On the shore of the Puget Sound, the city of Des Moines, Washington is sometimes confused with Des Moines, Iowa, but there is a big difference. For instance, the population in Des Moines, Iowa is about 20 times that of Des Moines, Washington and they do not have the amazing coastlines in Iowa like they do in Washington. 

In fact, the City of Des Moines, Washington is noted for its Des Moines Beach Park, where you can soak up the sun and enjoy the view of the Puget Sound. Sometimes, you may not feel like going out and hanging out at the beach though, and it is times like that when you should reach out to one of the many counselors in Des Moines who are there for you when you need them. 

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Patricia Sumlin

Clinical therapist offering therapy in WA, Des Moines
Counselor License Type(s): LMFT
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseDepression
25 years of experience

Hi there, It takes grit and fortitude to do what you’re doing. Searching for a therapist is a big decision and maybe you’ve reached the point where you realize you can’t do it alone, and need support to work through the frustrations, challenges and struggles you are facing in your life right now. As you read my profile, you’ll notice my professional experience spans over 20 years and my training background covers a wide range of diverse topics. My clinical approach combines psycho-dynamic as well as other modalities like DBT, and systems theory to insure you have access to the most update-to-date information available. While adhering to confidentiality, ethical and legal standards, the individualized treatment approach I employ draws from the latest evidence-based practices, emphasizing a supportive insight-oriented, practical and common sense, straightforward style. I am committed to building an honest, respectful and collaborative alliance with you, to develop a sustainable capacity for continued trust and effective skill building. I make every effort to balance ego and humility, and pride myself on being honest, direct, and non-judgmental so you know you are believed, taken seriously, feel valued, and know you matter. It entails establishing boundaries, and striking a balance between recognizing the impact of confusion, anguish, conflict, suffering and turmoil to acknowledging and benefiting from understanding, insight/education, advice and feedback. The bottom line is; you gain the tools and coping skills necessary to regulate emotions, become mindful and insure that you gain confidence and competence in your ability to achieve a sense of personal safety, security and stability. My areas of expertise include working with diverse, multicultural clients including both Native American and Native Alaskan populations. I have worked in private practice, created an outpatient clinic providing DBT groups for both men and women diagnosed with borderline personality disorder. I was the clinical director of a medical behavioral health setting focusing on chronic illness, a homeless shelter providing mental health, substance abuse and HIV+ AIDS treatment services, an all-men’s dual diagnosed residential program, a trauma informed treatment program in the 56 Yupik villages of Alaska, a recidivism re-entry program for ex-offenders from San Quentin and Folsom State Prisons. I also worked in the 1st hospice in the United States, providing death and dignity counseling services to terminally ill patients and bereavement counseling for families. Currently, my focus is on, although not limited to, working with individuals living with depression, anxiety stemming from trauma histories, recovering from traumatic bonding/narcissistic abuse, and adults on the autistic spectrum who desire a need to understand Asperger’s and the impact it has on their lives and relationships. Also, treatment services for the LGBTQIA community; individuals with a wide range of concerns about sexual orientation, gender identity, sexual fluidity, the coming- out stages, intimacy social stigma, family/relationship conflict, parenting issues, employment concerns and advocacy approaches for the human rights campaign for civil rights. Most importantly, I am passionate about addressing visible, and invisible disability issues, the neuro-diversity of ADD/ADHD, Dyslexia, and the need to address the fundamental issues of disability rights, learning styles, inclusiveness, ableism, workplace bullying and the impact of internalized oppression. What does this all mean for you? I would like to think, it demonstrates my competence and gives you some degree of confidence in my ability to help you achieve greater resiliency, authenticity, and happiness in your life. Chances are you are doing the best you can and you can do better. That's where your ingenuity, willingness, motivation, and commitment come into play. There are lots of reasons for you to consider entertaining the thought of on-line therapy. It is an effective way to navigate through your problems on your timetable, and support really makes a difference. It gives you the opportunity to start an action plan, get the help you need to stay on track, follow through and meet your goals consistently. It's also an emotional tune-up, putting energy and enthusiasm back into your life, so you are empowered to face reality, generate options, problem-solve, let go of the past and take the risks necessary to move forward. Putting the brakes on wishing things were different, you can break through your fears, self-sabotage, addictions, anger issues and codependency in order to set healthy boundaries and discover what it takes to stand up for yourself, say no, protect your own self-interest and become mindful. Expand your capacity for recognizing the importance of TFK - thinking, feelings, and knowing, the pillars of EI, emotional intelligence. By increasing emotional self-regulation, interrupting escalating patterns of RUI, reactivity, urgency and intensity, you will be able to manage triggers which will help you respond more calmly, giving you the ability to take on and accomplish the daily challenges with poise while not allowing the past to dictate your responses. Just think of that, being grounded and thriving, instead of simply surviving. Sounds simple, it's not nor do I pretend it is. Practice makes progress, there is no perfection. Successes and setbacks are inevitable, so it's one step at a time. Call it an incremental manageable approach to deal with getting impatient, bored, or overwhelmed. It’s not unusual for clients, maybe you included, to feel emotionally vulnerable, fragile, stuck, discouraged, helpless, hopeless and struggling with life-defeating behaviors or suicidal ideation. Regardless of the reasons you seek therapy, it is imperative that you feel understood, supported and can speak freely in order to benefit from the therapeutic experience so you can connect, learn, share, grow and pay it forward. Everything is connected by chains of events, coupled with your vulnerabilities, temperament, and your life experiences while your identity is formed by both narratives, both internal and external. Perhaps it's time you learned to see yourself through kinder eyes, to look at the world from a more neutral stance, recognize that co-perspectives exist, repair and rebuild in some instances vs. re-enacting and repeating, that way, you can accept consequences gracefully, cultivate a willingness to wait, tread softly, play by the rules, make lemonade from lemons, advocate for living, confront and process guilt and shame and recognize that there is no point going to an empty well and expecting water. Accessing online therapy is safe, secure, convenient, confidential, and cost effective. Keep in mind, you can work on understanding your underlying core issues, the impact of trauma, connecting the historical dots of your life, develop a mental health recovery plan, increase focus, concentration, motivation, and simply live without the drama and recurring crisis. Dramatically improve your ability to think and feel more positive and hopeful. It's like a long awaited of breath of fresh air! Instead of being on automatic pilot, you take ownership of your choices by being accountable and responsible, both deliberate, and intentional. Benefit from a trusting relationship with me, built on a foundation of mutual respect that gives you the best chance at personal growth and enhancing your own functioning. Improve your physical, mental and emotional well-being by stepping outside your comfort zone. It's about living with hope, having both meaning and purpose, and identifying and living your own values. Instead of suffering in silence you can live, laugh, learn, lead, love and leave a legacy. It's your opportunity to build a life worth living. I invite you to reach out to me. EDUCATION AND TRAINING BA in Humanities/Social Justice MA in Social Clinical Psychology Dual Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist Trained in EMDR Levels I and II Trained in Palliative Care and Hospice Care Trained in Aging, Grief & Loss, Transitions, Chronic Illness Trained and Nationally Certified in Dialectical Behavior Therapy Trained in Cinema ”Reel” to “Real” Film Group Therapy Trained in Co-Occurring Mental Health and Substance Abuse Treatment/Recovery Trained in Trauma-informed Care and Trauma-specific Practices Trained in Gottman Method Couples Therapy Level I Trained in Multiculturalism, Disability Rights, Ethnic Minorities, Culturally Diverse Populations including Race, Gender, Class, Religion, Power/Privilege and LGBTQIA Orientation/Identity and Coming-Out stages.

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Mary "Jane" Poulson

Clinical therapist offering therapy in WA, Des Moines
Counselor License Type(s): MA,LMHC,NCC
Stress, AnxietySelf esteemCareer difficultiesDepressionCoping with life changes
30 years of experience

Hello and welcome. My name is Mary "Jane" Poulson and I go by "Jane". Thank you for reviewing my profile. I know how difficult it can be to reach out for help and even more challenging to find a therapist who feels comfortable enough to trust and share our problems, conflicts, or emotional pain with. I am here to provide support, assist you with processing and offer tools to help you manage and possibly resolve some of life's challenges. I have more than 25 years of post-graduate experience in the behavioral health field working with adolescents and adults specializing in the treatment of anxiety, depression, and trauma while being compassionate and respectful. I am a graduate of Gonzaga University with a Master of Arts in Counseling Psychology and I completed my undergraduate program in Psychology at the University of Oregon. I have been a Washington State Licensed Mental Health Counselor (#LH00005937) since 2001, a Children’s Mental Health Specialist since 2000 and a National Certified Counselor (#43150) since 1995. My therapy style is down to earth and interactive providing counseling as a facilitator and educator. My approaches include, but are not limited to, Client-Centered, Solution-Focused, evidenced-based Cognitive Behavioral Therapy(CBT), Trauma-Focused CBT, Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) and teaching mindfulness skills to decrease and manage symptoms while providing a supportive, safe therapeutic environment. I integrate complementary methodologies and techniques to offer a highly personalized approach tailored to each individual. I am also experienced working with grief and loss, post-partum depression, other mood disorders, LGBTQ focus, attention problems, chronic pain, communication and relationship problems, job stress or other life issues. It takes courage to ask for help, so if you think I could be a good match please reach out and we'll work together to improve the quality of your life. I look forward to meeting you. Be well. Jane Poulson, MA, LMHC, LPC, NCC

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Dr. Lindsay Ghannam

Clinical therapist offering therapy in WA, Des Moines
Counselor License Type(s): EDD,LMHC,MA
Stress, AnxietySleeping disordersParenting issuesDepressionCoaching
14 years of experience

Hi and Welcome to my site, it is nice to meet you and I am so glad that you've decided to reach out for help. I look forward to working with you! :) Bio Dr. Lindsay Ghannam, Ed.D., M.A., LMHC, is a holistic mental health coach and counselor whose compassion, drive and intuition have all earned her the reputation as a service-centered leader. As an advocate of positive change, she is on a lifelong mission to empower women to embrace their infinite potential through the power of natural remedies, from herbalism and healthy eating to spirituality. Ultimately, her vision is to heal their anxiety or depression by helping them pave their way to calm, conscious clarity and all-encompassing serenity. Throughout the course of a decade, Lindsay has gained extensive hands-on experience in the assessment, diagnosis and treatment of mental health disorders. Lindsay is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and holding a Doctorate in Counseling, she has worked as a Crisis Intervention Specialist, Research Analyst, Addictions Specialist and in private practice. Dr. Ghannam holds additional credentials as a certified body-mind coach and certified domestic violence counselor. Above all else, she has experienced and overcome the hardship of anxiety first-hand, which enables her to deeply empathize with each valued client. When she isn’t guiding her clients to total-life transformation, Lindsay enjoys living life as mindfully and soulfully as possible. She especially loves making tea and cooking nutritious meals, and even hosts a radio show on natural solutions for anxiety. Most importantly, she cherishes quality time spent with her three children who are ages 3, 6, and 15.

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April Mullen

Clinical therapist offering therapy in WA, Des Moines
Stress, AnxietyLGBTTrauma and abuseSelf esteemCoping with life changes
10 years of experience

I am licensed in Washington with 10 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, lgbt-related issues, coping with grief and loss, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. 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. 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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Laura Falsgraf

Clinical therapist offering therapy in WA, Des Moines
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseDepressionADHD
26 years of experience

I am licensed in Washington with 26 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, family conflicts, trauma and abuse, & 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!

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Amanda McDade

Clinical therapist offering therapy in WA, Des Moines
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesGriefSelf esteemCoping with life changes
4 years of experience

I am licensed in Washington with over 10 years of professional experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, coping with grief and loss, motivation, self esteem, and confidence. I have worked for many years with older adults and their families, as well as people living with chronic illnesses and economic stressors. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion - human to human. I also know that there is therapeutic power in simply having a consistent space to process with a trained listener. However, I will tailor our dialogue and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. My experience is grounded in Narrative Therapy, Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, Mindfulness and Existential Therapy, and an acknowledgement that there is no one-right approach to any person. 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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Christopher Jackson

Clinical therapist offering therapy in WA, Des Moines
Stress, AnxietyLGBTIntimacy-related issuesDepressionCoping with life changes
14 years of experience

I am licensed in Washington with 15 years of professional therapy practice. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, intimacy related issues, & depression. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialog and treatment to meet your unique needs and style. I look forward to helping work through whatever may be holding you back from a happier life.

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Dr. Lynette Frantzen

Clinical therapist offering therapy in WA, Des Moines
Relationship issuesIntimacy-related issuesAnger managementSelf esteemDepression
19 years of experience

I am licensed in Texas and Washington with 19 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with relationship issues, intimacy related 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 sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

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Billie Schwalbe

Clinical therapist offering therapy in WA, Des Moines
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefDepressionCoping with life changes
5 years of experience

I am licensed in Washington with 5 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, coping with grief and loss, & depression. 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 and skill building.

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Britney Monroe

Clinical therapist offering therapy in WA, Des Moines
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseSelf esteemCareer difficulties
7 years of experience

I am licensed in North Carolina, South Carolina and Washington with 7 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 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.

How to find a therapist for counseling in Des Moines

Finding the best therapist close by in Des Moines 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 Des Moines 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 Des Moines. 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 Des Moines, 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 Des Moines region and in the state of Washington. 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 Des Moines 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 Des Moines 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 Des Moines 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 Des Moines, elsewhere in King, or in the greater state of Washington. 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 Des Moines 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 Des Moines 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 Des Moines 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 Des Moines may not take health insurance, some in the state of Washington 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 Washington 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 Des Moines online therapy platform verified?

Therapists in Des Moines, Washington 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 Des Moines 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 Des Moines 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 Des Moines 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 Des Moines?

One of the potentially rewarding aspects of working with a Des Moines 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 Des Moines 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 Des Moines 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 WA, 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 98198 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 Des Moines counselor?

Before seeing your Des Moines 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. Des Moines 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 Des Moines 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 Des Moines 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 Des Moines, Washington 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.

Des Moines 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 Des Moines, Washington

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 Des Moines 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 Des Moines.

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

98148, 98198

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