Family Therapy in Des Moines, IA

Susan Helkenn
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LISW
Verified Verified
Des Moines, IA 50312
I have had the honor of working with school-age children, teens and adults of all ages. My current clients are typically working on mood disorders (anxiety, depression) or are struggling to adjust to a change in life. I assist parents with parenting concerns and children with school or family worries or challenges. Clients may have questions about their identify, role in life, a job change, or relationships and together we can sort out the details and find a more comfortable way to approach these questions of life.
I have had the honor of working with school-age children, teens and adults of all ages. My current clients are typically working on mood disorders (anxiety, depression) or are struggling to adjust to a change in life. I assist parents with parenting concerns and children with school or family worries or challenges. Clients may have questions about their identify, role in life, a job change, or relationships and together we can sort out the details and find a more comfortable way to approach these questions of life.
(515) 373-4783 x4 View (515) 373-4783 x4
Photo of Kenlyn Gordon, Counselor in Des Moines, IA
Kenlyn Gordon
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Des Moines, IA 50309
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.
(515) 361-7515 View (515) 361-7515
Photo of Jim Hanson, Counselor in Des Moines, IA
Jim Hanson
Counselor, PhD, LMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Des Moines, IA 50316
I have experience working with adolescents, adults, families/couples and multi-family therapy in both in-patient and out-patient settings.
Hi. My name is Dr. Jim Hanson and I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor. I work with individuals and couples. My main approach is Cognitive-Behavioral, which means that we will focus on the role thoughts and behaviors play in psychological functioning and well-being. For couples counseling, I prefer the Gottman method, pioneered by John and Julie Gottman. The counseling relationship is very important and I believe that this therapeutic relationship must include trust, mutual respect and empathy. As your therapist, this relationship will allow us to work together to foster positive growth and development.
I have experience working with adolescents, adults, families/couples and multi-family therapy in both in-patient and out-patient settings.
Hi. My name is Dr. Jim Hanson and I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor. I work with individuals and couples. My main approach is Cognitive-Behavioral, which means that we will focus on the role thoughts and behaviors play in psychological functioning and well-being. For couples counseling, I prefer the Gottman method, pioneered by John and Julie Gottman. The counseling relationship is very important and I believe that this therapeutic relationship must include trust, mutual respect and empathy. As your therapist, this relationship will allow us to work together to foster positive growth and development.
(515) 446-7273 View (515) 446-7273
Photo of Larry Vernoid Jackson, Counselor in Des Moines, 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 Kasey Connor, Counselor in Des Moines, IA
Kasey Connor
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Des Moines, IA 50312
It takes a lot of courage to seek outside help when you or your family is struggling. If you choose to work with Kasey, the importance of feeling safe and comfortable is understood and is the framework for building trust in the counseling environment. Kasey's hope is that you will feel the support you need to create the changes you would like to see in your life.
It takes a lot of courage to seek outside help when you or your family is struggling. If you choose to work with Kasey, the importance of feeling safe and comfortable is understood and is the framework for building trust in the counseling environment. Kasey's hope is that you will feel the support you need to create the changes you would like to see in your life.
(515) 446-7257 View (515) 446-7257
Photo of Sampson Family Therapy Services, LLC, Marriage & Family Therapist in Des Moines, IA
Sampson Family Therapy Services, LLC
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Des Moines, IA 50309
Sampson Family Therapy Services staff strive to engage in a collaborative process with clients, coworkers, and the community to welcome growth, embrace strengths and successes, and acknowledge our role in making wellness a priority for others and ourselves. We work with many client needs and make it a priority to provide attentive and consistently accessible therapy services. It is the mission of Sampson Family Therapy Services, LLC to embody a dynamic and progressive therapeutic service environment for the cultivation of health and well-being for clients served, employees, and the community at large.
Sampson Family Therapy Services staff strive to engage in a collaborative process with clients, coworkers, and the community to welcome growth, embrace strengths and successes, and acknowledge our role in making wellness a priority for others and ourselves. We work with many client needs and make it a priority to provide attentive and consistently accessible therapy services. It is the mission of Sampson Family Therapy Services, LLC to embody a dynamic and progressive therapeutic service environment for the cultivation of health and well-being for clients served, employees, and the community at large.
(515) 421-9313 View (515) 421-9313
Photo of Darcy Jones-Cook, Marriage & Family Therapist in Des Moines, IA
Darcy Jones-Cook
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Des Moines, IA 50315  (Online Only)
Do you sense something important is missing? You may have achieved a certain level of success in life, such as in your work and career, relationships, family. Or perhaps you feel out of balance, with one part of life on track while other parts struggle. Depending on many factors you may be focusing your attention in one area at the expense of other aspects of personal growth. Are stress-provoking events in the world increasingly “getting to you” and leaving you with even more distress? You're not alone. Whether you're new to therapy or a long time user, feel free to reach out to me.
Do you sense something important is missing? You may have achieved a certain level of success in life, such as in your work and career, relationships, family. Or perhaps you feel out of balance, with one part of life on track while other parts struggle. Depending on many factors you may be focusing your attention in one area at the expense of other aspects of personal growth. Are stress-provoking events in the world increasingly “getting to you” and leaving you with even more distress? You're not alone. Whether you're new to therapy or a long time user, feel free to reach out to me.
(909) 474-7810 View (909) 474-7810
Photo of Dr. Donald M. Kaesser, Psychologist in Des Moines, IA
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!
(515) 981-6980 View (515) 981-6980
Photo of Susin Bredice, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Des Moines, IA
Susin Bredice
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW, RPT-S
Verified Verified
Des Moines, IA 50322
My experience is with individuals who are struggling with depression, anxiety, loss, trauma, adoption related issues, substance abuse, family conflict, child welfare, and managing life events.
Making the decision to start therapy can be a very vulnerable time, whether it be for you or your child. In therapy you will have a safe and judgement free space to meet your goals. I enjoy working with children and adults to recognize strengths and build on them to assist you in meeting your well being needs. Whether you are struggling to overcome an incident or event, wanting to make specific changes in your life, or looking to improve your overall quality of life and feel better about yourself, we will work together.
My experience is with individuals who are struggling with depression, anxiety, loss, trauma, adoption related issues, substance abuse, family conflict, child welfare, and managing life events.
Making the decision to start therapy can be a very vulnerable time, whether it be for you or your child. In therapy you will have a safe and judgement free space to meet your goals. I enjoy working with children and adults to recognize strengths and build on them to assist you in meeting your well being needs. Whether you are struggling to overcome an incident or event, wanting to make specific changes in your life, or looking to improve your overall quality of life and feel better about yourself, we will work together.
(515) 512-4658 View (515) 512-4658
Photo of Elizabeth Crimmins, Pre-Licensed Professional in Des Moines, 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 Aging Pathways, LLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Des Moines, IA
Aging Pathways, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LISW
Verified Verified
Des Moines, IA 50310
Aging can bring a host of new issues such as feelings of isolation after retirement, grief and loss due to deaths of friends and loved ones, and finding new meaning in life after old roles have disappeared. New roles such as being a caregiver for your parents, spouse, partner, adult child, or grandchild can also add stress at this time. Mental health issues such as anxiety, depression, bipolar, addiction, and schizophrenia can continue and sometimes new mental health issues can arise. Health concerns and family dynamics can also make life challenging. Learning how to cope with these challenges and enjoy life is paramount.
Aging can bring a host of new issues such as feelings of isolation after retirement, grief and loss due to deaths of friends and loved ones, and finding new meaning in life after old roles have disappeared. New roles such as being a caregiver for your parents, spouse, partner, adult child, or grandchild can also add stress at this time. Mental health issues such as anxiety, depression, bipolar, addiction, and schizophrenia can continue and sometimes new mental health issues can arise. Health concerns and family dynamics can also make life challenging. Learning how to cope with these challenges and enjoy life is paramount.
(515) 800-4846 View (515) 800-4846
Photo of Alicia Peña, Counselor in Des Moines, IA
Alicia Peña
Counselor, MS, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Des Moines, IA 50310
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,
(515) 608-8892 View (515) 608-8892
Photo of Angela Brannian, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Des Moines, IA
Angela Brannian
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Des Moines, IA 50309
Waitlist for new clients
I draw from multiple modalities: Internal Family Systems; Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT); existential, emotion focused, and solution focused therapies, and others.
Life can be tough. Dreams die. Grief crushes us. Divorce, loss, trauma, abuse, depression, and anxiety happen to the best of us. Life has taught me how important it is to have a safe place to be heard, seen, and sometimes to receive a warm and well-timed wake up call. Email me if you'd like to read my welcome letter where I spell out my philosophy of practice, especially how I understand the balance of kindness and honesty to factor into successful therapy. If you want someone who goes beyond reflective listening, I might be your person.
I draw from multiple modalities: Internal Family Systems; Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT); existential, emotion focused, and solution focused therapies, and others.
Life can be tough. Dreams die. Grief crushes us. Divorce, loss, trauma, abuse, depression, and anxiety happen to the best of us. Life has taught me how important it is to have a safe place to be heard, seen, and sometimes to receive a warm and well-timed wake up call. Email me if you'd like to read my welcome letter where I spell out my philosophy of practice, especially how I understand the balance of kindness and honesty to factor into successful therapy. If you want someone who goes beyond reflective listening, I might be your person.
(515) 303-2681 View (515) 303-2681
Photo of Shelly Stewart-Sandusky, Marriage & Family Therapist in Des Moines, IA
Shelly Stewart-Sandusky
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Des Moines, IA 50322
Hello. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist who works with couples and individuals needing help with relationship issues. I thrive on working with couples struggling with infidelity, rebuilding trust or communication/fair fighting and high conflict. The dynamic of a couple is unique and should be approached as such. I believe that every relationship can work and be healthy for both partners if both partners are willing to do the work and make changes. I am also certifified in treatment of personality disorders and am able to help in both individual and couples dynamics.
Hello. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist who works with couples and individuals needing help with relationship issues. I thrive on working with couples struggling with infidelity, rebuilding trust or communication/fair fighting and high conflict. The dynamic of a couple is unique and should be approached as such. I believe that every relationship can work and be healthy for both partners if both partners are willing to do the work and make changes. I am also certifified in treatment of personality disorders and am able to help in both individual and couples dynamics.
(515) 346-6974 View (515) 346-6974
Photo of Tonya Gordon, Counselor in Des Moines, IA
Tonya Gordon
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Des Moines, IA 50310  (Online Only)
I am passionate about creating an accepting environment where clients feel safe sharing their emotional experiences and vulnerabilities while working through challenges. Guided by genuineness, non-bias, and person centered empathy, I sincerely believe clients are the experts within their own lives. Each and every individual possesses their own unique set of experiences, values, beliefs, family system and culture.
I am passionate about creating an accepting environment where clients feel safe sharing their emotional experiences and vulnerabilities while working through challenges. Guided by genuineness, non-bias, and person centered empathy, I sincerely believe clients are the experts within their own lives. Each and every individual possesses their own unique set of experiences, values, beliefs, family system and culture.
(515) 579-5705 View (515) 579-5705
Photo of Melissa Steenhoven, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Des Moines, IA
Melissa Steenhoven
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW
Verified Verified
Des Moines, IA 50310
I see individuals, couples and families for a wide variety of issues, including depression, anxiety, stress, self harm, trauma, anger management, divorce/separation, blended family issues, school issues, behavioral issues, work/occupational stress, parenting, co-parenting after divorce, issues impacting the LGTB community and many other issues.
Seeking to make changes in your life for a better tomorrow? I have been helping people to make these changes for over 20 years by offering a safe and accepting environment and starting with where you are at in the change process. I believe that by making small changes in one's life, we can start on the path of making life more fulfilling and closer to the life that you want to live.
I see individuals, couples and families for a wide variety of issues, including depression, anxiety, stress, self harm, trauma, anger management, divorce/separation, blended family issues, school issues, behavioral issues, work/occupational stress, parenting, co-parenting after divorce, issues impacting the LGTB community and many other issues.
Seeking to make changes in your life for a better tomorrow? I have been helping people to make these changes for over 20 years by offering a safe and accepting environment and starting with where you are at in the change process. I believe that by making small changes in one's life, we can start on the path of making life more fulfilling and closer to the life that you want to live.
(515) 393-6906 View (515) 393-6906
Photo of Elizabeth Young, Marriage & Family Therapist in Des Moines, IA
Elizabeth Young
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Des Moines, IA 50312
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 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 Greg Allen Fuqua, Counselor in Des Moines, IA
Greg Allen Fuqua
Counselor, MA, T-LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Des Moines, IA 50312
Waitlist for new clients
I either have training-in or at-times employ, Telehealth, IFS (Internal Family Systems) work, as well as CBT, DBT, SE , Art Therapy, Narrative Therapy, Gestalt approaches and I have advanced training as a Certified Counselor for Neurodiverse Couples and I am an Autism Spectrum Disorder Clinical Specialist (ASDCS).
I'm Greg Fuqua, MA, T-LMHC, at Lifeworks (Des Moines). I am not currently taking new clients and referrals. I work with clients 13 yrs old and up. I have an art as therapy program for cancer survivors through Above and Beyond Cancer. I also love working with individuals, couples and families, sexual and gender diversity, neurodiversity, ADHD, chronic disease, cancer, grief, depression, anxiety, trauma and more. I often use Art Therapy, SE, IFS, ACT and I have an existentialist theoretical orientation. I believe in two big humanistic values; our need for connection and our need for expression. I cant wait to meet you!
I either have training-in or at-times employ, Telehealth, IFS (Internal Family Systems) work, as well as CBT, DBT, SE , Art Therapy, Narrative Therapy, Gestalt approaches and I have advanced training as a Certified Counselor for Neurodiverse Couples and I am an Autism Spectrum Disorder Clinical Specialist (ASDCS).
I'm Greg Fuqua, MA, T-LMHC, at Lifeworks (Des Moines). I am not currently taking new clients and referrals. I work with clients 13 yrs old and up. I have an art as therapy program for cancer survivors through Above and Beyond Cancer. I also love working with individuals, couples and families, sexual and gender diversity, neurodiversity, ADHD, chronic disease, cancer, grief, depression, anxiety, trauma and more. I often use Art Therapy, SE, IFS, ACT and I have an existentialist theoretical orientation. I believe in two big humanistic values; our need for connection and our need for expression. I cant wait to meet you!
(515) 316-2460 View (515) 316-2460
Photo of Steph Crandall, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Des Moines, IA
Steph Crandall
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Des Moines, IA 50313  (Online Only)
When you are feeling stressed or overwhelmed to the point it is impacting your day-to-day life, it helps to talk with someone who is both kind and practical — offering hope and nonjudgmental support, but also collaborating with you on finding real solutions. We all need a guide sometimes when life is hard. I am the type of therapist who will provide validation when you need it but also encourage you to take charge of the things within your control. I work with adults who are experiencing anxiety, stress, trouble communicating with a partner or family, and job burnout. In particular, I enjoy working with educators at all levels.
When you are feeling stressed or overwhelmed to the point it is impacting your day-to-day life, it helps to talk with someone who is both kind and practical — offering hope and nonjudgmental support, but also collaborating with you on finding real solutions. We all need a guide sometimes when life is hard. I am the type of therapist who will provide validation when you need it but also encourage you to take charge of the things within your control. I work with adults who are experiencing anxiety, stress, trouble communicating with a partner or family, and job burnout. In particular, I enjoy working with educators at all levels.
(515) 474-7463 View (515) 474-7463
Photo of Karol King, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist in Des Moines, IA
Karol King, LMFT
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Des Moines, IA 50322
As a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist I treat adolescents (12 and up), couples, families and individuals. Providing therapeutic services to people who are seeking change in their personal and professional life is my passion. I provide support and compassion while challenging individuals to confront their primary areas of struggle to live in an authentic manner that honors their personal values.
As a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist I treat adolescents (12 and up), couples, families and individuals. Providing therapeutic services to people who are seeking change in their personal and professional life is my passion. I provide support and compassion while challenging individuals to confront their primary areas of struggle to live in an authentic manner that honors their personal values.
(515) 750-0128 View (515) 750-0128
Family Therapy

What do family therapists do?

A family therapist facilitates the process of understanding and improving how a family functions. The therapist will help family members develop empathy for one another. They’ll seek to understand existing patterns, misunderstandings, and conflicts that arise, in order to help the family arrive at a realistic, unified understanding and develop the coping skills they need to build stronger relationships.

How long does therapy for families take to work?

Therapy manifests differently in every family; a common time frame is 12 weekly sessions, but some families may see improvement after just a few weeks. Families should discuss their goals with the therapist at the beginning of the process and periodically revisit those goals to assess their progress together.

How can you encourage a family member to attend family therapy?

You can encourage family members to attend therapy by expressing with both love and concern the challenges you see and explaining how a therapist could help the family navigate those challenges together. An outside perspective can help everyone feel heard, get on the same page, and develop new skills. If family members are still hesitant, it may be helpful to emphasize that family therapy is short-term—it won’t last forever.

Is therapy for families effective?

Family therapy can significantly improve family dynamics and relationships. Research suggests that family therapy can help individuals understand their role in the family, communicate and solve problems together, reduce conflict and draw boundaries when necessary, and develop coping skills for stressors, major life changes, and mental or physical illnesses within the family.