Interpersonal Therapists in Polk County, IA
Joel Greenberg
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
West Des Moines, IA 50266
I'm experienced in a variety of approaches and find CBT, DBT, IFS (internal family systems), motivational interviewing, and interpersonal approaches emphasizing improving communication and relationships to be most immediately helpful.
I work with teens and adults experiencing a wide range of issues and concerns including anxiety, trauma, depression, anger, drug and alcohol use, work/school problems, relationship issues, gender, sexual orientation, self harm, and suicidality. In addition to discussing the challenges that led you to this place in your life, many find it helpful to discuss goals for therapy, as well as hopes, aspirations, and strengths, in order to help you create a path toward the life that you seek.
I'm experienced in a variety of approaches and find CBT, DBT, IFS (internal family systems), motivational interviewing, and interpersonal approaches emphasizing improving communication and relationships to be most immediately helpful.
I work with teens and adults experiencing a wide range of issues and concerns including anxiety, trauma, depression, anger, drug and alcohol use, work/school problems, relationship issues, gender, sexual orientation, self harm, and suicidality. In addition to discussing the challenges that led you to this place in your life, many find it helpful to discuss goals for therapy, as well as hopes, aspirations, and strengths, in order to help you create a path toward the life that you seek.
Sarah J Garcia
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW
Verified Verified
Johnston, IA 50131 (Online Only)
I have 16 years’ experience in social services, including 10 years engaged in adolescent and adult therapy. During that time, I’ve seen first-hand the impact depression, anxiety and trauma can have on child development, marriages, parenting and interpersonal skills in general. My approach to helping improve the connections in people’s lives starts with understanding their needs in a safe, judgement-free environment.
I have 16 years’ experience in social services, including 10 years engaged in adolescent and adult therapy. During that time, I’ve seen first-hand the impact depression, anxiety and trauma can have on child development, marriages, parenting and interpersonal skills in general. My approach to helping improve the connections in people’s lives starts with understanding their needs in a safe, judgement-free environment.
Michael Sullivan
Counselor, MA, LMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
West Des Moines, IA 50265
If you have ever asked yourself if you are living as well as you could then counseling may be for you. I find most people (including my clients) can get by just fine on their own. I am here to help them do more than "just get by." My goal is to help you live the life you want and enjoy it more fully. How to better manage anxiety, improve mood, improve coping skills, and better your interpersonal relationships are something I enjoy helping people with. I also address people's history of trauma and how that may be affecting their life and/or relationships.
If you have ever asked yourself if you are living as well as you could then counseling may be for you. I find most people (including my clients) can get by just fine on their own. I am here to help them do more than "just get by." My goal is to help you live the life you want and enjoy it more fully. How to better manage anxiety, improve mood, improve coping skills, and better your interpersonal relationships are something I enjoy helping people with. I also address people's history of trauma and how that may be affecting their life and/or relationships.
Travis Semmens
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LISW
Verified Verified
West Des Moines, IA 50266
These areas of stress can range from focus, sadness, worry, or interpersonal interactions.
I enjoy working with children, teens, families, and adults to help them solve their problems. I have been working as a therapist since 2008, and worked with children at a residential campus for the six years prior to that. I love finding solutions and watching people blossom and thrive when they are no longer burdened by their personal struggles.
These areas of stress can range from focus, sadness, worry, or interpersonal interactions.
I enjoy working with children, teens, families, and adults to help them solve their problems. I have been working as a therapist since 2008, and worked with children at a residential campus for the six years prior to that. I love finding solutions and watching people blossom and thrive when they are no longer burdened by their personal struggles.
Dr. Donald M. Kaesser
Psychologist, PC, PhD
Verified Verified
Des Moines, IA 50312 (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I use an eclectic blend of Existential/Humanistic modalities and continue training/reading/studying in several Interpersonal Neurobiological/brain based psychotherapies (bottom up) .
I use 35+ years of DIRECT clinical experience to help in addressing issues that have become obstacles in your life and help you meet your goals in the context of an honest, caring, and direct professional relationship. Individuals, couples/relationships, addictions/substance abuse, depression, anxiety, grief, aging, sexuality, and sexual 'orientation' issues, as well as family matters are among the range of aspects of people's lives with which I effectively work. Counseling may be brief/problem-oriented, or extended/depth psychotherapy depending on your needs. I enjoy individuals, couples, and seniors. Psychotherapy is my calling!
I use an eclectic blend of Existential/Humanistic modalities and continue training/reading/studying in several Interpersonal Neurobiological/brain based psychotherapies (bottom up) .
I use 35+ years of DIRECT clinical experience to help in addressing issues that have become obstacles in your life and help you meet your goals in the context of an honest, caring, and direct professional relationship. Individuals, couples/relationships, addictions/substance abuse, depression, anxiety, grief, aging, sexuality, and sexual 'orientation' issues, as well as family matters are among the range of aspects of people's lives with which I effectively work. Counseling may be brief/problem-oriented, or extended/depth psychotherapy depending on your needs. I enjoy individuals, couples, and seniors. Psychotherapy is my calling!
Hayley Benson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Urbandale, IA 50322
I have several years of experience in the mental health field with emphasis on trauma and PTSD, sexual abuse, anxiety, depression, anger, interpersonal/relational conflict and life transitions. I am passionate about how mental health and trauma are interwoven in our society and systems, as well as advocating for equity and diversity across these systems. Before becoming a therapist, most of my work in the mental health field involved working in crisis intervention and with survivors of trauma.
I have several years of experience in the mental health field with emphasis on trauma and PTSD, sexual abuse, anxiety, depression, anger, interpersonal/relational conflict and life transitions. I am passionate about how mental health and trauma are interwoven in our society and systems, as well as advocating for equity and diversity across these systems. Before becoming a therapist, most of my work in the mental health field involved working in crisis intervention and with survivors of trauma.
Sheryl Dawn Frye
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Urbandale, IA 50322
I use a client-centered, interpersonal, emotion-focused approach as the theoretical foundation of my practice.
I am a licensed independent social worker who works with adults and seniors. I have two decades experience working with individuals experiencing anxiety, depression, trauma, school/work related challenges, LGBTQ issues and disability concerns. I have experience working with grief and loss as well as life transitions. My focus is bringing a sense of balance and health into my client's lives.
I use a client-centered, interpersonal, emotion-focused approach as the theoretical foundation of my practice.
I am a licensed independent social worker who works with adults and seniors. I have two decades experience working with individuals experiencing anxiety, depression, trauma, school/work related challenges, LGBTQ issues and disability concerns. I have experience working with grief and loss as well as life transitions. My focus is bringing a sense of balance and health into my client's lives.
Mallory Bisher
Counselor, MA, LMHC, MSN, RN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
West Des Moines, IA 50265
I am Licensed Mental Health Counselor and Registered Nurse. I have been working with children, adolescents, and adults for over a decade. I have experience in a variety of settings which include outpatient, partial hospitalization, inpatient, emergency room services, and juvenile corrections. I like to utilize a variety of treatment methods which include cognitive behavioral therapy, solution-focused therapy, dialectical behavior therapy, and interpersonal therapy. I strive to create a safe and supportive therapeutic environment to promote growth and change!
I am Licensed Mental Health Counselor and Registered Nurse. I have been working with children, adolescents, and adults for over a decade. I have experience in a variety of settings which include outpatient, partial hospitalization, inpatient, emergency room services, and juvenile corrections. I like to utilize a variety of treatment methods which include cognitive behavioral therapy, solution-focused therapy, dialectical behavior therapy, and interpersonal therapy. I strive to create a safe and supportive therapeutic environment to promote growth and change!
Dr. Kathleen (Katy) Laurin
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
West Des Moines, IA 50266 (Online Only)
I have a warm, casual interpersonal style and utilize CBT and supportive strategies.
I am a Licensed Clinical Psychologist who specializes in working with adults and older adults who are experiencing emotional distress and/or who are concerned about age-related cognitive changes. I believe early assessment of memory or other suspected changes reduces anxiety, provides information that can improve brain health, and helps clients and their loved ones prepare for the future. Cognitive evaluations include interview, testing, review of results, and a report to you and/or your healthcare provider.
I have a warm, casual interpersonal style and utilize CBT and supportive strategies.
I am a Licensed Clinical Psychologist who specializes in working with adults and older adults who are experiencing emotional distress and/or who are concerned about age-related cognitive changes. I believe early assessment of memory or other suspected changes reduces anxiety, provides information that can improve brain health, and helps clients and their loved ones prepare for the future. Cognitive evaluations include interview, testing, review of results, and a report to you and/or your healthcare provider.
Courtney Clippert-Treadwell
Psychologist, PhD, LP
Verified Verified
Ankeny, IA 50023
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.
Dr. Ashely Frieswyk
Psychologist, PsyD, LP, CMPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Des Moines, IA 50301 (Online Only)
Accepting NEW Clients! I am a Clinical and Sport Psychologist and view sitting with a client as a humbling and rewarding experience. I believe that a strong therapeutic relationship serves as the foundation to growth. My work is collaborative, integrative, and flexible. I work to balance interpersonal processes, insight-building, and skill development. My style is rooted in being client-centered, exploring the relationship between thought, emotion, and behavioral processes, acceptance and commitment, value driven behavior, and multicultural humility.
Accepting NEW Clients! I am a Clinical and Sport Psychologist and view sitting with a client as a humbling and rewarding experience. I believe that a strong therapeutic relationship serves as the foundation to growth. My work is collaborative, integrative, and flexible. I work to balance interpersonal processes, insight-building, and skill development. My style is rooted in being client-centered, exploring the relationship between thought, emotion, and behavioral processes, acceptance and commitment, value driven behavior, and multicultural humility.
15 Second Videos
Donald M. Kaesser
Laney Alexis Abarr-Cissne
Ross Stuart Moffat
Christa Eribal
Mark J. Hillenbrand
Marina Blake
Sarah Wagener
Jodi J Palensky
Hannah Vestal
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Des Moines, IA 50309 (Online Only)
Hi, my name is Hannah (or Han). I have been working in the field of mental health for the past several years across several disciplines including residential treatment, inpatient hospitalization, substance use rehabilitation, and crisis counseling. No matter what the position, I found myself deeply drawn to how sitting with someone in darkness can make the darkness feel not as lonely. My job isn’t necessarily to make the darkness go away; in fact, darkness is a part of the natural cycle of life. However, I am committed to creating a space where we can sit with hard things and navigate where to go, together.
Hi, my name is Hannah (or Han). I have been working in the field of mental health for the past several years across several disciplines including residential treatment, inpatient hospitalization, substance use rehabilitation, and crisis counseling. No matter what the position, I found myself deeply drawn to how sitting with someone in darkness can make the darkness feel not as lonely. My job isn’t necessarily to make the darkness go away; in fact, darkness is a part of the natural cycle of life. However, I am committed to creating a space where we can sit with hard things and navigate where to go, together.
Mark Poeppe
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
West Des Moines, IA 50266
Dr. Mark Poeppe ("Peppy") specializes in psychological assessment and is particularly interested in objective psychological, neuropsychological, and forensic assessment for all ages. In addition to assessment services, Dr. Poeppe provides psychotherapy to adults, adolescents, and children. His assessment scope includes but is not limited to disability examinations, veteran’s compensation examinations, child custody evaluations, workman’s compensation, personal injury, ADHD, Intellectual Disability waivers, academic learning disabilities, memory, neurodevelopmental disorders and cognitive functioning.
Dr. Mark Poeppe ("Peppy") specializes in psychological assessment and is particularly interested in objective psychological, neuropsychological, and forensic assessment for all ages. In addition to assessment services, Dr. Poeppe provides psychotherapy to adults, adolescents, and children. His assessment scope includes but is not limited to disability examinations, veteran’s compensation examinations, child custody evaluations, workman’s compensation, personal injury, ADHD, Intellectual Disability waivers, academic learning disabilities, memory, neurodevelopmental disorders and cognitive functioning.
Emily A Sanders
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Clive, IA 50325
Waitlist for new clients
I believe that It takes great strength and courage to ask for help and I would be honored to help you (or your children) find more fulfillment and happiness in life. I am a licensed Clinical Psychologist and have experience with children, adolescents, and adults. I engage in individual, couples, and family therapy as well as psychological assessment. I believe the range of experiences enables me to more fully understand the individual needs of each client I work with.
I believe that It takes great strength and courage to ask for help and I would be honored to help you (or your children) find more fulfillment and happiness in life. I am a licensed Clinical Psychologist and have experience with children, adolescents, and adults. I engage in individual, couples, and family therapy as well as psychological assessment. I believe the range of experiences enables me to more fully understand the individual needs of each client I work with.
Susan C Helkenn
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LISW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
West Des Moines, IA 50265
Every person has the ability to live a happier, more productive life--you just need the right tools! At Innovative Learning Professionals, I use proven, traditional and non-traditional approaches to improve functioning and lives. In a casual, non-judgmental setting, I meet with school-age children, teens, and adults of all ages. Whatever your struggle-- anxiety or worry, school or work, depression or low mood, relationships or loneliness, parenting or parents--- we can find ways to improve mood, behavior, thinking, and your life. Please feel free to email or call to talk about scheduling.
Every person has the ability to live a happier, more productive life--you just need the right tools! At Innovative Learning Professionals, I use proven, traditional and non-traditional approaches to improve functioning and lives. In a casual, non-judgmental setting, I meet with school-age children, teens, and adults of all ages. Whatever your struggle-- anxiety or worry, school or work, depression or low mood, relationships or loneliness, parenting or parents--- we can find ways to improve mood, behavior, thinking, and your life. Please feel free to email or call to talk about scheduling.
Kendall Way
Counselor, tLMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ankeny, IA 50023
Hello! During our life, we sometimes find ourselves in a season that is too heavy, overwhelming, or difficult and I know that seeking out therapy takes courage and vulnerability. I believe that we don’t need to navigate this time alone. In therapy, I will meet you where you are and believe that you are the expert of your life. I strive to create a safe, non-judgmental, and understanding environment to explore concerns, relationships, and life stressors. I see therapy as a collaborative process where we can work together to identify your strengths, address your concerns, and employ new thinking patterns.
Hello! During our life, we sometimes find ourselves in a season that is too heavy, overwhelming, or difficult and I know that seeking out therapy takes courage and vulnerability. I believe that we don’t need to navigate this time alone. In therapy, I will meet you where you are and believe that you are the expert of your life. I strive to create a safe, non-judgmental, and understanding environment to explore concerns, relationships, and life stressors. I see therapy as a collaborative process where we can work together to identify your strengths, address your concerns, and employ new thinking patterns.
Abby Singleton
Counselor, MA, tLMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
West Des Moines, IA 50266
Accepting new clients! I use a radical and compassionate approach to therapy and believe that everyone deserves a safe and affirming space to feel seen, heard, and valued for who they are. I am a trauma-informed and affirming therapist with a psychodynamic background. I recognize that therapy is not one-size-fits-all, and I meet each person where they are at; I will modify therapeutic interventions and modalities based on the needs of each individual. We can work together to set goals and promote growth in whatever way feels best for you.
Accepting new clients! I use a radical and compassionate approach to therapy and believe that everyone deserves a safe and affirming space to feel seen, heard, and valued for who they are. I am a trauma-informed and affirming therapist with a psychodynamic background. I recognize that therapy is not one-size-fits-all, and I meet each person where they are at; I will modify therapeutic interventions and modalities based on the needs of each individual. We can work together to set goals and promote growth in whatever way feels best for you.
Counseling Insights, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW
Verified Verified
Johnston, IA 50131
Waitlist for new clients
If you or a loved one is struggling with grief, trauma, life changes, and/or anxiety, want to gain better understanding of self, others, and environment, and appreciate a down-to-earth, tailored to you, therapeutic approach, I would be honored to be a part of your wellness journey.
If you or a loved one is struggling with grief, trauma, life changes, and/or anxiety, want to gain better understanding of self, others, and environment, and appreciate a down-to-earth, tailored to you, therapeutic approach, I would be honored to be a part of your wellness journey.
Dr. Kevin Allemagne
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT, LISW, LIMHP
Verified Verified
Johnston, IA 50131
Having been a clinical mental health therapist for 25 years, I recognize the decision to seek help can be difficult and challenging. My practice endeavors to create a comfortable and safe environment exploring your concerns in a collaborative and professional manner. I am committed in working to provide real solutions empowering individuals, couples, and families to achieve their personal and professional goals. I welcome the opportunity to meet with you and discuss how therapy may be helpful with your needs.
Having been a clinical mental health therapist for 25 years, I recognize the decision to seek help can be difficult and challenging. My practice endeavors to create a comfortable and safe environment exploring your concerns in a collaborative and professional manner. I am committed in working to provide real solutions empowering individuals, couples, and families to achieve their personal and professional goals. I welcome the opportunity to meet with you and discuss how therapy may be helpful with your needs.
Sue Cyr Counseling Services PLLC
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Windsor Heights, IA 50324
All of us are in some way coping with change in our lives, whether these changes are by choice or by circumstance. And all of us deserve an understanding ear, a soft shoulder and a nonjudgmental space to be genuinely ourselves.
All of us are in some way coping with change in our lives, whether these changes are by choice or by circumstance. And all of us deserve an understanding ear, a soft shoulder and a nonjudgmental space to be genuinely ourselves.
See more therapy options for Polk County
Interpersonal Therapists
Is interpersonal therapy evidence-based?
Studies have found interpersonal therapy to be effective for life transitions including retirement, divorce, and job loss. Also, some studies have found it to be just as useful as medication and other therapy approaches. The benefits of interpersonal therapy can last long after treatment has been completed; the individual can use the tenets of this therapy throughout their life.
How long does interpersonal therapy take?
Interpersonal psychotherapy is normally time-limited and focuses on specific problems in the client’s everyday relationships. Treatment can be either one-on-one or take place in a group setting; it tends to last 12 to 16 weeks, depending on the individual client’s needs. If a new interpersonal problem arises in the future, the client may require additional therapy to address it specifically. The timeline and session schedule may vary depending on the client’s challenges as well as their progress. Treatment may conclude with wrap-up sessions to review the client’s accomplishments.
Is interpersonal therapy effective?
Research shows that interpersonal therapy can help someone manage or reduce symptoms of conditions such as depression or anxiety. The approach may also offer a range of benefits that are hard to measure but valuable—including healthier relationships and improved feelings of self-worth. The therapist will give the client practical solutions that can be put into practice. The brief duration of this therapy also means that clients can see changes in their relationships fairly quickly.
What are the limitations of interpersonal therapy?
Interpersonal therapy may not effectively treat certain mental health conditions such as psychosis, chronic illness, or alcohol relapse. Because it is short-term in nature, it may not be the best approach for conditions that need to be tracked, though maintenance sessions are a viable approach under these circumstances.
Can interpersonal psychotherapy be done online?
Yes, interpersonal psychotherapy can be conducted effectively either in-person or online. A therapist with expertise in IPT will be able to adjust their techniques, such as role-playing, to better suit the online environment. Offering online IPT can make it more accessible for clients who have transportation difficulties; it also provides the ideal opportunity to explore challenges unique to digital relationships.