Trauma and PTSD Therapists in Spencer, IA

Photo of Maggie Alton, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW
Maggie Alton
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW
Online Only
Sometimes needing a little help sorting through stressors, trauma or daily life requires assistance from someone who can help untangle all the pieces.
I use a variety of interventions in a supportive environment to build on your strengths and work towards your goals in a way that fits you and your needs. What we do in therapy can then be built on for outside the office, in daily life to meet your goals. I have experience with individual and family therapy, and use telehealth platforms.
Sometimes needing a little help sorting through stressors, trauma or daily life requires assistance from someone who can help untangle all the pieces.
I use a variety of interventions in a supportive environment to build on your strengths and work towards your goals in a way that fits you and your needs. What we do in therapy can then be built on for outside the office, in daily life to meet your goals. I have experience with individual and family therapy, and use telehealth platforms.
(800) 531-4236 View (800) 531-4236
Photo of Michael Raymond Popp - Child Glow Therapy, PLLC, Mental Health Counselor, LMHC, MA
Child Glow Therapy, PLLC
Mental Health Counselor, LMHC, MA
Spencer, IA 51301
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 Julie Anderson, Mental Health Counselor, LMHC
Julie Anderson
Mental Health Counselor, LMHC
Serves Area
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 Cynthia C Lawson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, MPA, MS, LCSW, CSWPIP
Cynthia C Lawson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, MPA, MS, LCSW, CSWPIP
Online Only
I have experience in helping with stress, ADHD, anxiety, trauma, depression, women's concerns, etc.
I am originally from WA and a U.S. Army veteran. I have become a licensed clinical social worker or LCSW in Texas with six years of working in the mental health field. I have been a social worker going on five years. I am also licensed in Washington, Iowa & South Dakota as a clinical social worker in private practice. My goal is trying to bring mental health services to more communities. I am a huge advocate for spending time outside and learning self-care. This can be something as simple as sitting on the porch watching the sun set.
I have experience in helping with stress, ADHD, anxiety, trauma, depression, women's concerns, etc.
I am originally from WA and a U.S. Army veteran. I have become a licensed clinical social worker or LCSW in Texas with six years of working in the mental health field. I have been a social worker going on five years. I am also licensed in Washington, Iowa & South Dakota as a clinical social worker in private practice. My goal is trying to bring mental health services to more communities. I am a huge advocate for spending time outside and learning self-care. This can be something as simple as sitting on the porch watching the sun set.
(830) 468-9858 View (830) 468-9858
Photo of Whitney Lynn Gray - Breaking Illusions Counseling, LLC, Licensed Professional Counselor, LMHC
Breaking Illusions Counseling, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LMHC
Spencer, IA 51301
I work with clients who struggle with loss, depression, ADHD, anxiety, chronic pain, trauma, family conflict, and in between areas.
I provide a nonjudgmental safe space for those looking to lessen anxiety, get to the core of pressing difficulties, learning to love yourself, and connect to your inner being. My approach is not a "one size fits all" method and is client-led. My goal is to guide you on reconnecting to yourself and building your self-trust so that you can get unstuck and create your own happiness. My therapy approach is soul-centered, client-focused, human-focused and these benefit clients in that they feel heard, seen, connected, in the midst of chaos.
I work with clients who struggle with loss, depression, ADHD, anxiety, chronic pain, trauma, family conflict, and in between areas.
I provide a nonjudgmental safe space for those looking to lessen anxiety, get to the core of pressing difficulties, learning to love yourself, and connect to your inner being. My approach is not a "one size fits all" method and is client-led. My goal is to guide you on reconnecting to yourself and building your self-trust so that you can get unstuck and create your own happiness. My therapy approach is soul-centered, client-focused, human-focused and these benefit clients in that they feel heard, seen, connected, in the midst of chaos.
(712) 717-0297 View (712) 717-0297
Photo of Lejeana Anliker, Counselor, MS, NCC, LMHC
Lejeana Anliker
Counselor, MS, NCC, LMHC
Spencer, IA 51301
I have experience working with adults and children who struggle with anxiety, depression, trauma, and behavioral concerns.
Sometimes life gets hard, and coping with it can get in the way of how we feel and interact with others. My name is Lejeana Anliker, and I have been a Mental Health Counselor since 2010. I am currently located in SPENCER, IA. I enjoy working with people to enhance skills that they already have, as well as developing new tools that can be used to help them feel better! I understand that sometimes it feels like things will never be different, and I am committed to helping clients make changes that improve their situations.
I have experience working with adults and children who struggle with anxiety, depression, trauma, and behavioral concerns.
Sometimes life gets hard, and coping with it can get in the way of how we feel and interact with others. My name is Lejeana Anliker, and I have been a Mental Health Counselor since 2010. I am currently located in SPENCER, IA. I enjoy working with people to enhance skills that they already have, as well as developing new tools that can be used to help them feel better! I understand that sometimes it feels like things will never be different, and I am committed to helping clients make changes that improve their situations.
(712) 248-4661 View (712) 248-4661
Photo of Dr. Casey Baker, Counselor, EdD, LMHC, RPT-S
Dr. Casey Baker
Counselor, EdD, LMHC, RPT-S
1 Endorsed
Spencer, IA 51301
As a therapist, I’m authentic, compassionate, and a little quirky. I believe therapy should feel real, not rehearsed. I create a space where clients can show up fully as themselves, without judgment or pretense. Based in Spencer, Iowa, I work with neurodivergent individuals, couples, families, and children both in-person and online across Iowa, supporting emotional regulation, communication, and sensory needs through creative and playful approaches. My style blends warmth, humor, and practical tools to help clients manage anxiety, strengthen relationships, and build confidence while fostering genuine growth and lasting change.
As a therapist, I’m authentic, compassionate, and a little quirky. I believe therapy should feel real, not rehearsed. I create a space where clients can show up fully as themselves, without judgment or pretense. Based in Spencer, Iowa, I work with neurodivergent individuals, couples, families, and children both in-person and online across Iowa, supporting emotional regulation, communication, and sensory needs through creative and playful approaches. My style blends warmth, humor, and practical tools to help clients manage anxiety, strengthen relationships, and build confidence while fostering genuine growth and lasting change.
(833) 985-1876 View (833) 985-1876
Photo of Ana Alonso, Pre-Licensed Professional, tLMHC
Ana Alonso
Pre-Licensed Professional, tLMHC
Spencer, IA 51301
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
Photo of Paige Selk, Counselor
Paige Selk
Counselor
Spencer, IA 51301
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
Spencer, IA 51301
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 Chelsea Zaragoza, Counselor, LMHC, LPCC
Chelsea Zaragoza
Counselor, LMHC, LPCC
Online Only
Over the past five years, I have dedicated myself to helping clients of all ages navigate the various stressors in their lives, assisting them in the journey toward becoming the best versions of themselves. My practice is rooted in a deep understanding of life's complexities, whether you are facing day-to-day challenges or larger, more daunting hurdles. As a mother of a daughter with autism, I have firsthand experience with the intense process of seeking answers and working through personal and family struggles, which fuels my dedication to supporting you in your path to peace and fulfillment.
Over the past five years, I have dedicated myself to helping clients of all ages navigate the various stressors in their lives, assisting them in the journey toward becoming the best versions of themselves. My practice is rooted in a deep understanding of life's complexities, whether you are facing day-to-day challenges or larger, more daunting hurdles. As a mother of a daughter with autism, I have firsthand experience with the intense process of seeking answers and working through personal and family struggles, which fuels my dedication to supporting you in your path to peace and fulfillment.
(844) 604-7381 View (844) 604-7381
Photo of Stacy M. Neagles, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW, LPN, NREMT
Stacy M. Neagles
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW, LPN, NREMT
Spencer, IA 51301
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

More Therapists Nearby

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 Kelsey Galindo, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW, LIMHP
Kelsey Galindo
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW, LIMHP
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
Waitlist for new clients
I began my career seeking training to further my skills treating trauma.
Food and body image are difficult topics. Many experience criticism, frustration, and feeling incompetent with their bodies. Food becomes the enemy, movement feels impossible. We get so many messages from society and it can be hard to navigate it all. It's easy to feel like a failure. I am here to say finding peace with our bodies is possible. Guilt doesn't have to be part of our relationship to food and movement. It may look different than what is your current normal, and you may feel unsure about how to make it make sense for your life. We can navigate all of this together.
I began my career seeking training to further my skills treating trauma.
Food and body image are difficult topics. Many experience criticism, frustration, and feeling incompetent with their bodies. Food becomes the enemy, movement feels impossible. We get so many messages from society and it can be hard to navigate it all. It's easy to feel like a failure. I am here to say finding peace with our bodies is possible. Guilt doesn't have to be part of our relationship to food and movement. It may look different than what is your current normal, and you may feel unsure about how to make it make sense for your life. We can navigate all of this together.
(712) 227-3352 View (712) 227-3352
Photo of Amanda J Olson, Counselor, MS, LMHC
Amanda J Olson
Counselor, MS, LMHC
Estherville, IA 51334
I work with a variety of issues, though I specialize in anxiety, adjustment issues, depression, empowerment, life transitions, trauma, & self-esteem.
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.
I work with a variety of issues, though I specialize in anxiety, adjustment issues, depression, empowerment, life transitions, trauma, & self-esteem.
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 Abbie Stucker, Counselor, MA, t-LMHC
Abbie Stucker
Counselor, MA, t-LMHC
Serves Area
If you’ve experienced trauma, you may feel stuck in patterns you don’t fully understand.
I work with adolescents and adults who are processing trauma, anxiety, relationship wounds, and life transitions. My approach is compassionate, collaborative, and grounded in evidence-based practices, including EMDR, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT). Together, we move at a pace that feels safe for you.
If you’ve experienced trauma, you may feel stuck in patterns you don’t fully understand.
I work with adolescents and adults who are processing trauma, anxiety, relationship wounds, and life transitions. My approach is compassionate, collaborative, and grounded in evidence-based practices, including EMDR, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT). Together, we move at a pace that feels safe for you.
(515) 454-2370 View (515) 454-2370
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.
In addition to traditional therapy, I am trained in Brainspotting, a powerful and focused treatment method that helps clients access, process, and overcome trauma, negative emotions, and pain. I am also trained in TF-CBT, IoWA PCIT, and CBT.
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.
In addition to traditional therapy, I am trained in Brainspotting, a powerful and focused treatment method that helps clients access, process, and overcome trauma, negative emotions, and pain. I am also trained in TF-CBT, IoWA PCIT, and CBT.
(712) 227-4995 View (712) 227-4995
Photo of Susanna Luu, Psychologist, LCP
Susanna Luu
Psychologist, LCP
Online Only
Hi, my name is Susanna Luu, PhD. I'm a clinical psychologist specializing in a holistic approach to treating mental health concerns through a cognitive behavioral therapy lens. I am currently licensed in Iowa. My communication style in down to earth and genuine. I will not mask my unique "real" qualities and try to bring in humor as much as I can. This is model an example of healthy communication. Further, I am always client-centered. Although I love to see clients have growth, I will always ask if clients are ready to explore the next steps of processing and meet them where they are at.
Hi, my name is Susanna Luu, PhD. I'm a clinical psychologist specializing in a holistic approach to treating mental health concerns through a cognitive behavioral therapy lens. I am currently licensed in Iowa. My communication style in down to earth and genuine. I will not mask my unique "real" qualities and try to bring in humor as much as I can. This is model an example of healthy communication. Further, I am always client-centered. Although I love to see clients have growth, I will always ask if clients are ready to explore the next steps of processing and meet them where they are at.
(202) 517-2359 View (202) 517-2359
Photo of Stephen Willmer - Anxiety Relief and Relationship Growth, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Anxiety Relief and Relationship Growth
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Some of my other experience includes, depression, mood disorders, couples/family issues, major life changes, grief, divorce, domestic violence, parenting, trauma, and adjustments to adult children.
I specialize in helping people with anxiety, relationship/family issues and addiction. I treat clients from an eclectic perspective centered around CBT treatment. I am a certified clinical trauma specialist. I offer appointments 7 days a week to accommodate to my clients scheduling needs.
Some of my other experience includes, depression, mood disorders, couples/family issues, major life changes, grief, divorce, domestic violence, parenting, trauma, and adjustments to adult children.
I specialize in helping people with anxiety, relationship/family issues and addiction. I treat clients from an eclectic perspective centered around CBT treatment. I am a certified clinical trauma specialist. I offer appointments 7 days a week to accommodate to my clients scheduling needs.
(385) 383-9968 View (385) 383-9968
Photo of Mikayla Anne Larson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Mikayla Anne Larson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Estherville, IA 51334
Using a client-centered, trauma-informed, and strengths-based approach, we help clients build coping skills, confidence, and healthy strategies so they can move forward and thrive.
I specialize in creating a safe, supportive space where clients feel comfortable being themselves while working through challenges and personal growth. My approach is client-centered, trauma-informed, and strengths-based. I offer coping skills, emotional regulation tools, confidence building, and practical strategies for lasting growth.
Using a client-centered, trauma-informed, and strengths-based approach, we help clients build coping skills, confidence, and healthy strategies so they can move forward and thrive.
I specialize in creating a safe, supportive space where clients feel comfortable being themselves while working through challenges and personal growth. My approach is client-centered, trauma-informed, and strengths-based. I offer coping skills, emotional regulation tools, confidence building, and practical strategies for lasting growth.
(712) 624-7675 View (712) 624-7675

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Nearby Trauma and PTSD Therapists Searches for Spencer

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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.