Humanistic Therapists in Ankeny, IA

Photo of Mackenzie Trotter, Counselor in Ankeny, IA
Mackenzie Trotter
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Ankeny, IA 50021  (Online Only)
“When people don't have any curiosity about themselves, that is always a bad sign.” Irvin Yalom Hello! You reading this seems to be a good sign; it tells me you have an interest in examining your life, as something probably isn’t working the way you’d like it to. I use a humanistic therapy approach, specifically existentialism, reality therapy, and attachment theory — although these might not mean anything to you now, they will — as I enjoy sharing everything I know with the hope it will help create additional meaning in your life.
“When people don't have any curiosity about themselves, that is always a bad sign.” Irvin Yalom Hello! You reading this seems to be a good sign; it tells me you have an interest in examining your life, as something probably isn’t working the way you’d like it to. I use a humanistic therapy approach, specifically existentialism, reality therapy, and attachment theory — although these might not mean anything to you now, they will — as I enjoy sharing everything I know with the hope it will help create additional meaning in your life.
(515) 298-6959 View (515) 298-6959
Photo of Dr. Donald M. Kaesser, Psychologist in Ankeny, IA
Dr. Donald M. Kaesser
Psychologist, PC, PhD
Verified Verified
Ankeny, IA 50021  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I use an eclectic blend of Existential/Humanistic modalities and continue training/reading/studying in several Interpersonal Neurobiological/brain based psychotherapies (bottom up) .
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 an eclectic blend of Existential/Humanistic modalities and continue training/reading/studying in several Interpersonal Neurobiological/brain based psychotherapies (bottom up) .
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 Kelli Rae Powell, Counselor in Ankeny, IA
Kelli Rae Powell
Counselor, MA, LMHC, LCAT, MT-BC
Verified Verified
Ankeny, IA 50023
With expertise in workplace trauma, I specialize in caring for caregivers: counselors, social workers, nurses and doctors. I am a humanistic music psychotherapist serving adults and teens with trauma, anxiety and depression. An EMDR certified therapist, my framework for psychotherapy is EMDR and multicultural counseling. I also use IFS interventions, music interventions, therapeutic instrument instruction, songwriting, as well as verbal processing to facilitate your needs.
With expertise in workplace trauma, I specialize in caring for caregivers: counselors, social workers, nurses and doctors. I am a humanistic music psychotherapist serving adults and teens with trauma, anxiety and depression. An EMDR certified therapist, my framework for psychotherapy is EMDR and multicultural counseling. I also use IFS interventions, music interventions, therapeutic instrument instruction, songwriting, as well as verbal processing to facilitate your needs.
(515) 316-3314 View (515) 316-3314
Photo of Shannon Beelner, Counselor in Ankeny, IA
Shannon Beelner
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Ankeny, IA 50023
Currently accepting new clients! I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and I strive to form a collaborative therapeutic relationship with clients to improve their overall quality of life. I utilize a variety of treatment modalities including cognitive behavioral interventions, strengths-based model, and solution focused therapy. No one size fits all and each client deserves a unique treatment plan and goals. Together we can work to treat anxiety, depression, self-esteem issues, addictions, insecurities, and other life challenges.
Currently accepting new clients! I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and I strive to form a collaborative therapeutic relationship with clients to improve their overall quality of life. I utilize a variety of treatment modalities including cognitive behavioral interventions, strengths-based model, and solution focused therapy. No one size fits all and each client deserves a unique treatment plan and goals. Together we can work to treat anxiety, depression, self-esteem issues, addictions, insecurities, and other life challenges.
(515) 379-8242 View (515) 379-8242
Photo of Talia Pulley, Pre-Licensed Professional in Ankeny, IA
Talia Pulley
Pre-Licensed Professional, tLMHC
Verified Verified
Ankeny, IA 50023
Hello! I am excited you're shopping around trying to find a therapist that fits your needs. I could be that therapist for you. I believe we are all the experts in our lives! We just need someone to help us navigate our complex thoughts and ideas as we continue this journey. You deserve someone who will actively listen and validate your unique experiences. You also deserve someone who will challenge you while meeting you where you're at. Together you and I can foster a collaborative therapeutic relationship to make this therapeutic process more comfortable. I follow a holistic form of therapy, focusing on the mind, body, and soul.
Hello! I am excited you're shopping around trying to find a therapist that fits your needs. I could be that therapist for you. I believe we are all the experts in our lives! We just need someone to help us navigate our complex thoughts and ideas as we continue this journey. You deserve someone who will actively listen and validate your unique experiences. You also deserve someone who will challenge you while meeting you where you're at. Together you and I can foster a collaborative therapeutic relationship to make this therapeutic process more comfortable. I follow a holistic form of therapy, focusing on the mind, body, and soul.
(515) 329-7109 View (515) 329-7109
Photo of Central Iowa Psychological Services in Ankeny, IA
Central Iowa Psychological Services
CADC, PsyD, LISW, PhD, ARNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ankeny, IA 50023  (Online Only)
Central Iowa Psychological Services helps enable children, teens, adults, and families to live more fulfilling and productive lives, children to be more resilient, and families to be happier and healthier. We serve the greater Des Moines area through multiple community sites, collaborations with local partnerships, and telehealth services. Conveniently located in West Des Moines, Ames, and Ankeny, our caring staff welcomes clients in a safe and accepting environment.
Central Iowa Psychological Services helps enable children, teens, adults, and families to live more fulfilling and productive lives, children to be more resilient, and families to be happier and healthier. We serve the greater Des Moines area through multiple community sites, collaborations with local partnerships, and telehealth services. Conveniently located in West Des Moines, Ames, and Ankeny, our caring staff welcomes clients in a safe and accepting environment.
(515) 715-4895 View (515) 715-4895
Photo of Carolyn Hollister, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Ankeny, IA
Carolyn Hollister
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LISW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ankeny, IA 50023
When we go through hard things in life it can have all kinds of effects on the way we feel about ourselves, our relationships and our life. Seeking therapy with a provider you can feel safe with and open up to can be one of the most beneficial and healing things we can do for ourselves. If you are struggling with emotions, thoughts or beliefs that you know are holding you back from living with a sense of well-being, I would like to help. I provide a holistic, compassionate, affirming space for you to explore and process your struggles so you can feel more peace and connection in your life.
When we go through hard things in life it can have all kinds of effects on the way we feel about ourselves, our relationships and our life. Seeking therapy with a provider you can feel safe with and open up to can be one of the most beneficial and healing things we can do for ourselves. If you are struggling with emotions, thoughts or beliefs that you know are holding you back from living with a sense of well-being, I would like to help. I provide a holistic, compassionate, affirming space for you to explore and process your struggles so you can feel more peace and connection in your life.
(515) 293-5702 View (515) 293-5702
Photo of Laura L Housel, Counselor in Ankeny, IA
Laura L Housel
Counselor, LMHC, ATR, CSAT, CTRS, CYI
Verified Verified
Ankeny, IA 50023  (Online Only)
I am passionate about learning about you and providing the support and resources you need to have a better quality of life. We shouldn't have to go through this life feeling distressed, alone, scared, or helpless. I have had the honor to work compassionately alongside clients impacted by cancer, grief, spiritual concerns, homelessness, trauma, oppression, marginalization, sexual violence and trafficking, mood disorders, eating disorders, personality disorders, body dysmorphia, body image and identity concerns, relationship and intimacy struggles, depression, anxiety, stress, shame, isolation, addiction and life transitions.
I am passionate about learning about you and providing the support and resources you need to have a better quality of life. We shouldn't have to go through this life feeling distressed, alone, scared, or helpless. I have had the honor to work compassionately alongside clients impacted by cancer, grief, spiritual concerns, homelessness, trauma, oppression, marginalization, sexual violence and trafficking, mood disorders, eating disorders, personality disorders, body dysmorphia, body image and identity concerns, relationship and intimacy struggles, depression, anxiety, stress, shame, isolation, addiction and life transitions.
(515) 585-1086 x6 View (515) 585-1086 x6
Photo of Tony Parmenter - Mobile And Integrative Emdr Intensives For Complex Trauma, Counselor in Ankeny, IA
Tony Parmenter - Mobile And Integrative Emdr Intensives For Complex Trauma
Counselor, LMHC, LAADC, LCMHC, LCPC, EMDRIA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ankeny, IA 50023
I provide mobile (where you are), office-based (in Vermont or Iowa), virtual, and nature-based trauma therapy intensives. My work is focused on helping your nervous system and inner child repair itself after trauma. I have witnessed many of clients alleviate long-standing struggles/challenges related to Complex PTSD, unresolved childhood trauma, and related addiction issues by working in this way. I offer integrative trauma therapy focusing on EMDR in CA, NY, VT, IA, NH, MA, ME & worldwide in intensive/extended session formats. I am certified with Skylight Psychedelics for enhancing your work with Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy.
I provide mobile (where you are), office-based (in Vermont or Iowa), virtual, and nature-based trauma therapy intensives. My work is focused on helping your nervous system and inner child repair itself after trauma. I have witnessed many of clients alleviate long-standing struggles/challenges related to Complex PTSD, unresolved childhood trauma, and related addiction issues by working in this way. I offer integrative trauma therapy focusing on EMDR in CA, NY, VT, IA, NH, MA, ME & worldwide in intensive/extended session formats. I am certified with Skylight Psychedelics for enhancing your work with Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy.
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Photo of Christine D Addison, Marriage & Family Therapist in Ankeny, IA
Christine D Addison
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Ankeny, IA 50023
I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I have been a practicing therapist for 20 years. I work with adults, couples, and adolescents. I possess comprehensive expertise in many fields, namely; issues of depression and anxiety, trauma, and stress. Currently accepting clients.
I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I have been a practicing therapist for 20 years. I work with adults, couples, and adolescents. I possess comprehensive expertise in many fields, namely; issues of depression and anxiety, trauma, and stress. Currently accepting clients.
(515) 361-7949 View (515) 361-7949
Photo of Jill R Sudak-Allison, Counselor in Ankeny, IA
Jill R Sudak-Allison
Counselor, PhD, LMHC, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Ankeny, IA 50021
Hello, my name is Dr. Jill Sudak-Allison. I have been a licensed mental health counselor and marriage and family therapist for over 30 years. I have worked in outpatient medical clinics, private practice, and university settings. My therapeutic style is supportive, holistic and transparent. It is my goal to offer a safe, empathetic, caring, non-judgmental, and open environment for you to explore issues that cause you distress. My passion is to help you find your way back to being yourself, resolving your problems, experiencing peace of mind and joy in your life again.
Hello, my name is Dr. Jill Sudak-Allison. I have been a licensed mental health counselor and marriage and family therapist for over 30 years. I have worked in outpatient medical clinics, private practice, and university settings. My therapeutic style is supportive, holistic and transparent. It is my goal to offer a safe, empathetic, caring, non-judgmental, and open environment for you to explore issues that cause you distress. My passion is to help you find your way back to being yourself, resolving your problems, experiencing peace of mind and joy in your life again.
(515) 902-5611 View (515) 902-5611
Photo of Full Heart Family Therapy, Marriage & Family Therapist in Ankeny, IA
Full Heart Family Therapy
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT, CSAT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Ankeny, IA 50023
At Full Heart Family Therapy, we work with individuals, couples, and families on a variety of mental, emotional, and relational issues. Your therapist will strive to understand your story and your vision for your future, so we can help you overcome obstacles and create the life that you hope for. Our goal is to help you create a full life and a full heart!
At Full Heart Family Therapy, we work with individuals, couples, and families on a variety of mental, emotional, and relational issues. Your therapist will strive to understand your story and your vision for your future, so we can help you overcome obstacles and create the life that you hope for. Our goal is to help you create a full life and a full heart!
(515) 414-7966 x1 View (515) 414-7966 x1
Photo of Jen Gauerke, Counselor in Ankeny, IA
Jen Gauerke
Counselor, MS, LMHC, CADC, CGP
Verified Verified
Ankeny, IA 50021
Waitlist for new clients
Every person has the potential for growth. Yet, people can work very hard and not make progress. Old ineffective patterns, habits, even addictions, dominate and prevent happiness and growth. Hope can dwindle and lead many to believe they are broken or defective. There is hope! With extensive training and experience in treating trauma and addiction, I explore with you the reasons the patterns persist. I am invested in helping people understand themselves, as they build personal and relationship satisfaction. You can create a life, not simply existing, but full of creativity, connection and satisfaction.
Every person has the potential for growth. Yet, people can work very hard and not make progress. Old ineffective patterns, habits, even addictions, dominate and prevent happiness and growth. Hope can dwindle and lead many to believe they are broken or defective. There is hope! With extensive training and experience in treating trauma and addiction, I explore with you the reasons the patterns persist. I am invested in helping people understand themselves, as they build personal and relationship satisfaction. You can create a life, not simply existing, but full of creativity, connection and satisfaction.
(515) 414-7921 View (515) 414-7921
Photo of Jennie Plummer, Counselor in Ankeny, IA
Jennie Plummer
Counselor, tLMHC, MS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ankeny, IA 50023
Immediate openings for new clients! I believe you are the expert on your own life. You know your concerns, your fears, your struggles, and your story better than anyone else. As a counselor, my goal is to create a safe, affirming space in which you can explore your stressors, your identities, your relationships, or anything else you feel is significant to your life and your story. I will meet you where you are and accept you for who you are. I want therapy to be a collaborative process. Together, we will work to identify and address your concerns while also building upon and, hopefully, enriching your life story.
Immediate openings for new clients! I believe you are the expert on your own life. You know your concerns, your fears, your struggles, and your story better than anyone else. As a counselor, my goal is to create a safe, affirming space in which you can explore your stressors, your identities, your relationships, or anything else you feel is significant to your life and your story. I will meet you where you are and accept you for who you are. I want therapy to be a collaborative process. Together, we will work to identify and address your concerns while also building upon and, hopefully, enriching your life story.
(515) 526-5445 View (515) 526-5445
Photo of Women's Counseling Center, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Ankeny, IA
Women's Counseling Center
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LISW
Verified Verified
Ankeny, IA 50023
Do you need someone to talk to about your family, job, 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, LGBTQ, and people from diverse racial, ethnic religious and spiritual backgrounds. Naturally, diversity is celebrated here.
Do you need someone to talk to about your family, job, 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, LGBTQ, and people from diverse racial, ethnic religious and spiritual backgrounds. Naturally, diversity is celebrated here.
(515) 422-4003 View (515) 422-4003
Photo of Meagan Hruska, Counselor in Ankeny, IA
Meagan Hruska
Counselor, MS, LMHC
Verified Verified
Ankeny, IA 50023
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 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 Ryan McClure, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Ankeny, IA
Ryan McClure
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ankeny, IA 50021
Waitlist for new clients
I have been providing therapy support within the Des Moines area and surrounding communities for over 24 years. My primary areas of interest include helping individuals overcome challenges with depression, anxiety, social phobias, low self-esteem, anger issues and overall learning how to effectively manage challenging emotions that often present themselves. Typically, I serve clients older than 12 years and younger than 99. I love my profession and take pride in assisting and supporting clients that I see each week.
I have been providing therapy support within the Des Moines area and surrounding communities for over 24 years. My primary areas of interest include helping individuals overcome challenges with depression, anxiety, social phobias, low self-esteem, anger issues and overall learning how to effectively manage challenging emotions that often present themselves. Typically, I serve clients older than 12 years and younger than 99. I love my profession and take pride in assisting and supporting clients that I see each week.
(515) 368-8229 View (515) 368-8229
Photo of Marissa Schuster, Counselor in Ankeny, IA
Marissa Schuster
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Ankeny, IA 50023
In today's fast-paced and constantly evolving world, the general stress in society can be overwhelming. From juggling multiple responsibilities at work and home to facing unrealistic standards and societal expectations, we often find ourselves under immense pressure to balance it all. I seek to explore and address the unique challenges and stressors that we face in today's society, providing resources and support to help navigate and overcome these obstacles. I primarily focus on women’s issues, boundaries & assertiveness, people-pleasing, perfectionism, stress, depression, anxiety, trauma, & PTSD.
In today's fast-paced and constantly evolving world, the general stress in society can be overwhelming. From juggling multiple responsibilities at work and home to facing unrealistic standards and societal expectations, we often find ourselves under immense pressure to balance it all. I seek to explore and address the unique challenges and stressors that we face in today's society, providing resources and support to help navigate and overcome these obstacles. I primarily focus on women’s issues, boundaries & assertiveness, people-pleasing, perfectionism, stress, depression, anxiety, trauma, & PTSD.
(515) 516-4743 View (515) 516-4743
Photo of Seely Psychotherapy Services, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Ankeny, IA
Seely Psychotherapy Services
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Ankeny, IA 50021
I have a diverse background in mental health and my private practice is conveniently located off I-235. Most therapists can provide the therapy types listed, but it takes focus and good listening skills to discern how to effectively "help" others.
I have a diverse background in mental health and my private practice is conveniently located off I-235. Most therapists can provide the therapy types listed, but it takes focus and good listening skills to discern how to effectively "help" others.
(515) 512-5173 View (515) 512-5173
Photo of Susin Bredice, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Ankeny, IA
Susin Bredice
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW, RPT-S
Verified Verified
Ankeny, IA 50023
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.
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
Humanistic Therapists

How does humanistic therapy work?

One tenet of humanistic therapy is that people are good. The humanistic approach is concerned with a person’s ability to accept oneself. It likewise encourages a person to overcome self-criticism and self-defeating tendencies, as well as disapproval from others. This approach also emphasizes self-actualization and treating an individual as a whole person. A foundation of this therapy type: The patient is the expert in their life, and treatment often takes the individual’s lead.

Is humanistic therapy evidence-based?

Humanistic therapy is an evidence-based practice. Research has found that humanistic therapy can lead to significant improvement, and for some people it can be just as effective as other therapies, such as Cognitive behavioral therapy. The benefits of humanistic therapy are enduring.

How long does humanistic therapy last?

The goal of humanistic therapy is to understand a person’s day-to-day experiences. While sessions can be short-term and last over a few months, therapy can sometimes continue beyond that and last up to a year or more. And because patients learn the theory behind humanistic therapy during treatment, they can also practice its tenets throughout life after therapy sessions have been completed.

Is humanistic therapy effective?

According to research, many patients find success with humanistic therapy. Researchers note that the therapy is particularly useful in addressing poor self-esteem and self-sabotage, as well as improving conditions including anxiety and depression. Improvements in problem areas can be long standing, as individuals can continue working on themselves by using the tools they’ve learned during treatment.