Photo of Jim Hanson, Counselor in Iowa
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 Mj Meidlinger, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Iowa
Mj Meidlinger
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW
Verified Verified
Iowa City, IA 52240
I am a clinical social worker in Iowa with over 10 years of experience in the field and 6 in counseling. I have worked with clients on many issues, including anxiety and depression, addiction, family conflict, identity and LGBTQ+ issues. My therapeutic style is casual and based on a mutual exchange of ideas, knowledge, and understanding. I believe all people have the capacity for growth and learning. My approach combines multiple therapeutic modalities including cognitive behavioral, dialectical, trauma-informed, and mindfulness based treatment which I will adapt to fit your specific needs and concerns.
I am a clinical social worker in Iowa with over 10 years of experience in the field and 6 in counseling. I have worked with clients on many issues, including anxiety and depression, addiction, family conflict, identity and LGBTQ+ issues. My therapeutic style is casual and based on a mutual exchange of ideas, knowledge, and understanding. I believe all people have the capacity for growth and learning. My approach combines multiple therapeutic modalities including cognitive behavioral, dialectical, trauma-informed, and mindfulness based treatment which I will adapt to fit your specific needs and concerns.
(319) 214-8805 View (319) 214-8805
Photo of Anna Pate Richards, Counselor in Iowa
Anna Pate Richards
Counselor, LMHC, ATR
Verified Verified
Davenport, IA 52807
I can help you address dysfunctional patterns of behaviors, improve relationships, examine family dynamics and life experiences, process trauma and improve mental health.
As a therapist I am intentional about cultivating therapeutic relationships that are inclusive, creative, flexible, and judgment free so that people can feel safe, accepted and comfortable exploring difficult life experiences. We will work collaboratively to identify meaningful goals aimed at growth and healing. I hope that every client walks away feeling validated, supported, empowered and more self aware.
I can help you address dysfunctional patterns of behaviors, improve relationships, examine family dynamics and life experiences, process trauma and improve mental health.
As a therapist I am intentional about cultivating therapeutic relationships that are inclusive, creative, flexible, and judgment free so that people can feel safe, accepted and comfortable exploring difficult life experiences. We will work collaboratively to identify meaningful goals aimed at growth and healing. I hope that every client walks away feeling validated, supported, empowered and more self aware.
(563) 723-4884 View (563) 723-4884
Photo of Sarah Gallagher, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Iowa
Sarah Gallagher
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW, PMH-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Atkins, IA 52206  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Whether you are new to therapy or you are looking to return to a safe space; it is my intention to provide a supportive environment to help you feel better. I use a combination of evidence based interventions that are tailored to your unique needs. My practice has roots from humanistic and integrative frameworks and I am trained in Polyvagal EMDR and have specialized training in EMDR for perinatal trauma, anxiety and mood disorders through The Touchstone Institute. I have certificates in ACT, DBT and CBT modalities and am informed in Internal Family Systems. I will collaborate with you to select the most effective modality.
Whether you are new to therapy or you are looking to return to a safe space; it is my intention to provide a supportive environment to help you feel better. I use a combination of evidence based interventions that are tailored to your unique needs. My practice has roots from humanistic and integrative frameworks and I am trained in Polyvagal EMDR and have specialized training in EMDR for perinatal trauma, anxiety and mood disorders through The Touchstone Institute. I have certificates in ACT, DBT and CBT modalities and am informed in Internal Family Systems. I will collaborate with you to select the most effective modality.
(319) 984-4149 View (319) 984-4149
Photo of Christy J Meyer, Counselor in Iowa
Christy J Meyer
Counselor, LMHC, LMHP
Verified Verified
I work from a family systems perspective and believe that in therapy we should focus on the issues that are currently barriers to a life you want to live.
My name is Christy Meyer. I have been a therapist for 22 years but my best experience in life is my experience as a mother. I have worked in parent education, I have experience as an adoptive mother and a foster mom. I love working with individuals in life transitions, I have worked with many people who have experienced significant trauma. I teach parenting, communication and train foster parents. I have been part of the first responder mental health community in Des Moines for the past 8 years. I am CISM certified in debriefing of critical incidents.
I work from a family systems perspective and believe that in therapy we should focus on the issues that are currently barriers to a life you want to live.
My name is Christy Meyer. I have been a therapist for 22 years but my best experience in life is my experience as a mother. I have worked in parent education, I have experience as an adoptive mother and a foster mom. I love working with individuals in life transitions, I have worked with many people who have experienced significant trauma. I teach parenting, communication and train foster parents. I have been part of the first responder mental health community in Des Moines for the past 8 years. I am CISM certified in debriefing of critical incidents.
(402) 720-4518 View (402) 720-4518
Photo of Megan Heitzman, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Iowa
Megan Heitzman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW, RPT-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Coralville, IA 52241
I incorporate individual and family play therapy tailored to a child's/family's specific strengths and needs to strengthen the bonds of attachment between family members.
I am a Registered Play Therapist with a background working with children with attachment deficits/Reactive Attachment Disorder, ODD, ADHD, Adjustment Disorder, Anxiety Disorders and behavioral/emotional issues that they are struggling with managing in school, home and community settings. I utilize play therapy approaches as well as EMDR in my work with children, youth and families and place a strong emphasis on family collaboration/support due to the ongoing stressors that occur in families who have a child with special needs. This includes incorporating biological families, foster families and/or adoptive families into treatment.
I incorporate individual and family play therapy tailored to a child's/family's specific strengths and needs to strengthen the bonds of attachment between family members.
I am a Registered Play Therapist with a background working with children with attachment deficits/Reactive Attachment Disorder, ODD, ADHD, Adjustment Disorder, Anxiety Disorders and behavioral/emotional issues that they are struggling with managing in school, home and community settings. I utilize play therapy approaches as well as EMDR in my work with children, youth and families and place a strong emphasis on family collaboration/support due to the ongoing stressors that occur in families who have a child with special needs. This includes incorporating biological families, foster families and/or adoptive families into treatment.
(319) 338-2044 View (319) 338-2044
Photo of Wendy M Woolf, Counselor in Iowa
Wendy M Woolf
Counselor, MA, LMHC, LCPC
Verified Verified
Dubuque, IA 52002
Waitlist for new clients
Kids, adolescents and families are my passion. When I’m not at Building Blocks Counseling Center, I may be found on the University of Dubuque campus as an adjunct psychology professor, mentoring up and coming psychology professionals, or working with new moms who are experiencing postpartum depression. I am the mother of two boys, one that spent 3 months in the NICU, so we have had quite an adventure in our time as a family. My mission is to assist individuals in exploring and processing life experiences while learning tools to build healthy foundations on which to grow into stronger and healthier versions of themselves.
Kids, adolescents and families are my passion. When I’m not at Building Blocks Counseling Center, I may be found on the University of Dubuque campus as an adjunct psychology professor, mentoring up and coming psychology professionals, or working with new moms who are experiencing postpartum depression. I am the mother of two boys, one that spent 3 months in the NICU, so we have had quite an adventure in our time as a family. My mission is to assist individuals in exploring and processing life experiences while learning tools to build healthy foundations on which to grow into stronger and healthier versions of themselves.
(563) 235-1247 View (563) 235-1247
Photo of Tyler Fletcher, Counselor in Iowa
Tyler Fletcher
Counselor, T-LMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Oskaloosa, IA 52577
I offer work processing through trauma, behavioral instruction, handling family and couples turmoil, coping through life changes and stress, and adjusting to family pattern changes brought by a child's recent diagnosis of ADHD or ASD.
I enjoy working with clients from a variety of backgrounds and concerns, and a variety of ages from 5 to 45, and a variety of concerns. I practice from the ideal of therapeutic rapport and trust building as the most important factor.
I offer work processing through trauma, behavioral instruction, handling family and couples turmoil, coping through life changes and stress, and adjusting to family pattern changes brought by a child's recent diagnosis of ADHD or ASD.
I enjoy working with clients from a variety of backgrounds and concerns, and a variety of ages from 5 to 45, and a variety of concerns. I practice from the ideal of therapeutic rapport and trust building as the most important factor.
(515) 513-4988 View (515) 513-4988
Photo of Deanna Hanson, Counselor in Iowa
Deanna Hanson
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Cedar Falls, IA 50613
Several family members had mental illness.
I have 30 years experience with youth, families, adults and school staff. Multiple trainings on body based approach to healing trauma, and increasing resiliency zone. Clients discover their identity, as I mine hearts to find/extract the ore treasured within. Raised on a cattle ranch: I am practical, hard working and love the outdoors. My joy is to help the afflicted , the broken hearted and proclaim liberty to captives. I love using metaphor to clarify vision/focus around personal and crisis issures. I am a Christian, believing in the Bible / prayer and will gladly integrate in the process if requested.
Several family members had mental illness.
I have 30 years experience with youth, families, adults and school staff. Multiple trainings on body based approach to healing trauma, and increasing resiliency zone. Clients discover their identity, as I mine hearts to find/extract the ore treasured within. Raised on a cattle ranch: I am practical, hard working and love the outdoors. My joy is to help the afflicted , the broken hearted and proclaim liberty to captives. I love using metaphor to clarify vision/focus around personal and crisis issures. I am a Christian, believing in the Bible / prayer and will gladly integrate in the process if requested.
(319) 284-8739 View (319) 284-8739
Photo of Meagan Hruska, Counselor in Iowa
Meagan Hruska
Counselor, MS, LMHC
Verified Verified
Ankeny, IA 50023
I offer individual, couples and family therapy for ages 4 and up.
I am a licensed Mental Health Counselor. I work with kids, adolescents, families and adults and have received extensive training in trauma, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), equine assisted psychotherapy (including horses in a client's therapy process), attachment theory and somatic practices. I have also worked with a diversity of families, ages, backgrounds, races, ethnicities, and social economic status with diverse mental health conditions and concerns. I take a client-centered, holistic, trauma informed approach to help clients reach their goals and become more in alignment with themselves.
I offer individual, couples and family therapy for ages 4 and up.
I am a licensed Mental Health Counselor. I work with kids, adolescents, families and adults and have received extensive training in trauma, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), equine assisted psychotherapy (including horses in a client's therapy process), attachment theory and somatic practices. I have also worked with a diversity of families, ages, backgrounds, races, ethnicities, and social economic status with diverse mental health conditions and concerns. I take a client-centered, holistic, trauma informed approach to help clients reach their goals and become more in alignment with themselves.
(515) 516-4909 View (515) 516-4909
Photo of Kathy May, Counselor in Iowa
Kathy May
Counselor, MS, T-LMHC
Verified Verified
Ames, IA 50010
I work with individuals who are experiencing adjustment difficulties, anxiety/stress, depression, trauma, grief, problems related to family relations, employment, and support for families who have loved ones with disabilities.
Sometimes it is hard to navigate life's challenges. These challenges are often related to the connections we have with ourselves, others, and how we make sense of life events. As a therapist/counselor, my goal is to develop a safe environment where we partner to improve those connections and create healing. I believe in using warmth, honesty, humor, and current research-based methods to achieve this goal.
I work with individuals who are experiencing adjustment difficulties, anxiety/stress, depression, trauma, grief, problems related to family relations, employment, and support for families who have loved ones with disabilities.
Sometimes it is hard to navigate life's challenges. These challenges are often related to the connections we have with ourselves, others, and how we make sense of life events. As a therapist/counselor, my goal is to develop a safe environment where we partner to improve those connections and create healing. I believe in using warmth, honesty, humor, and current research-based methods to achieve this goal.
(515) 461-7686 View (515) 461-7686
Photo of Nicole M Monk-Stoneking, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Iowa
Nicole M Monk-Stoneking
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW, RPT
Verified Verified
Monticello, IA 52310
Hello! My name is Nicole and I am providing therapy services at my private practice in Monticello. I specialize in children and adolescents ages 3-21. I've worked several years as a therapist in the school system as well as doing in-home family therapy with juveniles involved in the court system. I look forward to helping children work through various issues in a safe, non-threatening setting. I am a registered play therapist but also utilize other evidenced- based treatment approaches depending on client needs. Please feel free to contact me with any questions, concerns, or to schedule an appointment!
Hello! My name is Nicole and I am providing therapy services at my private practice in Monticello. I specialize in children and adolescents ages 3-21. I've worked several years as a therapist in the school system as well as doing in-home family therapy with juveniles involved in the court system. I look forward to helping children work through various issues in a safe, non-threatening setting. I am a registered play therapist but also utilize other evidenced- based treatment approaches depending on client needs. Please feel free to contact me with any questions, concerns, or to schedule an appointment!
(319) 250-2145 View (319) 250-2145
Photo of Kasey Connor, Counselor in Iowa
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 Fein Therapy Services, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Iowa
Fein Therapy Services
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LISW
Verified Verified
Ankeny, IA 50023
Do you need someone to talk to about your family, job, climate change, social justice or relationships? Are you struggling with loss, abuse or harassment in the recent or distant past? Do you feel misunderstood or question your identity or direction in life? Do you feel like life has handed you some lemons? If this sounds like you, I offer confidential mental health counseling for individuals, couples and families in a private 1857 farmhouse set on a nature sanctuary. I strive to provide a safe space for survivors, and people from diverse racial, gender ethnic religious and spiritual backgrounds. Diversity is celebrated here.
Do you need someone to talk to about your family, job, climate change, social justice or relationships? Are you struggling with loss, abuse or harassment in the recent or distant past? Do you feel misunderstood or question your identity or direction in life? Do you feel like life has handed you some lemons? If this sounds like you, I offer confidential mental health counseling for individuals, couples and families in a private 1857 farmhouse set on a nature sanctuary. I strive to provide a safe space for survivors, and people from diverse racial, gender ethnic religious and spiritual backgrounds. Diversity is celebrated here.
(515) 964-1733 View (515) 964-1733
Photo of Angela La Luzerne, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Iowa
Angela La Luzerne
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
For 20+ years I've worked with clients to address depression, anxiety, chronic pain, relationship issues, substance use reduction or elimination, trauma, family conflict, etc.
Ever wonder, "why is this so hard?" "How did I find myself here?" "What do I do now?" You may feel hopeless or stuck. The desire to get unstuck - to make changes and show up for life in a happier, healthier way - is a noble one. The therapeutic relationship provides a safe, sacred space for you to explore new possibilities, especially as the journey may feel overwhelming at times. We often uncover thoughts, beliefs and behaviors that no longer serve you well. Through a variety of interventions, tailored to your individual needs, change IS possible! It is never too late to start caring for ourselves and others more effectively.
For 20+ years I've worked with clients to address depression, anxiety, chronic pain, relationship issues, substance use reduction or elimination, trauma, family conflict, etc.
Ever wonder, "why is this so hard?" "How did I find myself here?" "What do I do now?" You may feel hopeless or stuck. The desire to get unstuck - to make changes and show up for life in a happier, healthier way - is a noble one. The therapeutic relationship provides a safe, sacred space for you to explore new possibilities, especially as the journey may feel overwhelming at times. We often uncover thoughts, beliefs and behaviors that no longer serve you well. Through a variety of interventions, tailored to your individual needs, change IS possible! It is never too late to start caring for ourselves and others more effectively.
(515) 523-7354 View (515) 523-7354
Photo of Candor Recovery & Consulting, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Iowa
Candor Recovery & Consulting
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Johnston, IA 50131
My approach with my patients is beginning where they are in life by helping identify strengths already possessed and build from there. Each person, couple, and family has the full capacity to heal no matter the hurdles or the history. In addition to my support and guidance, I also walk through the journey with something to learn from you as well. We all have a unique story and its my role to help move past shame and trauma using a variety of techniques. I work with individuals and families with a focus on addressing the root cause of your distress with a collaborative approach. This may be through a combination of interventions.
My approach with my patients is beginning where they are in life by helping identify strengths already possessed and build from there. Each person, couple, and family has the full capacity to heal no matter the hurdles or the history. In addition to my support and guidance, I also walk through the journey with something to learn from you as well. We all have a unique story and its my role to help move past shame and trauma using a variety of techniques. I work with individuals and families with a focus on addressing the root cause of your distress with a collaborative approach. This may be through a combination of interventions.
(515) 220-2945 View (515) 220-2945
Photo of Cindy Schloss Calhoun, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Iowa
Cindy Schloss Calhoun
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW, RPT-S
Verified Verified
Clive, IA 50325
I utilize attachment based parenting, combined with individual, family and play therapy.
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.
I utilize attachment based parenting, combined with individual, family and play therapy.
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 Darcy Jones-Cook, Marriage & Family Therapist in Iowa
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 Amy Lamgo, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Iowa
Amy Lamgo
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Waterloo, IA 50701
I specialize in children and teens, but I love working with the whole family and helping to build and rebuild healthy family relationships.
My counseling sessions focus on the entire person: mind, body, and spirit. When you come to my office, you will be able to share the things in your life that you are struggling with and know that what you share will be met with compassion. In each session, you can just let me know what you'd like to discuss and what you'd like to get out of therapy.
I specialize in children and teens, but I love working with the whole family and helping to build and rebuild healthy family relationships.
My counseling sessions focus on the entire person: mind, body, and spirit. When you come to my office, you will be able to share the things in your life that you are struggling with and know that what you share will be met with compassion. In each session, you can just let me know what you'd like to discuss and what you'd like to get out of therapy.
(319) 727-8623 View (319) 727-8623
Photo of Sarah Jacobs, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Iowa
Sarah Jacobs
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW
Verified Verified
Coralville, IA 52241
Waitlist for new clients
In addition, I've worked with college students and individuals who have experienced sexual harassment, sexual assault, depression, anxiety, PTSD, substance use, life transitions, family issues, and disordered eating.
As a mental health professional with many years of experience in a hospital, corporate wellness, and community crisis counseling setting, I am passionate about helping others. I received my Master of Social Work degree from the University of Iowa. Throughout my experiences, I've witnessed individuals make meaningful and lasting changes in their lives, drawing strength from their experiences and the struggles they've overcome. I want to help individuals be the best version of themselves and help them work through any past trauma that might be holding them back.
In addition, I've worked with college students and individuals who have experienced sexual harassment, sexual assault, depression, anxiety, PTSD, substance use, life transitions, family issues, and disordered eating.
As a mental health professional with many years of experience in a hospital, corporate wellness, and community crisis counseling setting, I am passionate about helping others. I received my Master of Social Work degree from the University of Iowa. Throughout my experiences, I've witnessed individuals make meaningful and lasting changes in their lives, drawing strength from their experiences and the struggles they've overcome. I want to help individuals be the best version of themselves and help them work through any past trauma that might be holding them back.
(319) 727-8729 View (319) 727-8729
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.