This is Christine Ewald's avatar and link to their profile

Christine Ewald

Clinical therapist offering therapy in IA
Counselor License Type(s): LMHC,CADC,LPC
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsRelationship issuesFamily conflictsDepression
9 years of experience as a mental health therapist

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

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Patricia Miller

Clinical therapist offering therapy in IA
Counselor License Type(s): LCPC,LMHC,CCMHC
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsSelf esteemDepression
29 years of experience as a mental health therapist

If you are reading this bio, you're looking for some support, help, healing, guidance or just someone who is very good at listening. I have been a professional clinical counselor for over 25 years. Prior to becoming a behavioral health professional, I excelled in business leadership in a variety of fields. I have lived in the southern states and mid-west states my entire life. My approach to helping others is positive, encouraging, solution focused, problem solving and crafted to meet the individual client need. The value and benefit of engaging in a trusting, confidential and respectful helping relationship has the potential to meet, and help you overcome, many of your needs.

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Susan Henry

Clinical therapist offering therapy in IA
Counselor License Type(s): LISW
Stress, AnxietyLGBTRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseCoping with life changes
25 years of experience as a mental health therapist

My name is Susan Henry, and I love helping people and seeing them grow. I am originally from the East Coast and resided in California before settling with my family in the Midwest. I received my Bachelor degree in Psychology from Rutgers College, and I received my Master in Social Work degree from Barry University School of Social Work. I am licensed in the state of Iowa as an Independent Level Social Worker. I have worked in the counseling field for over 25 years, with expertise working with issues related to Interpersonal Relations, Grief/Loss and Adjustment, PTSD/Trauma, and Anxiety/Depression. I provide a safe, sensitive, and non-judgemental space to explore your issues. Looking forward to being a part of your journey to better days ahead.

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Karyn Lockerman-Elliott

Clinical therapist offering therapy in IA
Counselor License Type(s): BSW, MS, MA
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseDepression
25 years of experience as a mental health therapist

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.

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Michelle Gossard

Clinical therapist offering therapy in IA
Counselor License Type(s): LMHC
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesAnger managementSelf esteem
15 years of experience as a mental health therapist

Are you feeling overwhelmed, withdrawn, or more irritable? Is it starting to affect your relationships? Or, do know something is just not right and you can’t quite put your finger on it? I’m here to listen and help. When working with clients, my goal is to create a safe environment for you to share your story and explore your challenges. You are the expert of you and I want to help you discover your skills and strengths. Along with teaching you to ways to manage your thoughts, feelings, and reactions. I strive to help clients be more accountable in their lives in order to better manage their challenges. I’m a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) based in Iowa and have over 15 years’ experience working in a clinical and military setting. I am military wife and mother of four active children. My approach is cognitive behavioral, solution focused, and client-centered therapy based. I have worked with clients struggling with anger management, negative self-talk, low self-esteem, depression, anxiety, stress, and pre/post deployment difficulties.

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Aileen Barnhouse

Clinical therapist offering therapy in IA
Stress, AnxietySelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changesADHD
17 years of experience as a mental health therapist

I am licensed in Iowa with 17 years of professional counseling experience. I primarily use Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT). I have experience in helping clients deal with stress and anxiety, motivation, self-esteem and self-confidence, depression and coping with life changes. I also have extensive experience working with adults with attention deficit disorder (ADHD). I believe you are the expert of your story and you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming challenges. I will help you identify your strengths and then we will work together so you can learn how to use those strengths to resolve your challenges. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps toward change. I am here to support and empower you on that journey.

This is Jennifer Redlin's avatar and link to their profile

Jennifer Redlin

Clinical therapist offering therapy in IA
Stress, AnxietyLGBTTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepression
9 years of experience as a mental health therapist

I am licensed in Virginia and Iowa with 9 years of professional counseling experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, and depression. I specialize in confidence, self-esteem and self-image and identity issues. I have extensive training and experience treating issues that stem from trauma, abuse and shame. I’ve worked with clients of all ages and from a variety of backgrounds. My approach to treatment prioritizes client respect and compassion, free from judgment and sensitive to your unique needs. I am truly passionate about helping my clients. I feel so lucky I get to walk alongside you on your journey. We live in wild and uncertain times, to say the least. I recognize the courage it takes to reach out for support. I’m so glad you are here, and I can’t wait to begin! Now… take a big breath. Welcome!

This is Chidi Ojinnaka's avatar and link to their profile

Chidi Ojinnaka

Clinical therapist offering therapy in IA
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepression
40 years of experience as a mental health therapist

I am licensed in Iowa with 40 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, trauma and abuse, & 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 Eric Mason's avatar and link to their profile

Eric Mason

Clinical therapist offering therapy in IA
Counselor License Type(s): LCSW
AddictionsLGBTTrauma and abuseAnger managementSelf esteem
3 years of experience as a mental health therapist

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Nevada, Nebraska, and Iowa with over 9 years experience working in substance abuse therapy and over 5 years experience in mental health therapy. I have worked with children, adolescents, adults, and the elderly with an extensive range of concerns including depression, anxiety, anger management, victims of crime, trauma, physical abuse, sex abuse, and LGBTQ issues. I have also helped people who have experienced incarceration and perpetrators of physical abuse. I completed my undergraduate degree in Psychology with a minor in addiction studies at Nevada State College in 2011. I continued my education and completed my masters degree in Social Work at the University of New England in 2015. My counseling approach is inviting, warm, and interactive. I believe in meeting clients where they are at with respect, compassion, and empathy. My approach combines motivational interviewing, cognitive-behavioral, solution focused, psychodynamic, humanistic therapy.

This is Melody McKibbin's avatar and link to their profile

Melody McKibbin

Clinical therapist offering therapy in IA
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseGriefDepression
3 years of experience as a mental health therapist

Hey there! I'm Melody, your go-to gal for therapy vibes. I have three years of counseling experience and would like to welcome you! By day, I'm a certified Personality Disorder Treatment Provider, specializing in all things personality disorders and rocking a DBT Level II Accreditation. I love working with BPD, and am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) for the state of Idaho, New Mexico, Nevada, Montana, Iowa, Indiana, Utah, Washington, and Texas. I am a conservative Christian, and my faith guides my life. Therefore, I offer Christian faith-based counseling upon your request. If you wish, I am happy to include The Bible and/or counseling from a Christian perspective. I am on a mission to prove that life's challenges are just plot twists in our epic story. In the therapy arena, I consider it an honor to be the sidekick in your journey of self-discovery. PHILOSOPHY OF COUNSELING I believe everyone has their own set of experiences, thoughts, and feelings (and maybe a few quirks); I strive to craft a cozy, client-centered space where folks feel as snug as a bug in a rug—heard, valued, and ready for some serious self-love. Counseling is a tag-team effort. I try to be all ears, actively listening and dishing out tailored feedback. What is the formula for great counseling? Individualized care, collaboration, and a non-judgemental space. Are you ready to join me in the quest for positive change? As a trained Enneagram Informed Mental Health Professional, I can integrate this approach into our sessions for more focused and effective support. Other focus areas include grief/loss (particularly child loss), depression, adoption/foster care, and anxiety. In my downtime, you'll catch me diving into the world of fiction. I'm currently cooking up a murder mystery comedy about mannequins! When I'm not writing, I enjoy family hangs, cozying up with my Russian Blue cats, tackling puzzles, and adding a splash of color to life through my paintings. Let's chat and see if we are a match. "From the ends of the earth, I cry to you for help when my heart is overwhelmed; lead me to the towering rock of safety." Psalm 61:2 I only see individual clients 25+, I do not offer live chat/text session- Audio or Video ONLY. Thank You.

How to find a therapist for counseling in Leon

Finding the best therapist close by in Leon 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 in Leon 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 Leon. Perhaps you're interested in narrowing your search for a psychotherapist that can offer psychodynamic, cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), talk therapy, provide group therapy, marriage and family therapy for individuals or couples, or couples therapy. Each type of therapy can offer various benefits and address or treat different disorders. If you're still unsure or are new to counseling in Leon, 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. 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 to treat individuals and couples counseling, and sometimes children, in any type of therapy in the Leon 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 Leon 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 therapist may also provide a safe place and validation for clients experiencing emotional pain, or that simply want a psychological assessment. Verified providers 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 Leon area in different types of therapy, including:

  • CBT
  • DBT
  • Substance use therapy
  • Couples therapy

When you're ready to start your search and find Leon therapists, have in mind what type of therapy 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 Leon, elsewhere in Decatur, or in the greater state of Iowa.

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 Leon 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 Leon therapist?

The average price of an in-person therapy session in the US is $100 to $200 per hour. These prices may be higher in Leon due to a higher cost of living. 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 Leon 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 sessions ranging from $65 to $100 per week (billed every four weeks). If you're looking for a therapist, Cincinnati offers a variety of professionals who can help with your mental health needs at a price you can afford.

How is a licensed therapist on this Leon online therapy platform verified?

Therapists in Leon, 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. They 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, they 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 Leon 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 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 therapist, including the therapists in Leon 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 lead by a therapist in Leon 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. 

What mental health issues can psychotherapy address with the help of psychologists?

BetterHelp's verified Leon 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.

Specialties on BetterHelp include:

  • Cognitive behavioral therapy - This type of therapy is provided by therapists who are professional counselors, helping clients identify and change negative thought patterns through structured sessions.
  • Behavior therapy - Therapists use behavior therapy techniques 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 - Therapists engage clients in talk therapy to explore their feelings and develop strategies for dealing with various mental health issues, often guided by a professional counselor.
  • Depression - Therapists offer counseling to help individuals manage symptoms of depression and improve their mood and functioning, often working closely with a professional counselor.
  • Anxiety disorders - Therapists specialize in anxiety disorders, offering strategies to manage and reduce anxiety symptoms effectively, often through counseling sessions with a professional counselor.
  • Stress - Therapists provide tools and techniques to help clients cope with stress and improve their mental resilience, frequently under the supervision of a professional counselor.
  • Eating disorders - Therapists experienced in eating disorders offer specialized counseling to address unhealthy eating patterns and body image issues, with the support of a professional counselor.
  • Grief - Therapists provide support and guidance to clients experiencing grief, helping them navigate the stages of loss, often in collaboration with a counselor.
  • Attachment therapy - Therapists use attachment therapy 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 Leon therapy provider through BetterHelp's sister platform, ReGain, which is dedicated to couples and spouses worldwide. 

How do I know if online counseling is right for my family in Leon?

One of the potentially rewarding aspects of working with a Leon 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 are trained to respond to various concerns, symptoms, and mental health conditions.

Leon 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 Leon 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 Leon 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 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 50144 or the surrounding zip codes, consider others available through the BetterHelp site. 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 Leon counselor?

Before seeing your Leon therapist, prep for your session by reading to understand the therapy 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, let them know if you have any concerns about therapy or feel unsure about what to talk about. They 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 in Leon.

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 therapy entails. Although psychologists often support people with mental health conditions, 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 feedback and advice from a therapist. A Leon 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 through therapy with a Leon 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 Leon, 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.

Leon has many clinicians who practice person or client-centered individual therapy in-person and through online therapy 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 Leon, Iowa

To stay up to date with BetterHelp's initiatives through their social channels, you can follow them on PinterestLinkedInInstagramTwitter, and Facebook. For mental health tips, check out the BetterHelp YouTube channel.

Take some time today to learn more about the team of 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:

A woman meets with a therapist online in her home city of Leon.

Below are some of the zip codes served by BetterHelp therapists in Leon:

50144

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