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.

 

This is Heather Carlson's avatar and link to their profile

Heather Carlson

Offering therapy in Iowa
License: LMHC,MA
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesGriefSelf esteemDepression
14 years of experience

Welcome! I am a licensed mental health counselor in the state of Iowa. I have 8 years of experience working with clients. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, parenting problems, career challenges, and supporting clients through life changes. I also helped many people who have experienced physical trauma or emotional abuse. My counseling style is warm and interactive. I believe in treating anyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion, and I don't believe in stigmatizing labels. My approach combines cognitive-behavioral, humanistic, psychodynamic and existential theories. 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!

This is Matthew Manz's avatar and link to their profile

Matthew Manz

Offering therapy in Iowa
License: LMHC,MDiv,MS
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesSelf esteemDepression
4 years of experience

Canadian Certified Counsellor (C.C.C. #11245693) and licensed in the state of Iowa (LMHC #080281). I am passionate about helping people deal with ongoing emotional struggles that they just can't seem to get past. Clients that are willing to engage the hard work of personal development by immersing themselves in the therapeutic process are my most rewarding clients with which to work. I am deeply committed to the Client-Centered Therapy approach as developed by Carl Rogers. I am passionate about addressing spiritual issues with clients as well. Finally, if you are looking for someone you can just talk to, I'm ready to just listen.

This is Brandy Soto's avatar and link to their profile

Brandy Soto

Offering therapy in Iowa
License: LICSW,LISW
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefDepressionADHD
15 years of experience

I am a Clinical Social Worker with 15 + years of experience in various programs and settings providing mental health therapy and counseling services to children, adolescents, adults and family systems. Over the years I have worked with individuals seeking support and guidance in a variety of areas; mainly focused in the areas of trauma, anxiety, depression, ADD/ADHD, mood disorders, family conflict, parenting struggles and social relationships. My counseling approach is calm, warm, and supportive. I believe my role is to be a non-judgemental support and to provide respect and compassion to anyone I work with. I strive to be a person who helps guide clients along the way to their goals to obtain a more functional, happy, and stable quality of life. I utilize Solution Focused, Cognitive Behavioral and Trauma Focused and Mindful therapy approaches throughout treatment to meet a client's specific and individualized needs. Seeking support and help from others is difficult for many individuals. I believe everyone should feel they are the best version of themselves and seeking out support is a great first step if you are struggling and wanting to find your way to greater happiness and fulfillment in life. I would be happy to join you in your journey to provide encouragement and empowerment toward those goals. I look forward to working with you!

This is Barbara "Barb" Kroening's avatar and link to their profile

Barbara "Barb" Kroening

Offering therapy in Iowa
License: LISW
Family conflictsTrauma and abuseGriefParenting issuesSelf esteem
12 years of experience

Asking for help can be very difficult and I believe it takes a lot of strength. I feel everybody needs a little help at some point in their life and there is nothing wrong with that. I embrace the opportunity to be the person people can reach out to for that help. I feel honesty is very important and will offer a safe, non judgmental space for you to openly share your thoughts and struggles. I am a licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker in the state of Iowa with 15 years work experience. I believe it is important to meet people where they are at and am willing to do so while also offering gentle encouragement to help people get to where they want to be. I have worked with individuals with substance abuse issues, anger issues, trauma history, relationship issues, grief and loss, and parenting issues. I have worked closely with immigration populations on a professional and personal basis. I look forward to hearing from you.

This is Paul Johnston's avatar and link to their profile

Paul Johnston

Offering therapy in Iowa
License: MA,LMHC
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepression
3 years of experience

Hi! Welcome to the website! My name is Paul Johnston. I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in the state of Iowa. As of today’s date, I have been a licensed therapist first in Colorado from 1995 to 2011, and then in Iowa since 2013. Overall, I have 33 years of experience providing mental health services for a wide range of different clients with varying concerns. I believe in a client centered approach which means that I am focused on understanding your specific issues and concerns. Over the years, my work has led me to focus on depression, anxiety, stress reduction and trauma. My approach to therapy is based on Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, EMDR, and Mindfulness Based Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. The treatment plans that we develop will be based on your individual needs and symptoms. My approach is warm, and client centered. I believe in treating all my clients with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I do not believe in labels that stereotype. My approach has allowed me to work with individuals who prefer a Christian approach. Making real change takes courage, determination and insight. Seeking help is usually the first step towards accomplishing those goals. If I seem like a good fit for you or a loved one, I look forward to working with you.

This is Karyn Lockerman-Elliott's avatar and link to their profile

Karyn Lockerman-Elliott

Offering therapy in Iowa
License: BSW, MS, MA
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseDepression
25 years of experience

It takes a great deal of courage to admit that you feel different, that you are experiencing feelings of depression or anxiety, or you just feel off and would like to talk to someone who is trained and licensed to help you. College, family, relationships, and life and career goals are difficult no matter what stage of life you are in and sometimes it helps to talk to a professional who can teach you skills to manage your emotions or can listen to you without judgment. I am a licensed therapist who has been practicing for more than 15 years. I work with individuals, families, and couples. I have 57 hours post masters in gender studies and think that everyone has the right to live a life that they love and to be successful in their goals while navigating life in this chaotic world we live in. I am licensed to practice in Florida, Illinois, and Iowa. I have 15 + years of experience in issues from depression, anxiety, gender identity, same-sex relationships, alternative relationships, trauma and abuse, and family issues. I have 57+ hours post-masters in Gender Studies and believe all peoples should live their lives fully and understand how to make their unique style and relationships work for them.

This is Kelly Muratorri's avatar and link to their profile

Kelly Muratorri

Offering therapy in Iowa
License: EMDR-Trained
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseAnger management
6 years of experience

Hello! I'm a licensed mental health counselor in the states of Iowa, Oregon, and Texas. I have more than six years of experience in the counseling field. I'm a Navy veteran with an amazing son who has autism, and I am blessed to be able to homeschool him. I earned my MS in Professional Counseling from Grand Canyon University in 2019. I also have a MEd in Curriculum and Instruction from Concordia University. I have extensive training and experience in trauma-informed treatment. Most of my experience has been with combat veterans, first responders, and individuals with complex posttraumatic stress. I utilize a variety of therapy approaches incorporating techniques to individualize treatment, but the primary modalities I use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR). Self-awareness is key to healing, so my practice is client-centered. These approaches will provide you with methods to solve problems utilizing your own strengths. Other approaches may be used to help facilitate your progress. I do not work with paraphiliac disorders or sex offenders. I believe it is essential to build trusting relationships with clients. I've had an array of life experiences that have shaped me into the person I am today. These positive and negative experiences help me connect with others in a unique way. My primary goal is to help others evoke their own strengths and resources to heal and make positive changes in their lives. With this platform, you can send a message at any time. I am not physically available 24/7, however I do try to respond to messages at least once per day.

This is David Smith's avatar and link to their profile

David Smith

Offering therapy in Iowa
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesAnger managementDepressionCoping with life changes
25 years of experience

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.

This is Virginia Jones's avatar and link to their profile

Virginia Jones

Offering therapy in Iowa
License: LCSW-PIP
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsTrauma and abuseGriefDepression
11 years of experience

Hello! My name is Virginia Jones, I am a licensed mental health counselor in South Dakota and Iowa. My passion is helping others to live a life that is fully satisfying. I have worked with clients from 4 to 90 years of age, with a wide range of concerns including anxiety, depression, life stage, trauma, and addiction issues - to name a few. I have a background in complex trauma therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavior therapy, person-centered therapy, and have gained a deep appreciation for all therapy modalities. I believe in helping clients by first establishing a caring relationship through positive regard and trust. Past clients say that I am warm and approachable. I have had struggles and know it can be difficult to reach out for help. Let’s work together and see if we are a good fit. I am here to support and empower you.

This is Titus Mayberry's avatar and link to their profile

Titus Mayberry

Offering therapy in Iowa
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesAnger managementSelf esteemDepression
5 years of experience

I am licensed in Missouri with 5 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, anger management, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. 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. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

This is Dr. Ashley Shelanski's avatar and link to their profile

Dr. Ashley Shelanski

Offering therapy in Iowa
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepression
9 years of experience

I am licensed in Minnesota with 9 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. I also have experience working with depression. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. 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.

This is Michelle Perry's avatar and link to their profile

Michelle Perry

Offering therapy in Iowa
License: LPC
Stress, AnxietyGriefDepressionCoping with life changes
3 years of experience

I am a licensed counselor specializing in grief, loss, death, aging, depression, anxiety, and co-dependency. I am also trained in EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) which is an approach used for trauma. I received my Masters Degree in Professional Counseling from Liberty University in 2012. I have spent the last nine years working in the role of a social worker in skilled nursing facilities, and now with a hospice. My work experiences, combined with my personal ones, have allowed me to become a compassionate and empathetic counselor, trained to meet you where you are in your life experience. My style of counseling is collaborative. I love to work with my clients in setting their goals for counseling and then assisting them with achieving those goals. I am friendly, warm, and often use humor. I will tailor what counseling approach to use to your specific situation and desires. These approaches include cognitive behavioral therapy, mindfulness practices, narrative therapy, ACT, and DBT. My theoretical approach is attachment based and I am trauma informed and educated. I know that it is difficult to reach out for help. I respect your experiences and will do my best to provide you with a compassionate and goal oriented counseling experience.

This is Kari Ross's avatar and link to their profile

Kari Ross

Offering therapy in Iowa
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesParenting issuesSelf esteemCoping with life changes
7 years of experience

I am licensed in Florida, Illinois and Iowa with 7 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, parenting issues, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. 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.

This is Jill Jaster's avatar and link to their profile

Jill Jaster

Offering therapy in Iowa
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsGriefDepressionCoping with life changes
21 years of experience

I am licensed in Illinois and Iowa with 21 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, coping with grief and loss, & 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. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

This is Tammi Green's avatar and link to their profile

Tammi Green

Offering therapy in Iowa
License: LCPC
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsGriefParenting issuesDepression
3 years of experience

My name is Tammi Green. I graduated with a Bachelors degree in Counseling and Crisis Trauma from Liberty University and a Masters in Professional Counseling from Grand Canyon University. I use an eclectic approach to counseling to match the best method possible to the person and situations they are facing. This includes cognitive behavioral therapy, solution focused therapy, client-centered, motivational interviewing, mindfulness, emotional coaching, and Christian based approaches. I have experience with working with all age groups from 0 to 80+ that have faced a variety of struggles from attachment disorders, ADHD and ADD, Autism, suicidal ideation, transition struggles, family counseling, low self-esteem, anger, ODD, substance use, prison transition, anxiety, trauma, depression, PTSD, emotional identification, parenting, care givers and burn out, behavioral issues, and people and families facing health issues. I am very much a person centered therapist meaning each person’s struggles are unique to them and I match my treatments to that person not a theory.

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:

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.

Find the right therapist for your needs
Match with a qualified therapist