EMDR Therapists in West Des Moines, IA
Human to Human counseling believes you are the one who knows best about yourself; working together with you as a team to work on goals the client bring to sessions. Therapy is a place to feel supported, learn new skills and how to implement them, and work through past trauma with an educated and genuine guide. Human to Human Counseling will always support the person that shows up, recognizing we are all human beings with a story and experiences of our own. Three of our five clinicians are trained in EMDR, and the other two use CBT and other methods to support clients through healing after trauma.
Human to Human counseling believes you are the one who knows best about yourself; working together with you as a team to work on goals the client bring to sessions. Therapy is a place to feel supported, learn new skills and how to implement them, and work through past trauma with an educated and genuine guide. Human to Human Counseling will always support the person that shows up, recognizing we are all human beings with a story and experiences of our own. Three of our five clinicians are trained in EMDR, and the other two use CBT and other methods to support clients through healing after trauma.
My integrated approach incorporates EMDR, Internal Family Systems, Attachment Theory, somatic, and mindfulness-based approaches.
It is a privilege to walk alongside brave people in the midst of struggle. Human beings are designed to live in relationship, and my approach emphasizes the importance of authentic connection with ourselves and others. I provide a warm, accepting presence to support you in exploring your vulnerable emotions, thoughts, beliefs, and experiences. I believe every person has within them the wisdom and insight needed to heal, including you. I'll work collaboratively with you, building on your strengths to support you in finding greater peace and stability in your life.
My integrated approach incorporates EMDR, Internal Family Systems, Attachment Theory, somatic, and mindfulness-based approaches.
It is a privilege to walk alongside brave people in the midst of struggle. Human beings are designed to live in relationship, and my approach emphasizes the importance of authentic connection with ourselves and others. I provide a warm, accepting presence to support you in exploring your vulnerable emotions, thoughts, beliefs, and experiences. I believe every person has within them the wisdom and insight needed to heal, including you. I'll work collaboratively with you, building on your strengths to support you in finding greater peace and stability in your life.
Jennie Pedersen-Coulter
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
West Des Moines, IA 50266
Waitlist for new clients
My clinical practice is rooted in evidence-based therapies, including EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing), CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and various somatic approaches.
Welcome! I am a dedicated Licensed Mental Health Counselor with fifteen years of experience specializing in trauma recovery and helping clients experience their highest sense of self. With a compassionate approach and a deep understanding of the mind-body connection I work to empower my clients to navigate their healing journeys and live the life they desire. I work from a trauma-sensitive, client-centered approach, and am passionate about creating a safe space where you can express your concerns, feel heard and understood, and work towards your desired goals.
My clinical practice is rooted in evidence-based therapies, including EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing), CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and various somatic approaches.
Welcome! I am a dedicated Licensed Mental Health Counselor with fifteen years of experience specializing in trauma recovery and helping clients experience their highest sense of self. With a compassionate approach and a deep understanding of the mind-body connection I work to empower my clients to navigate their healing journeys and live the life they desire. I work from a trauma-sensitive, client-centered approach, and am passionate about creating a safe space where you can express your concerns, feel heard and understood, and work towards your desired goals.
Rebecca Williams
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LISW, IMH-E®
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
West Des Moines, IA 50266
I am also trained in EMDR use this with clients of all ages, early childhood to adult.
It takes strength and courage to ask for help. My goal is to help you use your strength to achieve your goals. The challenges of trauma, anxiety, depression and life events can be overwhelming. Whether you are needing support for yourself or your child, I offer a strength based and trauma informed therapeutic approach. I will work with you and your child to develop goals that build on your strengths and move towards healing. I use a strength based, trauma informed approach to services while using a variety of interventions specific to you or your child's needs.
I am also trained in EMDR use this with clients of all ages, early childhood to adult.
It takes strength and courage to ask for help. My goal is to help you use your strength to achieve your goals. The challenges of trauma, anxiety, depression and life events can be overwhelming. Whether you are needing support for yourself or your child, I offer a strength based and trauma informed therapeutic approach. I will work with you and your child to develop goals that build on your strengths and move towards healing. I use a strength based, trauma informed approach to services while using a variety of interventions specific to you or your child's needs.
Together our skilled clinicians provide a comprehensive and holistic approach to mental health treatment which includes; counseling, skill development, psychiatric evaluation and medication management as well as Brainwave Biofeedback, EMDR, Parent-Child Interaction Therapy, Trauma Focused CBT.
Since 2008 Integrative Counseling Solutions, Inc has been reaching out to schools and rural communities in Central Iowa to make mental health services more accessible.
Together our skilled clinicians provide a comprehensive and holistic approach to mental health treatment which includes; counseling, skill development, psychiatric evaluation and medication management as well as Brainwave Biofeedback, EMDR, Parent-Child Interaction Therapy, Trauma Focused CBT.
Since 2008 Integrative Counseling Solutions, Inc has been reaching out to schools and rural communities in Central Iowa to make mental health services more accessible.
Rich Webster
Counselor, MA, JD, LMHC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
West Des Moines, IA 50266
Waitlist for new clients
My theoretical orientation is eclectic and includes EMDR.
I am excited to announce my practice is expanding. We now have three licensed therapists who are all fantastic caring people. It is important to accept a person exactly where they are, in a safe and non-judgmental space where we can explore their issues, find and nurture hope, and together work toward growth and equanimity. As a counselor, my job is to hear, accept and understand my client as a whole person and provide strategies to achieve their goals. Growth, healing and change can be challenging and may take hard work on the part of the client and the counselor. I am honored to be a part of that process with my clients.
My theoretical orientation is eclectic and includes EMDR.
I am excited to announce my practice is expanding. We now have three licensed therapists who are all fantastic caring people. It is important to accept a person exactly where they are, in a safe and non-judgmental space where we can explore their issues, find and nurture hope, and together work toward growth and equanimity. As a counselor, my job is to hear, accept and understand my client as a whole person and provide strategies to achieve their goals. Growth, healing and change can be challenging and may take hard work on the part of the client and the counselor. I am honored to be a part of that process with my clients.
Ellen Petersen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
West Des Moines, IA 50266
I utilize Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Somatic Therapy, and EMDR in session, flexibly to best suit each client’s needs.
Coming to therapy for the first time is often incredibly daunting, especially in the midst some kind of suffering, which generally brings people to therapy. I work to create a space that is open and accepting as well as interactive. Together, we can plan your journey and outline the steps and tools we can learn in session to help you outside of session.
I utilize Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Somatic Therapy, and EMDR in session, flexibly to best suit each client’s needs.
Coming to therapy for the first time is often incredibly daunting, especially in the midst some kind of suffering, which generally brings people to therapy. I work to create a space that is open and accepting as well as interactive. Together, we can plan your journey and outline the steps and tools we can learn in session to help you outside of session.
Stephanie Lee, PhD, LISW, @ Starting New Chapters
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LISW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
West Des Moines, IA 50266
Waitlist for new clients
I am trained in the following therapeutic modalities: Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing ( EMDR), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and Solution-Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT).
I'm grateful to have spent over 30 years providing mental health services to individuals and families in the Des Moines area both as a Clinician and Supervisor in a variety of outpatient mental health settings, and as teaching in the field of Psychology as an adjunct teaching instructor for several years. I currently provide individual counseling services to adults (18 and above) both in-person and through tele-health. Areas of specialization include: trauma, depression, anxiety, grief and loss, and life transitions. It's truly an honor to work with those who are facing some of the most difficult and vulnerable moments in life.
I am trained in the following therapeutic modalities: Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing ( EMDR), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and Solution-Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT).
I'm grateful to have spent over 30 years providing mental health services to individuals and families in the Des Moines area both as a Clinician and Supervisor in a variety of outpatient mental health settings, and as teaching in the field of Psychology as an adjunct teaching instructor for several years. I currently provide individual counseling services to adults (18 and above) both in-person and through tele-health. Areas of specialization include: trauma, depression, anxiety, grief and loss, and life transitions. It's truly an honor to work with those who are facing some of the most difficult and vulnerable moments in life.
Rachael Kunzler
Pre-Licensed Professional, LMSW, MA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
West Des Moines, IA 50266
I am also undertaking training in EMDR therapy for past and current trauma.
Are you suffering from anxiety, depression, trauma or stress? Are you grieving the loss of a loved one? Have you recently experienced a significant life change or loss? Do you need a boost to your self-esteem? Are you getting in your own way, trying hard and getting nowhere? Have you had a recent heartbreak and want to work on your self-esteem and effective dating skills? Or are you considering participating in open relationships? Are you ready to make some effective changes and move on with your life? Are you interested in mindfulness-based therapy to strengthen your inner self? If so, you do not have to go it alone.
I am also undertaking training in EMDR therapy for past and current trauma.
Are you suffering from anxiety, depression, trauma or stress? Are you grieving the loss of a loved one? Have you recently experienced a significant life change or loss? Do you need a boost to your self-esteem? Are you getting in your own way, trying hard and getting nowhere? Have you had a recent heartbreak and want to work on your self-esteem and effective dating skills? Or are you considering participating in open relationships? Are you ready to make some effective changes and move on with your life? Are you interested in mindfulness-based therapy to strengthen your inner self? If so, you do not have to go it alone.
Alex Kennison
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
West Des Moines, IA 50266
The therapeutic approaches I utilize include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing ( EMDR), Solution-Focused Therapy, Mindfulness, and Gottman Method Couples Therapy.
Are you feeling lost or stuck, unsure of how to move forward in life? I'm here to help you find your way. As a compassionate clinician, I believe in collaborating with my clients to provide the support and guidance they need to make positive changes in their lives, relationships, and futures. I know that seeking therapy can be a big step, and I commend you for taking it. My goal is to help you feel comfortable and at ease throughout our sessions and to create a safe, non-judgmental space where you can explore your thoughts and feelings.
The therapeutic approaches I utilize include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing ( EMDR), Solution-Focused Therapy, Mindfulness, and Gottman Method Couples Therapy.
Are you feeling lost or stuck, unsure of how to move forward in life? I'm here to help you find your way. As a compassionate clinician, I believe in collaborating with my clients to provide the support and guidance they need to make positive changes in their lives, relationships, and futures. I know that seeking therapy can be a big step, and I commend you for taking it. My goal is to help you feel comfortable and at ease throughout our sessions and to create a safe, non-judgmental space where you can explore your thoughts and feelings.
Marypat McMahon
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MACJ, MSW, LISW
Verified Verified
West Des Moines, IA 50265
I am certified in trauma work and am EMDR trained.
I am a Clinician with a great deal of "life experience". So much of what we struggle with is nothing new. However, without sharing that pain we can stay stuck in the depression and anxiety of our thought. In the past I have worked with parents, families and in the school setting. I have also worked as a clinical therapist. Wherever I have ventured though, I have always seen the importance of "relationship" in therapy. I so look forward to helping you reach your goals.
I am certified in trauma work and am EMDR trained.
I am a Clinician with a great deal of "life experience". So much of what we struggle with is nothing new. However, without sharing that pain we can stay stuck in the depression and anxiety of our thought. In the past I have worked with parents, families and in the school setting. I have also worked as a clinical therapist. Wherever I have ventured though, I have always seen the importance of "relationship" in therapy. I so look forward to helping you reach your goals.
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Gabby Archibald
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW, RPTS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
West Des Moines, IA 50266
I believe in meeting clients where they are in life, using a compassionate and caring approach with the modality that works the best for your needs. I see a clients through the life span from school age children through adults, with a variety of needs including adjustment issues, anxiety, depression, and trauma. I have been trained in EMDR, Trauma Focused CBT, and play therapy, among other therapeutic approaches.
I believe in meeting clients where they are in life, using a compassionate and caring approach with the modality that works the best for your needs. I see a clients through the life span from school age children through adults, with a variety of needs including adjustment issues, anxiety, depression, and trauma. I have been trained in EMDR, Trauma Focused CBT, and play therapy, among other therapeutic approaches.
Ashley is EMDR trained and TF-EAP trained and works to resolve prior trauma, including but not limited to, childhood trauma, relationships/attachment trauma, pre/postnatal trauma, and traumatic events.
Ashley is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor who utilizes a range of modalities to help address areas of concern including depression, anxiety and trauma. Ashley believes therapy is a process in which the therapist and client collaborate to create positive change. Her professional training includes EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing) and TF-EAP (Trauma Focused-Equine Assisted Psychotherapy). Therapy is a time to address underlying issues so you can reach your goals and enjoy life!
Ashley is EMDR trained and TF-EAP trained and works to resolve prior trauma, including but not limited to, childhood trauma, relationships/attachment trauma, pre/postnatal trauma, and traumatic events.
Ashley is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor who utilizes a range of modalities to help address areas of concern including depression, anxiety and trauma. Ashley believes therapy is a process in which the therapist and client collaborate to create positive change. Her professional training includes EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing) and TF-EAP (Trauma Focused-Equine Assisted Psychotherapy). Therapy is a time to address underlying issues so you can reach your goals and enjoy life!
Traditional & trauma-informed methods such as EMDR & CBT are integrated with expressive arts, Reiki, & mindfulness practices to promote holistic wellness.
Serving adults, kids, and teens, I know the challenges and transitions we face in life can be overwhelming. It can be so difficult to feel whole and healthy after experiencing hardship, trauma, anxiety, depression, or high levels of stress. If you-or someone you love-is feeling stuck, ungrounded, or overwhelmed, I offer guidance to heal deeply. Using techniques that address body/mind/soul, I invite you to heal in a way that honors all that you are, & all that you've been through. With the right support, the severity of symptoms of ADHD, depression & anxiety, life transitions, grief, or other struggles can be reduced.
Traditional & trauma-informed methods such as EMDR & CBT are integrated with expressive arts, Reiki, & mindfulness practices to promote holistic wellness.
Serving adults, kids, and teens, I know the challenges and transitions we face in life can be overwhelming. It can be so difficult to feel whole and healthy after experiencing hardship, trauma, anxiety, depression, or high levels of stress. If you-or someone you love-is feeling stuck, ungrounded, or overwhelmed, I offer guidance to heal deeply. Using techniques that address body/mind/soul, I invite you to heal in a way that honors all that you are, & all that you've been through. With the right support, the severity of symptoms of ADHD, depression & anxiety, life transitions, grief, or other struggles can be reduced.
My goal is to create a safe, open environment for you to come and express feelings and successfully work through problems. I strive for you to feel safe, accepted and validated. I use CBT, TFCBT, and I am newly trained in EMDR. I am nurturing, nonjudgmental, supportive, and like to use humor when appropriate. I enjoy working with individuals. Kids (10 and up), teens, and adults. I accept Wellmark Blue Cross/Blue Shield insurance, Aetna, as well as United Health Care Insurance. I look forward to meeting you!
My goal is to create a safe, open environment for you to come and express feelings and successfully work through problems. I strive for you to feel safe, accepted and validated. I use CBT, TFCBT, and I am newly trained in EMDR. I am nurturing, nonjudgmental, supportive, and like to use humor when appropriate. I enjoy working with individuals. Kids (10 and up), teens, and adults. I accept Wellmark Blue Cross/Blue Shield insurance, Aetna, as well as United Health Care Insurance. I look forward to meeting you!
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).
Kirsten Bury
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
West Des Moines, IA 50265
I am certified in TF-CBT (Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy) and trained in EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing), play therapy, and other evidence-based models that I use as appropriate to each client.
I am a licensed clinical social worker with an emphasis on a holistic, trauma-informed, and cognitive behavioral approach. I use a client centered and integrated therapy approach to come along side you in your journey. I have experience working with children, families, and adults in a variety of areas including trauma, stress and adjustment, grief and loss, anxiety, depression, mood disorders, relationships, and attention and impulse concerns. Each client comes from a different place and has different strengths and needs, and I strive to understand and value those differences and create a plan with you that works for you.
I am certified in TF-CBT (Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy) and trained in EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing), play therapy, and other evidence-based models that I use as appropriate to each client.
I am a licensed clinical social worker with an emphasis on a holistic, trauma-informed, and cognitive behavioral approach. I use a client centered and integrated therapy approach to come along side you in your journey. I have experience working with children, families, and adults in a variety of areas including trauma, stress and adjustment, grief and loss, anxiety, depression, mood disorders, relationships, and attention and impulse concerns. Each client comes from a different place and has different strengths and needs, and I strive to understand and value those differences and create a plan with you that works for you.
Sarah Lynn Cavan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
West Des Moines, IA 50265
My therapeutic approach is more eclectic, and I often interweave these with EMDR to help “turn down the volume”on emotional scars from the past.
Feeling disconnected, misunderstood, or like you are on the outside looking in? Do you feel unseen or unheard and want a therapist that strives to really see and hear you? I approach all clients as an interaction between two people, not just you talking. I often offer feedback, insights, and sometimes direction. I also love to laugh and swear with my clients, and I sometimes even cry with them. Most importantly, I see you as a unique and strong individual with a story to tell and a healing journey ahead of you; and I would be honored to share this journey with you.
My therapeutic approach is more eclectic, and I often interweave these with EMDR to help “turn down the volume”on emotional scars from the past.
Feeling disconnected, misunderstood, or like you are on the outside looking in? Do you feel unseen or unheard and want a therapist that strives to really see and hear you? I approach all clients as an interaction between two people, not just you talking. I often offer feedback, insights, and sometimes direction. I also love to laugh and swear with my clients, and I sometimes even cry with them. Most importantly, I see you as a unique and strong individual with a story to tell and a healing journey ahead of you; and I would be honored to share this journey with you.
Ali Dotson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
West Des Moines, IA 50266 (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I have have advanced training in EMDR and Perinatal Mental Health.
I am so glad you're here! Seeking out therapy when feeling overwhelmed or stuck is an act of courage. As a therapist with over 10 years of experience, I am committed to providing a safe space to talk through your roadblocks, life transitions, and adverse experiences. I not only trust you are an expert of your own life, but also give you the opportunity to challenge deeply-held beliefs that may no longer serve purpose in your present life. My areas of expertise include perinatal mood disorders, anxiety, depression, trauma, grief and loss, and relationships.
I have have advanced training in EMDR and Perinatal Mental Health.
I am so glad you're here! Seeking out therapy when feeling overwhelmed or stuck is an act of courage. As a therapist with over 10 years of experience, I am committed to providing a safe space to talk through your roadblocks, life transitions, and adverse experiences. I not only trust you are an expert of your own life, but also give you the opportunity to challenge deeply-held beliefs that may no longer serve purpose in your present life. My areas of expertise include perinatal mood disorders, anxiety, depression, trauma, grief and loss, and relationships.
Jill K Shirley
Counselor, JD, LMHC, IADC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
West Des Moines, IA 50265
In addition to decades of experience as a professional in other industries and working through my own personal challenges, I have experience and training in: addiction, betrayal trauma, couples/relationship work, Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing ( EMDR), Acceptance Commitment Therapy (ACT), Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), and positive psychology.
Whether you are facing life-changing circumstances, finally facing an ongoing issue and ready to change, or simply need an objective sounding board, reaching out to a therapist is a courageous step. We will work together to explore what underlies the difficulties you face and collaborate to find solutions and mechanisms for coping. In therapy we will work together to develop a trusting relationship so that you feel safe enough to express your most authentic and vulnerable self.
In addition to decades of experience as a professional in other industries and working through my own personal challenges, I have experience and training in: addiction, betrayal trauma, couples/relationship work, Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing ( EMDR), Acceptance Commitment Therapy (ACT), Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), and positive psychology.
Whether you are facing life-changing circumstances, finally facing an ongoing issue and ready to change, or simply need an objective sounding board, reaching out to a therapist is a courageous step. We will work together to explore what underlies the difficulties you face and collaborate to find solutions and mechanisms for coping. In therapy we will work together to develop a trusting relationship so that you feel safe enough to express your most authentic and vulnerable self.
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Who is EMDR for?
EMDR was initially developed as a treatment for individuals with Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), for whom memories of a deeply distressing experience can be inadvertently triggered by random everyday events. The procedure has since been applied in the treatment of many other conditions. For example, it is used by some therapists to treat anxiety disorders including panic and phobias, depression, dissociative disorders, eating disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorders, and some personality disorders. It is suitable for adolescents and adults.
Why do people need EMDR?
People need EMDR as a way to manage distressing memories that in some way hamper the ability to function in the present. The procedure is believed to target the way memories are stored in the brain. Evidence indicates that past disturbing experiences cause ongoing distress because they were not adequately processed, and when such memories are triggered in the present, they are accompanied by all the emotions, thoughts, and physical sensations as the initial experience.
What problems does EMDR treat?
First and foremost, EMDR is intended as a treatment for PTSD, to defuse distressing memories that intrude on and impair everyday functioning. It is also often used to help those who are subject to panic attacks, phobias, and other forms of anxiety. In addition, EMDR has been used to treat individuals with depression, eating disorders, and personality disorders.
What happens in EMDR therapy?
First the therapist takes an individual’s history, and then the therapist and client decide which distressing experience(s) will be the target(s) of the exercise, delivered via a side-to-side visual stimulus requiring lateral eye movements. The client will be asked to activate thoughts, feelings, and any body sensations related to the troubling experience. The eye movements are said to reduce the emotional charge of the memory, so that the experience can then be safely discussed with the therapist and digested, minimizing its ability to trigger anxiety.