Sexual Abuse Therapists in Iowa

Photo of Hayley Benson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Iowa
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.
(515) 579-5623 View (515) 579-5623
Photo of Richelle Derfus, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Iowa
Richelle Derfus
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LISW, CCTP
Verified Verified
North Liberty, IA 52317
I assist in helping clients heal from trauma, sexual abuse, depression, anxiety, eating disorder recovery and substance use recovery. I use a wide variety of treatment modalities to assist in overcoming difficulties. I use several treatment modalities, based on what you need. I am certified in EMDR, which is a first line treatment for helping people to overcome trauma. It is also used to treat other emotional experiences. I also assist with people struggling to cope in healthy manners, and help you to discover and implement new coping skills. You will learn new skills to assist you in having the life you want.
I assist in helping clients heal from trauma, sexual abuse, depression, anxiety, eating disorder recovery and substance use recovery. I use a wide variety of treatment modalities to assist in overcoming difficulties. I use several treatment modalities, based on what you need. I am certified in EMDR, which is a first line treatment for helping people to overcome trauma. It is also used to treat other emotional experiences. I also assist with people struggling to cope in healthy manners, and help you to discover and implement new coping skills. You will learn new skills to assist you in having the life you want.
(319) 250-4305 View (319) 250-4305
Photo of Briannan D Langdon, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Iowa
Briannan D Langdon
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Cedar Rapids, IA 52405
Some of her experience includes working with individuals with disabilities, being a sexual assault advocate (HT and DV also), a BHIS caseworker, working in substance use and doing therapy internships.
Briannan prides herself on being genuine, flexible, and continuing to learn always. She provides school-based and virtual therapy services assisting a variety of people with different diagnoses. She is especially passionate about working with children and adolescents with trauma, attachment, adjustment disorders, relationship stressors, anxiety, depression, mood disorders, impulse control, disordered eating, grief and loss, adoption/parenting difficulties, and anger management. She is also open to working with adults with a variety of diagnoses.
Some of her experience includes working with individuals with disabilities, being a sexual assault advocate (HT and DV also), a BHIS caseworker, working in substance use and doing therapy internships.
Briannan prides herself on being genuine, flexible, and continuing to learn always. She provides school-based and virtual therapy services assisting a variety of people with different diagnoses. She is especially passionate about working with children and adolescents with trauma, attachment, adjustment disorders, relationship stressors, anxiety, depression, mood disorders, impulse control, disordered eating, grief and loss, adoption/parenting difficulties, and anger management. She is also open to working with adults with a variety of diagnoses.
(800) 531-4236 View (800) 531-4236
Photo of Debrenee Grajeda, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Iowa
Debrenee Grajeda
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, PLMHP
Verified Verified
I have extensive experience working with traumatic issues and with survivors of domestic violence and sexual abuse in particular.
Beginning therapy can be an intimidating experience, so it’s important to feel at ease with and supported by your provider. I believe that therapy should be a partnership based in trust, respect, compassion, and kindness. Using a strengths-based approach, I work to understand and empathize with each individual’s unique situation. I believe that everyone has the ability to grow, change, and heal, and I am committed to helping people navigate life’s challenges.
I have extensive experience working with traumatic issues and with survivors of domestic violence and sexual abuse in particular.
Beginning therapy can be an intimidating experience, so it’s important to feel at ease with and supported by your provider. I believe that therapy should be a partnership based in trust, respect, compassion, and kindness. Using a strengths-based approach, I work to understand and empathize with each individual’s unique situation. I believe that everyone has the ability to grow, change, and heal, and I am committed to helping people navigate life’s challenges.
(712) 221-8717 View (712) 221-8717
Photo of Madelyn Colby, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Iowa
Madelyn Colby
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Des Moines, IA 50309
My professional background includes attending crisis calls to support sexual assault survivors directly after their traumatic experience and providing on-site counseling, education, and connecting them to local resources to meet their needs.
My mission in counseling is to create a healing environment for individuals that encourages growth and empowerment through different forms of talk therapy. I like using a strengths-based approach with my clients by emphasizing their inner strengths and focusing on positivity
My professional background includes attending crisis calls to support sexual assault survivors directly after their traumatic experience and providing on-site counseling, education, and connecting them to local resources to meet their needs.
My mission in counseling is to create a healing environment for individuals that encourages growth and empowerment through different forms of talk therapy. I like using a strengths-based approach with my clients by emphasizing their inner strengths and focusing on positivity
(515) 639-0627 View (515) 639-0627
Photo of Amy J Muell, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Iowa
Amy J Muell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LISW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Des Moines, IA 50322
My work focuses primarily on trauma and sexual abuse.
When you make a decision to begin therapy for yourself or a loved one, you are making a decision to be brave. I believe that for a person to heal and move beyond their internal struggle, they must first have a sense of safety and connection. Together, we will develop a path of treatment that leads you too feeling more balanced.
My work focuses primarily on trauma and sexual abuse.
When you make a decision to begin therapy for yourself or a loved one, you are making a decision to be brave. I believe that for a person to heal and move beyond their internal struggle, they must first have a sense of safety and connection. Together, we will develop a path of treatment that leads you too feeling more balanced.
(515) 531-5795 View (515) 531-5795
Photo of Valerie Gill, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Iowa
Valerie Gill
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW, MSW
Verified Verified
Dubuque, IA 52001
With over 25 years of social work experience, my empathetic approach compassionately and openly builds upon client strengths to foster a collaborative working relationship. I am a strong advocate and go the extra mile for my clients. Together, we can create positive change for you to meet your life goals. My clients describe me as “skilled, experienced, direct, and caring”. I comfortably address trauma, sexual abuse, domestic violence, depression, anxiety, life transitions, LGBTQ+, grief, and loss. I work well with individuals, adolescents, families, and couples.
With over 25 years of social work experience, my empathetic approach compassionately and openly builds upon client strengths to foster a collaborative working relationship. I am a strong advocate and go the extra mile for my clients. Together, we can create positive change for you to meet your life goals. My clients describe me as “skilled, experienced, direct, and caring”. I comfortably address trauma, sexual abuse, domestic violence, depression, anxiety, life transitions, LGBTQ+, grief, and loss. I work well with individuals, adolescents, families, and couples.
(563) 235-2853 View (563) 235-2853
Photo of Elizabeth J. Huebsch, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Iowa
Elizabeth J. Huebsch
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW, CADC
Verified Verified
I specialize in serving trauma-impacted individuals, in the areas of domestic and sexual abuse, grief and loss, and addiction.
Experiencing grief, loss, or trauma? Feeling disconnected, alone, and generally unhappy? Struggling with relationships, addiction, or painful wounds from childhood? Powerful emotions holding you back from finding enjoyment in life? If you answered yes to any of these, I can help. Oftentimes, the burdens of trauma manifest in mysterious ways and can lead to various concerns such as depression, anxiety, addiction, relationship difficulties, trust issues, isolation, numbness, and shame. These challenges can impede our ability to have healthy relationships and care for ourselves.
I specialize in serving trauma-impacted individuals, in the areas of domestic and sexual abuse, grief and loss, and addiction.
Experiencing grief, loss, or trauma? Feeling disconnected, alone, and generally unhappy? Struggling with relationships, addiction, or painful wounds from childhood? Powerful emotions holding you back from finding enjoyment in life? If you answered yes to any of these, I can help. Oftentimes, the burdens of trauma manifest in mysterious ways and can lead to various concerns such as depression, anxiety, addiction, relationship difficulties, trust issues, isolation, numbness, and shame. These challenges can impede our ability to have healthy relationships and care for ourselves.
(515) 373-5950 View (515) 373-5950
Photo of Sarah Jacobs, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Iowa
Sarah Jacobs
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW
Verified Verified
Coralville, IA 52241
Waitlist for new clients
In addition, I've worked with college students and individuals who have experienced sexual harassment, sexual assault, depression, anxiety, PTSD, substance use, life transitions, family issues, and disordered eating.
As a mental health professional with many years of experience in a hospital, corporate wellness, and community crisis counseling setting, I am passionate about helping others. I received my Master of Social Work degree from the University of Iowa. Throughout my experiences, I've witnessed individuals make meaningful and lasting changes in their lives, drawing strength from their experiences and the struggles they've overcome. I want to help individuals be the best version of themselves and help them work through any past trauma that might be holding them back.
In addition, I've worked with college students and individuals who have experienced sexual harassment, sexual assault, depression, anxiety, PTSD, substance use, life transitions, family issues, and disordered eating.
As a mental health professional with many years of experience in a hospital, corporate wellness, and community crisis counseling setting, I am passionate about helping others. I received my Master of Social Work degree from the University of Iowa. Throughout my experiences, I've witnessed individuals make meaningful and lasting changes in their lives, drawing strength from their experiences and the struggles they've overcome. I want to help individuals be the best version of themselves and help them work through any past trauma that might be holding them back.
(319) 727-8729 View (319) 727-8729
Photo of Molly Stagner, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Iowa
Molly Stagner
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LISW
Verified Verified
It can be difficult to begin the therapy process, I can assist you with the support you need throughout the journey. I provide individual and family counseling. I can effectively work with adolescents (ages 16 and older) and adults of any race, gender, or sexual orientation. My areas of specialty include: PTSD, childhood and adult trauma, anxiety, depression, domestic violence, sexual abuse, relationship issues, familial issues, life transitions, and adolescent issues.
It can be difficult to begin the therapy process, I can assist you with the support you need throughout the journey. I provide individual and family counseling. I can effectively work with adolescents (ages 16 and older) and adults of any race, gender, or sexual orientation. My areas of specialty include: PTSD, childhood and adult trauma, anxiety, depression, domestic violence, sexual abuse, relationship issues, familial issues, life transitions, and adolescent issues.
(515) 462-0108 View (515) 462-0108
Photo of Diane Eischeid, Counselor in Iowa
Diane Eischeid
Counselor, MS, LMHC
Verified Verified
I can help you begin to listen to the deep wisdom that resonates within & around you & to help you move past fear & discover your own power. I have experience in treating anxiety, depression, domestic violence, sexual assault, trauma-related issues, marriage/family therapy & grief & loss. I incorporate Attachment-Focused EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization & Repossessing) which is client centered & emphasizes a reparative therapy approach to strengthen clients. I also utilize the FLASH technique to assist with a multitude of mental health issues.
I can help you begin to listen to the deep wisdom that resonates within & around you & to help you move past fear & discover your own power. I have experience in treating anxiety, depression, domestic violence, sexual assault, trauma-related issues, marriage/family therapy & grief & loss. I incorporate Attachment-Focused EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization & Repossessing) which is client centered & emphasizes a reparative therapy approach to strengthen clients. I also utilize the FLASH technique to assist with a multitude of mental health issues.
(712) 883-0395 View (712) 883-0395
Photo of Emmalyne Farwell, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Iowa
Emmalyne Farwell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Hiawatha, IA 52233
Currently accepting new clients! Throughout my past professional experiences working with victims of domestic abuse, sexual abuse, and other types of violent traumas, I walked alongside clients as they lived through some of the most difficult chapters in their stories. Being trusted with someone's story is an honor and a privilege, and should never be taken lightly. When a client walks into my office, my goal is to ensure that they feel safe, supported, valued, and empowered. There are numerous systems that people interact with that can have major impacts on their lives.
Currently accepting new clients! Throughout my past professional experiences working with victims of domestic abuse, sexual abuse, and other types of violent traumas, I walked alongside clients as they lived through some of the most difficult chapters in their stories. Being trusted with someone's story is an honor and a privilege, and should never be taken lightly. When a client walks into my office, my goal is to ensure that they feel safe, supported, valued, and empowered. There are numerous systems that people interact with that can have major impacts on their lives.
(319) 448-3949 View (319) 448-3949
Photo of Tami Wirth Hunter, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Iowa
Tami Wirth Hunter
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW, RPT-S
Verified Verified
Ames, IA 50010
Are you seeking compassionate therapy for yourself or your child? Look no further! I'm a Registered Play Therapist passionate about helping young children and adults find healing and growth. My journey in social work has taken me through diverse and impactful experiences. 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. My commitment to helping others thrive and find healing drives my private practice in Ames.
Are you seeking compassionate therapy for yourself or your child? Look no further! I'm a Registered Play Therapist passionate about helping young children and adults find healing and growth. My journey in social work has taken me through diverse and impactful experiences. 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. My commitment to helping others thrive and find healing drives my private practice in Ames.
(515) 512-4493 View (515) 512-4493
Photo of Molly Barrett, Counselor in Iowa
Molly Barrett
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Cedar Rapids, IA 52402  (Online Only)
My diverse therapeutic approach allows me to help clients experiencing a variety of challenges such as anxiety, depression, and sexual assault/abuse.
Accepting new clients to the agency. Hooray! You are here! You have taken a courageous first step on the road to healing, whether you are looking for yourself or someone you love. As the counselor, I am here to walk by your side! I strive to create a safe and welcoming space for you as you process and work through past and/or present challenges. We will work as a team to address challenges, set obtainable goals, and to work towards those goals in and outside of our therapy sessions.
My diverse therapeutic approach allows me to help clients experiencing a variety of challenges such as anxiety, depression, and sexual assault/abuse.
Accepting new clients to the agency. Hooray! You are here! You have taken a courageous first step on the road to healing, whether you are looking for yourself or someone you love. As the counselor, I am here to walk by your side! I strive to create a safe and welcoming space for you as you process and work through past and/or present challenges. We will work as a team to address challenges, set obtainable goals, and to work towards those goals in and outside of our therapy sessions.
(800) 531-4236 View (800) 531-4236
Photo of Jill Danielle Gronewold, Counselor in Iowa
Jill Danielle Gronewold
Counselor, LMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
Cedar Falls, IA 50613
I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor. I use a variety of modalities to treat a wide range of presenting issues such as depression, anxiety, trauma, and grief. My professional training includes working with children, adolescents, and adults who have experienced trauma, rape/sexual assault, domestic violence, and grief. I have experience in providing counseling from a Christian perspective, although I welcome clients from other faith and spiritual backgrounds.
I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor. I use a variety of modalities to treat a wide range of presenting issues such as depression, anxiety, trauma, and grief. My professional training includes working with children, adolescents, and adults who have experienced trauma, rape/sexual assault, domestic violence, and grief. I have experience in providing counseling from a Christian perspective, although I welcome clients from other faith and spiritual backgrounds.
(641) 715-9961 View (641) 715-9961
Photo of Lindsey Piper, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Iowa
Lindsey Piper
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, LISW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Iowa City, IA 52240
Waitlist for new clients
My background in crisis intervention, sexual abuse, and domestic violence helps me work well with survivors of trauma.
Poet Anne Sexton wrote, "That the worst of anyone Can be, finally, An accident of hope." If you're here, you probably feel at your worst. Maybe a traumatic event has left you feeling broken and lost. Perhaps what you've been doing to cope just isn't working anymore, or is doing more harm than good. Whatever your reasons, I'm glad you're thinking about therapy. This process can be scary and takes hard work, and I welcome anyone courageous enough to seek out hope.
My background in crisis intervention, sexual abuse, and domestic violence helps me work well with survivors of trauma.
Poet Anne Sexton wrote, "That the worst of anyone Can be, finally, An accident of hope." If you're here, you probably feel at your worst. Maybe a traumatic event has left you feeling broken and lost. Perhaps what you've been doing to cope just isn't working anymore, or is doing more harm than good. Whatever your reasons, I'm glad you're thinking about therapy. This process can be scary and takes hard work, and I welcome anyone courageous enough to seek out hope.
(319) 302-3304 View (319) 302-3304
Photo of Brandi Schmitt, Counselor in Iowa
Brandi Schmitt
Counselor, MS, NCC, LMHC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Waterloo, IA 50701
My diverse areas of interest include: survivors of sexual abuse & trauma, grief & loss, personality disorders, self-esteem, depression, & anxiety.
Attempting to cope with a mental health concern is often a lonely and exhausting process. Additionally, pursuing counseling can often be a difficult decision to make, but one that I believe is worthwhile. As a counselor, my role is to help support you through your healing journey and empower you to rediscover your own unique strengths and resources as a means to promote such healing. I strive to create a safe, non-judgmental environment for you to share your own unique life story.
My diverse areas of interest include: survivors of sexual abuse & trauma, grief & loss, personality disorders, self-esteem, depression, & anxiety.
Attempting to cope with a mental health concern is often a lonely and exhausting process. Additionally, pursuing counseling can often be a difficult decision to make, but one that I believe is worthwhile. As a counselor, my role is to help support you through your healing journey and empower you to rediscover your own unique strengths and resources as a means to promote such healing. I strive to create a safe, non-judgmental environment for you to share your own unique life story.
(800) 531-4236 View (800) 531-4236
Photo of R & R Counseling Solutions, Counselor in Iowa
R & R Counseling Solutions
Counselor, LMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
Keosauqua, IA 52565
I work with clients who are struggling with complicated grief, anger, stress, anxiety, depression, PTSD, mood disorders, sexual abuse, relationship concerns and substance abuse. Counseling works great for people who are willing to do things different so they can have a more positive outcome. Mental health is not something to be ashamed of and does not have to be a life sentence. Most people struggle at some point in their life and could use some support. There are other counselors in the practice that can also provide help. Visit us at www.rrcsmentalhealth.com We look forward to helping you with your journey.
I work with clients who are struggling with complicated grief, anger, stress, anxiety, depression, PTSD, mood disorders, sexual abuse, relationship concerns and substance abuse. Counseling works great for people who are willing to do things different so they can have a more positive outcome. Mental health is not something to be ashamed of and does not have to be a life sentence. Most people struggle at some point in their life and could use some support. There are other counselors in the practice that can also provide help. Visit us at www.rrcsmentalhealth.com We look forward to helping you with your journey.
(319) 214-7678 View (319) 214-7678
Photo of Creative Counseling Group, Plc, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Iowa
Creative Counseling Group, Plc
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW, LMHC
Verified Verified
Cedar Rapids, IA 52402
We have experience working with acute care settings, crisis management, domestic violence, violence, trauma, assault, eating disorders, suicidality, families, depression, and anxiety.
We have opening and accepting NEW clients! Creative Counseling Group, Plc. is composed of 4 therapists who are dedicated to helping individuals, families, and couples through times of life transitions and crisis. We provide a safe, confident, and comfortable place for you to come and be yourself. We will help you set goals, find solutions, provide feedback, and monitor your progress. Our team provides knowledgeable, professional, and compassionate care. We ensure that clients feel heard and empowered.
We have experience working with acute care settings, crisis management, domestic violence, violence, trauma, assault, eating disorders, suicidality, families, depression, and anxiety.
We have opening and accepting NEW clients! Creative Counseling Group, Plc. is composed of 4 therapists who are dedicated to helping individuals, families, and couples through times of life transitions and crisis. We provide a safe, confident, and comfortable place for you to come and be yourself. We will help you set goals, find solutions, provide feedback, and monitor your progress. Our team provides knowledgeable, professional, and compassionate care. We ensure that clients feel heard and empowered.
(319) 327-5478 View (319) 327-5478
Photo of Madison Wagner, Counselor in Iowa
Madison Wagner
Counselor, LMHC, LPC , LPCC, NCC, RYT-200
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Estherville, IA 51334  (Online Only)
Specific areas of emphasis include OCD, trauma, sexual assault, self-esteem, adjustment issues, boundary setting, stress management, depression, and anxiety.
It’s an ongoing privilege to empower individuals to overcome personal obstacles from the bumpy chapters of their lives. It is my goal to assist clients in bringing about change, healing, growth, and acceptance in their lives. I also believe that knowledge is a powerful transformative tool, which is why I incorporate bibliotherapy and psychoeducation in my therapy sessions along with cognitive behavioral therapy, yoga, and integrative medicine. You will have the autonomy to direct your own treatment because the outcome is in your hands.
Specific areas of emphasis include OCD, trauma, sexual assault, self-esteem, adjustment issues, boundary setting, stress management, depression, and anxiety.
It’s an ongoing privilege to empower individuals to overcome personal obstacles from the bumpy chapters of their lives. It is my goal to assist clients in bringing about change, healing, growth, and acceptance in their lives. I also believe that knowledge is a powerful transformative tool, which is why I incorporate bibliotherapy and psychoeducation in my therapy sessions along with cognitive behavioral therapy, yoga, and integrative medicine. You will have the autonomy to direct your own treatment because the outcome is in your hands.
(712) 423-5833 x4 View (712) 423-5833 x4
Sexual Abuse Therapists

How do therapists treat sexual abuse?

A good therapist will be nonjudgmental and possibly demonstrate active listening, repeating back what the client says to show that they have understood. These skills allow people to feel comfortable discussing their traumatic experiences openly. Some important treatment goals are to restore a sense of safety and to rebuild confidence. In addition to working one-on-one with the patient, a therapist might bring in supportive family members to assist the client.

Do you have to talk extensively about sexual abuse in therapy?

Survivors frequently find it difficult to describe what happened to them out loud. They can even still be in a state of denial if the sexual abuse occurred recently. It is important for survivors to acknowledge that what happened isn’t their fault and to challenge and reappraise any unhealthy feelings or thoughts as they arise. Art therapy and play therapy are useful non-verbal means of communication for some survivors.

How long does treatment for sexual abuse take?

Recovery from sexual abuse can be a long and difficult process. Some survivors are able to move on naturally on their own, given time, while others require the guidance of a trained therapist. Therapy needs vary and can range from a few sessions to months or even years. Healing from sexual abuse takes time, and everyone’s journey will look a little different.

Can trauma symptoms caused by sexual abuse come back after treatment?

As occurs in many cases of trauma, survivors of sexual abuse may experience PTSD-like symptoms long after the abuse has ceased or after an initial round of treatment has occurred. In such a case, there is evidence that prolonged exposure therapy is a useful treatment for survivors, and may be more efficacious than supportive counseling alone. While triggers may continue to cause distress, the idea is that, with time and repeated exposure, their power will fade, allowing survivors to move on with their lives.