Depression Therapists in West Des Moines, IA

Photo of Megan Runchey, LISW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Megan Runchey
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW
Verified Verified
West Des Moines, IA 50266
Waitlist for new clients
Therapy can be a very intimidating process to begin. In my office I approach each person as an individual to create a safe and judgment free space for them to be who they are. We each have unique experiences that influence where we are in our journey through life. I have experience working with adults & teens to help them navigate and/or move forward from trauma, relationship issues, life transitions, anxiety, depression, and stressors that impact their quality of life. My goal will be to walk through the difficult or confusing paths you face and help you feel empowered to create the life you desire.
Therapy can be a very intimidating process to begin. In my office I approach each person as an individual to create a safe and judgment free space for them to be who they are. We each have unique experiences that influence where we are in our journey through life. I have experience working with adults & teens to help them navigate and/or move forward from trauma, relationship issues, life transitions, anxiety, depression, and stressors that impact their quality of life. My goal will be to walk through the difficult or confusing paths you face and help you feel empowered to create the life you desire.
(515) 882-4780 View (515) 882-4780
Photo of Kevin D West, MSW, LISW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kevin D West
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LISW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
West Des Moines, IA 50266
I specialize working with adults and children (ages 8 to 17) with a focus in the areas of anxiety, anger control, parenting, ADHD, relationships and depression. Everyone has points in their lives where they may question themselves or have to deal with difficult situations they may, or may not, have been expecting. I want to help people find ways to help them realize their potential. I work with clients by exploring and educating them about the strengths they already have and how they can be a force for positive change.
I specialize working with adults and children (ages 8 to 17) with a focus in the areas of anxiety, anger control, parenting, ADHD, relationships and depression. Everyone has points in their lives where they may question themselves or have to deal with difficult situations they may, or may not, have been expecting. I want to help people find ways to help them realize their potential. I work with clients by exploring and educating them about the strengths they already have and how they can be a force for positive change.
(515) 219-4912 View (515) 219-4912
Photo of Kim Comer, LISW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kim Comer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW
Verified Verified
West Des Moines, IA 50265
I am currently accepting new clients. I have been practicing for 20 years and have been in the field for over 40. I have an I am currently accepting new clients. I have been practicing for 20 years. Are you having a tough time adjusting to life? Whether that be problems with depression, anxiety, or other life Stressors? Possibly you’ve experienced a lot of trauma in your life, or abuse, or you are wondering if your child has been sexually abused? I am here to help you through these difficult times. I also love working with adults who are trying to manage their issues one day at a time.
I am currently accepting new clients. I have been practicing for 20 years and have been in the field for over 40. I have an I am currently accepting new clients. I have been practicing for 20 years. Are you having a tough time adjusting to life? Whether that be problems with depression, anxiety, or other life Stressors? Possibly you’ve experienced a lot of trauma in your life, or abuse, or you are wondering if your child has been sexually abused? I am here to help you through these difficult times. I also love working with adults who are trying to manage their issues one day at a time.
(515) 303-2689 View (515) 303-2689
Photo of Bethany Jo Zeitz, MS, LMHC, NCC, CCMHC, Counselor
Bethany Jo Zeitz
Counselor, MS, LMHC, NCC, CCMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
West Des Moines, IA 50266
Waitlist for new clients
Waitlist for new clients. Congratulations! You've taken the first, sometimes very difficult, step of working to improve your mental health. Whether you're struggling with a history of trauma, anxiety, depression, relationship issues, work stress, or feeling burnt out I'm proud of you for taking a step in the direction of caring for yourself. I'm excited to collaborate with you in order to develop healthy coping skills, increase your awareness of the impact of the world on your emotions, and to feel more at peace, whatever that means to you!
Waitlist for new clients. Congratulations! You've taken the first, sometimes very difficult, step of working to improve your mental health. Whether you're struggling with a history of trauma, anxiety, depression, relationship issues, work stress, or feeling burnt out I'm proud of you for taking a step in the direction of caring for yourself. I'm excited to collaborate with you in order to develop healthy coping skills, increase your awareness of the impact of the world on your emotions, and to feel more at peace, whatever that means to you!
(515) 854-3690 View (515) 854-3690
Photo of Devon Gilliland-Minard, MSW, LISW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Devon Gilliland-Minard
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LISW
Verified Verified
West Des Moines, IA 50266
My areas of specialty include anxiety, depression and trauma.
I believe all of us manage the ups and downs of life in different ways. Through a collaborative approach, individuals can develop more effective ways to manage these issues. I enjoy working with individuals (adolescents to adults), couples, and families who desire to make changes in their lives to better themselves. I draw on many approaches to meet your needs and what will work best for you. I believe therapy should be a comfortable process where you leave feeling you have benefited in some way.
My areas of specialty include anxiety, depression and trauma.
I believe all of us manage the ups and downs of life in different ways. Through a collaborative approach, individuals can develop more effective ways to manage these issues. I enjoy working with individuals (adolescents to adults), couples, and families who desire to make changes in their lives to better themselves. I draw on many approaches to meet your needs and what will work best for you. I believe therapy should be a comfortable process where you leave feeling you have benefited in some way.
(515) 512-5902 View (515) 512-5902
Photo of John Bigelow Jr., PsyD, Psychologist
John Bigelow Jr.
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
West Des Moines, IA 50265
I am a licensed clinical psychologist with over 20 years of experience in community mental health. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship challenges, trauma and coping with stress and life challenges.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist with over 20 years of experience in community mental health. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship challenges, trauma and coping with stress and life challenges.
(515) 461-8981 View (515) 461-8981
Photo of Joel Greenberg, PsyD, Psychologist
Joel Greenberg
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
West Des Moines, IA 50266
I understand that seeking psychological services can feel challenging or intimidating, and I aim to make the experience as positive and supportive as possible. I work with teens and adults facing a variety of issues, including anxiety, trauma, depression, anger, substance use, work and school difficulties, relationship problems, gender and sexual orientation concerns, self-harm, and suicidality. Together, we can discuss your challenges and goals, along with your hopes, aspirations, and strengths, to help you find the path toward the life you desire.
I understand that seeking psychological services can feel challenging or intimidating, and I aim to make the experience as positive and supportive as possible. I work with teens and adults facing a variety of issues, including anxiety, trauma, depression, anger, substance use, work and school difficulties, relationship problems, gender and sexual orientation concerns, self-harm, and suicidality. Together, we can discuss your challenges and goals, along with your hopes, aspirations, and strengths, to help you find the path toward the life you desire.
(515) 859-8586 View (515) 859-8586
Photo of Jami L Lacona, LISW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jami L Lacona
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW
Verified Verified
West Des Moines, IA 50266
I specialize in treating adults who are struggling with symptoms related to untreated trauma and may be experiencing symptoms of anxiety and depression. I also have clinical expertise in treating those who may be experiencing or recovering from narcissistic abuse. I utilize a blending of spirituality and psychology as well as cognitive behavioral therapy as treatment modalities.
I specialize in treating adults who are struggling with symptoms related to untreated trauma and may be experiencing symptoms of anxiety and depression. I also have clinical expertise in treating those who may be experiencing or recovering from narcissistic abuse. I utilize a blending of spirituality and psychology as well as cognitive behavioral therapy as treatment modalities.
(515) 855-6641 View (515) 855-6641
Photo of Olivia Scott, LMHC, Counselor
Olivia Scott
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
West Des Moines, IA 50265
My experience is in treating anxiety, depression, PTSD, grief and loss, and addiction.
Are you walking through a difficult life transition, having trouble expressing or understanding what emotions you are feeling, or looking for ways to increase self-esteem and identify your core values? If so, I am here to provide you a non-judgmental space to identify stressors and gain perspective on how they are impacting your current quality of life.
My experience is in treating anxiety, depression, PTSD, grief and loss, and addiction.
Are you walking through a difficult life transition, having trouble expressing or understanding what emotions you are feeling, or looking for ways to increase self-esteem and identify your core values? If so, I am here to provide you a non-judgmental space to identify stressors and gain perspective on how they are impacting your current quality of life.
(515) 420-1976 View (515) 420-1976
Photo of Stephanie Barrett, LISW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Stephanie Barrett
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW
Verified Verified
West Des Moines, IA 50266
Waitlist for new clients
I have experience in the following areas: depression, anxiety, grief/loss, end-of-life issues, geriatric/aging, women's issues, mood disorders.
I am a Licensed Independent Social Worker in the state of Iowa. I graduated from Simpson College in 2004 with a Bachelor's degree in Psychology and St. Ambrose University in 2006 with a Master's degree in Social Work (MSW). I have been working with clients in health care and mental health settings since 2006. As a therapist, I strive to make services accessbile and welcoming. Therapy is a place to feel accepted and free from judgment. In this fast-paced world, we all deserve a space to be supported as our authentic selves.
I have experience in the following areas: depression, anxiety, grief/loss, end-of-life issues, geriatric/aging, women's issues, mood disorders.
I am a Licensed Independent Social Worker in the state of Iowa. I graduated from Simpson College in 2004 with a Bachelor's degree in Psychology and St. Ambrose University in 2006 with a Master's degree in Social Work (MSW). I have been working with clients in health care and mental health settings since 2006. As a therapist, I strive to make services accessbile and welcoming. Therapy is a place to feel accepted and free from judgment. In this fast-paced world, we all deserve a space to be supported as our authentic selves.
(515) 517-2527 View (515) 517-2527
Photo of Susan C Helkenn, MSW, LISW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Susan C Helkenn
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LISW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
West Des Moines, IA 50265
Although I enjoy working with a variety of clients and client needs, my current work centers around depression, anxiety, school struggles, family and parenting, adjusting to divorce, acceptance of self including identity (LGBTQ), and general life struggles.
Every person has the ability to live a happier, more productive life--you just need the right tools! At Innovative Learning Professionals, I use proven, traditional and non-traditional approaches to improve functioning and lives. In a casual, non-judgmental setting, I meet with school-age children, teens, and adults of all ages. Whatever your struggle-- anxiety or worry, school or work, depression or low mood, relationships or loneliness, parenting or parents--- we can find ways to improve mood, behavior, thinking, and your life. Please feel free to email or call to talk about scheduling.
Although I enjoy working with a variety of clients and client needs, my current work centers around depression, anxiety, school struggles, family and parenting, adjusting to divorce, acceptance of self including identity (LGBTQ), and general life struggles.
Every person has the ability to live a happier, more productive life--you just need the right tools! At Innovative Learning Professionals, I use proven, traditional and non-traditional approaches to improve functioning and lives. In a casual, non-judgmental setting, I meet with school-age children, teens, and adults of all ages. Whatever your struggle-- anxiety or worry, school or work, depression or low mood, relationships or loneliness, parenting or parents--- we can find ways to improve mood, behavior, thinking, and your life. Please feel free to email or call to talk about scheduling.
(515) 303-1887 x4 View (515) 303-1887 x4
Photo of Samantha Rives, LMHC, Counselor
Samantha Rives
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
West Des Moines, IA 50266
Are you noticing tension and discomfort in your body? I believe that this is often easier to notice than what might be contributing to your symptoms, things like anxiety, stress, or trauma. We tend to push on and avoid taking good care of ourselves, despite feeling depressed, managing grief, and experiencing life challenges. We can find ourselves feeling burned out, struggling to function in our daily lives, and needing to reconnect with ourselves and those around us. Wherever you’re at in your healing and wellness journey, I’d love to help you along the way.
Are you noticing tension and discomfort in your body? I believe that this is often easier to notice than what might be contributing to your symptoms, things like anxiety, stress, or trauma. We tend to push on and avoid taking good care of ourselves, despite feeling depressed, managing grief, and experiencing life challenges. We can find ourselves feeling burned out, struggling to function in our daily lives, and needing to reconnect with ourselves and those around us. Wherever you’re at in your healing and wellness journey, I’d love to help you along the way.
(515) 599-9060 View (515) 599-9060
Photo of Carlos Canales - Carlos Canales, PsyD, CGP, FAGPA, Psychologist
Carlos Canales
Psychologist, PsyD, CGP, FAGPA
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
West Des Moines, IA 50266
For instance, I am skilled in the treatment of depression, anxiety, and difficulties that emerge from relationships.
I believe therapy is a way to enrich life in general, to enhance the enjoyable, and to understand and move through the painful. I think life is better in supportive company and that is why I am a therapist. I am fascinated with the multilayer complexity of life; in integrating the mind, body, heart, and spirit, as well as the richness of people and culture. I enjoy building connections with clients and exploring what brought them to therapy, how their history informs their present situation, and how needs and emotions are communicated. In essence, I’m thoughtful about how life is experienced, assimilated, digested and observed.
For instance, I am skilled in the treatment of depression, anxiety, and difficulties that emerge from relationships.
I believe therapy is a way to enrich life in general, to enhance the enjoyable, and to understand and move through the painful. I think life is better in supportive company and that is why I am a therapist. I am fascinated with the multilayer complexity of life; in integrating the mind, body, heart, and spirit, as well as the richness of people and culture. I enjoy building connections with clients and exploring what brought them to therapy, how their history informs their present situation, and how needs and emotions are communicated. In essence, I’m thoughtful about how life is experienced, assimilated, digested and observed.
(515) 393-2921 View (515) 393-2921
Photo of Holly Conlee, LMHC, NCC, Counselor
Holly Conlee
Counselor, LMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
West Des Moines, IA 50266
Waitlist for new clients
I enjoy connecting with clients by using a down-to-earth approach (and a little humor at times) to achieve the very best outcomes from therapy. I work with adults on a variety of concerns, including (but not limited to): anxiety, depression, adjustment difficulties, college stress, phase of life concerns, divorce, blended family concerns, serious acute/chronic illness, grief/loss, and trauma/PTSD. I am LGBTQ+ allied. I also enjoy working with corrections employees, law enforcement, firefighters, EMT, dispatch, and professionals in ER settings. We are all a work in progress!
I enjoy connecting with clients by using a down-to-earth approach (and a little humor at times) to achieve the very best outcomes from therapy. I work with adults on a variety of concerns, including (but not limited to): anxiety, depression, adjustment difficulties, college stress, phase of life concerns, divorce, blended family concerns, serious acute/chronic illness, grief/loss, and trauma/PTSD. I am LGBTQ+ allied. I also enjoy working with corrections employees, law enforcement, firefighters, EMT, dispatch, and professionals in ER settings. We are all a work in progress!
(515) 882-7435 View (515) 882-7435
Photo of Ian Adams, tLMHC, MS, Counselor
Ian Adams
Counselor, tLMHC, MS
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
West Des Moines, IA 50266
I have extended my schedule and am now accepting new clients, high school age and older - I accept all major insurance. I specialize in helping those struggling with trauma, depression, anxiety, and addiction to unhealthy cycles; especially lesser thought-of issues such as addictions to toxic relationships, pornography, sex, gaming, health, and social media. I'm also a philosophy buff and love working with those looking to gain a sense of belonging or purpose in life.
I have extended my schedule and am now accepting new clients, high school age and older - I accept all major insurance. I specialize in helping those struggling with trauma, depression, anxiety, and addiction to unhealthy cycles; especially lesser thought-of issues such as addictions to toxic relationships, pornography, sex, gaming, health, and social media. I'm also a philosophy buff and love working with those looking to gain a sense of belonging or purpose in life.
(515) 516-6858 View (515) 516-6858
Photo of William F Walker, MSW, LISW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
William F Walker
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LISW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
West Des Moines, IA 50265
Are you looking for support to achieve the kind of life you envision? Maybe you are struggling to succeed in one of life's domains, including social, work, school, or family relationships. We would be honored to have an opportunity to work with you or your family member. The warm and supportive environment in our office helps clients feel comfortable working through personal challenges such as depression, anxiety, relationship difficulties, family conflict, ADHD (adult and children), job stress, and other life stressors.
Are you looking for support to achieve the kind of life you envision? Maybe you are struggling to succeed in one of life's domains, including social, work, school, or family relationships. We would be honored to have an opportunity to work with you or your family member. The warm and supportive environment in our office helps clients feel comfortable working through personal challenges such as depression, anxiety, relationship difficulties, family conflict, ADHD (adult and children), job stress, and other life stressors.
(515) 599-3170 View (515) 599-3170
Photo of Erin Suchy-Johnson, LISW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Erin Suchy-Johnson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
West Des Moines, IA 50266
Clinical interests include pregnancy/postpartum mental health, anxiety, depression and grief/loss.
Feeling "blah," hopeless, down? Nervous, on-edge, stuck in the past or constantly worried about the future? Find yourself angry/agitated all the time? Do you have physical symptoms like appetite changes, sleep difficulties, fatigue, restlessness, and trouble concentrating? Losing interest in activities you used to enjoy, struggling with everyday tasks, feeling "checked out" and thinking thoughts like "what's the point?," "will X ever get better" can be a sign we could benefit from outside help.
Clinical interests include pregnancy/postpartum mental health, anxiety, depression and grief/loss.
Feeling "blah," hopeless, down? Nervous, on-edge, stuck in the past or constantly worried about the future? Find yourself angry/agitated all the time? Do you have physical symptoms like appetite changes, sleep difficulties, fatigue, restlessness, and trouble concentrating? Losing interest in activities you used to enjoy, struggling with everyday tasks, feeling "checked out" and thinking thoughts like "what's the point?," "will X ever get better" can be a sign we could benefit from outside help.
(515) 417-1913 x209 View (515) 417-1913 x209
Photo of Erik Oostenink - Erik Oostenink, LMHC, LLC, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Erik Oostenink, LMHC, LLC
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
West Des Moines, IA 50265
I strive to provide a warm and welcoming environment for people to feel safe, genuine, and accepted, to work through issues. With over 20 years of experience, I work with many men who can be real about struggles with life changes, relationship issues, depression, anxiety, and substance use. I also see women, couples, and adolescents. I enjoy the balance of working with a variety of people, and also feel passionate about making counseling a healthy place for men too. I take people serious and we can have fun too. Typical sessions involve more laughter than tears and are sprinkled with talk of sports, current events, and family.
I strive to provide a warm and welcoming environment for people to feel safe, genuine, and accepted, to work through issues. With over 20 years of experience, I work with many men who can be real about struggles with life changes, relationship issues, depression, anxiety, and substance use. I also see women, couples, and adolescents. I enjoy the balance of working with a variety of people, and also feel passionate about making counseling a healthy place for men too. I take people serious and we can have fun too. Typical sessions involve more laughter than tears and are sprinkled with talk of sports, current events, and family.
(515) 517-2351 View (515) 517-2351
Photo of Jamie Dunn, MA, LMHC, LPC, Counselor
Jamie Dunn
Counselor, MA, LMHC, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
West Des Moines, IA 50266  (Online Only)
I found my passion for using evidence-based treatment modalities of anxiety, depression, and related disorders while working at Rogers Behavioral Health in Oconomowoc, Wisconsin in 2004 and have worked in a variety of settings since that time.
Comparing yourself to others? Struggling with uncertainties in life? Worried others might judge you by your thoughts? My goal in therapy is to provide a safe and non-judgmental space for you to take risks and help you to build more confidence. I want to help you to live a more authentic life that is in line with YOUR goals and values. I am currently licensed to help individuals in Iowa, Wisconsin, Florida, Vermont and Delaware. I look forward to meeting you and talking more about how things can get better for you.
I found my passion for using evidence-based treatment modalities of anxiety, depression, and related disorders while working at Rogers Behavioral Health in Oconomowoc, Wisconsin in 2004 and have worked in a variety of settings since that time.
Comparing yourself to others? Struggling with uncertainties in life? Worried others might judge you by your thoughts? My goal in therapy is to provide a safe and non-judgmental space for you to take risks and help you to build more confidence. I want to help you to live a more authentic life that is in line with YOUR goals and values. I am currently licensed to help individuals in Iowa, Wisconsin, Florida, Vermont and Delaware. I look forward to meeting you and talking more about how things can get better for you.
(515) 854-4705 View (515) 854-4705
Photo of Dustin Daugherty, LISW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Dustin Daugherty
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
West Des Moines, IA 50266
Waitlist for new clients
If you are experiencing symptoms of depression, anxiety, or a trauma that you just can't seem to "get over", give me a call. These are all areas that I love helping people overcome. I have over 10 years of clinical experience working in the mental health profession. I specialize in working through family problems with individuals and their families. I believe in empowering people to successfully discharge from therapy and take back control of their lives.
If you are experiencing symptoms of depression, anxiety, or a trauma that you just can't seem to "get over", give me a call. These are all areas that I love helping people overcome. I have over 10 years of clinical experience working in the mental health profession. I specialize in working through family problems with individuals and their families. I believe in empowering people to successfully discharge from therapy and take back control of their lives.
(515) 604-8046 View (515) 604-8046
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Depression Therapists

What is the goal of therapy for depression?

Therapy for depression has several major goals. One is to relieve the mental pain of depression, which distorts feeling and thinking so that sufferers cannot see beyond their current state of mind or envision feeling better. Another is to give people the mental tools to recognize and correct the kinds of distorted thinking that turn a problem into a catastrophe and lead to despair. Therapy also teaches people how to process negative emotions in constructive ways, so they have more control over their own emotional reactivity. And it helps people regain the ability to see themselves positively, the motivation to do things, and the capacity for pleasure.

What happens in therapy for depression?

Perhaps most important, no matter the type of therapy, patients form an alliance with the therapist; that connection is therapeutic in itself, plus it becomes an instrument of change. Patients learn to identify and to challenge their own erroneous beliefs and thoughts that amplify the effects of negative experiences. They learn to identify situations in which they are especially vulnerable. And they learn new patterns of thinking and behaving. They may be given “homework” assignments in which they practice their developing skills. In addition, good therapists regularly monitor patients to assess whether and how much the condition is improving.

What therapy types help with depression?

Several types of short-term therapy have been found effective, each targeting one or more areas of dysfunction. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) helps clients challenge their negative thoughts and beliefs, learn new behavioral strategies, and curb reactivity to distressing situations. Behavioral activation (BA) is a form of therapy often used in conjunction with CBT; it focuses on engagement in rewarding activity as a pathway to changing negative feelings and disturbed mood. Another widely used approach is interpersonal therapy (IPT), which targets the social difficulties that both give rise to and get exacerbated by depression. Therapists may combine approaches as needed.

Can therapy for depression be done online?

Studies have found that online therapy can be highly effective for treating depression, although it may be more challenging to build a good therapist-patient alliance on screen than in person—at least at first. However, online therapy can offer considerable advantages. Accessibility and convenience are tops among them. Some people actually find it easier to talk about problems online than in person. While online therapy typically limits visibility of facial expression and body gestures that give important nonverbal cues to a patient’s state of mind, it can give therapists a glimpse into a patient’s world and life, providing information that can be highly useful in guiding therapy.

How effective is therapy for depression?

Many studies show that therapy is highly effective provided that patients complete the prescribed course of therapy, commonly 16 to 20 sessions. Over the long term, it is more effective than medication and the effects are more enduring. As a result, psychotherapy has the power not just to relieve current suffering but to prevent future episodes of the disorder. Therapy reverses the dysfunction in neural circuitry that disposes individuals to a negative view of themselves, the world, and their future and they acquire coping techniques, problem-solving skills, and understanding of their own vulnerabilities that are useful over the course of a lifetime.