Kelly Bellis
Hello, and welcome to BetterHelp! I commend you for taking this step to reach out and improve your quality of life. I know from experience that it takes courage to initiate change and ask for help, and I’m so glad you’re here. My name is Kelly, and I am a licensed counselor in both Tennessee and Iowa. I obtained my undergraduate degree in Psychology, and I completed my Master’s degree in Professional Counseling in 2004. For more than 15 years I have been in the counseling field, and offering help and hope to others has been one of the greatest joys of my life. I have experience working with varying ages, backgrounds, and presenting problems. Some of the issues I have seen the most frequently include depression, anxiety, relationship conflicts, and life transitions. I have also been trained in EMDR, a therapy model that is helpful with reprocessing trauma and improving cognitive distortions. I consider my approach to be eclectic and tailored to each individual’s needs and goals. I incorporate elements of person-centered and solution-focused therapy along with some cognitive-behavioral strategies. However, I truly believe that the most important factor in therapy and the best indicator of success is the client-counselor relationship. I strive to display warmth, empathy, compassion, genuineness, and acceptance with each person I am privileged to serve. My desire is to work with you to help you live your best life, maximizing the strengths you already have and making positive changes in your need areas. I would like to assist you in improving your insight and empowering you to achieve lasting personal growth. I believe there is always hope, and sometimes a fresh, unbiased perspective is invaluable. I am really looking forward to being part of your journey toward greater health and wholeness.
Stephanie Frey
Hello! My name is Stephanie and I'm a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in the state of Iowa. I have practiced therapy for approximately 5 years, and have 8 years of experience in the mental health field. I provide a supportive, nonjudgmental environment for clients of all ages and backgrounds to express themselves. I have worked with people to address issues such as anxiety disorders, depression, ADHD, PTSD, self harming behaviors, relationships, motivation, improving self-esteem, or just stress that life throws our way. Whatever your struggle is, we can work together to find solutions that work for you. I enjoy helping individuals of all ages, and have experience working with children ages 6 and up, as well as teens, adults, and families. I also have experience with dual diagnosis and crisis intervention. I generally use a cognitive behavioral (CBT) approach, however I implement a variety of treatment modalities including person-centered, strength-based, and mindfulness. I want to make sure you get what you need out of this experience, and we will work together to help you reach your goals. Thank you for considering me as the person to help you on your journey, I'm excited for the opportunity to work with you!
Christine Ewald
Hello! I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and an International Drug and Alcohol Counselor in Iowa as well as a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Arizona. I have 20 years of experience in the counseling field, having worked in the school settings, hospital environments, residential treatment centers and outpatient behavioral health clinics. I would describe my style as caring and supportive. I use a combination of different tools and therapies to meet the individual needs of each person that I work with. I view each session like a puzzle as you lay the pieces out there and we work together to put it together in a way that makes sense to you. I use a variety of tools to help you feel comfortable, accepted and understood. I use education, history taking, client centered therapy, family systems theory, narrative therapy and cognitive behavioral therapy, and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR). I believe that you are the author of your life story. I see counseling as a way to help you determine when to close a chapter and when to start a new one. I want to help you on your journey to talk about your options and make changes when you feel the need to gain a new perspective on your journey. Life is not a race, it is a journey, Each of us is simply a work in progress, trying to learn from our past so we can write our best life story. I look forward to working with you and learning your story. Specialties: Depression Anxiety Substance abuse Relationship issues Trauma Transitional Life Changes I have experience in working with Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar disorder, Borderline Personality Disorder, Grief, Eating Disorders, Career/School stressors, coping with life changes, family relationships, codependency, etc. Years of experience 20
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!
Mary Koch
Good job! You are already taking your first step to helping yourself. I am warm and inviting with various things to look at (if you choose video sessions), items to fidget with (you’ll find out when we work together), and of course me to talk to. I use various techniques like REBT, CBT and ACT (and others) which are forms of therapy, however most of my clients state “we are just talking, or wow you are really good at this.” I let them know it’s not me: I am simply “reframing” what you; my future has stated to me back to you in a non-judging way. You hear it for yourself and I give you the credit for trusting me enough to share and hear your own information. I also try to help my clients reframe to see the positives in their life, no matter how small. I convey to all of my clients that this is a ‘judge free’ space and they will never be judged by me. I want them to feel comfortable and realize that the work they are doing comes from them, not from me, and I will be in that judge-free space with them so they will not be alone. I provide a safe space to be mad, sad, happy, or any way you choose to feel. I am no stranger to working with mental health clients and have worked with people that have depression, personality disorders, trauma, grief and anxiety disorders to name a few. I most recently spent time providing therapy providing outpatient service to those with dual-diagnosis at a substance and alcohol abuse facility and prior to that with schools for kids aged five to college. I also have experience working with inmates in a prison and jail. I have worked with those who want to discuss sexual identity and questioning their gender. I enjoy all aspects of working with clients but love to see them take time to realize the important things in life - I will be available in the virtual office world on Mondays 3 pm to 6 pm, Tuesdays 3 pm to 6pm, Wednesday from 7 am to 3 pm, Thursdays 7 am to 3 pm. Although these hours are subject to change I invite you to ask for details or special accommodations. I want to let you know that I do check for messages throughout the day each day. Please be respectful and understand that everyone, like you is very important and deserves my undivided attention. I will respond to your message at my earliest convenience. Weekends may take a little longer as they are not my typical working hours.
Barbara "Barb" Kroening
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.
Karyn Lockerman-Elliott
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.
Amanda Pease
Welcome! I'm Amanda Pease, a unique provider offering dual expertise as both a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) and licensed clinical social worker practicing in Illinois and Iowa. With over six years of experience, I blend behavioral science with therapeutic support to offer comprehensive care tailored to each client's needs. My diverse background spans crisis counseling, school-based social work, and behavioral analysis, allowing me to provide evidence-based solutions for various challenges. I specialize in helping clients navigate anxiety, depression, parenting challenges, and issues related to self-esteem and motivation. My behavioral expertise is particularly valuable in developing practical strategies for lasting change. Using both behavioral principles and therapeutic techniques, I create individualized treatment plans that address immediate concerns while building long-term skills. Whether you're seeking support for behavioral challenges, mental health concerns, or both, my integrated approach offers unique insights and effective solutions. Taking the first step to begin therapy shows incredible courage, and I'm here to provide compassionate, respectful support in a judgment-free environment. I'm honored to be part of your journey toward positive change.
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.
Whitney Wanderscheid
My goal is to meet every individual with compassion and respect while providing a safe, welcoming, and nonjudgmental environment wherever you are on your journey. Establishing and maintaining a positive therapeutic relationship is key in working together to work towards a place of healing. As a client-centered therapist, my treatment approach is to focus on your individual needs to help you reach your goals. 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 and empower you in that journey. I use a range of styles and techniques in my work, for what is most beneficial and comfortable for each person. I have experience working in school settings, private practice, and community mental health. I am licensed in South Dakota with 8 years of professional work experience "I can be changed by what happens to me. But I refuse to be reduced by it." -Maya Angelou
How to find a therapist for counseling in Collins
Finding the best therapist close by in Collins can feel challenging, but know that once you narrow your search for a counselor serving your area, you can find a therapist in your city that is accepting new clients and fits your goals. Whether you're struggling with depression, anxiety, marriage, family issues, or other emotional challenges, feel proud that you have begun your search to find the mental health care services with therapists in Collins that work best for you in order to begin your personal journey towards emotional healing with a therapist.
Understanding the type of therapy you'd like to search for is crucial before finding a therapist or psychologist in Collins. Perhaps you're interested in narrowing your search for a psychotherapist that can offer psychodynamic, cognitive-behavioral (CBT), talk therapy, provide group therapy, marriage and family therapy for individuals or couples, or couples therapy. Each type of support of this kind with BetterHelp therapists can offer various benefits and address or treat different disorders. If you're still unsure or are new to counseling in Collins, feel free to contact the provider via email to find out which methods they practice.
It is also important to understand that mental health professionals in the United States are accredited to provide care, helping individuals and couples, with a variety of licenses for therapists. These include licensed marriage and family therapist (LMFT), licensed clinical social worker (LCSW), and clinical psychologist or doctor of psychology (PsyD). Regardless of their licensure, they are trained able to treat individuals and couples counseling, and sometimes children, in any type of therapy in the Collins region and in the state of Iowa. Find a therapist under any of these distinctions and know that the sessions they offer can provide a safe place to heal.
A mental health counselor working through their own in-person therapy practice in Collins or online may assist clients in improving healthy relationships, communication skills, working through life transitions, couples counseling, managing a mood disorder, improving coping skills, self help tips, offer life coaching, family therapy, or change in negative thinking patterns. A Collins therapist may also provide a safe place and validation for clients experiencing emotional pain, or that simply want a psychological assessment. Verified providers and therapists can provide licensed marriage and couples therapy, tailor to individual needs, and create a therapeutic relationship as a National Certified Counselor.
There are all kinds of therapists working with clients today across the United States and in the greater Collins area offering:
- CBT
- DBT
- Substance use therapy
- Couples therapy
When you're ready to start your search keep in mind what support you'd like your provider to be most experienced with and choose an experienced provider with a practice located near you in the city of Collins, elsewhere in Story, or in the greater state of Iowa. Get matched with one of the therapists working on the BetterHelp platform today.
Frequently asked questions (FAQs) about therapists and mental health services
Some other commonly asked questions on therapy with a licensed counselor and BetterHelp serving the Collins area can be found below:
How does the cost of in-person counseling with a therapist compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed Collins therapist?
The average price of an in-person therapy session in the US with most therapists is $100 to $200 per hour. These prices may be higher in Collins due to a higher cost of living, and a limited number of therapists taking new clients. The price also depends on the type of provider you are looking for. See the following average prices for various mental health providers without insurance:
- Counseling with a psychiatrist: $150-$500
- Counseling with therapists: $100-300
- Therapy with a psychologist: $100
While many psychologists in Collins may not take health insurance, some in the state of Iowa may work on a sliding scale, meaning they'll factor in your income and charge what you can afford per session. With a BetterHelp therapist throughout the state of Iowa you can expect significantly more affordable options, with therapists sessions ranging from $65 to $100 per week (billed every four weeks).
How is a licensed therapist on this Collins online therapy platform verified?
Therapists in Collins, Iowa working on BetterHelp are licensed, trained, experienced, and accredited as a doctor of psychology (PhD / PsyD), licensed marriage and family therapists (LMFT), licensed clinical social worker (LCSW / LICSW), or licensed professional counselors (LPC). All of these psychology clinicians have a Masters Degree or a Doctorate Degree in their field of psychology sciences, and follow the APA Code of Ethics. Therapists have been qualified and certified by their state's professional board after successfully completing the necessary education, exams, training and practice with a patient, and extensive experience in a healthcare clinic or treatment centers, in order to become a mental health provider. While their lived experience, expertise, careers, and background vary, therapists here all possess at least 3 years and 1,000 hours of hands-on experience with adult and sometimes teen patients, and have the necessary therapist credentials to provide a safe space for long lasting emotional healing in therapy.
Please note BetterHelp does not offer or provide care from Collins psychiatrists to prescribe a drug or medication as treatment, or perform psychological assessments and other psychiatric services.
How does working with a professional counselor in BetterHelp online therapy sessions work?
BetterHelp clinicians and therapists treat clients online across the United States (individuals and couples) through life transitions, inner child exploration, long term depression or anxiety, post traumatic stress disorder, and more. An online mental health professional, including the therapists in Collins above, can work with young adults, children, adolescents, and adults virtually as an accredited licensed clinical social worker (LCSW) or licensed marriage and family therapist (LMFT). You do not have to commute to a an office as a psychotherapy client.
Through BetterHelp therapy, you can partake in video, phone, or live chat therapy sessions with your licensed therapist. You can work through various symptoms, use the in app journaling feature, and receive worksheets. You'll also find support groups or group therapy helping individuals on topics including managing life transitions, symptoms affecting sexual health, behavioral health, coping skills for anxiety, depression, trauma, stress, marriage counseling, and more. Get matched today.
What mental health issues can psychotherapy address with the help of psychologists?
BetterHelp's verified therapists specialize and have clinical experience in a wide range of mental health issues and modalities, helping clients to feel better and improve their lives every day. See below for examples.
Our therapists specialties on BetterHelp include:
- Cognitive behavioral therapy - This is provided by professional counselors, helping clients identify and change negative thought patterns through structured sessions.
- Behavior therapy - Behavior therapy techniques are used to help clients modify harmful behaviors and develop healthier habits, often through the guidance of a professional counselor.
- EMDR therapy - EMDR therapists assist clients in processing traumatic memories to alleviate emotional distress and improve overall well-being, utilizing the expertise of a professional counselor.
- Talk therapy - Clients explore their feelings and develop strategies for dealing with various mental health issues, often guided by a professional counselor.
- Depression - This counseling is designed to help individuals manage symptoms of depression and improve their mood and functioning, often working closely with a professional counselor.
- Anxiety disorders - Sessions for anxiety disorders, offer strategies to manage and reduce anxiety symptoms effectively, often through counseling sessions with a professional counselor.
- Stress - Tools and techniques to help clients cope with stress and improve their mental resilience, frequently under the supervision of a professional counselor.
- Eating disorders - Professionals experienced in eating disorders offer specialized counseling to address unhealthy eating patterns and body image issues, with the support of a professional counselor.
- Grief - Support and guidance are offered to clients experiencing grief, helping them navigate the stages of loss, often in collaboration with a counselor.
- Attachment therapy - Therapists use this to help clients understand and improve their emotional bonds and relationships, often with the assistance of a counselor.
- Relationships - Therapists work with clients to improve communication, resolve conflicts, and strengthen their connections with others, often using the skills of a counselor.
- Children, adolescents, and teens - Therapists specializing in youth therapy address the unique mental health needs of children, adolescents, and teens, often involving a counselor in the process.
- Addiction (substance abuse) - Therapists offer counseling for addiction, helping clients overcome substance abuse and maintain long-term recovery, often under the guidance of a counselor.
- Divorce - Therapists support individuals through the emotional and practical challenges of ending a marriage, often working with a psychologist to provide comprehensive care.
- Trauma or PTSD - Therapists specializing in trauma and PTSD help clients process traumatic experiences and reduce their symptoms, frequently collaborating with a psychologist.
- Bipolar disorder - Therapists provide counseling to manage the mood swings and challenges associated with bipolar disorder, often in consultation with a psychologist.
- Psychodynamic treatment - Therapists use psychodynamic treatment to explore unconscious processes and how they affect current behavior, often guided by psychologists.
- Career counseling - Therapists assist clients in making informed decisions about their professional paths and resolving work-related issues, often with the help of psychologists.
- Alcohol use disorders - Therapists offer specialized counseling to help clients manage and overcome alcohol use disorders, frequently under the supervision of psychologists.
- OCD - Therapists provide strategies and support to manage obsessive-compulsive disorder symptoms, often via psychotherapy.
- ADHD - Therapists offer counseling to help clients with ADHD improve focus, organization, and overall functioning, often via psychotherapy.
- Mood disorders - Therapists work with clients to stabilize and improve mood through various therapeutic approaches, frequently in psychotherapy.
- Sex addiction
- Complex trauma
- Life transitions
You may also be struggling with relationship problems that could be addressed in couples therapy or with a sex therapist. In that case, you may choose to work with one of BetterHelp's experienced cognitive-behavioral therapists or licensed marriage family therapists (LMFT) who work with clients in relationships. You can also try a Collins provider through BetterHelp's sister platform, ReGain, which is dedicated to couples and spouses worldwide with licensed therapists.
How do I know if online counseling is right for my family in Collins?
One of the potentially rewarding aspects of working with a Collins therapist is the validation and active listening they can provide. Your friends and loved ones may also be available to listen, but you may feel that they may lack the skills to provide objective guidance. Counselors and therapists are trained to respond to various concerns, symptoms, and mental health conditions.
Therapists in your city can support you toward a healthier emotional state, regardless of your mental health, life concerns, or healing needs. While supporting individuals in developing healthier habits, another good benefit of Collins therapy is having an understanding, safe space with a non-judgmental party who can support you through challenging experiences.
Many people have sensitive topics that they may feel ashamed to discuss with their friends or partner. A Collins therapist can help you confront these concerns and open up through unique methods of support. There are also many types of therapy, such as art therapy, where you may find you can express yourself through creativity instead of words with a psychotherapist.
With a lot of people in IA, therapists may be booked out with clients. Through the list of profiles or therapists above and others within BetterHelp's team, you may be able to find a psychologist within 24 to 48 hours. If you're searching to find a a nearby psychotherapist close to 50055 or the surrounding zip codes, consider others available through the BetterHelp site where you can schedule a session based on your and the therapist's schedule. No matter if you are seeking help from therapists in your area or beyond, online therapy can be a great option.
How should I prepare for my first therapy session with a Collins counselor?
Before seeing your Collins therapist, prep for your session by reading to understand the process. You might write a list of questions you want to ask your psychotherapist, any emotional pain you may feel, and the ways in which you hope to improve. When you attend your session, you can let our therapists know if you have any concerns or feel unsure about what to talk about. Collins therapists here may help guide you with open-ended therapeutic questions while offering mental health services. The first session will often serve as an intake to get to know you as a person and learn why you're attending therapy.
Should I find a therapist or psychologist for therapy if I feel fine?
Some simply don't feel the need to see a psychologist. However, some people may avoid attending therapy due to stigma or preconceived notions of what it might entail. Although psychologists often support people with mental health conditions, you do not need a diagnosis or specific condition. You can discuss grief, relationship concerns, stress, or life changes and ask for general feedback. A Collins licensed clinical social worker may help you gain power over your life and emotions while you navigate day-to-day experiences.
Gaining a new perspective on yourself through various therapies might allow you to improve your self-esteem, work through relationships, and gain a better sense of your mental health goals. The success you may find with a Collins counselor can be dependent on your process.
People may also attend therapy for specific motives, such as bullying, an autism diagnosis, a desire to learn mindfulness meditation, personality concerns, trouble with office workers, specific phobias, and many other principles that a counselor can help with.
Is mental health care and therapy with a therapist worth it?
Therapy with a licensed counselor is effective and has the power to change individuals' lives. Each client is at a different stage of their emotional healing journey in life, as each human can be unique in their personality, expression, skills, and goals. A psychologist can target various symptoms, experiences, and personalities to help you feel your best and put you on the path to healing. Unlike advice from a friend, family, or non-professional, a mental health therapist has an understanding of various disorders like ADHD and depression with many hours of experience in treating adults in their practice. For this reason, seeing an evidence based psychologist in Collins, Iowa can be worth it. Over 41 million adults in the US attend therapy services each year, showing it's a popular option and is proven to be effective.
Collins has many clinicians who practice person or client-centered individual therapy in-person and through online sessions to assist clients in their healing journey. If you opt into online therapy, you might also be able to meet with providers all over the United States and change therapists easily at any time. Many people struggling with anxiety and depression, substance abuse, body image issues, and more find therapists that are a good fit for them, feel supported, and gain further insight into their lives through internet-based therapy.
Do therapists judge you in therapy sessions during telehealth appointments?
The boundaries between you and a therapist are in place to help you and them regarding ethical concerns. Mental health professionals are held by ethical standards through the American Psychological Association (APA) and are not allowed to judge or harm their clients. If you are concerned about sharing details about yourself, feel free to withhold personal information. Their job in the therapeutic relationship is to create a safe place, help you gain a deeper understanding of your mental health, and support you. You might consider changing counselors if you don't feel safe or respected.
Stay up to date with the leading online counseling platform for Collins, Iowa
To stay up to date with BetterHelp's initiatives through their social channels, you can follow them on Pinterest, LinkedIn, Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook. For mental health tips, check out the BetterHelp YouTube channel.
Take some time today to learn more about the team of Collins therapists at BetterHelp to understand the services available to you clearly. If you are new to therapy or have any questions about the services and terms, please reach out to customer service through the contact page or send an email to contact@betterhelp.com.
If you’re ready to sign up for online therapy, consider signing up with a platform like BetterHelp and get matched within 24 to 48 hours.
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 feature
- National Anti-Hazing Hotline for young adults, adolescents, and adults: 1-888-NOT-HAZE (1-888-668-4293)
- Physician Crisis Support Line: Contact 1-888-409-0141 if you are a first responder or medical provider experiencing crises related to Covid-19
- Sexual Assault Hotline: Call RAINN at 1-800-656-4673
Below are some of the zip codes served by BetterHelp therapists in Collins:
50055