Cognitive Processing (CPT) Therapists in Buena Vista County, IA
Life can bring many challenges, struggles, and difficult times. All of us have had seasons when we felt stuck and hopeless and in need of a starting point for healing and recovery. Very often, the past is present in disruptive ways, making it difficult to enjoy the moment or causing damage to our relationships. Sometimes worries can become consuming and we find ourselves simply surviving, instead of thriving. My passion is to walk alongside you, offering evidence-based treatment approaches, as you discover and embrace the life you want to live.
Life can bring many challenges, struggles, and difficult times. All of us have had seasons when we felt stuck and hopeless and in need of a starting point for healing and recovery. Very often, the past is present in disruptive ways, making it difficult to enjoy the moment or causing damage to our relationships. Sometimes worries can become consuming and we find ourselves simply surviving, instead of thriving. My passion is to walk alongside you, offering evidence-based treatment approaches, as you discover and embrace the life you want to live.
I believe that each person is an expert on their own lives, and that the therapeutic journey is one that is better done as teamwork between therapist and client. Both client and therapist are experts in their own right. I am a person-centered counselor who values the quality of the therapist-client relationship above all else. I employ an integrated approach utilizing humanistic, cognitive-behavioral, and other empirically based techniques and interventions that are individually tailored for each client. I received my Master’s in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Buena Vista University, and my JD from Drake University
I believe that each person is an expert on their own lives, and that the therapeutic journey is one that is better done as teamwork between therapist and client. Both client and therapist are experts in their own right. I am a person-centered counselor who values the quality of the therapist-client relationship above all else. I employ an integrated approach utilizing humanistic, cognitive-behavioral, and other empirically based techniques and interventions that are individually tailored for each client. I received my Master’s in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Buena Vista University, and my JD from Drake University
As a military veteran and Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in Missouri, Iowa and Oklahoma. I understand the unique challenges that first responders, military personnel, and veterans face daily. The weight of trauma, high-pressure environments, and the toll on mental health can be overwhelming—but you don’t have to navigate it alone.
I specialize in working with active-duty military, veterans, police officers, firefighters, EMS, and other first responders who experience PTSD, anxiety, depression, operational stress, and burnout.
As a military veteran and Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in Missouri, Iowa and Oklahoma. I understand the unique challenges that first responders, military personnel, and veterans face daily. The weight of trauma, high-pressure environments, and the toll on mental health can be overwhelming—but you don’t have to navigate it alone.
I specialize in working with active-duty military, veterans, police officers, firefighters, EMS, and other first responders who experience PTSD, anxiety, depression, operational stress, and burnout.
Stacy M.
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW, LPN, NREMT
Linn Grove, IA 51033
Not accepting new clients
My social work philosophy takes on a client-centered holistic approach to psychotherapy. I am dedicated to working with individuals, children, couples, and families to achieve the mental health and relationships they desire.
My social work philosophy takes on a client-centered holistic approach to psychotherapy. I am dedicated to working with individuals, children, couples, and families to achieve the mental health and relationships they desire.
Online Therapists
Trauma leaves us feeling broken, damaged, and disconnected from our true selves. You are goal-oriented but still find yourself having difficulty maintaining focus and presence of mind? feeling defeated and unlovable. You want to experience connection and meaningful relationships but seem to push people away or end up relationships that hurt you. But you are ready to make a change. You are ready to resolve core conflict. You are ready to change maladaptive coping mechanism. Most of all, you are ready to engage in healthy and meaningful relationships with others. I want to help you get there.
Trauma leaves us feeling broken, damaged, and disconnected from our true selves. You are goal-oriented but still find yourself having difficulty maintaining focus and presence of mind? feeling defeated and unlovable. You want to experience connection and meaningful relationships but seem to push people away or end up relationships that hurt you. But you are ready to make a change. You are ready to resolve core conflict. You are ready to change maladaptive coping mechanism. Most of all, you are ready to engage in healthy and meaningful relationships with others. I want to help you get there.
Counseling works when there’s a genuine connection. That’s why my approach centers on building a trusting relationship. Healing starts with feeling truly seen, heard, and supported. I'm an open, direct, and collaborative therapist who offers a judgment-free space where you can show up exactly as you are and feel accepted, not evaluated.
As we work together, we’ll get curious about who you are, how your past shows up in your present, and how the systems around you affect your well-being. Along the way, I’ll share tools and strategies to help you move forward with more confidence and clarity.
Counseling works when there’s a genuine connection. That’s why my approach centers on building a trusting relationship. Healing starts with feeling truly seen, heard, and supported. I'm an open, direct, and collaborative therapist who offers a judgment-free space where you can show up exactly as you are and feel accepted, not evaluated.
As we work together, we’ll get curious about who you are, how your past shows up in your present, and how the systems around you affect your well-being. Along the way, I’ll share tools and strategies to help you move forward with more confidence and clarity.
My ideal patient is an adolescent or adult navigating anxiety, trauma, OCD, mood challenges, or identity concerns. Many feel stuck in patterns they don’t fully understand and want deeper insight into how their past, relationships, and inner conflicts shape their present. Some are also exploring questions of faith or spiritual identity. I offer a depth-oriented, faith-friendly space for clients seeking more than symptom relief—lasting growth, emotional clarity, and a stronger, more grounded sense of self. They’re ready to do meaningful work and want a therapist who can hold both clinical complexity and human nuance.
My ideal patient is an adolescent or adult navigating anxiety, trauma, OCD, mood challenges, or identity concerns. Many feel stuck in patterns they don’t fully understand and want deeper insight into how their past, relationships, and inner conflicts shape their present. Some are also exploring questions of faith or spiritual identity. I offer a depth-oriented, faith-friendly space for clients seeking more than symptom relief—lasting growth, emotional clarity, and a stronger, more grounded sense of self. They’re ready to do meaningful work and want a therapist who can hold both clinical complexity and human nuance.
I have been providing therapy for children (age 12 and up), adolescents and adults since 1995 in a variety of therapeutic settings. I specialize in the area of trauma and other forms of abuse causing emotional distress/negative impact on the person and their families.
I have been providing therapy for children (age 12 and up), adolescents and adults since 1995 in a variety of therapeutic settings. I specialize in the area of trauma and other forms of abuse causing emotional distress/negative impact on the person and their families.
Caela specializes in creating a safe, supportive, and non-judgmental space for individuals of all identities. She is proud to be LGBTQ+ friendly, and her practice is built on inclusivity, respect, and empathy for clients of all backgrounds. Her background includes helping clients with various issues including: trauma, self-esteem and identity struggles, communication and relationship difficulties, ADHD, ASD, ODD, NSSI, emotional dysregulation, anxiety, depression, mood disorders, intellectual disabilities, schizophrenia spectrum disorders, attachment issues, and alcohol/substance use concerns.
Caela specializes in creating a safe, supportive, and non-judgmental space for individuals of all identities. She is proud to be LGBTQ+ friendly, and her practice is built on inclusivity, respect, and empathy for clients of all backgrounds. Her background includes helping clients with various issues including: trauma, self-esteem and identity struggles, communication and relationship difficulties, ADHD, ASD, ODD, NSSI, emotional dysregulation, anxiety, depression, mood disorders, intellectual disabilities, schizophrenia spectrum disorders, attachment issues, and alcohol/substance use concerns.
Hey there! If you are reading this, I want to let you know that I am already proud of you for taking the first step in seeking help. My goal as a therapist is to work alongside you in achieving whatever challenges you are facing that is preventing you from living your best life. You can rest assured that working with me will be judgement-free.
Hey there! If you are reading this, I want to let you know that I am already proud of you for taking the first step in seeking help. My goal as a therapist is to work alongside you in achieving whatever challenges you are facing that is preventing you from living your best life. You can rest assured that working with me will be judgement-free.
I believe in a holistic approach to therapy which integrates mental, emotional, and physical well-being. I assist individuals, couples, and families to address relationships, past trauma, depression, anxiety, co-occurring substance use and mental health disorders, self-esteem, social and communication skills, and behaviors. With a therapeutic approach, barriers being optimally functional across various areas of life can be explored. My goal is to utilize a variety of techniques based on the client's needs and goals to help ensure a positive and beneficial experience.
I believe in a holistic approach to therapy which integrates mental, emotional, and physical well-being. I assist individuals, couples, and families to address relationships, past trauma, depression, anxiety, co-occurring substance use and mental health disorders, self-esteem, social and communication skills, and behaviors. With a therapeutic approach, barriers being optimally functional across various areas of life can be explored. My goal is to utilize a variety of techniques based on the client's needs and goals to help ensure a positive and beneficial experience.
Do you want to make changes in your life? I want to help you explore your options. I want to help you become the person you want to be. We live in a very complicated and changing world having to navigate many different situations and experiences; that we don't always feel equipped to handle emotionally. I believe we are all here on this earth to help each other and my goal is to help you become the best you can be.
Do you want to make changes in your life? I want to help you explore your options. I want to help you become the person you want to be. We live in a very complicated and changing world having to navigate many different situations and experiences; that we don't always feel equipped to handle emotionally. I believe we are all here on this earth to help each other and my goal is to help you become the best you can be.
Many of us believe going into family building that it will come easy: When we're ready, we decide to have a baby and grow our family! But for many people, the reality can be more complicated. If you are navigating infertility, fertility treatment, the loss of your baby or pregnancy loss, stillbirth, infant loss, or being child-free not by choice, I would love to help support you on this journey. The perinatal period deserves specific support, whether related to trying to conceive, pregnancy, the postpartum period, identity shifts, body image struggles, OCD or anxiety concerns, or any of the other many changes during this timeframe.
Many of us believe going into family building that it will come easy: When we're ready, we decide to have a baby and grow our family! But for many people, the reality can be more complicated. If you are navigating infertility, fertility treatment, the loss of your baby or pregnancy loss, stillbirth, infant loss, or being child-free not by choice, I would love to help support you on this journey. The perinatal period deserves specific support, whether related to trying to conceive, pregnancy, the postpartum period, identity shifts, body image struggles, OCD or anxiety concerns, or any of the other many changes during this timeframe.
I enjoy using my knowledge of human development and family systems to serve my clients' unique needs. In addition, my experience with children, adults and families helps to cultivate an environment of growth for my clients. I give unconditional regard to all of my clients, and walk with them on their individual journeys. Personal growth can sometimes be uncomfortable, but I assure you, you do not have to experience it alone. Going through discomfort is part of the growth process, and you will be stronger because of it! My hope is that each person I work with will gain insight from guided self-exploration and goal setting.
I enjoy using my knowledge of human development and family systems to serve my clients' unique needs. In addition, my experience with children, adults and families helps to cultivate an environment of growth for my clients. I give unconditional regard to all of my clients, and walk with them on their individual journeys. Personal growth can sometimes be uncomfortable, but I assure you, you do not have to experience it alone. Going through discomfort is part of the growth process, and you will be stronger because of it! My hope is that each person I work with will gain insight from guided self-exploration and goal setting.
Since 2015, I’ve supported individuals and couples in navigating life’s challenges with warmth, skill, and compassion. I am also the cofounder of Inner Spark therapy, coaching, and consulting. We opened our in person office February 2026..
I work with adults experiencing anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship and intimacy concerns, and identity exploration. Whether you’re rebuilding after a difficult experience or working toward more authentic connection, I offer a space that is safe, affirming, and grounded in your strengths.
Since 2015, I’ve supported individuals and couples in navigating life’s challenges with warmth, skill, and compassion. I am also the cofounder of Inner Spark therapy, coaching, and consulting. We opened our in person office February 2026..
I work with adults experiencing anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship and intimacy concerns, and identity exploration. Whether you’re rebuilding after a difficult experience or working toward more authentic connection, I offer a space that is safe, affirming, and grounded in your strengths.
Do you feel constantly anxious, overwhelmed, or emotionally exhausted. Perhaps your mind won’t stop racing, relationships feel difficult, or you’re tired of feeling stuck in the same patterns. Many of the people I work with look like they’re managing life on the outside—but inside they feel stressed, disconnected, or unsure how to move. Therapy can help you understand what’s going on beneath the surface and begin making meaningful changes.
I provide a supportive, non-judgmental space where you can talk openly, make sense of what you're experiencing, and apply practical tools that work.
Do you feel constantly anxious, overwhelmed, or emotionally exhausted. Perhaps your mind won’t stop racing, relationships feel difficult, or you’re tired of feeling stuck in the same patterns. Many of the people I work with look like they’re managing life on the outside—but inside they feel stressed, disconnected, or unsure how to move. Therapy can help you understand what’s going on beneath the surface and begin making meaningful changes.
I provide a supportive, non-judgmental space where you can talk openly, make sense of what you're experiencing, and apply practical tools that work.
Hello, I am Peggy Clark. I have a license in Marriage and Family Therapy through the state of Iowa. I have been practicing for over 20 years with individuals, families, and children. I have helped many with relational issues, be it couples, parents and children of all ages. Unfortunately, I am no longer working with children under the age of 16 years. Many come to me with stresses of life, work, and personal, and traumas of all sorts that creates high anxiety and depression. I believe that all have a story to be respected, strengths to be built upon, in a team effort. I have a laid back, conversational, caring approach.
Hello, I am Peggy Clark. I have a license in Marriage and Family Therapy through the state of Iowa. I have been practicing for over 20 years with individuals, families, and children. I have helped many with relational issues, be it couples, parents and children of all ages. Unfortunately, I am no longer working with children under the age of 16 years. Many come to me with stresses of life, work, and personal, and traumas of all sorts that creates high anxiety and depression. I believe that all have a story to be respected, strengths to be built upon, in a team effort. I have a laid back, conversational, caring approach.
It gets much better from here. No matter what you're going through, our expert providers are here to help with online mental health care tailored to you. Brightside Health offers personalized psychiatry, proven therapy, or both to help you feel better. Get started right from home, with appointments in as little as 2 days.
It gets much better from here. No matter what you're going through, our expert providers are here to help with online mental health care tailored to you. Brightside Health offers personalized psychiatry, proven therapy, or both to help you feel better. Get started right from home, with appointments in as little as 2 days.
See more therapy options for Buena Vista County
Cognitive Processing (CPT) Therapists
How does cognitive processing therapy work?
A CPT therapist helps a client evaluate their thoughts about the trauma they experienced, focusing on maladaptive or self-blaming thoughts that can exacerbate symptoms of PTSD, anxiety, or depression. The therapist will work with a client to help them learn to challenge such thoughts and consider different perspectives. The therapist is also likely to ask a client to work on these techniques at home between meetings, such as writing an account of their trauma that can be read aloud during a future session.
What is cognitive processing therapy for PTSD?
Cognitive processing therapy (CPT) is a form of cognitive-behavioral therapy primarily used in the treatment of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) to treat individuals who experienced abuse or violence, who survived natural disasters, who were first responders to such incidents, or who otherwise experienced trauma.
How long does cognitive processing therapy last?
CPT is a short-term therapy. Whether conducted one-on-one or in a group, a complete set of CPT sessions typically includes 12 weekly sessions, along with tasks for clients to complete at home, although this can vary depending on a client’s needs or a therapist’s particular treatment plan. Sessions typically last 60 or 90 minutes.
How effective is cognitive processing therapy?
A large body of research supports the use of CPT to treat people experiencing PTSD, finding it to be effective among different age groups, either in one-on-one therapy sessions or in a group therapy environment. Research suggests that although the initial sessions may be difficult, clients tend to begin to feel positive progress after the first few sessions, and that the benefits tend to last well after the therapy ends.