Child Therapists in Ankeny, IA

Photo of Hallie Evans, t-LMHC, Counselor
Hallie Evans
Counselor, t-LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ankeny, IA 50023
Seeking mental health services for your child or teen? I am here to help! Call our office today! I look forward to working with you and your child!.
I currently work with children and adolescents who are struggling with symptoms of ADHD, anxiety, autism spectrum disorder, depression, mood dysregulation, anger, and trauma. In a typical session, we may work on grounding and mindfulness techniques as well as coping skills. We also may explore your child's emotions through play or talk therapy. I primarily use cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), motivational interviewing (MI), and child-centered theories. I also use play therapy modalities as well as sand tray therapy.
Seeking mental health services for your child or teen? I am here to help! Call our office today! I look forward to working with you and your child!.
I currently work with children and adolescents who are struggling with symptoms of ADHD, anxiety, autism spectrum disorder, depression, mood dysregulation, anger, and trauma. In a typical session, we may work on grounding and mindfulness techniques as well as coping skills. We also may explore your child's emotions through play or talk therapy. I primarily use cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), motivational interviewing (MI), and child-centered theories. I also use play therapy modalities as well as sand tray therapy.
(515) 320-8561 View (515) 320-8561
Photo of Marissa Myers, MA, LPC, LMHC, Counselor
Marissa Myers
Counselor, MA, LPC, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ankeny, IA 50023
I enjoy working with adults and children aged 4-11.
Just as sometimes people get sick and need to visit a doctor, sometimes people need to visit a therapist. This could be due to a clinical diagnosis such as depression or anxiety, the desire to cope with past trauma, or just in response to the many and varied challenges of life. It takes courage and determination to reach out for help, and I hope that I can help. I believe we all have the ability to achieve lasting change and peace on our own, we just sometimes need help finding the way.
I enjoy working with adults and children aged 4-11.
Just as sometimes people get sick and need to visit a doctor, sometimes people need to visit a therapist. This could be due to a clinical diagnosis such as depression or anxiety, the desire to cope with past trauma, or just in response to the many and varied challenges of life. It takes courage and determination to reach out for help, and I hope that I can help. I believe we all have the ability to achieve lasting change and peace on our own, we just sometimes need help finding the way.
(515) 517-8102 View (515) 517-8102
Jeremy Overbaugh
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW
Verified Verified
Ankeny, IA 50021
Jeremy is a state-licensed, master's level therapist with 20+ years experience working with children and families.
Jeremy Overbaugh values and enjoys working with children, adolescents, and families who are responding to a broad range of problems and concerns in their lives and relationships. He offers a relaxed, non-judgmental approach to therapy, with the goal of providing collaborative and effective treatment to the individuals he works with. Jeremy's primary areas of clinic focus include: ADHD, anxiety, OCD, depression, anger/behavioral issues, PTSD/trauma, ASD, family conflict/separation/divorce issues and school difficulties. Jeremy offers individual adult and couples therapy, as well.
Jeremy is a state-licensed, master's level therapist with 20+ years experience working with children and families.
Jeremy Overbaugh values and enjoys working with children, adolescents, and families who are responding to a broad range of problems and concerns in their lives and relationships. He offers a relaxed, non-judgmental approach to therapy, with the goal of providing collaborative and effective treatment to the individuals he works with. Jeremy's primary areas of clinic focus include: ADHD, anxiety, OCD, depression, anger/behavioral issues, PTSD/trauma, ASD, family conflict/separation/divorce issues and school difficulties. Jeremy offers individual adult and couples therapy, as well.
(515) 519-3473 View (515) 519-3473
Photo of Danielle L Sodergren, LMHC, IAADC, RPT, Counselor
Danielle L Sodergren
Counselor, LMHC, IAADC, RPT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ankeny, IA 50021
I work with both children (ages 5 and up) and adults.
My goal is to help clients gain understanding and insight into the underlying causes of thoughts and behaviors that may no longer serve them. I take an integrative approach to psychotherapy, using a number of different evidence based therapeutic techniques tailored to meet the individual needs of each of my clients.
I work with both children (ages 5 and up) and adults.
My goal is to help clients gain understanding and insight into the underlying causes of thoughts and behaviors that may no longer serve them. I take an integrative approach to psychotherapy, using a number of different evidence based therapeutic techniques tailored to meet the individual needs of each of my clients.
(515) 602-7766 View (515) 602-7766
Photo of Elaina C Riley, MSW, LISW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Elaina C Riley
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LISW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ankeny, IA 50023
Whether child or adult, the journey is much the same, though the process differs.
Hello Beautiful People! I enjoy seeing all ages, adults, children, and teens. I see both non-traumatized people, who are usually dealing with anxiety and issues with mood, and people who experienced trauma, who deal with pain and many complexities of distress. I believe people get to where they want to if they just keep trying and do not give up. I would call that growing. I believe people want to feel regarded, respected, like they belong, and satisfied about something in their lives. I like to partner with people to create a map of how to untangle the knots, dislodge the stuck places, and move through obstacles to feeling better.
Whether child or adult, the journey is much the same, though the process differs.
Hello Beautiful People! I enjoy seeing all ages, adults, children, and teens. I see both non-traumatized people, who are usually dealing with anxiety and issues with mood, and people who experienced trauma, who deal with pain and many complexities of distress. I believe people get to where they want to if they just keep trying and do not give up. I would call that growing. I believe people want to feel regarded, respected, like they belong, and satisfied about something in their lives. I like to partner with people to create a map of how to untangle the knots, dislodge the stuck places, and move through obstacles to feeling better.
(515) 417-2193 View (515) 417-2193
Photo of Erika Smith, LISW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Erika Smith
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ankeny, IA 50023
I have experience providing therapy to children, adolescents and adults.
I am a clinical social worker providing therapy to children, adolescents and adults who are seeking a safe and welcoming environment. I believe therapy should be a collaborative approach to reaching goals and bettering your life. I value strong therapeutic relationships so that you may find it easier to trust and gain the skills you need. I want to help you strengthen your own self-awareness and see that therapy is a place for you to improve the steps you are taking to reach your goals.
I have experience providing therapy to children, adolescents and adults.
I am a clinical social worker providing therapy to children, adolescents and adults who are seeking a safe and welcoming environment. I believe therapy should be a collaborative approach to reaching goals and bettering your life. I value strong therapeutic relationships so that you may find it easier to trust and gain the skills you need. I want to help you strengthen your own self-awareness and see that therapy is a place for you to improve the steps you are taking to reach your goals.
(515) 420-1707 View (515) 420-1707
Photo of Melissa Lohmann, MS, LMHC, Counselor
Melissa Lohmann
Counselor, MS, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ankeny, IA 50023
I am passionate about working with children and their families, teens and individuals working toward a balanced life.
My professional experience includes working with children, adolescents, and adults with a variety of concerns including symptoms associated with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, autism, relationship distress, self-harm, domestic violence and much more. With over 15 years of mental health experience my empathetic, client-centered approach empowers my clients to feel heard and understood through the therapeutic relationship.
I am passionate about working with children and their families, teens and individuals working toward a balanced life.
My professional experience includes working with children, adolescents, and adults with a variety of concerns including symptoms associated with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, autism, relationship distress, self-harm, domestic violence and much more. With over 15 years of mental health experience my empathetic, client-centered approach empowers my clients to feel heard and understood through the therapeutic relationship.
(515) 949-4409 View (515) 949-4409
Photo of Jenny Celentano, LISW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jenny Celentano
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW
Verified Verified
Ankeny, IA 50023
I have experience in working with children and adolescents (ages 4-17), families and adults. I utilize play therapy techniques to assist children in coping with big emotions. I also utilize a client-centered approach and am passionate about helping individuals grow and overcome challenges throughout their life. Whether you have current stressors you need help navigating or challenges from the past you are ready to talk about, I am here to help along the way. If you believe I may be the right therapist for you, please reach out. I look forward to meeting you!
I have experience in working with children and adolescents (ages 4-17), families and adults. I utilize play therapy techniques to assist children in coping with big emotions. I also utilize a client-centered approach and am passionate about helping individuals grow and overcome challenges throughout their life. Whether you have current stressors you need help navigating or challenges from the past you are ready to talk about, I am here to help along the way. If you believe I may be the right therapist for you, please reach out. I look forward to meeting you!
(515) 361-7254 View (515) 361-7254
Photo of Ashley Brockman, MS, (t)LMHC, Counselor
Ashley Brockman
Counselor, MS, (t)LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ankeny, IA 50023
With children and adolescents, I utilize a lot of cognitive-behavioral therapy techniques as well as play therapy.
I am dedicated to helping clients reach their goals and live the life they wish to have. I am passionate about mental health and am proud to offer services that assist with difficult symptoms and the challenges that life throws us.
With children and adolescents, I utilize a lot of cognitive-behavioral therapy techniques as well as play therapy.
I am dedicated to helping clients reach their goals and live the life they wish to have. I am passionate about mental health and am proud to offer services that assist with difficult symptoms and the challenges that life throws us.
(515) 501-5876 View (515) 501-5876
Photo of Meagan Hruska, MS, LMHC, Counselor
Meagan Hruska
Counselor, MS, LMHC
Verified Verified
Ankeny, IA 50021
Waitlist for new clients
I include elements of inner child work, Emotional Freedom Technique (EFT), experiential learning, somatic approaches (i.
I am here to guide you back to yourself. I believe you are actually the one who “knows,” and my job is to help you rebuild the trust you have within yourself to access your own knowing. My approach is rooted in relationships as the foundation of healing, esp. the relationship we have with ourselves. My intention is to assist you in re-discovering the authentic essence of who you are and to help you become more embodied, integrated and whole. I take a trauma informed, client-centered approach and draw from principals based on the interconnection of our beliefs, emotions, body, nervous system, brain, experiences and relationships.
I include elements of inner child work, Emotional Freedom Technique (EFT), experiential learning, somatic approaches (i.
I am here to guide you back to yourself. I believe you are actually the one who “knows,” and my job is to help you rebuild the trust you have within yourself to access your own knowing. My approach is rooted in relationships as the foundation of healing, esp. the relationship we have with ourselves. My intention is to assist you in re-discovering the authentic essence of who you are and to help you become more embodied, integrated and whole. I take a trauma informed, client-centered approach and draw from principals based on the interconnection of our beliefs, emotions, body, nervous system, brain, experiences and relationships.
(515) 516-4909 View (515) 516-4909
Photo of Susin Bredice, LISW, RPT-S, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Susin Bredice
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW, RPT-S
Verified Verified
Ankeny, IA 50023
My experience is with individuals who are struggling with depression, anxiety, loss, trauma, adoption related issues, substance abuse, family conflict, child welfare, and managing life events.
Making the decision to start therapy can be a very vulnerable time, whether it be for you or your child. In therapy you will have a safe and judgement free space to meet your goals. I enjoy working with children and adults to recognize strengths and build on them to assist you in meeting your well being needs. Whether you are struggling to overcome an incident or event, wanting to make specific changes in your life, or looking to improve your overall quality of life and feel better about yourself, we will work together.
My experience is with individuals who are struggling with depression, anxiety, loss, trauma, adoption related issues, substance abuse, family conflict, child welfare, and managing life events.
Making the decision to start therapy can be a very vulnerable time, whether it be for you or your child. In therapy you will have a safe and judgement free space to meet your goals. I enjoy working with children and adults to recognize strengths and build on them to assist you in meeting your well being needs. Whether you are struggling to overcome an incident or event, wanting to make specific changes in your life, or looking to improve your overall quality of life and feel better about yourself, we will work together.
(515) 512-4658 View (515) 512-4658
Photo of Dr. Beth Augspurger, PhD, tLMHC, BCBA-D, Counselor
Dr. Beth Augspurger
Counselor, PhD, tLMHC, BCBA-D
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ankeny, IA 50023  (Online Only)
I’m a mother of two young children and appreciate and understand the celebrations and pressures that come with work and family life.
Are you feeling stuck, unbalanced, or challenged by situations and relationships in your life? Are you struggling with depression, anxiety, stress, or feeling overwhelmed? My passion is to help others improve their lives. My approach is holistic with the use of evidence-based techniques to help clients heal, focus on the present, and plan for their future. I am flexible and able to quickly adjust based on the diverse needs of clients. I enjoy working with adults, couples, and families. I also find joy working with children and adolescents.
I’m a mother of two young children and appreciate and understand the celebrations and pressures that come with work and family life.
Are you feeling stuck, unbalanced, or challenged by situations and relationships in your life? Are you struggling with depression, anxiety, stress, or feeling overwhelmed? My passion is to help others improve their lives. My approach is holistic with the use of evidence-based techniques to help clients heal, focus on the present, and plan for their future. I am flexible and able to quickly adjust based on the diverse needs of clients. I enjoy working with adults, couples, and families. I also find joy working with children and adolescents.
(515) 884-5966 View (515) 884-5966
Photo of Lisa Witter, LMHC, LPC, Counselor
Lisa Witter
Counselor, LMHC, LPC
Verified Verified
Ankeny, IA 50021
Waitlist for new clients
I am a therapist and licensed counselor in Ames, IA. I offer in-person and virtual sessions for women ages 18+. I specialize in helping you build confidence, achieve personal goals and be less stressed. Enjoy better relationships and overall vitality. Learn effective strategies for a strong inner guidance. Feel peaceful, creative and connected through challenges. I also offer parent coaching for families with children ages 2-25. Contact me, or sign up on my website, for your free initial consultation.
I am a therapist and licensed counselor in Ames, IA. I offer in-person and virtual sessions for women ages 18+. I specialize in helping you build confidence, achieve personal goals and be less stressed. Enjoy better relationships and overall vitality. Learn effective strategies for a strong inner guidance. Feel peaceful, creative and connected through challenges. I also offer parent coaching for families with children ages 2-25. Contact me, or sign up on my website, for your free initial consultation.
(515) 827-2593 View (515) 827-2593
Photo of Erin Fiala - Comfort Counseling, LLC, LMHC, Counselor
Comfort Counseling, LLC
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Ankeny, IA 50023
Whether you’re seeking help for yourself or your child, I am here to guide you through the journey of healing and personal growth.
Welcome! I am so glad you are here. Making the decision to start therapy can be one of the hardest decisions to make. I am Erin, a compassionate therapist dedicated to fostering growth and resilience. Guided by a person-centered, strengths-based philosophy, I specialize in weaving play therapy techniques, sand tray, and cognitive-behavioral therapy into our therapeutic journey. I empower clients to understand and reshape their thought patterns. My utilization of play therapy techniques and sand tray facilitates a unique and effective approach, especially with younger clients or those who find traditional talk therapy challenging.
Whether you’re seeking help for yourself or your child, I am here to guide you through the journey of healing and personal growth.
Welcome! I am so glad you are here. Making the decision to start therapy can be one of the hardest decisions to make. I am Erin, a compassionate therapist dedicated to fostering growth and resilience. Guided by a person-centered, strengths-based philosophy, I specialize in weaving play therapy techniques, sand tray, and cognitive-behavioral therapy into our therapeutic journey. I empower clients to understand and reshape their thought patterns. My utilization of play therapy techniques and sand tray facilitates a unique and effective approach, especially with younger clients or those who find traditional talk therapy challenging.
(515) 523-6578 View (515) 523-6578
Photo of Hanna C Callahan, LISW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Hanna C Callahan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW
Verified Verified
Ankeny, IA 50023
The decision to seek therapy can often feel intimidating and vulnerable. As a therapist I strive to provide a safe and empowering space to explore your individual needs within the context of your overall environment. My goal is to help promote healing and growth that feels personalized and attainable to your specific needs, experiences, and values, as well as providing you with the opportunity to collaborate on a treatment plan tailored to your mental health and overcoming the challenges life throws your way.
The decision to seek therapy can often feel intimidating and vulnerable. As a therapist I strive to provide a safe and empowering space to explore your individual needs within the context of your overall environment. My goal is to help promote healing and growth that feels personalized and attainable to your specific needs, experiences, and values, as well as providing you with the opportunity to collaborate on a treatment plan tailored to your mental health and overcoming the challenges life throws your way.
(515) 852-5318 View (515) 852-5318
Photo of Paul Aaron Guerdet, LISW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Paul Aaron Guerdet
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Ankeny, IA 50023
*Telehealth and in person available* I am a Licensed Independent Social Worker who works with teens and adults struggling with anxiety and/or depression. I help those grappling with irritability, feelings of isolation, sleep disturbances, feeling overwhelmed, and struggles with motivation. If you're feeling on edge, alone, like no one understands what you're going through, or if you need a new perspective, I will work to help you make sense of your experiences and get you to a place you want to be. I match well with teens finding their place as adults, and adults who grew up in toxic environments, wanting to process.
*Telehealth and in person available* I am a Licensed Independent Social Worker who works with teens and adults struggling with anxiety and/or depression. I help those grappling with irritability, feelings of isolation, sleep disturbances, feeling overwhelmed, and struggles with motivation. If you're feeling on edge, alone, like no one understands what you're going through, or if you need a new perspective, I will work to help you make sense of your experiences and get you to a place you want to be. I match well with teens finding their place as adults, and adults who grew up in toxic environments, wanting to process.
(515) 585-1244 View (515) 585-1244
Photo of Sarah Andrews, LMFT, MS, Marriage & Family Therapist
Sarah Andrews
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ankeny, IA 50023
I am accepting new (bi-weekly, daytime) clients at this time. My goal is to help others learn how they can develop peace, both with themselves and with their circumstances. I believe in client-specific techniques that empower individuals to develop the tools necessary to achieve emotional, relational, spiritual, and physical health and well-being.
I am accepting new (bi-weekly, daytime) clients at this time. My goal is to help others learn how they can develop peace, both with themselves and with their circumstances. I believe in client-specific techniques that empower individuals to develop the tools necessary to achieve emotional, relational, spiritual, and physical health and well-being.
(515) 585-6914 View (515) 585-6914
Photo of Mackenzie Trotter, MA, LMHC , Counselor
Mackenzie Trotter
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Ankeny, IA 50021  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
“When people don't have any curiosity about themselves, that is always a bad sign.” Irvin Yalom Hello! You reading this seems to be a good sign; it tells me you have an interest in examining your life, as something probably isn’t working the way you’d like it to. I use a humanistic therapy approach, specifically existentialism, reality therapy, and attachment theory — although these might not mean anything to you now, they will — as I enjoy sharing everything I know with the hope it will help create additional meaning in your life. We'll start by peeling back layers in pursuit of truth, as truth and taking responsibility are key.
“When people don't have any curiosity about themselves, that is always a bad sign.” Irvin Yalom Hello! You reading this seems to be a good sign; it tells me you have an interest in examining your life, as something probably isn’t working the way you’d like it to. I use a humanistic therapy approach, specifically existentialism, reality therapy, and attachment theory — although these might not mean anything to you now, they will — as I enjoy sharing everything I know with the hope it will help create additional meaning in your life. We'll start by peeling back layers in pursuit of truth, as truth and taking responsibility are key.
(515) 298-6959 View (515) 298-6959
Photo of Donald K Gilbert - New Life Counseling, MS,  PhD, LMHC, BCPC, Counselor
New Life Counseling
Counselor, MS, PhD, LMHC, BCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ankeny, IA 50023
Our New Life professionals provide outpatient counseling services for adolescents, adults, couples, families, and groups at our locations in Ankeny and West Des Moines. Our professional training, experience, faith, and commitment to honoring each individual, enables us to offer counseling that empowers you with the tools, techniques, and confidence necessary to improve your life. We offer support and guidance in this journey through life's many changes and transitions as we partner together to work toward meeting your goals. Visit our counselor's page on our website to learn more about our therapists and their areas of focus.
Our New Life professionals provide outpatient counseling services for adolescents, adults, couples, families, and groups at our locations in Ankeny and West Des Moines. Our professional training, experience, faith, and commitment to honoring each individual, enables us to offer counseling that empowers you with the tools, techniques, and confidence necessary to improve your life. We offer support and guidance in this journey through life's many changes and transitions as we partner together to work toward meeting your goals. Visit our counselor's page on our website to learn more about our therapists and their areas of focus.
(515) 436-4384 View (515) 436-4384
Photo of Angie Appelgate, MSW, LISW, CDWF, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Angie Appelgate
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LISW, CDWF
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ankeny, IA 50023
As a therapist and group facilitator, I work with adolescents, adults, couples, and families. I provide a caring and supportive relationship to clients to help them grow and change in positive ways. I enjoy working with families to create more productive and supportive family dynamics. I love working with clients to help empower them to process and heal from adverse and traumatic life experiences, change unhealthy thought patterns and behaviors, and explore and overcome shame messages that are keeping them from living a wholehearted life as well as foster hope and move towards more authentic living.
As a therapist and group facilitator, I work with adolescents, adults, couples, and families. I provide a caring and supportive relationship to clients to help them grow and change in positive ways. I enjoy working with families to create more productive and supportive family dynamics. I love working with clients to help empower them to process and heal from adverse and traumatic life experiences, change unhealthy thought patterns and behaviors, and explore and overcome shame messages that are keeping them from living a wholehearted life as well as foster hope and move towards more authentic living.
(515) 203-8592 View (515) 203-8592
1
Child Therapists
Child psychologists in Ankeny, IA provide mental health therapy to children and are experts in child development.

Every comprehensive review of therapy with children shows that all credible approaches, when performed by a competent mental health clinician, produce almost the same results. About half of all kids will get better. Of those that improve, 80% will show progress in a relatively short time, while the remaining 20% will need longer-term support.

The best child therapists in Ankeny build great relationships with the child and the parent. They also see the child's strengths and are open to hearing the child's possible solutions to the challenges the child faces. Finally, a good therapist appreciates the child's culture and is sensitive to the values of the child's community.