcohol, sex), anxiety, depression, sexual health and human sexuality, attachment issues, LGBTQIA+ and relationship and premarital/marital issues. If any of this sounds familiar, I may be speaking directly to you.
I utilize motivational interviewing, CBT, attachment methods and EFT as well as skills from art, music, and narrative therapy.
Are you feeling lost? Alone? Misunderstood? Do you ever wish that you could just talk to someone and they not only understand how you feel, but also allow you to be yourself? If you are looking for someone to listen, to understand, to support and push you necessary, then my hope is that I can help you. My clinical areas of interest and expertise include: addictions (gambling, gaming, drugs and alcohol, sex), anxiety, depression, sexual health and human sexuality, attachment issues, LGBTQIA+ and relationship and premarital/marital issues. If any of this sounds familiar, I may be speaking directly to you.
(515) 375-1488 View (515) 375-1488
Photo of Sharon Winkel- in Polk County, IA
Sharon Winkel-
MBA, LNHA, NLP, CHT
Verified Verified
Johnston, IA 50131  (Online Only)
If you are interested in taking control of your life and implementing focused, actionable steps to achieve powerful results, hypnotherapy can jump start your journey. Hypnotherapy and hypnosis is a highly successful method for transformational change in the areas of self-improvement, performance, and health and wellness. In addition, as your personal and professional life coach, you will have the means to cultivate new choices, actions, and behaviors to live the life you envision. Through strengthening physical and mental abilities, you can discover a resilient, happy, and strong inner you. Powerful change can be yours now.
If you are interested in taking control of your life and implementing focused, actionable steps to achieve powerful results, hypnotherapy can jump start your journey. Hypnotherapy and hypnosis is a highly successful method for transformational change in the areas of self-improvement, performance, and health and wellness. In addition, as your personal and professional life coach, you will have the means to cultivate new choices, actions, and behaviors to live the life you envision. Through strengthening physical and mental abilities, you can discover a resilient, happy, and strong inner you. Powerful change can be yours now.
(515) 212-7066 View (515) 212-7066
Photo of Counseling Associates of Central Iowa, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Polk County, IA
Counseling Associates of Central Iowa
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
We are a group of experienced, caring professionals who are committed to collaborate and meet you at your specific place in life. We can provide support and guidance by empowering you to develop the strength, wisdom and courage to cope with the challenges in your life. Whether you are struggling with a difficult life situation or need some encouragement and understanding to help you make personal changes, we can help. Please call or email us for a therapy consultation today.
We are a group of experienced, caring professionals who are committed to collaborate and meet you at your specific place in life. We can provide support and guidance by empowering you to develop the strength, wisdom and courage to cope with the challenges in your life. Whether you are struggling with a difficult life situation or need some encouragement and understanding to help you make personal changes, we can help. Please call or email us for a therapy consultation today.
(515) 619-5250 View (515) 619-5250
Photo of Katie Smith, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Polk County, IA
Katie Smith
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Ankeny, IA 50023
Recognizing that you need some help and support is the first step in making a change in your life. I am here to help you on your mental health journey. I am passionate about meeting my clients where they are at, providing them with tools that they can use to achieve their goals. I have experience working with teens and adults through individual, couple and family sessions. I help my clients by addressing a variety of concerns, with a focus on treating anxiety, depression, relationship issues, loss and grief. I strive to create a safe and supportive therapeutic environment that evokes growth and positive change without judgment.
Recognizing that you need some help and support is the first step in making a change in your life. I am here to help you on your mental health journey. I am passionate about meeting my clients where they are at, providing them with tools that they can use to achieve their goals. I have experience working with teens and adults through individual, couple and family sessions. I help my clients by addressing a variety of concerns, with a focus on treating anxiety, depression, relationship issues, loss and grief. I strive to create a safe and supportive therapeutic environment that evokes growth and positive change without judgment.
(515) 966-8964 x1 View (515) 966-8964 x1
Photo of Joseli Alves-Dunkerson, Marriage & Family Therapist in Polk County, IA
Joseli Alves-Dunkerson
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, AASECT, CST
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Do you find yourself stuck in a relationship, no matter what you do? Are you feeling disconnected, unattractive, sad or overwhelmed? Are you and your partner disagreeing or distant from each other? Are you and your partner at different levels of sexual desire? Are you having difficulties with sex? Are you facing infidelity/affairs or considering divorce? Are you looking for new ways to love yourself more and to have a healthier relationship and sex life? Would you like to know more about successful relationships and healthy sex in order to make better choices? These are common needs and concerns of the human heart, and I can help.
Do you find yourself stuck in a relationship, no matter what you do? Are you feeling disconnected, unattractive, sad or overwhelmed? Are you and your partner disagreeing or distant from each other? Are you and your partner at different levels of sexual desire? Are you having difficulties with sex? Are you facing infidelity/affairs or considering divorce? Are you looking for new ways to love yourself more and to have a healthier relationship and sex life? Would you like to know more about successful relationships and healthy sex in order to make better choices? These are common needs and concerns of the human heart, and I can help.
(515) 206-8039 View (515) 206-8039
Photo of Jessica Pottorff, Counselor in Polk County, IA
Jessica Pottorff
Counselor, MS/MA, CADC, tLMHC
Verified Verified
I love working with teens 16+, individuals, and couples. I am passionate about working through addiction issues and the resulting codependency/boundaries, guilt, and shame. Have you been struggling with a narcissist in your life resulting in self-worth issues? Do you struggle with spiritual issues such as trauma, cult affiliation, or confusion? I know how complicated these struggles are and I would be honored to walk with you through the mess and out to the other side. I meet each person where they are and if allowed I use God and Scripture to empower clients to see their potential and to find their identity and freedom in Christ.
I love working with teens 16+, individuals, and couples. I am passionate about working through addiction issues and the resulting codependency/boundaries, guilt, and shame. Have you been struggling with a narcissist in your life resulting in self-worth issues? Do you struggle with spiritual issues such as trauma, cult affiliation, or confusion? I know how complicated these struggles are and I would be honored to walk with you through the mess and out to the other side. I meet each person where they are and if allowed I use God and Scripture to empower clients to see their potential and to find their identity and freedom in Christ.
(515) 516-6963 View (515) 516-6963
Photo of Cindy Schloss Calhoun, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Polk County, IA
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 Kristin Rodenberg, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Polk County, IA
Kristin Rodenberg
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Urbandale, IA 50322
If you are looking for a therapist, I am your person! I am a laid back, supportive therapist who is honored to be considered for joining your journey to health. I am a huge advocate of taking care of yourself and taking the steps to do so. Through my own struggles I openly note that we are not meant to live in isolation and I will walk the healing walk with you.
If you are looking for a therapist, I am your person! I am a laid back, supportive therapist who is honored to be considered for joining your journey to health. I am a huge advocate of taking care of yourself and taking the steps to do so. Through my own struggles I openly note that we are not meant to live in isolation and I will walk the healing walk with you.
(515) 373-4983 View (515) 373-4983
Photo of Larry Vernoid Jackson, Counselor in Polk County, IA
Larry Vernoid Jackson
Counselor, MSEd, LMHC
Verified Verified
Des Moines, IA 50324  (Online Only)
Are you an adult who is living with anxiety or depression? Are you seeking to find common ground in your relationships? There is hope, there are solutions, you can make it through this, and I'm here to help. I help clients: improve their communication skills, overcome their anger issues, overcome trauma, unresolved family conflict, improve the connection and intimacy between their partners, and overcome challenges related to substance abuse. Offering a wide range of support for adults, or families who have concerns about their emotional, behavioral, or adjustment problems.
Are you an adult who is living with anxiety or depression? Are you seeking to find common ground in your relationships? There is hope, there are solutions, you can make it through this, and I'm here to help. I help clients: improve their communication skills, overcome their anger issues, overcome trauma, unresolved family conflict, improve the connection and intimacy between their partners, and overcome challenges related to substance abuse. Offering a wide range of support for adults, or families who have concerns about their emotional, behavioral, or adjustment problems.
(515) 852-5947 View (515) 852-5947
Photo of Ian Adams, Counselor in Polk County, IA
Ian Adams
Counselor, tLMHC, MS
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
I have extended my schedule and am now accepting new clients, high school age and older - I accept all major insurance. I specialize in helping those struggling with trauma, depression, anxiety, and addiction to unhealthy cycles; especially lesser thought-of issues such as addictions to toxic relationships, pornography, sex, gaming, health, and social media. I'm also a philosophy buff and love working with those looking to gain a sense of belonging or purpose in life.
I have extended my schedule and am now accepting new clients, high school age and older - I accept all major insurance. I specialize in helping those struggling with trauma, depression, anxiety, and addiction to unhealthy cycles; especially lesser thought-of issues such as addictions to toxic relationships, pornography, sex, gaming, health, and social media. I'm also a philosophy buff and love working with those looking to gain a sense of belonging or purpose in life.
(515) 516-6858 View (515) 516-6858
Photo of Healing Rock Counseling , Counselor in Polk County, IA
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 Krista Lindholm, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Polk County, IA
Krista Lindholm
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW
Verified Verified
Waitlist for new clients
Do you need someone who understands struggles with substance use and mental health? I place value in the capacity to connect with my clients and seek to provide a safe, comfortable place to explore difficult themes...I look forward to seeing how I can help you find a place of wellness, self-acceptance, healing and genuine mental health.
Do you need someone who understands struggles with substance use and mental health? I place value in the capacity to connect with my clients and seek to provide a safe, comfortable place to explore difficult themes...I look forward to seeing how I can help you find a place of wellness, self-acceptance, healing and genuine mental health.
(515) 619-6860 View (515) 619-6860


Emotionally Focused Therapists

Who is emotionally focused therapy for?

Emotionally focused therapy (EFT) is for couples who are emotionally distressed, stuck in an unsatisfying relationship pattern or feeling deeply alienated. They may even believe the relationship is beyond repair. Very often, the partners display intense anger, fear, grief, loss of trust, or a sense of betrayal in the relationship. In addition, EFT is helpful to couples and individuals who have difficulty expressing emotions and those who have trouble regulating emotions.

Why do people need emotionally focused therapy?

People need emotionally focused therapy because the need for others is built into the brain, but the pressures of daily life can erode feelings of love, and couples often do not have the skills to find their way back to the comfort of each other. Instead, they may be stuck in repetitive patterns of anger, fear, grief, loss of trust, or a sense of betrayal. Emotionally focused therapy regards such strong negative feelings as expressions of protest over the loss of connection and turns them into pathways of reconnection.

What happens in emotionally focused therapy?

Over the course of eight to 20 weekly sessions, couples de-escalate their negative emotional reactivity to one another so that they can listen to each other and be responsive to each other’s needs. Then the deep emotional and physical bond is restored, giving partners a sense of comfort and security, which they can use to solve whatever problems come their way. The therapist plays an active role, helping partners understand how anger and withdrawal are actually misguided cries for connection.

What problems does emotionally focused therapy treat?

EFT is designed to help couples stuck in dysfunctional relationship patterns regain closeness and rebuild their relationship. Typically, such couples experience considerable distress, with partners feeling alienated and distrustful of one another, not certain their relationship can survive. EFT is also helpful to individuals experiencing attachment-related fears of loss; it helps them learn to use their fears as a way of eliciting the closeness they desire.