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.

 

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Ashley Paulson

Offering therapy in Iowa
License: LMHC,NCC,CHt
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseParenting issuesSelf esteemDepression
11 years of experience

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!

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Anne Jessen

Offering therapy in Iowa
License: LMHC,LPC,NCC
Self esteemBipolar disorderDepressionCompassion fatigue
16 years of experience

Hi, my name is Anne Jessen and I live in a small town in Iowa. I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) in Iowa, and have been licensed since 2011. I’ve also been a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in Wisconsin since 2021. I received my Master's degree in mental health counseling in 2006 from the University of Northern Iowa. I greatly enjoy helping others, and working together with clients to assist them in achieving their goals and reaching their highest potential. I understand that life can be challenging, and sometimes we need someone who will listen and guide us through difficult times. I use a client-centered and collaborative approach, often utilizing empathy and acceptance. I also take a cognitive-behavioral approach to counseling, as I believe that improving thoughts, feelings, and behaviors can improve an individual's overall quality of life. I have experience working with depression, bipolar disorder, stress, and grief/loss. However, I don't have specialized training in treating issues related to trauma. I have spent approximately the past 14 years working in the mental health and substance abuse fields, in both non-profit and private practice locations. I am so glad that you decided to reach out for help and I look forward to partnering with you to discuss your needs and inspire you to reach your goals. *Please note, at this time, I am only conducting sessions using messaging/live chat. Therefore, I am not utilizing video or phone at this time. If you are interested in being matched with a therapist who utilizes phone or video sessions, l will gladly provide you with the information on how to transfer. Let me know if you have any questions.

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Terry Chase

Offering therapy in Iowa
License: LMSW,LMHC,LMHP
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsTrauma and abuseBipolar disorderDepression
29 years of experience

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!

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Katherine (Katie) Strub

Offering therapy in Iowa
License: MA,LMHC,EMDR Therapist
Stress, AnxietyLGBTRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseDepression
15 years of experience

I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) in Iowa with over 10 years of experience working with individuals and families. I have worked with individuals with a wide variety of concerns including trauma (abuse, neglect, domestic violence, first responders, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder criteria, emotional abuse, grief and loss, abandonment, etc.), depression, anxiety, relationship issues, family of origin issues, emptiness, invisibility, LGBTQ+, and many many more. I am an Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) Therapist and I utilize other methods in including solution-focused, strength-based, relaxation/stress management, and many others. No two clients are the same, so I do not believe in a "one size fits all" approach. I believe each person has potential for growth and healing, but each of us has encountered barriers to achieving our greatest potential through internal or external experiences. It can be very difficult to recognize those barriers and address them, and it can be very helpful to have a therapist partner accompany you on the healing journey. I like to illustrate therapy using the metaphor of bowling: my client is the bowler and has the power to choose the direction they throw the ball, the ball they select, and the power they use to throw the ball down the lane. I, as the therapist, am the bumpers - I respect my client's decisions in how they throw the ball, I guide us down the lane and keep us from going in the gutter :) The most frequent feedback I get from my colleagues and clients is that I am "real." That is, I do not pretend to be perfect and I do not expect perfection. I also am very honest because that is what I ask of my clients. I look forward to working with you and getting to know you better!

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Adam Dollen

Offering therapy in Iowa
License: LMHC
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesGriefDepressionADHD
10 years of experience

Adam is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in the State of Iowa as well as a nationally board certified counselor. Adam holds Master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Walden University. Adam’s experience includes working for CommonSpirit Health, Jackson Recovery Centers as an addiction counselor, Families First of Western Iowa as an in home behavioral skills specialist, Gerard of Iowa as a counselor on an adolescent inpatient unit, and has served as a minister for over 25 years. He has been utilizing skills from treatment modalities such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Person-Centered Therapy, and Motivational Interviewing. In his personal time, he enjoys traveling and spending time with family.

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Lori Hancock-Muck

Offering therapy in Iowa
Addictions
15 years of experience

Hello! My name is Lori Hancock-Muck. I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor with over 25 years experience working in the behavioral health field. I received my Master's of Science degree in Counseling Psychology from Northwest Missouri State University in 2000. I have worked in a variety of settings to include correctional facilities, community mental health centers, outpatient hospital based substance use disorder treatment programs, and employee and student assistance programs. I specialize in addiction services and have worked with adults, adolescents, and families. Addiction can be debilitating, affecting almost every aspect of your life to include relationships with friends and family, your career, and your spiritual and physical well being. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming obstacles 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. I like to utilize a variety of treatment methods to include motivational interviewing, solution-focused therapy, harm reduction, and cognitive behavioral therapy. Depending on who you are will determine your therapy plan, which will be customized to be unique to your strengths and needs. Change is scary and not easy; however it can also be rewarding and sustainable. I hope to be able to join you on this journey!

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Latisha McCants

Offering therapy in Iowa
License: LIMHP,LMHP,LMHC
Stress, AnxietyGriefDepression
10 years of experience

I am licensed in Nebraska and Iowa with 10 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with grief and loss, & 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.

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Kristen Udell

Offering therapy in Iowa
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseSelf esteemCoping with life changes
7 years of experience

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!

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Dr. Tracy Mallett

Offering therapy in Iowa
License: Psy.D.,LMFT,Psychologist
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsParenting issuesDepression
25 years of experience

Hello! I am a licensed psychologist, licensed marriage and family therapist, and an international parenting, divorce, and coparenting coach. I have been working with single adults, couples, children and families for over 25 years. I have extensive experience working with individuals who have problems with self-worth, who have experienced trauma, and with families in conflict. I am Level II trained in the Gottman Method, and utilize this extensively with couples. My clients are learning to master such issues as overcoming depression; trauma recovery; anxiety reduction; managing existential and identity issues, reducing stress, and controlling anger. I have counseled in mental health, addiction treatment, and criminal justice settings. Currently, I have a private practice in south Florida (family-options.com), where I supervise master's level mental health counseling and psychology trainees. I also teach graduate-level courses in ethics, disaster and trauma response, abnormal behavior, community counseling, and criminal behavior, and I mentor graduate dissertation students in forensic psychology. I have worked with individuals who are struggling with a wide range of concerns, including such things as managing anxiety, stress and depression; estrangement from family; career changes; marital infidelity; recovery from divorce; marital communication difficulties; and parenting challenges. I have extensive experience working with individuals who have problems with self-worth, who have experienced trauma, and with families in conflict. Through our interactions, I hope that you will find a safe place where we can explore your concerns and develop a plan that will have you actively pursuing your goals and living the life you want. Together, we can undo false belief systems and unhealthy habits. My therapeutic style is strengths-based, meaning that I will work with you to identify your strengths and the strategies that have worked well for you in the past, and nurture those skills to their highest potential. I am committed to getting to know you as an individual, and working hard to earn your trust and discover exactly what changes you hope to make in your life. You are the expert in your own life and in what you need, and the pace in which you would like to go, and it's my honor to adapt my counseling style to your needs and help you create the life that you want. I may "push" you out of your comfort zone at times in order to challenge you to meet the goals you have set for yourself, but I will provide you with a safe environment and will always be empathetic and patient and put you first. I am licensed as a psychologist in Florida, California, Arizona, and Iowa, and have obtained an Authority to Practice Interjurisdictional Telepsychology (APIT) from the PSYPACT Commission. ** Please note that I am available ONLY via asynchronous messaging and will not be scheduling live sessions. *** ** If you choose me as your counselor, our work together will be exclusively via messaging -- I will substantively answer any of your messages within 24 hours or less. ** I strive to support, encourage, educate, and empower my clients. I encourage lots of feedback from my clients, and I am very open to constructive criticism, because I want this process to be helpful and useful for you. Together, we will create an individualized treatment plan that empowers you to overcome obstacles and create specific, achievable tasks that will put you on the a solid path to meet your goals. Therapy is an investment in time, money and emotional energy, and I look forward to joining you in helping to ensure that your investment pays off! (Disclaimer: I am a contracted employee for BetterHelp; any posted reviews of my work were not solicited by me).

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Tom Gozinske

Offering therapy in Iowa
AddictionsRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseAnger managementSelf esteem
7 years of experience

I am a licensed professional counselor in Wisconsin and Iowa and have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, & coping with grief and loss, anger, and other issues. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

How can a counselor support you?

Therapists 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 IA, and one out of five Americans has a mental health condition. Searching for local licensed professionals 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 a BetterHelp therapist does not offer diagnostic or medication management services.

Why do people choose to work 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, BetterHelp can match you with a licensed professional tailored to your preferences noted when you sign up.

The mental health therapists in Iowa support clients with varying issues through therapy, such as:

  • 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 to contact in a crisis

If you are experiencing a crisis or emergency, don't use the BetterHelp site. 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 of the most commonly asked questions about therapy can be found in the section 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.

When should I get a therapist in Iowa?

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 can allow clients seeking therapy to experience professional help through video, phone, or live chat sessions without commuting to an office.

Does insurance cover the cost of 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 the safe option?

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.

In today's fast-paced society, mental well-being has become a cornerstone of a fulfilling life. Amid the daily challenges and stressors that can overwhelm even the most resilient individuals, seeking professional guidance often offers a path to clarity and balance. The journey toward improved emotional health involves understanding personal triggers, embracing self-compassion, and developing effective coping strategies. While self-help books and online resources provide valuable information, nothing compares to the personalized support offered by a qualified mental health professional. One-on-one sessions with experienced experts can help uncover the underlying issues contributing to anxiety, depression, or other emotional hurdles. With a careful and empathetic approach, these professionals tailor their advice to suit individual needs, ensuring that each person receives strategies that work best for their unique circumstances. Whether through cognitive behavioral techniques, mindfulness practices, or other innovative methods, the aim is to foster resilience and empower individuals to take control of their inner lives. For those living in bustling urban centers, engaging in face-to-face sessions in a welcoming environment can be particularly beneficial. Access to a caring clinician provides not only a safe space to explore difficult emotions but also builds a support network essential for long-term recovery. The process encourages self-reflection and greater insight into behavioral patterns that might otherwise go unnoticed. While the journey can be challenging at times, the rewards include enhanced emotional stability, improved interpersonal relationships, and a renewed sense of self-worth. In one notable case, the guidance provided by a highly trained therapist proved instrumental in navigating a tumultuous period. Through structured sessions and tailored interventions, the individual learned to identify stressors and develop healthier responses to adversity. This experience underscored the transformative impact that dedicated support can have on one's overall quality of life. In a region like Texas, community-based initiatives and accessible mental health programs further reinforce the value of professional help. These efforts emphasize early intervention, preventive care, and continuous support, ensuring that more people are equipped to face life's inevitable challenges. Ultimately, investing in mental well-being is an act of self-care that yields lifelong benefits. By embracing professional support, individuals can unlock new levels of emotional resilience and discover pathways to a brighter, more balanced future. Each step taken toward healing represents a commitment to personal growth, enabling a life filled with renewed optimism and strength. Embracing this transformative journey consistently paves the way for deeper understanding, lasting peace, and meaningful personal progress.
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