Therapists in Polk County, IA
I have only daytime availability and am accepting BCBS insurance! Hello and welcome! My name is Courtney and I am a compassionate and open-minded mental health therapist located in West Des Moines. I enjoy working with individuals aged 12 through adulthood with particular interest in trauma/PTSD, women's issues, anxiety disorders, chronic illness/chronic pain, insomnia and sexual strain/dysfunction. My approach is trauma-informed and empirically supported. I use play-based strategies in my work with children and I am trained in EMDR as well as CBT-i (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Insomnia).
I have only daytime availability and am accepting BCBS insurance! Hello and welcome! My name is Courtney and I am a compassionate and open-minded mental health therapist located in West Des Moines. I enjoy working with individuals aged 12 through adulthood with particular interest in trauma/PTSD, women's issues, anxiety disorders, chronic illness/chronic pain, insomnia and sexual strain/dysfunction. My approach is trauma-informed and empirically supported. I use play-based strategies in my work with children and I am trained in EMDR as well as CBT-i (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Insomnia).
Denise Kelley Edwards
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LISW
Verified Verified
West Des Moines, IA 50266 (Online Only)
The relationship between therapist and client is central to a positive therapeutic experience, therefore, it is important to find a therapist you feel comfortable with. My role as therapist is to help each client improve the quality of their lives as they learn to navigate difficult issues and situations or learn to manage a mental illness. In addition, each client and each issue presented require an individualized approach. To achieve appropriate treatment plans I use a variety of treatment modalities including CBT, DBT, psychoeducation and psychotherapy. I work mainly with women. I work with adult women in all stages of life.
The relationship between therapist and client is central to a positive therapeutic experience, therefore, it is important to find a therapist you feel comfortable with. My role as therapist is to help each client improve the quality of their lives as they learn to navigate difficult issues and situations or learn to manage a mental illness. In addition, each client and each issue presented require an individualized approach. To achieve appropriate treatment plans I use a variety of treatment modalities including CBT, DBT, psychoeducation and psychotherapy. I work mainly with women. I work with adult women in all stages of life.
Life can be overwhelming at times. In fact, most people will experience at least mild depression and or anxiety at some time due to life events such as death, divorce, relationship difficulties, and work stress. Traumatic events in childhood create a different kind of stress and can cause only mildly stressful events to be amplified for you. Did you know that most people have at least one event in their childhood that qualifies as a traumatic event? It is normal for individuals who have experienced trauma of some kind to experience anxiety and or depression. So here you are looking through a website full of therapists trying to make a decision! Congratulations on taking the first step to improving your life. Many of the most successful people in life seek the counsel of others in order to increase knowledge and improve their lives. Therapy can be that counsel bringing clarity, collaboration, and change to your life.
Life can be overwhelming at times. In fact, most people will experience at least mild depression and or anxiety at some time due to life events such as death, divorce, relationship difficulties, and work stress. Traumatic events in childhood create a different kind of stress and can cause only mildly stressful events to be amplified for you. Did you know that most people have at least one event in their childhood that qualifies as a traumatic event? It is normal for individuals who have experienced trauma of some kind to experience anxiety and or depression. So here you are looking through a website full of therapists trying to make a decision! Congratulations on taking the first step to improving your life. Many of the most successful people in life seek the counsel of others in order to increase knowledge and improve their lives. Therapy can be that counsel bringing clarity, collaboration, and change to your life.
Heather Joy Thomas
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW, CADC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Des Moines, IA 50316 (Online Only)
Welcome! My name is Heather Thomas, and I am a Licensed Independent Social Worker (LISW) and a Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor (CADC) with over 18 years of experience in the mental health and substance abuse fields. Currently, I serve as the Director of Counseling at Grand View University, where I provide short-term therapy services, oversee internship programming, and actively contribute to various committees including the Peer Wellness, Behavior Intervention Team, and DEI committee. I have a rich background working as a Therapist, Director, and Regional Director in community mental health, substance use, and crisis services.
Welcome! My name is Heather Thomas, and I am a Licensed Independent Social Worker (LISW) and a Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor (CADC) with over 18 years of experience in the mental health and substance abuse fields. Currently, I serve as the Director of Counseling at Grand View University, where I provide short-term therapy services, oversee internship programming, and actively contribute to various committees including the Peer Wellness, Behavior Intervention Team, and DEI committee. I have a rich background working as a Therapist, Director, and Regional Director in community mental health, substance use, and crisis services.
Natalie Snyders
Counselor, MS, LMHC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Windsor Heights, IA 50324
Not accepting new clients
I recognize the vulnerability and courage it takes to start making real changes in your life. I believe all human beings deserve inner peace, wellness and the ability to live a full and happy life. I also believe this is achievable for everyone and therapy can be a powerful tool to get there! By nature, I’m a systems thinker and like to work in a holistic way with my clients. No two people are alike, and we all have our unique soul signature.
I recognize the vulnerability and courage it takes to start making real changes in your life. I believe all human beings deserve inner peace, wellness and the ability to live a full and happy life. I also believe this is achievable for everyone and therapy can be a powerful tool to get there! By nature, I’m a systems thinker and like to work in a holistic way with my clients. No two people are alike, and we all have our unique soul signature.
I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) with 12 years of experience working with adults and teenagers. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, LGBTQ+ issues, deconstruction and religious trauma, transitional and phase of life issues, self-esteem related concerns and eating disorders. I believe that you are the expert on your own life, and I will work with you to create a treatment plan that is specific to your unique needs and preferences while incorporating your natural resiliency and strengths.
I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) with 12 years of experience working with adults and teenagers. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, LGBTQ+ issues, deconstruction and religious trauma, transitional and phase of life issues, self-esteem related concerns and eating disorders. I believe that you are the expert on your own life, and I will work with you to create a treatment plan that is specific to your unique needs and preferences while incorporating your natural resiliency and strengths.
My career has focused on partnering with survivors of crime and abuse to reestablish a sense of safety, dignity, and empowerment, as well as supporting and empowering sex workers and individuals affected by systemic harms like racial trauma, poverty, and houselessness. I am deeply committed to providing compassionate support to individuals navigating significant life transitions including sandwich generation caregivers, individuals grappling with body grief due to chronic health conditions and aging, and those experiencing prolonged grief following loss.
My career has focused on partnering with survivors of crime and abuse to reestablish a sense of safety, dignity, and empowerment, as well as supporting and empowering sex workers and individuals affected by systemic harms like racial trauma, poverty, and houselessness. I am deeply committed to providing compassionate support to individuals navigating significant life transitions including sandwich generation caregivers, individuals grappling with body grief due to chronic health conditions and aging, and those experiencing prolonged grief following loss.
Amy J. Ugulini Pals
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
West Des Moines, IA 50266
Not accepting new clients
Do you or your child have many strengths, but have symptoms of depression, anxiety, anger, or trauma that are keeping you or your child from reaching your full potential? Does your child struggle with challenging behaviors that negatively impact his or her life? Therapy can help you overcome these symptoms and meet your goals! I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor with experience providing therapy to children, adolescents, young adults, families, and adults. I look forward to helping you regain the strength and confidence in yourself and your ability to manage and conquer struggles you may be facing.
Do you or your child have many strengths, but have symptoms of depression, anxiety, anger, or trauma that are keeping you or your child from reaching your full potential? Does your child struggle with challenging behaviors that negatively impact his or her life? Therapy can help you overcome these symptoms and meet your goals! I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor with experience providing therapy to children, adolescents, young adults, families, and adults. I look forward to helping you regain the strength and confidence in yourself and your ability to manage and conquer struggles you may be facing.
Danielle L Sodergren
Counselor, LMHC, IAADC, RPT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Des Moines, IA 50312
Waitlist for new clients
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.
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.
As a Licensed Mental Health Therapist, it is my focus to provide compassion, a safe therapeutic environment, and potential for creating clearer pathways for clients to grow and heal. I support teens (12+) and adults with depression and anxiety/panic disorders as well as traits of grief/loss, eating disorders, difficulties with communicating emotions, low self-esteem, and coping with relationship, family, and work stressors.
As a Licensed Mental Health Therapist, it is my focus to provide compassion, a safe therapeutic environment, and potential for creating clearer pathways for clients to grow and heal. I support teens (12+) and adults with depression and anxiety/panic disorders as well as traits of grief/loss, eating disorders, difficulties with communicating emotions, low self-esteem, and coping with relationship, family, and work stressors.
Antonia L Valadez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Des Moines, IA 50309
Not accepting new clients
Sometimes we know that certain things in our lives need to change and we may not know where to start or how to make progress toward our goals. Therapy can help individuals examine where they are, what they are struggling with, and help them create a plan to begin making changes in their lives and/or in their relationships. Trauma, anxiety, or stressful life events can make things feel overwhelming but finding a therapist you can connect with is the first step. Petunia, my 20 lb. mixed breed dog (DOB 7/4/21) is training to be a therapy dog. She is present during sessions but I can put her in her kennel if you prefer.
Sometimes we know that certain things in our lives need to change and we may not know where to start or how to make progress toward our goals. Therapy can help individuals examine where they are, what they are struggling with, and help them create a plan to begin making changes in their lives and/or in their relationships. Trauma, anxiety, or stressful life events can make things feel overwhelming but finding a therapist you can connect with is the first step. Petunia, my 20 lb. mixed breed dog (DOB 7/4/21) is training to be a therapy dog. She is present during sessions but I can put her in her kennel if you prefer.
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Annie Lass
Counselor, MA, LMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Altoona, IA 50009
Not accepting new clients
As a clinician, I utilize a holistic and trauma-sensitive approach when meeting in sessions. I strive to develop an environment of connection, safety, and comfortability for you to be able to discuss your concerns. I will work collaboratively with you to ensure that your goals are being met through the therapy process. My desire is for you to be able to live a more fulfilling and meaningful life.
As a clinician, I utilize a holistic and trauma-sensitive approach when meeting in sessions. I strive to develop an environment of connection, safety, and comfortability for you to be able to discuss your concerns. I will work collaboratively with you to ensure that your goals are being met through the therapy process. My desire is for you to be able to live a more fulfilling and meaningful life.
Sarah Cammoun-Myers
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Urbandale, IA 50322
Waitlist for new clients
At Sage Counseling and Wellness, I believe that healing can occur to develop a fulfilling and harmonious life filled with meaningful connections. I strive to help clients discover and feel comfortable with their authentic self and empower them to have the courage to bring that authenticity into their relationships. I believe in the importance of maintaining a supportive and affirming environment throughout the therapeutic process. I welcome people from all walks of life, including but not limited to: LGBTQIA+, BIPOC, and individuals with disabilities by providing a safe and affirming environment to all.
At Sage Counseling and Wellness, I believe that healing can occur to develop a fulfilling and harmonious life filled with meaningful connections. I strive to help clients discover and feel comfortable with their authentic self and empower them to have the courage to bring that authenticity into their relationships. I believe in the importance of maintaining a supportive and affirming environment throughout the therapeutic process. I welcome people from all walks of life, including but not limited to: LGBTQIA+, BIPOC, and individuals with disabilities by providing a safe and affirming environment to all.
John A. Bisenius
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
West Des Moines, IA 50265
Not accepting new clients
I approach each person as an individual first. We all have unique experiences and strengths to help manage life's challenges. In therapy you will have a judgement free space to work through whatever challenges you may be facing. I use a variety or approaches tailored to each person. I enjoy working with individuals from pre-adolescents (10-12) through adults and backgrounds as well as couples counseling. I believe that therapy should be a positive experience designed to help you reach your personal goals. I also provide a polyvagal backed approach called Safe and Sound Protocol (SSP).
I approach each person as an individual first. We all have unique experiences and strengths to help manage life's challenges. In therapy you will have a judgement free space to work through whatever challenges you may be facing. I use a variety or approaches tailored to each person. I enjoy working with individuals from pre-adolescents (10-12) through adults and backgrounds as well as couples counseling. I believe that therapy should be a positive experience designed to help you reach your personal goals. I also provide a polyvagal backed approach called Safe and Sound Protocol (SSP).
Life is complicated and anyone can find themselves frustrated and overwhelmed or simply unable to reach their true potential. As a licensed psychologist with 29 years experience, I go beyond compassionate listening to help my clients live balanced and fulfilling lives.
Life is complicated and anyone can find themselves frustrated and overwhelmed or simply unable to reach their true potential. As a licensed psychologist with 29 years experience, I go beyond compassionate listening to help my clients live balanced and fulfilling lives.
Sarah L Bowen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
West Des Moines, IA 50266
I have a passion for working with teenagers and adults, specifically on issues related to attachment, behavior, anxiety, stress, relationship building, communication, professional growth, and career and college planning. Client goals should be focused on challenging distorted thinking and creating plans in order to have a healthier and more productive lifestyle.
I have a passion for working with teenagers and adults, specifically on issues related to attachment, behavior, anxiety, stress, relationship building, communication, professional growth, and career and college planning. Client goals should be focused on challenging distorted thinking and creating plans in order to have a healthier and more productive lifestyle.
Devin Waterhouse
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Des Moines, IA 50309
Not accepting new clients
Something feels off. Sometimes it’s obvious what is affecting you, but often you’re less certain. Perhaps you have some ideas about what’s wrong, but you aren’t sure how to feel better. Maybe you are experiencing relationship issues, or just feel like you are alone even when you know you have people who care about you. It may even be possible that you are uncertain there is anything wrong at all because you’ve always felt this way - but is it really this hard for everyone? There are many people just like you that could be living happier and healthier lives - they just don’t know how to get there.
Something feels off. Sometimes it’s obvious what is affecting you, but often you’re less certain. Perhaps you have some ideas about what’s wrong, but you aren’t sure how to feel better. Maybe you are experiencing relationship issues, or just feel like you are alone even when you know you have people who care about you. It may even be possible that you are uncertain there is anything wrong at all because you’ve always felt this way - but is it really this hard for everyone? There are many people just like you that could be living happier and healthier lives - they just don’t know how to get there.
Beginning this journey is one of the hardest things you may do in your life. I am passionate about this work and helping you create the best version of yourself. I approach therapy through a collaborative lens and meet individuals where they are. I work with teens and adult clients who are experiencing major life changes, anxiety, depression, loss, and individuals wanting to heal from past trauma. I have a passion for working with individuals who have been diagnosed with Borderline Personality Disorder and assisting them with creating a healthier and stable life.
Beginning this journey is one of the hardest things you may do in your life. I am passionate about this work and helping you create the best version of yourself. I approach therapy through a collaborative lens and meet individuals where they are. I work with teens and adult clients who are experiencing major life changes, anxiety, depression, loss, and individuals wanting to heal from past trauma. I have a passion for working with individuals who have been diagnosed with Borderline Personality Disorder and assisting them with creating a healthier and stable life.
Carolyn Hollister
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LISW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ankeny, IA 50023
Waitlist for new clients
When we go through hard things in life it can have all kinds of effects on the way we feel about ourselves, our relationships and our life. Seeking therapy with a provider you can feel safe with and open up to can be one of the most beneficial and healing things we can do for ourselves. If you are struggling with emotions, thoughts or beliefs that you know are holding you back from living with a sense of well-being, I would like to help. I provide a holistic, compassionate, affirming space for you to explore and process your struggles so you can feel more peace and connection in your life.
When we go through hard things in life it can have all kinds of effects on the way we feel about ourselves, our relationships and our life. Seeking therapy with a provider you can feel safe with and open up to can be one of the most beneficial and healing things we can do for ourselves. If you are struggling with emotions, thoughts or beliefs that you know are holding you back from living with a sense of well-being, I would like to help. I provide a holistic, compassionate, affirming space for you to explore and process your struggles so you can feel more peace and connection in your life.
Hello! My name is Andrea Vignovich (she/her) and I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC). An important part of my therapeutic role is to meet you where you are on your journey toward emotional wellness and stability. I believe empathy, empowerment, and connection can help lead you toward your personal goals. In counseling, it is pivotal to create a safe and open space for you to foster growth and learning in yourself and your goals. Seeking counseling can be scary and challenging, however, it can also be rewarding and its effects are long-lasting. I hope to join you on your journey of growth and emotional wellbeing.
Hello! My name is Andrea Vignovich (she/her) and I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC). An important part of my therapeutic role is to meet you where you are on your journey toward emotional wellness and stability. I believe empathy, empowerment, and connection can help lead you toward your personal goals. In counseling, it is pivotal to create a safe and open space for you to foster growth and learning in yourself and your goals. Seeking counseling can be scary and challenging, however, it can also be rewarding and its effects are long-lasting. I hope to join you on your journey of growth and emotional wellbeing.
See more therapy options for Polk County
How does your Therapist compare?
Number of Therapists in Polk County, IA
800+
Average cost per session
$160
Therapists in Polk County, IA who prioritize treating:
| 94% | Anxiety |
| 89% | Depression |
| 77% | Relationship Issues |
| 77% | Trauma and PTSD |
| 77% | Self Esteem |
| 74% | Stress |
| 68% | Coping Skills |
Average years in practice
9 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
| 82% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
| 76% | Wellmark BCBS |
| 54% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
How Therapists in Polk County, IA see their clients
| 80% | In Person and Online | |
| 20% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
| 80% | Female | |
| 19% | Male | |
| 1% | Non-Binary |