Domestic Abuse Therapists in Buena Vista County, IA

Photo of Katherine Freese, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW
Katherine Freese
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW
1 Endorsed
Online Only
What would your ideal life look and feel like? It’s different from your current life, isn’t it? Sometimes its hard to imagine how life can ever be different... I’ll bet what you dream about in your ideal life are basic things: sleeping better, setting healthy boundaries, getting away from toxic people. Not feeling anxious or depressed. You dream about feeling strong, confident, and at peace. Most of all you long to feel safe and at home in your own skin. So what is keeping you from making your life into that ideal?
What would your ideal life look and feel like? It’s different from your current life, isn’t it? Sometimes its hard to imagine how life can ever be different... I’ll bet what you dream about in your ideal life are basic things: sleeping better, setting healthy boundaries, getting away from toxic people. Not feeling anxious or depressed. You dream about feeling strong, confident, and at peace. Most of all you long to feel safe and at home in your own skin. So what is keeping you from making your life into that ideal?
(712) 208-8029 View (712) 208-8029
Blue Anchor Counseling & Support
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LISW, LICSW
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Therapy is a space to slow down, feel supported, and make sense of what you’re experiencing—without judgment or pressure. I take a collaborative, client-centered approach, meeting you where you are and honoring your pace. Together, we’ll explore patterns that may be keeping you stuck, build practical coping tools, and reconnect with your strengths. You don’t have to have everything figured out to begin—just a willingness to start.
Therapy is a space to slow down, feel supported, and make sense of what you’re experiencing—without judgment or pressure. I take a collaborative, client-centered approach, meeting you where you are and honoring your pace. Together, we’ll explore patterns that may be keeping you stuck, build practical coping tools, and reconnect with your strengths. You don’t have to have everything figured out to begin—just a willingness to start.
(712) 883-3814 View (712) 883-3814
Photo of Emily Dicks, Mental Health Counselor, tLMHC
Emily Dicks
Mental Health Counselor, tLMHC
Storm Lake, IA 50588
If you’ve ever thought about starting therapy, now is a great time and I am ready to work with you wherever you are on your journey. My therapy sessions are provided in a warm and welcoming environment, where you will be accepted no matter what. I serve clients of all ages and I am able to meet you in person or through virtual therapy.
If you’ve ever thought about starting therapy, now is a great time and I am ready to work with you wherever you are on your journey. My therapy sessions are provided in a warm and welcoming environment, where you will be accepted no matter what. I serve clients of all ages and I am able to meet you in person or through virtual therapy.
(234) 409-4154 View (234) 409-4154
Photo of Jocelyn Ann Wilson - The Kai Lani Center, LLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, MDiv, LCSW, LISW
The Kai Lani Center, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, MDiv, LCSW, LISW
Serves Area
Jocelyn Wilson is a clinical social worker, and Francine Ybarra-Rojas is a marriage and family therapist. They both have 25+ years of experience. They bring a depth and richness of life experience, and a deep compassion for people. Whether you are managing chronic mental illness and/or navigating challenging family dynamics, trauma, or life transitions, Jocelyn + Francine will listen deeply and witness your journey to help you facilitate self-discovery, wholeness, and healing so you can flourish.
Jocelyn Wilson is a clinical social worker, and Francine Ybarra-Rojas is a marriage and family therapist. They both have 25+ years of experience. They bring a depth and richness of life experience, and a deep compassion for people. Whether you are managing chronic mental illness and/or navigating challenging family dynamics, trauma, or life transitions, Jocelyn + Francine will listen deeply and witness your journey to help you facilitate self-discovery, wholeness, and healing so you can flourish.
(515) 338-2929 View (515) 338-2929

Online Therapists

Photo of Jasmin C Higgins Howard, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW
Jasmin C Higgins Howard
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW
1 Endorsed
Online Only
As the world around us is rapidly changing, some things remain the same. One of those things is our innate need to connect; to feel safe, supported, heard, and understood. This is our first and most important goal in therapy. Embarking on a path towards healing may look different for many of us. However, for those of us who choose the therapeutic route, the most important first step is to find a therapist that you can connect with and grow to trust.
As the world around us is rapidly changing, some things remain the same. One of those things is our innate need to connect; to feel safe, supported, heard, and understood. This is our first and most important goal in therapy. Embarking on a path towards healing may look different for many of us. However, for those of us who choose the therapeutic route, the most important first step is to find a therapist that you can connect with and grow to trust.
(515) 882-4874 View (515) 882-4874
Photo of Tami Wirth Hunter, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW, RPT-S
Tami Wirth Hunter
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW, RPT-S
3 Endorsed
Ames, IA 50010
With a background that includes domestic violence, sexual assault advocacy, and the child welfare system, I bring a deep understanding of the complex issues individuals and families may face.
I specialize in play therapy for children, creating a safe space for self-expression and resilience. For adults, I offer personalized therapy with a client-centered approach. In addition to individual therapy, I focus on aiding parents in understanding their children's needs and the impact of past experiences on their parent-child relationships.
With a background that includes domestic violence, sexual assault advocacy, and the child welfare system, I bring a deep understanding of the complex issues individuals and families may face.
I specialize in play therapy for children, creating a safe space for self-expression and resilience. For adults, I offer personalized therapy with a client-centered approach. In addition to individual therapy, I focus on aiding parents in understanding their children's needs and the impact of past experiences on their parent-child relationships.
(515) 512-4493 View (515) 512-4493
Photo of Patricia Musselwhite-Weaver, Counselor, MA, LMHC
Patricia Musselwhite-Weaver
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Online Only
I am a rehabilitation counselor trained to treat medical issues such as physical illness or disability, emotional/mental diagnoses, and addictions and am also licensed as a mental health counselor. I am specially trained to treat post-traumatic stress disorder and trauma, including dissociative disorders. I provide treatment for stress, depression, anxiety, anger, family and relationship issues, and help with parenting issues. I am skilled at diagnosing, especially persons with dual diagnoses or complex medical/psychological ailments.
I am a rehabilitation counselor trained to treat medical issues such as physical illness or disability, emotional/mental diagnoses, and addictions and am also licensed as a mental health counselor. I am specially trained to treat post-traumatic stress disorder and trauma, including dissociative disorders. I provide treatment for stress, depression, anxiety, anger, family and relationship issues, and help with parenting issues. I am skilled at diagnosing, especially persons with dual diagnoses or complex medical/psychological ailments.
(941) 677-1188 View (941) 677-1188
Photo of Andrew Bradley, Counselor, MA, LMHC
Andrew Bradley
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Ames, IA 50010
In my practice, I focus on autism, substance abuse and other addictions, trauma and PTSD, anger management, and developing healthy social interaction skills.
As a retired Marine, a licensed pilot, a scuba diver, and a linguist, I have a varied and multicultural background and am able to connect well with people of different cultures. In addition to a Masters in Professional Counseling, I have a Seminary degree in Pastoral Counseling. After serving as an Arabic and Persian Farsi linguist in the Marine Corps, I decided to continue a life of service by helping people find healing and personal growth. As a Veteran who served in Iraq and in Combat, I have special insight to help fellow Service Members.
In my practice, I focus on autism, substance abuse and other addictions, trauma and PTSD, anger management, and developing healthy social interaction skills.
As a retired Marine, a licensed pilot, a scuba diver, and a linguist, I have a varied and multicultural background and am able to connect well with people of different cultures. In addition to a Masters in Professional Counseling, I have a Seminary degree in Pastoral Counseling. After serving as an Arabic and Persian Farsi linguist in the Marine Corps, I decided to continue a life of service by helping people find healing and personal growth. As a Veteran who served in Iraq and in Combat, I have special insight to help fellow Service Members.
(515) 500-2151 View (515) 500-2151
Photo of Amy Nyhuis, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Amy Nyhuis
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I am a compassionate and dedicated mental health therapist committed to helping individuals, children, adolescents, and families navigate life's challenges with greater confidence and resilience. I provide a supportive, non-judgmental environment where clients can explore their thoughts, emotions, and experiences while developing practical tools for healing and personal growth. With experience working with children, teens, and adults, I specialize in supporting clients facing anxiety, depression, trauma, life transitions, relationship challenges, self-esteem concerns, behavioral difficulties, and emotional regulation issues.
I am a compassionate and dedicated mental health therapist committed to helping individuals, children, adolescents, and families navigate life's challenges with greater confidence and resilience. I provide a supportive, non-judgmental environment where clients can explore their thoughts, emotions, and experiences while developing practical tools for healing and personal growth. With experience working with children, teens, and adults, I specialize in supporting clients facing anxiety, depression, trauma, life transitions, relationship challenges, self-esteem concerns, behavioral difficulties, and emotional regulation issues.
(800) 531-4236 View (800) 531-4236
Photo of Amanda J Olson, Counselor, MS, LMHC
Amanda J Olson
Counselor, MS, LMHC
Estherville, IA 51334
Through my years of experience, I have worked with hundreds of clients from all walks of life. This has provided me with a deep insight and a practical view of contemporary issues and has allowed me to develop a unique combination of interpersonal psychoanalysis, mind-body stimulation, cognitive behavioral techniques, and the ability to diagnose and treat clients in a detailed manner. My work with Murphy CDT, further allows a client to be their authentic selves in session. I am known to be approachable, genuine, and have a welcoming "take your shoes off and relax" view to therapy.
Through my years of experience, I have worked with hundreds of clients from all walks of life. This has provided me with a deep insight and a practical view of contemporary issues and has allowed me to develop a unique combination of interpersonal psychoanalysis, mind-body stimulation, cognitive behavioral techniques, and the ability to diagnose and treat clients in a detailed manner. My work with Murphy CDT, further allows a client to be their authentic selves in session. I am known to be approachable, genuine, and have a welcoming "take your shoes off and relax" view to therapy.
(712) 377-3119 View (712) 377-3119
Photo of Josh Vander Zwaag, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW
Josh Vander Zwaag
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW
Ames, IA 50010
As a mental health therapist and former police officer with over 15 years of combined experience, I understand how stress, trauma, and pressure affect people in the real world. I take a practical, no-nonsense approach—focused on identifying what’s holding you back and helping you move forward with clarity and purpose. I enjoy working with individuals, couples, families, college students, first responders, and military personnel. I help clients manage anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship challenges, divorce, mens issues, burnout, and life transitions, with honest conversations and clear, goal-oriented strategies.
As a mental health therapist and former police officer with over 15 years of combined experience, I understand how stress, trauma, and pressure affect people in the real world. I take a practical, no-nonsense approach—focused on identifying what’s holding you back and helping you move forward with clarity and purpose. I enjoy working with individuals, couples, families, college students, first responders, and military personnel. I help clients manage anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship challenges, divorce, mens issues, burnout, and life transitions, with honest conversations and clear, goal-oriented strategies.
(515) 316-5760 View (515) 316-5760
Photo of Tara Schon, Counselor, MSEd, tLMHC
Tara Schon
Counselor, MSEd, tLMHC
Sioux City, IA 51105
I specialize in trauma-focused therapy for adults who want to move from surviving to living with clarity, confidence, and purpose. My approach integrates information from studies of neuroscience, Adlerian psychology, and evidence-based modalities such as CBT, ACT, DBT, and Motivational Interviewing. I also incorporate art and play therapy, mindfulness, and spiritual exploration when meaningful to you — creating a space where healing feels both grounded and creative.
I specialize in trauma-focused therapy for adults who want to move from surviving to living with clarity, confidence, and purpose. My approach integrates information from studies of neuroscience, Adlerian psychology, and evidence-based modalities such as CBT, ACT, DBT, and Motivational Interviewing. I also incorporate art and play therapy, mindfulness, and spiritual exploration when meaningful to you — creating a space where healing feels both grounded and creative.
(712) 382-8174 View (712) 382-8174
Photo of Mikayla Clark, Counselor, MA, t-LMHC
Mikayla Clark
Counselor, MA, t-LMHC
1 Endorsed
Ames, IA 50010
Hello, I'm so glad you are here! My heart is to create a safe, welcoming space where you feel seen, heard, and supported while also being encouraged to step into your strengths. I work with adults who are navigating anxiety, depression, loneliness, trauma, and the many transitions life brings.
Hello, I'm so glad you are here! My heart is to create a safe, welcoming space where you feel seen, heard, and supported while also being encouraged to step into your strengths. I work with adults who are navigating anxiety, depression, loneliness, trauma, and the many transitions life brings.
(515) 495-5966 View (515) 495-5966
Photo of Jordan Ottenbacher, Counselor, MS, LMHC
Jordan Ottenbacher
Counselor, MS, LMHC
Adel, IA 50003
Accepting new clients; same day and crisis appointments available, Monday-Thursday 1-8pm. I am not a counselor who only "repeats back what you just said" (though this is important). I believe that counselors need both competency and wisdom, in order to be effective. My aim as a counselor is to earn your trust and respect, so that you can feel confident in the care you receive. The psychological views and tools used in therapy have been developed through training and experience. I strongly believe in educating my clients, in order to better understand topics like diagnosis, medication, and holistic treatment planning.
Accepting new clients; same day and crisis appointments available, Monday-Thursday 1-8pm. I am not a counselor who only "repeats back what you just said" (though this is important). I believe that counselors need both competency and wisdom, in order to be effective. My aim as a counselor is to earn your trust and respect, so that you can feel confident in the care you receive. The psychological views and tools used in therapy have been developed through training and experience. I strongly believe in educating my clients, in order to better understand topics like diagnosis, medication, and holistic treatment planning.
(515) 717-7790 View (515) 717-7790
Photo of Megan Reed, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Megan Reed
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Perry, IA 50220
Life can feel overwhelming, and you don't have to navigate it alone. I work with adolescents, teens, and adults experiencing anxiety, depression, trauma, body image concerns, family conflict, relationship challenges, and life transitions. I strive to create a supportive, nonjudgmental space where you can feel heard, understood, and empowered. Together, we'll build on your strengths, develop healthy coping skills, and work toward meaningful change so you can feel more confident, balanced, and equipped to manage life's challenges.
Life can feel overwhelming, and you don't have to navigate it alone. I work with adolescents, teens, and adults experiencing anxiety, depression, trauma, body image concerns, family conflict, relationship challenges, and life transitions. I strive to create a supportive, nonjudgmental space where you can feel heard, understood, and empowered. Together, we'll build on your strengths, develop healthy coping skills, and work toward meaningful change so you can feel more confident, balanced, and equipped to manage life's challenges.
(515) 373-5587 View (515) 373-5587
Photo of Rebecca Serfozo, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW-S
Rebecca Serfozo
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW-S
Online Only
I specialize in helping women, children, and families heal from trauma, navigate relationship challenges, and build healthier connections with themselves and others. Many of my clients struggle with anxiety, attachment wounds, low self-esteem, parenting concerns, or the lasting impact of difficult life experiences. Through EMDR, CBT, play therapy, and other evidence-based approaches, I provide a supportive space where clients can process the past, develop new skills, and create meaningful change. My goal is to help clients feel empowered, connected, and confident as they move forward in their healing journey.
I specialize in helping women, children, and families heal from trauma, navigate relationship challenges, and build healthier connections with themselves and others. Many of my clients struggle with anxiety, attachment wounds, low self-esteem, parenting concerns, or the lasting impact of difficult life experiences. Through EMDR, CBT, play therapy, and other evidence-based approaches, I provide a supportive space where clients can process the past, develop new skills, and create meaningful change. My goal is to help clients feel empowered, connected, and confident as they move forward in their healing journey.
(440) 597-4693 View (440) 597-4693
Photo of Courtney Clippert-Treadwell, Psychologist, PhD, LP
Courtney Clippert-Treadwell
Psychologist, PhD, LP
Online Only
I am most passionate about, and specialize in, working with victims and survivors of sexual assault and interpersonal violence, along with other types of trauma.
It's an honor and privilege to work with clients during, what might be, some of their most difficult moments in life. I find it rewarding to hear each client's story, help clients embrace their strengths, recognize personal resiliency factors, and feel more empowered. My approach is collaborative and integrative. I strive to create an affirming environment and atmosphere of safety, trust, and acceptance. Also, it's essential for me to understand client's worldview and cultural identities. I believe that a safe, supportive, and caring therapeutic relationship is an integral part of the change process.
I am most passionate about, and specialize in, working with victims and survivors of sexual assault and interpersonal violence, along with other types of trauma.
It's an honor and privilege to work with clients during, what might be, some of their most difficult moments in life. I find it rewarding to hear each client's story, help clients embrace their strengths, recognize personal resiliency factors, and feel more empowered. My approach is collaborative and integrative. I strive to create an affirming environment and atmosphere of safety, trust, and acceptance. Also, it's essential for me to understand client's worldview and cultural identities. I believe that a safe, supportive, and caring therapeutic relationship is an integral part of the change process.
(515) 575-9482 View (515) 575-9482
Photo of Ashley Ewoldt, Counselor, tLMHC, NCC
Ashley Ewoldt
Counselor, tLMHC, NCC
1 Endorsed
Sioux City, IA 51104
Waitlist for new clients
Working at Mental Health Associates! Ashley prides herself on being a kind and compassionate person and has always had a passion for helping others, of all shapes and sizes, from all different ages. With experience in using Dialectical Behavioral Therapy and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, specializing in Anxiety, Depression, Grief, Trauma, and Sports Performance. Ashley would love to work with athletes and their mental health, wanting to make a difference in their lives.
Working at Mental Health Associates! Ashley prides herself on being a kind and compassionate person and has always had a passion for helping others, of all shapes and sizes, from all different ages. With experience in using Dialectical Behavioral Therapy and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, specializing in Anxiety, Depression, Grief, Trauma, and Sports Performance. Ashley would love to work with athletes and their mental health, wanting to make a difference in their lives.
(712) 382-8754 View (712) 382-8754
Photo of Annette Shipley - Soul Soothe Therapy, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW
Soul Soothe Therapy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW
Ames, IA 50010
My name is Annette and I have provided many types of Social Work Services and Therapy in my last 29 years of employment. My focus is Trauma Focused Care which includes EMDR, Somatic, and DBT therapies. I have a background in treating victims of crime, sexual abuse, relationship abuse, and emotional neglect. I have experience working with betrayal trauma, abusive relationships, and compulsive behaviors. My approach is providing ways a client can obtain their own inner peace, comfort, and relief as they connect to their true self.
My name is Annette and I have provided many types of Social Work Services and Therapy in my last 29 years of employment. My focus is Trauma Focused Care which includes EMDR, Somatic, and DBT therapies. I have a background in treating victims of crime, sexual abuse, relationship abuse, and emotional neglect. I have experience working with betrayal trauma, abusive relationships, and compulsive behaviors. My approach is providing ways a client can obtain their own inner peace, comfort, and relief as they connect to their true self.
(515) 854-3734 View (515) 854-3734
Photo of Kelsey Kruse, Counselor, MA, LPC-MH, LMHC, LPC, CCTP
Kelsey Kruse
Counselor, MA, LPC-MH, LMHC, LPC, CCTP
Paullina, IA 51046
I am a seasoned trauma therapist who has been serving the Sioux Falls community for over 10 years, specializing in helping individuals who have endured challenging life experiences. I work with a diverse client base, including pre-teens, teens, and adults, offering tailored therapeutic approaches to promote healing and growth. I am licensed in South Dakota, Minnesota, and Iowa and am skilled at providing telehealth services to residents of those three states. I have two practice locations: Paullina, Iowa and Sioux Falls, South Dakota with set days in person at each location.
I am a seasoned trauma therapist who has been serving the Sioux Falls community for over 10 years, specializing in helping individuals who have endured challenging life experiences. I work with a diverse client base, including pre-teens, teens, and adults, offering tailored therapeutic approaches to promote healing and growth. I am licensed in South Dakota, Minnesota, and Iowa and am skilled at providing telehealth services to residents of those three states. I have two practice locations: Paullina, Iowa and Sioux Falls, South Dakota with set days in person at each location.
(712) 227-4995 View (712) 227-4995

See more therapy options for Buena Vista County

Domestic Abuse Therapists
What are the most effective ways to recover from domestic abuse?
Leaving an abusive relationship requires tremendous courage, so survivors in treatment should recognize that they have already completed the most important step. Still, the trauma of physical or emotional abuse can be difficult to process and overcome. Therapy can help survivors process trauma, grief, and difficult emotions, treat relevant mental health symptoms, and create a new framework for boundaries and relationships in the future. For some, support groups can also be an invaluable outlet for healing.

When should an individual seek help for domestic abuse?
Victims of intimate partner violence should seek help immediately. It can take substantial time, planning, energy, and courage to leave an abusive relationship, but starting the process—by seeking therapy, calling the domestic violence hotline, or simply confiding in a loved one—will help them get there. Those who have left abusive relationships but haven’t sought treatment can also greatly benefit from therapy to process and heal from the experience.

What are the consequences of staying in an abusive relationship?
Remaining in an abusive relationship has serious repercussions. In addition to the ongoing threat of physical danger and emotional abuse, research shows that intimate partner violence is associated with a range of mental health disorders including depression, post-traumatic stress disorder, anxiety, and substance abuse. Therefore it’s important for individuals in an abusive relationship to seek help as soon as possible.

How can you get domestic abuse treatment for someone else?
It can be very complicated to identify and leave an abusive relationship; barriers include the threat of violence, financial instability, and family pressures. Those concerned about a loved one in an abusive relationship should talk to them about the situation, provide them with resources such as the domestic violence hotline, and introduce the idea of seeing a therapist due to their concern for the person’s safety and well-being.