Female Therapists in Des Moines, IA

Photo of Samantha Street, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Samantha Street
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Des Moines, IA 50315  (Online Only)
Has the battle with self-harm, addiction, eating disorders, relationship issues, or even low self-esteem left you feeling like you are “stuck” in this cycle? Maybe you were diagnosed with PTSD or BPD and you feel like these symptoms control how you live YOUR life? If you’re looking to experience lasting relief and be the one living your life, now might be the time to connect with a therapist who can help. You are not the problem. How the symptoms have expressed themselves in your daily life is the problem and you want a lasting solution. Let us work together to create a plan that offers hope that relief is possible.
Has the battle with self-harm, addiction, eating disorders, relationship issues, or even low self-esteem left you feeling like you are “stuck” in this cycle? Maybe you were diagnosed with PTSD or BPD and you feel like these symptoms control how you live YOUR life? If you’re looking to experience lasting relief and be the one living your life, now might be the time to connect with a therapist who can help. You are not the problem. How the symptoms have expressed themselves in your daily life is the problem and you want a lasting solution. Let us work together to create a plan that offers hope that relief is possible.
(515) 349-8611 View (515) 349-8611
Photo of Hilary Johnson, LMHC, Counselor
Hilary Johnson
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Des Moines, IA 50309
Immediate appointments availiable. My name is Hilary Johnson and I am a licensed Mental Health Therapist (LMHC). Making the decision to come to therapy is not an easy one whether it is for you or your child. I am here to help by providing a safe, compassionate, and judgement free space. As a client centered therapist my goal is to focus on you and what you need out of therapy. I specialize in children (age 12 and up), teens, and young adults who have experienced trauma in their life. I also specialize in the LGBTQIA population, as an identified therapist.
Immediate appointments availiable. My name is Hilary Johnson and I am a licensed Mental Health Therapist (LMHC). Making the decision to come to therapy is not an easy one whether it is for you or your child. I am here to help by providing a safe, compassionate, and judgement free space. As a client centered therapist my goal is to focus on you and what you need out of therapy. I specialize in children (age 12 and up), teens, and young adults who have experienced trauma in their life. I also specialize in the LGBTQIA population, as an identified therapist.
(515) 375-5576 View (515) 375-5576
Photo of Danielle Ballard-Green, MSW, LISW, CADC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Danielle Ballard-Green
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LISW, CADC
Verified Verified
Des Moines, IA 50309
Waitlist for new clients
I believe therapy can be a catalyst for new beginnings, a safe place to explore fears, loss, trauma, stress and anything holding you back from reaching your full potential. As your therapist I want to provide a safe place for you to learn about yourself, develop new insights, and heal from past hurts and trauma. I enjoy working with clients 16 years old and beyond. I specialize in working with clients who are experiencing life transitions, depression, anxiety, and trauma. I am an LGBTQ+ ally. I am an independently licensed clinical social worker (LISW) and licensed substance abuse counselor (CADC).
I believe therapy can be a catalyst for new beginnings, a safe place to explore fears, loss, trauma, stress and anything holding you back from reaching your full potential. As your therapist I want to provide a safe place for you to learn about yourself, develop new insights, and heal from past hurts and trauma. I enjoy working with clients 16 years old and beyond. I specialize in working with clients who are experiencing life transitions, depression, anxiety, and trauma. I am an LGBTQ+ ally. I am an independently licensed clinical social worker (LISW) and licensed substance abuse counselor (CADC).
(515) 257-6137 View (515) 257-6137
Photo of Janet Rieckhoff, LMHC, MA, M DIV, Counselor
Janet Rieckhoff
Counselor, LMHC, MA, M DIV
Verified Verified
Des Moines, IA 50314
Taking new clients. I offer telehealth and in person sessions. Feeling stuck in same unhealthy situations and relationships which produce anxiety, anger, depression and broken trust? We can explore communication patterns, attachment styles, and past traumas affecting relationships. I provide a nonjudgmental environment to work on your issues. I am experienced in areas of anxiety, depression, grief, chronic pain, spirituality, and family issues of parenting, caretaking, LGBTQA issues, adoption, infertility. First I listen to your life situation, then give homework, and then build on your strengths so you can reach your life goals.
Taking new clients. I offer telehealth and in person sessions. Feeling stuck in same unhealthy situations and relationships which produce anxiety, anger, depression and broken trust? We can explore communication patterns, attachment styles, and past traumas affecting relationships. I provide a nonjudgmental environment to work on your issues. I am experienced in areas of anxiety, depression, grief, chronic pain, spirituality, and family issues of parenting, caretaking, LGBTQA issues, adoption, infertility. First I listen to your life situation, then give homework, and then build on your strengths so you can reach your life goals.
(515) 517-2953 View (515) 517-2953
Photo of Melissa Steenhoven, LISW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Melissa Steenhoven
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW
Verified Verified
Des Moines, IA 50310
Seeking to make changes in your life for a better tomorrow? I have been helping people to make these changes for over 20 years by offering a safe and accepting environment and starting with where you are at in the change process. I believe that by making small changes in one's life, we can start on the path of making life more fulfilling and closer to the life that you want to live.
Seeking to make changes in your life for a better tomorrow? I have been helping people to make these changes for over 20 years by offering a safe and accepting environment and starting with where you are at in the change process. I believe that by making small changes in one's life, we can start on the path of making life more fulfilling and closer to the life that you want to live.
(515) 393-6906 View (515) 393-6906
Photo of Katie Gaffey, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Katie Gaffey
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Des Moines, IA 50312
Welcome! I am currently accepting new clients ages 12+. I enjoy working with people from various backgrounds and understand the importance of every individual being comfortable and feeling safe in our space. Together, we will develop a unique plan best suited to your needs. My goal is to help provide you support as you navigate day to day challenges.
Welcome! I am currently accepting new clients ages 12+. I enjoy working with people from various backgrounds and understand the importance of every individual being comfortable and feeling safe in our space. Together, we will develop a unique plan best suited to your needs. My goal is to help provide you support as you navigate day to day challenges.
(515) 298-8914 View (515) 298-8914
Photo of Nina Pressman, LISW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Nina Pressman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Des Moines, IA 50309
Life can be hard. From daily stressors to past trauma to life changes and more, I know that you are dealing with a lot! I am here to partner with you to help you get through the hard things in life and help you find joy.
Life can be hard. From daily stressors to past trauma to life changes and more, I know that you are dealing with a lot! I am here to partner with you to help you get through the hard things in life and help you find joy.
(515) 854-3390 View (515) 854-3390
Photo of Victoria Griffin, LMHC, LPC , NCC, Counselor
Victoria Griffin
Counselor, LMHC, LPC , NCC
Verified Verified
Des Moines, IA 50309  (Online Only)
Hi! I'm Victoria Griffin. I'm a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) and LPC (Louisiana license) based in Iowa. I view my clients as individuals first. I am here to share the human experience with you and collaborate with you, so we can best reach your goals. I like to use a variety of therapeutic approaches and modalities. I knew since I was a teenager that I wanted to help people in some way shape or form. This was due to an unfortunate natural disaster in my home state.
Hi! I'm Victoria Griffin. I'm a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) and LPC (Louisiana license) based in Iowa. I view my clients as individuals first. I am here to share the human experience with you and collaborate with you, so we can best reach your goals. I like to use a variety of therapeutic approaches and modalities. I knew since I was a teenager that I wanted to help people in some way shape or form. This was due to an unfortunate natural disaster in my home state.
(515) 316-6904 View (515) 316-6904
Photo of Jennifer L Harrington, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jennifer L Harrington
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Des Moines, IA 50315  (Online Only)
***Teletherapy***Phone/Video Sessions and Messaging Plans Available*** I am currently accepting new clients across the state of Iowa for teletherapy. As a therapist my goal is to join you on your journey, provide support, offer tools, and empower you to meet your goals. My style is non-judgmental and exploratory. I will be direct and honest with you, challenge you when necessary, and always strive to bring out your greatest potential.
***Teletherapy***Phone/Video Sessions and Messaging Plans Available*** I am currently accepting new clients across the state of Iowa for teletherapy. As a therapist my goal is to join you on your journey, provide support, offer tools, and empower you to meet your goals. My style is non-judgmental and exploratory. I will be direct and honest with you, challenge you when necessary, and always strive to bring out your greatest potential.
(469) 551-4208 View (469) 551-4208
Photo of Anna Sposeto, MS, LMHC, CADC, NCC, Counselor
Anna Sposeto
Counselor, MS, LMHC, CADC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Des Moines, IA 50321
I treat a variety of clients who live in Iowa or Washington. My focus is primarily on 18-40-year-olds who have a desire to change their patterns and are willing to be an active participant in their healing journey. If you are wanting to work on your relationship with self and others, explore attachment, childhood dynamics, and do the hard work then we will likely be a good fit!
I treat a variety of clients who live in Iowa or Washington. My focus is primarily on 18-40-year-olds who have a desire to change their patterns and are willing to be an active participant in their healing journey. If you are wanting to work on your relationship with self and others, explore attachment, childhood dynamics, and do the hard work then we will likely be a good fit!
(515) 604-7838 View (515) 604-7838
Photo of Dr. Kathleen (Katy) Laurin, PhD, Psychologist
Dr. Kathleen (Katy) Laurin
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Des Moines, IA 50312
I am a Licensed Clinical Psychologist who specializes in working with adults and older adults who are experiencing emotional distress and/or who are concerned about age-related cognitive changes. I believe early assessment of memory or other suspected changes reduces anxiety, provides information that can improve brain health, and helps clients and their loved ones prepare for the future. Cognitive evaluations include interview, testing, review of results, and a report to you and/or your healthcare provider. Cognitive evaluations are conducted at Des Moines University, Behavioral Health Clinic. Please call 515-271-1716 to schedule.
I am a Licensed Clinical Psychologist who specializes in working with adults and older adults who are experiencing emotional distress and/or who are concerned about age-related cognitive changes. I believe early assessment of memory or other suspected changes reduces anxiety, provides information that can improve brain health, and helps clients and their loved ones prepare for the future. Cognitive evaluations include interview, testing, review of results, and a report to you and/or your healthcare provider. Cognitive evaluations are conducted at Des Moines University, Behavioral Health Clinic. Please call 515-271-1716 to schedule.
(515) 310-4466 View (515) 310-4466
Photo of Jennifer DeVries, LMHC, Counselor
Jennifer DeVries
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Des Moines, IA 50309
Everything happening in your life feels overwhelming and you are struggling to find hope for things to be different. You have experienced some hard things. Maybe you've lost someone you loved dearly, are working in a stressful work environment, or have experienced trauma. You are also still figuring out life as an adult, whether that's college, starting or changing careers, or making big life choices. You may have been struggling for awhile but you've continued to push through stress and focus on other things. Deep down you have been longing to feel more joyful, confident, and courageous and are ready for things to be different .
Everything happening in your life feels overwhelming and you are struggling to find hope for things to be different. You have experienced some hard things. Maybe you've lost someone you loved dearly, are working in a stressful work environment, or have experienced trauma. You are also still figuring out life as an adult, whether that's college, starting or changing careers, or making big life choices. You may have been struggling for awhile but you've continued to push through stress and focus on other things. Deep down you have been longing to feel more joyful, confident, and courageous and are ready for things to be different .
(515) 373-5715 View (515) 373-5715
Photo of Karla Mracek-Knight, MSW, LISW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Karla Mracek-Knight
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LISW
Verified Verified
Des Moines, IA 50309
When someone asks me what I love about being a therapist, my answer is, "Everything." I love meeting new people, understanding their stories, being present for the vulnerable moments and witnessing the hope and change. I provide a warm and inviting space for clients to share their struggles and find their strength. My approach is client-centered, driven by your goals, navigated with compassion and humor.
When someone asks me what I love about being a therapist, my answer is, "Everything." I love meeting new people, understanding their stories, being present for the vulnerable moments and witnessing the hope and change. I provide a warm and inviting space for clients to share their struggles and find their strength. My approach is client-centered, driven by your goals, navigated with compassion and humor.
(515) 575-2053 View (515) 575-2053
Photo of Elizabeth Young, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Elizabeth Young
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Des Moines, IA 50312
I am a licensed Marriage and Family therapy who enjoys working clients 17 and older. My passion is working with both individuals and couples and helping them navigate life graciously and with self compassion. I view the therapeutic relationship to be compassion filled and client-centered, meeting the client where they are at. I believe in utilizing a strength-based, holistic approach in working with clients, and I focus on relationships for the basis of making change.
I am a licensed Marriage and Family therapy who enjoys working clients 17 and older. My passion is working with both individuals and couples and helping them navigate life graciously and with self compassion. I view the therapeutic relationship to be compassion filled and client-centered, meeting the client where they are at. I believe in utilizing a strength-based, holistic approach in working with clients, and I focus on relationships for the basis of making change.
(515) 575-4291 View (515) 575-4291
Photo of Sara Gamblin, LMSW, CADC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sara Gamblin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, CADC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Des Moines, IA 50310
My name is Sara Gamblin, I am a Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW) and Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor (CADC). I firmly believe everyone deserves to feel heard, safe and supported. My goal is to help you discover more about yourself, your strengths, better understand your relationships and build tools as well as strategies to help you navigate the challenges in your life. I strongly support meeting a client where he or she is at and giving them autonomy to work at the pace the client is comfortable. I look forward to working with you to help you find the person you want to be and the life you want to live! I
My name is Sara Gamblin, I am a Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW) and Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor (CADC). I firmly believe everyone deserves to feel heard, safe and supported. My goal is to help you discover more about yourself, your strengths, better understand your relationships and build tools as well as strategies to help you navigate the challenges in your life. I strongly support meeting a client where he or she is at and giving them autonomy to work at the pace the client is comfortable. I look forward to working with you to help you find the person you want to be and the life you want to live! I
(515) 303-2966 View (515) 303-2966
Photo of Shelby Kruse, MS, TLMHC, Counselor
Shelby Kruse
Counselor, MS, TLMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Des Moines, IA 50309
My desire is for you to feel heard and understood in order to move towards more authentic and intentional living. I am playful, emotionally honest, and creative. I value close, caring relationships that build on trust, reflection, and action. I offer a warm, non-judgmental, LGBTQ+-friendly presence. You are the expert on your life and experiences. I will walk alongside you with support and curiosity as you gain insight and understanding about yourself and your social world. I will hold space for your anger and fear as well as your joy and your sorrow. Together we will create a safe enough space to explore all emotions.
My desire is for you to feel heard and understood in order to move towards more authentic and intentional living. I am playful, emotionally honest, and creative. I value close, caring relationships that build on trust, reflection, and action. I offer a warm, non-judgmental, LGBTQ+-friendly presence. You are the expert on your life and experiences. I will walk alongside you with support and curiosity as you gain insight and understanding about yourself and your social world. I will hold space for your anger and fear as well as your joy and your sorrow. Together we will create a safe enough space to explore all emotions.
(515) 726-6311 View (515) 726-6311
Photo of Steph Crandall, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Steph Crandall
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Des Moines, IA 50313  (Online Only)
When you are feeling stressed or overwhelmed to the point it is impacting your day-to-day life, it helps to talk with someone who is both kind and practical — offering hope and nonjudgmental support, but also collaborating with you on finding real solutions. We all need a guide sometimes when life is hard. I am the type of therapist who will provide validation when you need it but also encourage you to take charge of the things within your control. I work with adults who are experiencing anxiety, stress, trouble communicating with a partner or family, and job burnout. In particular, I enjoy working with educators at all levels.
When you are feeling stressed or overwhelmed to the point it is impacting your day-to-day life, it helps to talk with someone who is both kind and practical — offering hope and nonjudgmental support, but also collaborating with you on finding real solutions. We all need a guide sometimes when life is hard. I am the type of therapist who will provide validation when you need it but also encourage you to take charge of the things within your control. I work with adults who are experiencing anxiety, stress, trouble communicating with a partner or family, and job burnout. In particular, I enjoy working with educators at all levels.
(515) 474-7463 View (515) 474-7463
Photo of Kelsey Taylor, LISW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kelsey Taylor
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Des Moines, IA 50309
Waitlist for new clients
“Only when we are brave enough to explore the darkness will we discover the infinite power of our light.” - Brene Brown. I specialize in helping clients recover from trauma, anxiety, depression, intense emotional ups and downs, and low self esteem. I help my clients gain greater compassion and understanding for who they are, achieve new perspectives and qualities, and heal from what is keeping them from living meaningful, courageous, and fulfilling lives.
“Only when we are brave enough to explore the darkness will we discover the infinite power of our light.” - Brene Brown. I specialize in helping clients recover from trauma, anxiety, depression, intense emotional ups and downs, and low self esteem. I help my clients gain greater compassion and understanding for who they are, achieve new perspectives and qualities, and heal from what is keeping them from living meaningful, courageous, and fulfilling lives.
(515) 219-4460 View (515) 219-4460
Photo of Pamela Jeanne Nelson-Grotrian - Aging Pathways, LLC, MSW, LISW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Aging Pathways, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LISW
Verified Verified
Des Moines, IA 50310
Aging can bring a host of new issues such as feelings of isolation after retirement, grief and loss due to deaths of friends and loved ones, and finding new meaning in life after old roles have disappeared. New roles such as being a caregiver for your parents, spouse, partner, adult child, or grandchild can also add stress at this time. Mental health issues such as anxiety, depression, bipolar, addiction, and schizophrenia can continue and sometimes new mental health issues can arise. Health concerns and family dynamics can also make life challenging. Learning how to cope with these challenges and enjoy life is paramount.
Aging can bring a host of new issues such as feelings of isolation after retirement, grief and loss due to deaths of friends and loved ones, and finding new meaning in life after old roles have disappeared. New roles such as being a caregiver for your parents, spouse, partner, adult child, or grandchild can also add stress at this time. Mental health issues such as anxiety, depression, bipolar, addiction, and schizophrenia can continue and sometimes new mental health issues can arise. Health concerns and family dynamics can also make life challenging. Learning how to cope with these challenges and enjoy life is paramount.
(515) 800-4846 View (515) 800-4846
Photo of Tammera Bibbins, LISW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Tammera Bibbins
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Des Moines, IA 50309
As an AA female therapist, I also offer a safe environment in sessions for non-BIPOC therapists to process how they can best serve their BIPOC clients.
For the past 20 years I have worked with children and families who have been faced with traumas in their lives. I am passionate about helping people move past the difficulties that life has thrown in their paths and move toward living the fullest that life has to offer.
As an AA female therapist, I also offer a safe environment in sessions for non-BIPOC therapists to process how they can best serve their BIPOC clients.
For the past 20 years I have worked with children and families who have been faced with traumas in their lives. I am passionate about helping people move past the difficulties that life has thrown in their paths and move toward living the fullest that life has to offer.
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Female Therapists

Does it matter what gender my therapist is?

In general, this is not an important factor, as there is no relationship between a therapist’s gender and their efficacy. Some clients, however, prefer to see therapists of a particular gender, whether due to their own past experiences with men and women, or ingrained beliefs about how people of different genders think and behave. Exploring the roots of such preferences and considering what one wants to address in therapy can help someone determine whether their therapist’s gender truly matters to them.

Should I see a female therapist?

Many people—not just women—prefer to see a female therapist, either because they believe that a woman will be able to relate to their specific challenges (for example, sexism in the workplace) or because they imagine feeling more comfortable disclosing sensitive information to a woman. Such beliefs may not turn out to be accurate, however, and adhering too rigidly to a gender preference can at times hinder a client from finding the best therapeutic match.

Do therapists get specific training to help with women’s concerns?

Therapists are trained to provide care to clients of any gender. However, some therapists—both men and women—may pursue additional training in feminist therapy, gender-specific issues, or women’s mental health. Female clients may wish to ask prospective therapists whether they have received specific training in the client’s primary area(s) of concern, or whether they have worked extensively with women on issues similar to their own.

How can I inquire about a therapist’s experience in treating women?

It’s OK—even encouraged!—to ask a therapist directly whether and how often they have treated women in the past, or whether they have treated women dealing with the client’s most prominent concern(s). Competent therapists will be happy to share their educational background, preferred treatment modalities, and prior client experience to help an individual find the therapist best suited to their needs.