Trauma and PTSD Therapists in Buena Vista County, IA

Blue Anchor Counseling & Support
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LISW, LICSW
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I help individuals manage anxiety, stress, trauma, and life transitions by offering a supportive, collaborative space.
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.
I help individuals manage anxiety, stress, trauma, and life transitions by offering a supportive, collaborative space.
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 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
Photo of Julie Anderson, Mental Health Counselor, LMHC
Julie Anderson
Mental Health Counselor, LMHC
Storm Lake, IA 50588
I specialize in working with trauma and am certified as an EMDRIA approved EMDR therapist, along with other trauma processing focused therapies such as Internal Family Systems and Cognitive Processing Therapy.
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 specialize in working with trauma and am certified as an EMDRIA approved EMDR therapist, along with other trauma processing focused therapies such as Internal Family Systems and Cognitive Processing Therapy.
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.
(712) 357-8454 View (712) 357-8454
Photo of Eric Williamson, Pre-Licensed Professional, tLMHC
Eric Williamson
Pre-Licensed Professional, tLMHC
1 Endorsed
Online Only
If you are reading this, you are most likely considering getting in touch with a therapist. Regardless of the reason or reasons, I believe that it is important for you to recognize and honor your strength in reaching this point. I know that it can be difficult to ask for help, but if you are ready, I am here. Creating an environment that is judgment-free and unwaveringly supportive is exceptionally important to me. My desire is to work with clients who feel that there is something preventing them from living their best and most fulfilling life.
If you are reading this, you are most likely considering getting in touch with a therapist. Regardless of the reason or reasons, I believe that it is important for you to recognize and honor your strength in reaching this point. I know that it can be difficult to ask for help, but if you are ready, I am here. Creating an environment that is judgment-free and unwaveringly supportive is exceptionally important to me. My desire is to work with clients who feel that there is something preventing them from living their best and most fulfilling life.
(515) 461-8595 View (515) 461-8595
Photo of Bridget Richards, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Bridget Richards
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
1 Endorsed
Sioux Rapids, IA 50585
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.
Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) – Developing emotional regulation, distress tolerance, and interpersonal effectiveness to manage stress and trauma responses. Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART) – A cutting-edge, eye-movement-based therapy that quickly reduces distress from traumatic memories without requiring detailed re-exposure, in little as 1 session.
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.
Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) – Developing emotional regulation, distress tolerance, and interpersonal effectiveness to manage stress and trauma responses. Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART) – A cutting-edge, eye-movement-based therapy that quickly reduces distress from traumatic memories without requiring detailed re-exposure, in little as 1 session.
(417) 246-4808 View (417) 246-4808
Photo of Daren M. Jaques, Counselor, MS, JD, LMHC, NCC
Daren M. Jaques
Counselor, MS, JD, LMHC, NCC
6 Endorsed
Storm Lake, IA 50588
The bulk of my work and experience is with trauma.
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
The bulk of my work and experience is with trauma.
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
(515) 303-3667 View (515) 303-3667
Photo of Michael Raymond Popp - Child Glow Therapy, PLLC, Mental Health Counselor, LMHC, MA
Child Glow Therapy, PLLC
Mental Health Counselor, LMHC, MA
Serves Area
Treatment at Child Glow Therapy is person centered, trauma informed as well as gently and effectively experienced.
My approach to therapy EMDR, Accelerate Resolution Therapy, CBT, DBT, is both evidence based and fun for kids and teens. Virtual Reality, video games, online games, board games, YouTube learning, art and crafts, music, and other fun stuff. Snacks and drinks provided in office.
Treatment at Child Glow Therapy is person centered, trauma informed as well as gently and effectively experienced.
My approach to therapy EMDR, Accelerate Resolution Therapy, CBT, DBT, is both evidence based and fun for kids and teens. Virtual Reality, video games, online games, board games, YouTube learning, art and crafts, music, and other fun stuff. Snacks and drinks provided in office.
(712) 430-1413 View (712) 430-1413
Photo of Nolan Marie Vitzthum, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LISW, ACSW, RPT-S, EMDR
Nolan Marie Vitzthum
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LISW, ACSW, RPT-S, EMDR
Serves Area
My primary specialties include children, families, attachment, and trauma.
We all have stories to tell, my role is to help you feel empowered to come into contact with your internal and external environments to share yours. I am a Licensed Independent Social Worker, Registered Play Therapist- Supervisor and Certified EMDR Therapist. I believe in the power of healing through connection. I feel this is what makes the therapeutic process so wonderful—creating a space of safety and trust for you to grow and heal in sharing your story and working through some of the most vulnerable parts of your life. Let's work together to help you re-write your story and create a narrative which truly represents you.
My primary specialties include children, families, attachment, and trauma.
We all have stories to tell, my role is to help you feel empowered to come into contact with your internal and external environments to share yours. I am a Licensed Independent Social Worker, Registered Play Therapist- Supervisor and Certified EMDR Therapist. I believe in the power of healing through connection. I feel this is what makes the therapeutic process so wonderful—creating a space of safety and trust for you to grow and heal in sharing your story and working through some of the most vulnerable parts of your life. Let's work together to help you re-write your story and create a narrative which truly represents you.
(515) 852-5660 View (515) 852-5660
Photo of Stacy M. Neagles, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW, LPN, NREMT
Stacy M. Neagles
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW, LPN, NREMT
Sioux Rapids, IA 50585
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.
(712) 883-5089 View (712) 883-5089
Photo of Paige Selk, Counselor
Paige Selk
Counselor
Storm Lake, IA 50588
Waitlist for new clients
I am a temporary licensed Mental Health Counselor with experience supporting individuals across a range of emotional and behavioral challenges. I provide in person therapy for children, adolescents and adults in the Spencer and Storm Lake area. Offering telehealth counseling across Iowa with a focus on mindfulness, emotional regulation, and personal growth.
I am a temporary licensed Mental Health Counselor with experience supporting individuals across a range of emotional and behavioral challenges. I provide in person therapy for children, adolescents and adults in the Spencer and Storm Lake area. Offering telehealth counseling across Iowa with a focus on mindfulness, emotional regulation, and personal growth.
(712) 484-8664 View (712) 484-8664
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
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 is available Monday–Friday, 10am–4pm, in-person and via telehealth. Jocelyn is licensed in Iowa and Illinois. Francine is available Tuesday–Thursday, 10am–7pm, via telehealth, and is fluent in English, Spanish, and French. Francine is licensed in Iowa.
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 is available Monday–Friday, 10am–4pm, in-person and via telehealth. Jocelyn is licensed in Iowa and Illinois. Francine is available Tuesday–Thursday, 10am–7pm, via telehealth, and is fluent in English, Spanish, and French. Francine is licensed in Iowa.
(515) 338-2929 View (515) 338-2929
Photo of Megan Dooley, Counselor, MA, LMHC
Megan Dooley
Counselor, MA, LMHC
3 Endorsed
Serves Area
Hi there! I am currently accepting clients for individual therapy, with a focus on young adults, moms, and women who are feeling overwhelmed, uncertain about their path, or looking to reconnect with themselves. I’m passionate about supporting others in navigating the complexities of life and understand how challenging it can be to balance everything while trying to prioritize your own well-being. My goal is to provide a safe, empathetic space where you can feel heard, understood, and supported. Together, we’ll work to explore your thoughts, emotions, and circumstances, helping you move toward a more connected and fulfilling life.
Hi there! I am currently accepting clients for individual therapy, with a focus on young adults, moms, and women who are feeling overwhelmed, uncertain about their path, or looking to reconnect with themselves. I’m passionate about supporting others in navigating the complexities of life and understand how challenging it can be to balance everything while trying to prioritize your own well-being. My goal is to provide a safe, empathetic space where you can feel heard, understood, and supported. Together, we’ll work to explore your thoughts, emotions, and circumstances, helping you move toward a more connected and fulfilling life.
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Photo of Ana Alonso, Pre-Licensed Professional, tLMHC
Ana Alonso
Pre-Licensed Professional, tLMHC
Serves Area
You may be feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or emotionally drained, trying to manage anxiety, past experiences, relationship stress, or a major life transition while still showing up for school, work, or the people you care about. You want support that feels safe, genuine, and respectful, without pressure or judgment.
You may be feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or emotionally drained, trying to manage anxiety, past experiences, relationship stress, or a major life transition while still showing up for school, work, or the people you care about. You want support that feels safe, genuine, and respectful, without pressure or judgment.
(712) 467-4932 View (712) 467-4932

Online Therapists

Photo of Nikki Arthur, Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Nikki Arthur
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
5 Endorsed
Online Only
Are you feeling overwhelmed, irritable or struggling with a negative mood or anxiety? Are your relationships suffering? Has work and/or family life become so stressful, you wonder how you'll manage? Are you looking for convenient care? If these resonate with you, you may benefit from online holistic therapeutic support. Together, we will address how you can feel better in your body, have balance in your thoughts, & wellness in your spirit. I will give you space to address what is important to you, and help you learn effective skills to cope so you can feel more empowered in your everyday life.
Are you feeling overwhelmed, irritable or struggling with a negative mood or anxiety? Are your relationships suffering? Has work and/or family life become so stressful, you wonder how you'll manage? Are you looking for convenient care? If these resonate with you, you may benefit from online holistic therapeutic support. Together, we will address how you can feel better in your body, have balance in your thoughts, & wellness in your spirit. I will give you space to address what is important to you, and help you learn effective skills to cope so you can feel more empowered in your everyday life.
(712) 481-9814 View (712) 481-9814
Photo of Dr. Wesley C Bruce, Counselor, LPC, LMCH
Dr. Wesley C Bruce
Counselor, LPC, LMCH
Sioux City, IA 51106
I work with clients who are navigating anxiety, trauma, relationship conflict, and major life transitions, with a particular focus on veterans and individuals working to rebuild stability and direction.
My work as a therapist is rooted in my military service, where I saw firsthand how trauma and life setbacks impact individuals and families. I specialize in helping people navigate trauma, adversity, and periods of feeling stuck or overwhelmed. I provide a grounded, nonjudgmental space where clients can process their experiences, build resilience, and develop practical tools for change. My approach is collaborative and focused on helping you regain a sense of direction and move forward in a meaningful, sustainable way.
I work with clients who are navigating anxiety, trauma, relationship conflict, and major life transitions, with a particular focus on veterans and individuals working to rebuild stability and direction.
My work as a therapist is rooted in my military service, where I saw firsthand how trauma and life setbacks impact individuals and families. I specialize in helping people navigate trauma, adversity, and periods of feeling stuck or overwhelmed. I provide a grounded, nonjudgmental space where clients can process their experiences, build resilience, and develop practical tools for change. My approach is collaborative and focused on helping you regain a sense of direction and move forward in a meaningful, sustainable way.
(712) 529-2763 View (712) 529-2763
Photo of Austin Cross, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW
Austin Cross
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW
1 Endorsed
Ames, IA 50010
I am dedicated to aiding individuals facing academic and career difficulties, addiction, adjustment struggles, and anxiety. I blend empathy with evidence-based techniques to foster growth and healing. Together, we'll explore challenges, uncover patterns, and develop strategies for a fulfilling life. You're not alone on this journey; let's work together towards wellness.
I am dedicated to aiding individuals facing academic and career difficulties, addiction, adjustment struggles, and anxiety. I blend empathy with evidence-based techniques to foster growth and healing. Together, we'll explore challenges, uncover patterns, and develop strategies for a fulfilling life. You're not alone on this journey; let's work together towards wellness.
(515) 717-7959 View (515) 717-7959
Photo of Aimee Clancy, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW, LIMHP
Aimee Clancy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW, LIMHP
Online Only
My work is trauma-informed and centered on helping you feel understood and supported.
Sometimes things just start to feel like a lot — even everyday parts of life. It can help to have a space where you don’t have to carry everything alone. I work with adults and older adults experiencing anxiety, depression, grief, stress and life changes. Together, we focus on practical ways to cope while making sense of what’s going on so things begin to feel more manageable. I have experience working with older adults and Medicare clients in rural Iowa and Nebraska, where access to care can be limited.
My work is trauma-informed and centered on helping you feel understood and supported.
Sometimes things just start to feel like a lot — even everyday parts of life. It can help to have a space where you don’t have to carry everything alone. I work with adults and older adults experiencing anxiety, depression, grief, stress and life changes. Together, we focus on practical ways to cope while making sense of what’s going on so things begin to feel more manageable. I have experience working with older adults and Medicare clients in rural Iowa and Nebraska, where access to care can be limited.
(712) 430-7853 View (712) 430-7853
Photo of Jacquelyn S Berke - Journey of Wellness Counseling & Consulting, LLC, Licensed Professional Counselor, LMHC, LPC, NCC, LIMHP, LADC
Journey of Wellness Counseling & Consulting, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LMHC, LPC, NCC, LIMHP, LADC
Online Only
Individuals address traumas, faulty thinking, addictions, and self-sabotaging behaviors, addressing issues like anxiety, depression, relationship conflict, emotional problems, and sleep disorders to name a few.
My involvement in our connection as a psychotherapist, life coach, consultant, or a mix of all three depends on your treatment goals. I respect each person's inner-directed healing wisdom. I enter our partnership with an open mind, creating a judgment-free, safe environment to facilitate and foster healing. I'm licensed in AZ, CO, IA, NE & SD.
Individuals address traumas, faulty thinking, addictions, and self-sabotaging behaviors, addressing issues like anxiety, depression, relationship conflict, emotional problems, and sleep disorders to name a few.
My involvement in our connection as a psychotherapist, life coach, consultant, or a mix of all three depends on your treatment goals. I respect each person's inner-directed healing wisdom. I enter our partnership with an open mind, creating a judgment-free, safe environment to facilitate and foster healing. I'm licensed in AZ, CO, IA, NE & SD.
(712) 423-6554 View (712) 423-6554
Photo of Carmen Hoogers, Counselor, LMHC, NATC
Carmen Hoogers
Counselor, LMHC, NATC
1 Endorsed
Sioux City, IA 51104
Carmen is skilled at working with victims of trauma.
Carmen is a compassionate therapist and a true people person. She works with individuals of all ages and backgrounds, applying evidence-based therapy. Her expertise includes treating Depression, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, Anxiety, Adjustment Disorders, ADHD, Couples Therapy, and various mood and behavior disorders. Carmen is also a certified counselor for Victims of Narcissism. Additionally, she incorporates parenting skills to involve the whole family.
Carmen is skilled at working with victims of trauma.
Carmen is a compassionate therapist and a true people person. She works with individuals of all ages and backgrounds, applying evidence-based therapy. Her expertise includes treating Depression, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, Anxiety, Adjustment Disorders, ADHD, Couples Therapy, and various mood and behavior disorders. Carmen is also a certified counselor for Victims of Narcissism. Additionally, she incorporates parenting skills to involve the whole family.
(712) 217-3838 View (712) 217-3838

See more therapy options for Buena Vista County

Trauma and PTSD Therapists
When should I seek treatment for trauma?
Not everyone who undergoes trauma needs therapy to heal, but many do. If, after experiencing a traumatic event, you find yourself struggling with symptoms such as nightmares, dissociation, irritability, or emotional numbness—especially if these symptoms last more than a month and are severe enough to interfere with your daily functioning—you may benefit from seeking out therapy with a trauma-informed provider.

How long does trauma therapy take?
Different types of therapy for trauma unfold on different timelines. Prolonged exposure therapy and cognitive processing therapy, for example, each take about three months, while trauma-informed CBT may last anywhere from 8 to 25 sessions. Other approaches, especially those that are less structured or that incorporate elements from multiple modalities, may be more open-ended, though many patients report feeling better within the first few months of treatment.

What happens if trauma is left untreated?
Unaddressed trauma can have serious—even devastating—effects on relationships, career, and day-to-day functioning. Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) can lead people to distrust or lash out at others, making it difficult to maintain intimate relationships; it can also trigger symptoms such as flashbacks or hyperreactivity that can interfere with a person’s ability to function effectively, personally and/or professionally. Some sufferers turn to drugs to find relief. Symptoms may lessen on their own with time, but there is no guarantee that PTSD will resolve on its own.

Can PTSD come back after treatment?
It is possible for PTSD symptoms to recur months or years after successful treatment. This is because, like most mental health disorders, it is not possible to “cure” PTSD, and stressful life events may cause symptoms to recur in even the most resilient individuals. There is no shame in re-experiencing PTSD symptoms nor in returning to therapy when such relapses occur; indeed, many forms of trauma therapy explicitly encourage periodic “maintenance sessions” to reinforce coping skills and ensure that symptoms stay manageable.