Working with a therapist can help you develop healthy coping skills and overcome many mental health challenges. If you’re looking for a therapist in Iowa, barriers to treatment can make it difficult to find in-person treatment.
With BetterHelp, you can work with a licensed marriage and family therapist, social worker, or other mental health professional from the comfort of your home at a time that suits your schedule. Your therapist will use a person-centered therapy approach to ensure you get support tailored to your unique needs and preferences, whether you’re having mental health issues related to past trauma like sexual abuse or are experiencing low self-esteem, relationship challenges, or work-related stress.
Note that while many of the licensed mental health professionals on the platform may have served children in their prior training and careers, BetterHelp does not currently provide services like play therapy to children or adolescents.
If you’re looking for an online therapist, IA has many qualified professionals licensed to provide therapy state-wide. Connect with one of the counselors below to learn more about how therapy can help you along your life journey.
Ashley Paulson
I am licensed to provide mental health counseling in Iowa and Nebraska. I earned my Master of Arts degree with a specialization in Mental Health Counseling in 2012. I have helped clients with a variety of issues in different therapeutic settings over the past 11 years. I have counseled children, adolescents, and adults as well as provided individual, group, and family therapy. I have experience working with a wide range of issues including anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, parenting struggles, relational problems, and trauma. I provide a compassionate and accepting space for clients to discuss their issues and work toward making positive changes they desire. I am passionate about empowering clients in the counseling process. I aim to help clients live the best version of themselves. I utilize client-centered, strengths-based, mindfulness oriented, and cognitive-behavioral approaches. I have additional experience in using DBT, EMDR, PCIT, and hypnosis. I focus on helping clients harness their strengths and identify steps toward achieving their goals. I have immense experience in helping clients develop healthy coping skills and adaptive beliefs. I tailor my approach to fit what works best for each client. I firmly believe it takes a brave person to reach out for help. I am here to support you when you are ready to take the first step. I am grateful to be part of your journey toward developing a more fulfilling life!
Christine Topping
I am a marriage and family therapist licensed in Iowa with 8 years of experience working with couples, families, and individuals of all age ranges. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, parenting problems, life stressors, grief and loss and ADHD. I also helped many divorced couples with co-parenting , and I have completed training for PCIT (Parent Child Interaction Training). My therapy style is welcoming of all concerns without judgement. I believe in treating anyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I care for each client in their own unique way to fit their goals and current situation. I change is possible for everyone. It takes courage to begin the change process and have a more fulfilling life. I am here for you if you are ready to take that step. I will provide support along the way while also challenging you. I look forward to working with you!
Terry Chase
I am mental health therapist licensed in Iowa and Nebraska with over 25 years of experience in community based mental health, substance abuse and private practice. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, parenting problems, career challenges, OCD and ADHD. I also helped many people who have experienced physical trauma or emotional abuse. I believe in treating anyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion, and believe that people should be heard and not judged. . My approach combines cognitive-behavioral, humanistic, psychodynamic and rational-emotive counseling as well as person centered . I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. It takes courage to seek for a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. If you are ready to take that step I am here to support and empower you. I look forward to working with you!
Polly Primus
Welcome! I have 12 years of experience doing mental health counseling. I work with individuals seeking therapy for a wide range of reasons including depression, anxiety, recent life transitions, grief and loss, addiction, trauma, self esteem and relationship problems. I consider the client/therapist relationship to be the most important thing in counseling. I would describe my therapeutic approach as warm and empathetic while empowering my clients to become the best versions of themselves. I meet my clients where they are and firmly believe that they are the experts in their lives. We will work collaboratively to discover strategies and solutions that work best for you. My approach combines cognitive-behavioral, motivational interviewing and solution focused therapy. I will tailor our dialogue and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. It takes courage to seek for a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. I am here to support and empower you. I look forward to working with you!
Cara Kelley
“It is never too late to be what you might have been.” – George Eliot I have experience counseling people of all ages in both individual and group settings. I have ties to the military community and have been an advocate for veteran suicide awareness. I have my Bachelor of Arts in Psychology and a Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. I am also a National Certified Counselor (NCC) and have completed courses in Counseling on Access to Lethal Means (CALM), Psychological First Aid (PFA), Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and am a QPR Gatekeeper for education in suicide prevention. I believe counseling provides a safe, warm, supportive relationship where you can openly share your thoughts and feelings and learn new strategies for coping with situations and emotions. My desire is to work with you to develop new patterns in your life that can lead to healthier coping skills, increased confidence, and a greater sense of purpose and meaning in your life. I believe my role is to help you utilize what you already know and your strengths to help you overcome barriers in order to grow more fully into who you want to become. I believe in the strength of human resiliency, but sometimes we become stuck and need help to move forward. I believe that one must take a holistic approach to overall health. The mind, body and spirit are so intimately connected that one most certainly influences the others. As far as human nature is concerned, I believe you have a desire to do what is right, but often find you do the very things that might not be in your best interests. That desire to do what is right is what gives me hope for everyone. I believe you can never fall too far to benefit from counseling. I believe everyone can change – if they really want to. I want to be the person that helps you on your journey of hope. I think so many people keep everything bottled up and do not share their feelings and fears with anyone. This can lead them to believe they are the only one feeling this way and that can be a very dark place. I want you to know you are not alone and that there is hope!
Jenifer Regennitter
Hello! My name is Jenifer, and I am a licensed therapist in both Illinois and Iowa. I have a Masters of Science in Education in Counseling and a Bachelors degree in psychology from Western Illinois University. I have worked as a Masters-level clinician in behavioral health since 2000, and have experience working in virtually every level of care--from residential, to inpatient, to outpatient, to community mental health. This has given me the opportunity to work with individuals at various levels in their mental health journey. I see adults of any (or no) spiritual background, but can offer Christian Counseling for those seeking a safe place to discuss their faith as it relates to their life struggles. Whatever you are at spiritually, emotionally, or mentally, I meet you where you're at! In terms of my counseling approach, I primarily practice Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution-Focused Therapy, Client-Centered Therapy, Art Therapy and Trauma-Centered therapy. I provide counseling for those stuck in depression, anxiety, traumatic stress, or unhealthy coping patterns. Effective counseling is a collaborative experience; that means you and I will work together to identify opportunities for growth and healing, as well as the strengths you already have. I do give homework assignments from time to time so that you can continue your healing work outside session. My passion is helping people see what is possible so they can live life with more joy, peace, and wellness. I look forward to working with you!
Alice Rock
Hi. I have many years of doing substance abuse counseling in a hospital setting in Iowa. I have also worked as a school counselor with grades K - 8, I have taught Psychology courses on the college level and am familiar with all aspects of counseling theories and brain development. The college course I enjoyed teaching the most is "Wellness." This course discussed all aspects of both physical and mental health, which, of course are connected. I incorporate wellness and long-term balance in my counseling sessions.
David Smith
Hello and thank you for considering me as your therapist - I am licensed as an LMHC in Iowa and have 25 years of professional work experience. My approach is one in which I recognize the significance (and courage) of your decision to consider counseling and together, we will seek out solutions that build upon your strengths. I would describe myself as accessible, empathetic, pragmatic, and action-oriented. Therapy by design will challenge anyone to step outside their comfort zone and attempt to reshape their life. Typically, we all seek out similar things in life...joy, peace, connectivity, etc...but often, we feel stuck in reaching our life goals. It is my role to assist you with assessing the issues that are preventing you from living your best life and further assisting you with seeking out alternative ways of thinking, feeling, and behaving in order to bring about that change into your life. In professional terms, I would describe myself as "eclectic" in my therapy approach but I tend to emphasize solution-focused, cognitive/behavioral, motivational, and family systems brands of therapy in approaching my work with others. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, anger management, & depression. I am equally comfortable working with individuals and couples. It is my belief that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process. Finally, therapy is a two-way street as I believe it is advisable to do a "check in" with clients as to how I am doing in the work we are engaged in and receive feedback. The process of therapy is a joint effort and it is vital that you as a client (or couple) not only feel heard but that therapy is progressing and assisting you in making change in your life. Thank you.
Clinton Cunningham
I am licensed in Iowa with 12 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, relationship issues, & family conflicts. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!
Dijana Dugalic
I am licensed in Iowa, with 8 years of experience. I enjoy helping clients with a variety of concerns, including: stress, depression, anxiety, trauma/abuse, suicidal ideation, anger or emotion management, and difficult life transitions. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. I look forward to learning more about you and helping you achieve your goals. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy takes courage and now we can work on getting you feeling better.
Wendy Durant
Hello there, I am a licensed professional counselor licensed in Louisiana and Texas with over 19 years’ experience working as a therapist and art therapy certified life coach. I have completed advanced studies in naturopathic medicine (natural medicine), with a specialization in behavioral health disorders. I have supported clients with multiple concerns, including behavioral modification support, impulsivity, depression, anxiety, relationship issues, parenting support, sexual dysfunction, intimacy challenges, sexually addictive behaviors, career challenges, and trauma. My counseling style is warm, encouraging, and supportive. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion, and I don't believe in stigmatizing labels. My approach to supporting clients combines cognitive-behavioral therapy, client-centered, solution-focused counseling, and holistic (natural) interventions to support your therapeutic goals . This space is designed to support you with addressing your expressed goals, and I will tailor our dialogue and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. It takes courage to seek a more fulfilling and happier life. Please know, you are not alone, I am here as part of your team to support, empower, and share valuable strategies you as you begin this quest to being your best! I look forward to connecting soon! ~Dr. Wendy Q. Durant, ND, LPC-S, RPT-S, CST Areas of Expertise • ADHD • Anger management • Anxiety, Panic Disorder, & Stress Management • Behavior Modification • Communication Challenges, • Codependency • Coping Skills • Career coaching • Depression/Postpartum Depression • Divorce • Family conflicts • Intimacy Challenges • Parenting Issues • Pre-Marital Supports • Relationship Challenges • Self-esteem • Trauma • Work-Life-Balance Clinical approaches: • Art Certified Life Coach • Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) • Client-Centered Therapy • Mindfulness Practices • Holistic Therapeutic Interventions • Solution-Focused Therapy
Kristen Udell
I am licensed mental health counselor (LMHC) in Iowa with 6 years of professional work experience. My therapy style and approach draws influence from Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, Client-Centered Therapy, and Solution-Focused Therapy. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, and mild depression. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. I view us as a team, working at finding solutions to the issues you bring to therapy as well as healing from past or present trauma. I will typically respond to messages in 24 hours after receiving them or in 48 hours if it's over the weekend. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage, and I am proud of you for getting started!
Jessica Coburn
With a decade of professional work experience and a license in Iowa, I bring a wealth of expertise to help clients navigate challenges such as stress, anxiety, addiction, grief and loss, and career difficulties. My approach centers on treating everyone with utmost respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I am dedicated to tailoring our dialogue and treatment plan to address your unique and specific needs. I deeply believe in the courage it takes to pursue a more fulfilling and happier life, and I commend your decision to take those first steps toward positive change. I am here to support and empower you throughout your journey, ensuring you feel empowered to achieve your goals.
Elizabeth Stone
Whether it is a single event or a life time of struggles, our thoughts and emotions can become so overwhelming that every day tasks are difficult to complete. For some, it is hard to reach out for help but once you have taken the first step of acknowledging you need help and you cannot do it alone, the journey of emotional healing begins. It is learning to confront life's adversities rather than allowing them to define you. It is a journey of self-discovery, self-awareness, and learning to trust intuition while building inner strength to embrace and love who you are. As your therapist, I will walk that journey with you. I use a trauma-informed, strengths-based approach as well as Cognitive Behavioral therapy, however, I adapt interventions to meet clients' needs. I also apply a holistic approach with Mindfulness-based practices to integrate the mind-body connection.
Sabrina Vonderhaar
I am licensed in Iowa with 4 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, coping with addictions, trauma, abuse, anger management, motivation, & self esteem. I have worked with teenagers, adults, and seniors. I have worked with individuals, couples, and families in sessions. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. I am here to support & empower you in that journey.
How can therapists in Iowa support you?
Therapists in Iowa can practice many types of counseling, from marriage and family therapy to cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and dialectical behavior therapy (DBT). They may also assist you with symptoms of depression, stress, or anxiety.
Therapists may help you set and achieve career goals, work on current issues you may be facing, or address your past. Over 2,499,317 people live in Iowa, and one out of five Americans has a mental health condition. Searching for licensed professionals in Iowa may help you find mental health support for personal growth, anxiety disorders, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and other mental health concerns. You do not need a mental health diagnosis to seek support from one of BetterHelp's licensed providers above.
The mental health field can include psychiatric medication management, online therapy, marriage counseling, couples therapy, clinical social work, licensed counseling, and other mental health services in person and online. Seeing a licensed provider can help you navigate mental health conditions and life circumstances through mindfulness and other specialized techniques.
Please note that BetterHelp does not offer diagnostic or medication management services.
Why are many residents in the state of Iowa working with a licensed counselor?
People reach out for mental health support for a variety of reasons. Many individuals work with a counselor for general life advice, while others may attend therapy for a specific concern. Whether you live in a large city or a smaller county in Iowa, BetterHelp can match you with a licensed professional tailored to your preferences noted when you sign up.
Mental health counselors in Iowa support clients with varying issues, which can include:
- Challenging situations or life stressors
- Eating disorders
- Anxiety disorders
- Depression or depressive conditions
- Adjustment issues
- Emotional support for a terminal illness
- Chronic pain emotional support
- Grief
- Personality disorders
- Trauma
- Relationship conflicts and concerns
Finding a therapist that takes new clients in online therapy can be the first step in finding a treatment plan that works for you. Your therapist can provide a safe space for you to focus on self-care and well-being.
If you're interested in speaking to one of the therapists above or being matched with a counselor in 24 to 48 hours, consider signing up for BetterHelp. BetterHelp has over 35,000 providers, including those listed above.
Emergency services
If you are experiencing a crisis or emergency, don't use this site's online services. If you are in life-threatening danger, call 911. If you require support for a crisis, reach out to the hotlines below:
- National Domestic Violence Hotline: 1-800-799-SAFE (7233)
- National Suicide Prevention Lifeline:1-800-273-TALK (8255)
- Crisis Text Line:Text HOME to 741741
- Veterans Crisis Line<:Call 1-800-273-8255 (and press 1) or text 838255. For support for the deaf and hard of hearing community, please use your preferred relay service or dial 711 then 1-800-273-8255.
- Trevor Lifeline(LGBTQ Lifeline): (866)488-7386
- SAMHSA National Helpline: (Substance Use): (800)662-4357
- National Eating Disorder Association Helpline:1-800-931-2237 (M-Th: 9 AM-9 PM EST, Fri 9 AM - 5 PM EST
- Child Help Hotline Call 1-800-422-4453 or use the online chat featur
- National Anti-Hazing Hotline: 1-888-NOT-HAZE (1-888-668-4293)
- Physician Crisis Support Line: Call 1-888-409-0141 if you are a first responder or medical provider experiencing crises related to Covid-1
- Sexual Assault Hotline: Call RAINN at 1-800-656-4673
Frequently asked questions (FAQs)
Some commonly asked questions can be found below.
How much does a therapist cost?
Mental health professionals can differ in price. Forbes found that the average cost of in-person therapy in the US is around $100 to $200 per hour. Pricing can also vary based on your location.
BetterHelp offers payment plans of $60 to $90 per session, charged monthly in a lump sum. You can also take advantage of this pricing on one of BetterHelp's sister platforms, like ReGain for couples or TeenCounseling for teens aged 13 to 19.
Many therapists may be upfront about their pricing and whether or not they take health insurance from the beginning. Additionally, some in your area may offer a sliding scale plan to allow those with lower incomes to pay less for therapy. However, services online can often save individuals a few hundred dollars per month.
How do I know if I should get a therapist?
Mental health services and mental health providers may help you navigate various concerns. You do not need a diagnosis or condition to attend therapy; You can discuss grief, relationship concerns, stress, or life changes and ask for general advice. A counselor may help you gain power over your life and emotions while you navigate day-to-day experiences.
Mental health issues don't always present as a crisis. Many professionals provide talk therapy and support for life transitions, skills learning, relationship problems, or life coaching. Online therapy sessions in Iowa can allow clients seeking therapy to experience professional help through video, phone, or live chat sessions without commuting to an office.
Does insurance cover therapy?
Different counseling services can vary in cost. Therapists must apply to accept insurance through insurance companies, which may take time and money, so not every therapist offers services through insurance. If you cannot find a therapist that accepts your plan, BetterHelp may be cheaper than visiting an in-person therapist.
Is online therapy safe?
Online therapy through BetterHelp and its sister platforms is safe. Therapists are licensed, experienced, and vetted before being contracted with the platform. If you experience any concerns with your therapist, you change your counselor through the platform or app at any time.
Popular cities in Iowa
- Des Moines, IA
- Cedar Rapids, IA
- Davenport, IA
- Sioux City, IA
- Iowa City, IA
- Waterloo, IA
- Ames, IA
- West Des Moines, IA
- Council Bluffs, IA
- Ankeny, IA
- Dubuque, IA
- Urbandale, IA
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