Grief Therapists in Pleasant Hill, IA
![Photo of Janet Rieckhoff, LMHC, MA, M DIV, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/53125e9f-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
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.
![Photo of Angela Ruiz, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8b72c6ef-469a-42b5-8cfc-0e6189af230d/1/320x400.jpeg)
Hi there! Life gives us many different experiences and from those experiences we become stronger and more knowledgeable. My experiences, personally and professionally, have made me competent in the areas of adoption, anxiety, depression, stress, trauma, ADHD, autism, grief, and life transitions. I work with all ages and find it a privilege to work with everyone, regardless of age, race, religion and sexual orientation.
Hi there! Life gives us many different experiences and from those experiences we become stronger and more knowledgeable. My experiences, personally and professionally, have made me competent in the areas of adoption, anxiety, depression, stress, trauma, ADHD, autism, grief, and life transitions. I work with all ages and find it a privilege to work with everyone, regardless of age, race, religion and sexual orientation.
![Photo of Brent Douglas, MA, LMHC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4947a06a-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Freedom and relief from emotional and relational struggles is possible. Anxiety, depression, and other internal conflicts are very real and more common than most people realize. You do not have to be alone in the struggle. I will come alongside you as you move towards a healthy and satisfying life.
Freedom and relief from emotional and relational struggles is possible. Anxiety, depression, and other internal conflicts are very real and more common than most people realize. You do not have to be alone in the struggle. I will come alongside you as you move towards a healthy and satisfying life.
![Photo of Jessica Aldrich, MA, LMHC, CADC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4b888a1b-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Jessica Aldrich
Counselor, MA, LMHC, CADC
Verified Verified
Pleasant Hill, IA 50317
Not accepting new clients
I believe we are all capable of growth & change. We have the power within ourselves to make the changes necessary to live life to its fullest. At times, we need help with achieving & maintaining these changes. Mental health therapy can help by promoting growth & helping find the strengths one already has within them. At Tranquility Counseling, I will support you with learning those strengths & develop new skills to promote growth & change with a new sense of confidence. I believe one can build this confidence with the support in a safe, comfortable environment & strong therapeutic relationship.
I believe we are all capable of growth & change. We have the power within ourselves to make the changes necessary to live life to its fullest. At times, we need help with achieving & maintaining these changes. Mental health therapy can help by promoting growth & helping find the strengths one already has within them. At Tranquility Counseling, I will support you with learning those strengths & develop new skills to promote growth & change with a new sense of confidence. I believe one can build this confidence with the support in a safe, comfortable environment & strong therapeutic relationship.
More Therapists Nearby
![Photo of Samantha Ness, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2aadf10a-a66d-4d04-a0ce-0a3d550e0179/1/320x400.jpeg)
Samantha Ness
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Des Moines, IA 50317
Hi, I’m Sam! I’m a mental health provider who strives to create a safe and inclusive environment for all with consistent encouragement to come as you are. I work with individuals on grief and loss, and in addition to bereavement I work with adults, adolescents, children, and families on topics such as anxiety, depression, emotional regulation, and family dynamics.
Hi, I’m Sam! I’m a mental health provider who strives to create a safe and inclusive environment for all with consistent encouragement to come as you are. I work with individuals on grief and loss, and in addition to bereavement I work with adults, adolescents, children, and families on topics such as anxiety, depression, emotional regulation, and family dynamics.
![Photo of Hannah Bousek, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6344eb24-02a4-4469-a6d1-d6dc0ad23f71/1/320x400.jpeg)
Hannah Bousek
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Des Moines, IA 50301 (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
Grief, death/dying, illness, loss, and major life transitions can crack us wide open and change our lives. It can be hard to find an equilibrium again, especially with numerous ideas about doing things "the right way." Likewise, being exposed to others suffering, working under difficult healthcare-system demands, and shouldering heavy expectations can lead to overwhelm, burnout, and stress. Naming these experiences often put us in touch with the desire for things to be different - whether its about grief, a sense of self, relationships, or career.
Grief, death/dying, illness, loss, and major life transitions can crack us wide open and change our lives. It can be hard to find an equilibrium again, especially with numerous ideas about doing things "the right way." Likewise, being exposed to others suffering, working under difficult healthcare-system demands, and shouldering heavy expectations can lead to overwhelm, burnout, and stress. Naming these experiences often put us in touch with the desire for things to be different - whether its about grief, a sense of self, relationships, or career.
![Photo of Laura L Housel, LMHC, ATR, CSAT, CTRS, CYI, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/51cf20b7-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Laura L Housel
Counselor, LMHC, ATR, CSAT, CTRS, CYI
Verified Verified
Ankeny, IA 50023 (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Feeling lost, alone, and misunderstood? Life and relationships aren't turning out quite like you thought? Maybe you never quite fit in or were able figure things out like others. You might be going through changes such as: shift in your work or career due to burnout or distress; transitioning from a religion; late diagnosis related to neurodivergence (autism, ADHD, etc.); exploring identity; realizing your coping strategies have become addictive or harmful; re-examining relationships, intimacy, roles, experiencing conflict or time of reckoning; feeling disconnected from self, others, spirituality; or experiencing grief or loss
Feeling lost, alone, and misunderstood? Life and relationships aren't turning out quite like you thought? Maybe you never quite fit in or were able figure things out like others. You might be going through changes such as: shift in your work or career due to burnout or distress; transitioning from a religion; late diagnosis related to neurodivergence (autism, ADHD, etc.); exploring identity; realizing your coping strategies have become addictive or harmful; re-examining relationships, intimacy, roles, experiencing conflict or time of reckoning; feeling disconnected from self, others, spirituality; or experiencing grief or loss
![Photo of Annie Nelson, MSW, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/23b48e94-1cee-46fe-bf28-c95d51d5f328/2/320x400.jpeg)
Annie Nelson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LMSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Ankeny, IA 50021
My clinical background includes short- and long-term counseling with a focus on grief and the way that all different types of loss and changes impact us.
One of the most elemental parts of being human is the need to be listened to. Sharing our stories with others and doing the work of self-exploration requires a unique courage, and when we feel heard and understood, we are better able to understand our own needs and see our own resourcefulness more clearly. I view you as the expert on your own life and experiences. My top priorities as a therapist are understanding your perspective, learning how this perspective has shaped your life, and partnering with you in support of your goals.
My clinical background includes short- and long-term counseling with a focus on grief and the way that all different types of loss and changes impact us.
One of the most elemental parts of being human is the need to be listened to. Sharing our stories with others and doing the work of self-exploration requires a unique courage, and when we feel heard and understood, we are better able to understand our own needs and see our own resourcefulness more clearly. I view you as the expert on your own life and experiences. My top priorities as a therapist are understanding your perspective, learning how this perspective has shaped your life, and partnering with you in support of your goals.
![Photo of Danielle Ballard-Green, MSW, LISW, CADC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d2460fb8-7430-4e8a-b0c7-a7528895ba1d/2/320x400.jpeg)
Danielle Ballard-Green
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LISW, CADC
Verified Verified
Des Moines, IA 50309
Not accepting 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).
![Photo of Madisen Smith, LMHC, MA, BS, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/64149870-b9da-4927-834b-a2ec30687d43/3/320x400.jpeg)
Madisen Smith
Counselor, LMHC, MA, BS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Des Moines, IA 50309
Not accepting new clients
I work with adolescents and adults with various issues including depression, anxiety, grief and loss, trauma, identity exploration, and other growing pains we experience in life.
Are you struggling with heavy feelings, difficulties regulating your emotions, or just worrying a lot? Do you find yourself unable to feel or find happiness in your life? Are you grieving a loss, or having trouble adapting to a new normal? As a temporary licensed mental health counselor my goal is to meet you where you are and help guide you to a healthier life, or at least give you some relief. I work collaboratively with my clients and am attentive to their individuality and the uniqueness they each bring to the therapy process. Therapy is your journey, and I'm honored to cheer you on and challenge you to reach your goals.
I work with adolescents and adults with various issues including depression, anxiety, grief and loss, trauma, identity exploration, and other growing pains we experience in life.
Are you struggling with heavy feelings, difficulties regulating your emotions, or just worrying a lot? Do you find yourself unable to feel or find happiness in your life? Are you grieving a loss, or having trouble adapting to a new normal? As a temporary licensed mental health counselor my goal is to meet you where you are and help guide you to a healthier life, or at least give you some relief. I work collaboratively with my clients and am attentive to their individuality and the uniqueness they each bring to the therapy process. Therapy is your journey, and I'm honored to cheer you on and challenge you to reach your goals.
![Photo of Allison Robbins, LISW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/970c97c2-a621-45c8-bdea-544ecec4458c/2/320x400.jpeg)
I have over 20 years of experience working with loss/grief, trauma, relationship issues, adjustment issues, divorce, death/suicide, addictions ADHD/ADD, ODD/ conduct disorders, anxiety, depression, and those involved in the court systems.
Are you going through a major change? Do you remember being happy, but it was long ago? Does the anxiety you feel make you avoid doing the things that you used to enjoy? Change is difficult. Loss can be unbearable. These and so many other life challenges are the reasons why people come to therapy. Let's work together. I will help you unpack the load you are carrying through the use of different therapeutic techniques. Allow yourself to accept the help you deserve.
I have over 20 years of experience working with loss/grief, trauma, relationship issues, adjustment issues, divorce, death/suicide, addictions ADHD/ADD, ODD/ conduct disorders, anxiety, depression, and those involved in the court systems.
Are you going through a major change? Do you remember being happy, but it was long ago? Does the anxiety you feel make you avoid doing the things that you used to enjoy? Change is difficult. Loss can be unbearable. These and so many other life challenges are the reasons why people come to therapy. Let's work together. I will help you unpack the load you are carrying through the use of different therapeutic techniques. Allow yourself to accept the help you deserve.
![Photo of Tricia R. Yavitz, LMHC, IADC, NCC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/144c447d-639f-42e2-9bdf-783a2b815494/4/320x400.jpeg)
Sometimes life can be difficult, and we need a safe, compassionate, non-judgmental space to work through our struggles. I provide therapy services to individuals and couples who are struggling with a variety of life challenges. Some of the issues that I focus on with clients are addiction, grief and loss, trauma, sexuality, anxiety and depression. I believe in meeting clients where they are at in their journey and take a collaborative approach with folks to obtain their desired growth and change.
Sometimes life can be difficult, and we need a safe, compassionate, non-judgmental space to work through our struggles. I provide therapy services to individuals and couples who are struggling with a variety of life challenges. Some of the issues that I focus on with clients are addiction, grief and loss, trauma, sexuality, anxiety and depression. I believe in meeting clients where they are at in their journey and take a collaborative approach with folks to obtain their desired growth and change.
![Photo of Amy Marie Davis, MSW, LISW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f226949f-b4c2-40c2-ace9-a8481c6a3351/3/320x400.jpeg)
I am active in our community in regard to survivors of suicide loss and prevention.
“What you seek is seeking you.” The mere fact that you are looking for a therapist right now tells me that you are ready to heal. We all go through ups and downs in life, and sometimes we just need someone to listen without fear of judgement. Maybe you’ve experienced trauma, and can’t quite, “get over it.” Perhaps you are showing one side of yourself to the world, but internally dying to be recognized for who you show yourself when nobody is looking. There are so many different reasons as to why you are choosing now to look in the mirror. I can help you see with clarity, with an unbiased, open-minded viewpoint.
I am active in our community in regard to survivors of suicide loss and prevention.
“What you seek is seeking you.” The mere fact that you are looking for a therapist right now tells me that you are ready to heal. We all go through ups and downs in life, and sometimes we just need someone to listen without fear of judgement. Maybe you’ve experienced trauma, and can’t quite, “get over it.” Perhaps you are showing one side of yourself to the world, but internally dying to be recognized for who you show yourself when nobody is looking. There are so many different reasons as to why you are choosing now to look in the mirror. I can help you see with clarity, with an unbiased, open-minded viewpoint.
![Photo of Eric Williamson, tLMHC, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5e5fb2ca-7763-4859-8342-859a183d8d08/2/320x400.jpeg)
Eric Williamson
Pre-Licensed Professional, tLMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Des Moines, IA 50320 (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
In addition, I have worked with clients addressing men’s issues, loss, and end of life situations.
If you are reading this, you are most likely considering getting in touch with a therapist. Regardless of the reason or reasons, I believe that it is important for you to recognize and honor your strength in reaching this point. I know that it can be difficult to ask for help, but if you are ready, I am here. Creating an environment that is judgment-free and unwaveringly supportive is exceptionally important to me. My desire is to work with clients who feel that there is something preventing them from living their best and most fulfilling life.
In addition, I have worked with clients addressing men’s issues, loss, and end of life situations.
If you are reading this, you are most likely considering getting in touch with a therapist. Regardless of the reason or reasons, I believe that it is important for you to recognize and honor your strength in reaching this point. I know that it can be difficult to ask for help, but if you are ready, I am here. Creating an environment that is judgment-free and unwaveringly supportive is exceptionally important to me. My desire is to work with clients who feel that there is something preventing them from living their best and most fulfilling life.
![Photo of Brie Carl, LISW, CGP, ASDCS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/59ebb936-28a4-43fc-b371-47340c36fd92/2/320x400.jpeg)
Brie Carl
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW, CGP, ASDCS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Des Moines, IA 50316
I have taken additional trainings in the area of grief and loss and working with those individuals on the autism spectrum.
Life can be overwhelming and, at times, take unexpected turns. In those moments, it is refreshing to know that we have someone to turn to who can support us as we navigate those challenges. After all, just like children, emotions heal when they are heard and validated.
I have taken additional trainings in the area of grief and loss and working with those individuals on the autism spectrum.
Life can be overwhelming and, at times, take unexpected turns. In those moments, it is refreshing to know that we have someone to turn to who can support us as we navigate those challenges. After all, just like children, emotions heal when they are heard and validated.
![Photo of Laurene Franco, LMHC, MS, MA, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ee171c42-ffc4-4efd-ab2b-470dde16e120/1/320x400.jpeg)
Laurene Franco
Counselor, LMHC, MS, MA
Verified Verified
Des Moines, IA 50312
Not accepting new clients
Hello! Are you seeking a safe, nonjudgmental space to navigate life's challenges and transitions? Look no further! I'm here to support you on your journey towards greater well-being and happiness. My focus is on helping teens and adults deal with issues like anxiety, depression, grief and loss, trauma, and life transitions. I specialize in working with women of all ages, college students, and young adults as they navigate their unique life paths. Life can be overwhelming, but I'm here to guide you towards healing and increased joy.
Hello! Are you seeking a safe, nonjudgmental space to navigate life's challenges and transitions? Look no further! I'm here to support you on your journey towards greater well-being and happiness. My focus is on helping teens and adults deal with issues like anxiety, depression, grief and loss, trauma, and life transitions. I specialize in working with women of all ages, college students, and young adults as they navigate their unique life paths. Life can be overwhelming, but I'm here to guide you towards healing and increased joy.
![Photo of Blake Paxton, PhD, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a7a3fafb-bbfb-4813-8114-a80589fcb4fe/2/320x400.jpeg)
Though my primary clinical expertise is in grief, I help clients with many other challenges.
Sometimes we might feel like nobody understands us or what we are going through. Life can present some major challenges, and it is hard to be trapped in what seems like an inescapable situation. I know what it is like to feel stuck. These types of situations are numerous: problems communicating with a partner, having low motivation in a job, missing a loved one that you have lost, paralyzing anxiety about making an important decision. Seeking the help of a mental health professional is the first step in getting unstuck. There is great courage in being able to ask for help. I am glad that you are embarking on this journey.
Though my primary clinical expertise is in grief, I help clients with many other challenges.
Sometimes we might feel like nobody understands us or what we are going through. Life can present some major challenges, and it is hard to be trapped in what seems like an inescapable situation. I know what it is like to feel stuck. These types of situations are numerous: problems communicating with a partner, having low motivation in a job, missing a loved one that you have lost, paralyzing anxiety about making an important decision. Seeking the help of a mental health professional is the first step in getting unstuck. There is great courage in being able to ask for help. I am glad that you are embarking on this journey.
![Photo of Karin Beschen, LMHC, PMH-C, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/cc5d8ac2-91ef-46b5-a968-5a5153cee41b/3/320x400.jpeg)
Karin Beschen
Counselor, LMHC, PMH-C
Verified Verified
Des Moines, IA 50312
Not accepting new clients
I have specialized training in grief and traumatic grief.
Over the years I've worked with clients related to life transitions such as career/job challenges, relationships, family dynamics, loss, anxiety and depression. When these detours are a part of your path, you may lose your sense of direction or question your destination. I believe we all have the capacity to better manage our struggles and the potential to feel better ... a lot better!
I have specialized training in grief and traumatic grief.
Over the years I've worked with clients related to life transitions such as career/job challenges, relationships, family dynamics, loss, anxiety and depression. When these detours are a part of your path, you may lose your sense of direction or question your destination. I believe we all have the capacity to better manage our struggles and the potential to feel better ... a lot better!
![Photo of Riley Rodemaker, tLMHC, MA, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/06195b2f-350b-463b-bb79-f2c6cfe9bfcd/2/320x400.jpeg)
Welcome! My name is Riley Rodemaker (He/Him) and I am a tLMHC at LifeWorks - Ankeny. I know that reaching out for help can be very difficult and I have a lot of respect for the bravery that it takes. My hope is that we can work together to help you feel better. I believe that empathy and compassion serve as the foundation for any helping relationship. I am a generalist counselor (meaning I have some experience with a variety of issues); however, I especially enjoy working with clients on issues related to anxiety, depression, grief/loss, and suicide/self-harm.
Welcome! My name is Riley Rodemaker (He/Him) and I am a tLMHC at LifeWorks - Ankeny. I know that reaching out for help can be very difficult and I have a lot of respect for the bravery that it takes. My hope is that we can work together to help you feel better. I believe that empathy and compassion serve as the foundation for any helping relationship. I am a generalist counselor (meaning I have some experience with a variety of issues); however, I especially enjoy working with clients on issues related to anxiety, depression, grief/loss, and suicide/self-harm.
![Photo of Hannah Vestal, LMHC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d85ee171-0aa7-43b9-8504-fa3e2e7751bf/1/320x400.jpeg)
Hi, my name is Hannah and I appreciate you taking the time to find the right therapist for you. I often work with individuals who have experienced a major loss/change or are navigating instability in their mood and/or relationships and would like to feel lighter and more in control. Across our lifespan we develop ways of thinking and behaving that are self-protecting; but as we get older these same ways of thinking and behaving might become barriers to us leading the lives we want to live. I treat adolescents and adults with issues related to grief/loss, mood disorders, borderline personality disorder, relationships, and trauma.
Hi, my name is Hannah and I appreciate you taking the time to find the right therapist for you. I often work with individuals who have experienced a major loss/change or are navigating instability in their mood and/or relationships and would like to feel lighter and more in control. Across our lifespan we develop ways of thinking and behaving that are self-protecting; but as we get older these same ways of thinking and behaving might become barriers to us leading the lives we want to live. I treat adolescents and adults with issues related to grief/loss, mood disorders, borderline personality disorder, relationships, and trauma.
Nearby Grief Therapists Searches for Pleasant Hill
- Altoona
- Ankeny
- Beaverdale
- Bondurant
- Clive
- Des Moines
- Grimes
- Johnston
- Norwalk
- Urbandale
- West Des Moines
- Windsor Heights
Grief Therapists
How long does therapy take for grief?
There is no exact timeline for grief counseling. Some people may start to feel better after just a few sessions, while others may take months or longer to feel relief. Some specific approaches, including some types of CBT, may involve a set number of sessions, or therapy may be open-ended until the patient determines they are ready to wrap up. Just as there is no right or wrong way to grieve, there is no right or wrong way to seek therapy for grief.
When should you seek therapy for grief?
Many people mistakenly believe that their grief needs to be debilitating or all-encompassing to warrant therapy. This is not the case. While people who experience severe, prolonged grief—particularly those who are considering self-harm or engaging in unhealthy substance use—are especially likely to benefit from therapy, so too are people whose grief is less intense but still interfering with well-being or daily functioning. In practice, almost anyone struggling to process a loss could benefit from grief counseling.
Can grief be managed without therapy?
Oftentimes, yes. Grief is a near-universal part of being human, and many find that their grief, while profound, does not stop them from participating in day-to-day life and steadily eases over time without outside help. For others, however, the harsh pain of early grief persists for months or years or leaves them unable to function. This group is especially likely to benefit from seeing a therapist, who can guide them through their grief and help them reconnect with the world.
What happens if grief is left untreated?
Because grief does not in itself necessitate therapy, untreated grief will often resolve on its own. However, for some people—particularly those who would qualify for a diagnosis of prolonged grief disorder—untreated grief can be a source of seemingly endless pain or lead them to withdraw from the world. In such cases, treatment can be indispensable, as it can help an individual adapt to the loss and start living again.