Female Therapists in West Des Moines, IA
![Photo of Shannon Schott, MS, tLMHC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f18a419f-5b98-4110-9357-f0b7a0354aec/2/320x400.jpeg)
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.
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.
![Photo of Leslie Henter, MSW, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/037634b0-04a3-4b7b-82e1-279cc1535378/2/320x400.jpeg)
Currently accepting new clients! Difficult situations, changes, events, or stressful situations in our lives can leave us confused, scared, and speechless. I want to commend you for taking the first step in the therapeutic process! My priority is creating a nonjudgmental environment where trust is developed and you feel safe with me—every single session and interaction. Therapy is a collaborative process between the two of us. I’m here to listen, support you, and give you opportunities to explore and design a plan that helps you move your life forward.
Currently accepting new clients! Difficult situations, changes, events, or stressful situations in our lives can leave us confused, scared, and speechless. I want to commend you for taking the first step in the therapeutic process! My priority is creating a nonjudgmental environment where trust is developed and you feel safe with me—every single session and interaction. Therapy is a collaborative process between the two of us. I’m here to listen, support you, and give you opportunities to explore and design a plan that helps you move your life forward.
![Photo of Jenny S Thorn, LMHC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3dafaf4a-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Making the decision to seek counseling can sometimes feel like an overwhelming process. It can be difficult to ask for help and know where to begin. It is my goal to help make this process a less frightening one and help you improve your life and personal well-being. Together we will identify the issues you would like to work on and determine a plan to help you reach your goals.
Making the decision to seek counseling can sometimes feel like an overwhelming process. It can be difficult to ask for help and know where to begin. It is my goal to help make this process a less frightening one and help you improve your life and personal well-being. Together we will identify the issues you would like to work on and determine a plan to help you reach your goals.
![Photo of Shelly Johnson (Ifs 🫶 Therapist), LMHC, CIFST, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/54a6e2d9-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Shelly Johnson (Ifs 🫶 Therapist)
Counselor, LMHC, CIFST
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
West Des Moines, IA 50265 (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Life is a journey that we are all navigating through in an effort to find who we really are, what our passions are, & what we truly desire; this is necessary to have an embodied experience of authentic healing, self-expression, and living. My ‘deepest’ intention for my clients is that they feel safe, uplifted, & more closely aligned w/ their hearts’ true desires. I encourage clients to cultivate a genuine & authentic approach to life, regardless of earlier life experiences, beliefs, or messaging. Are you ready to take that inner journey of exploration & discovery, without having to do it alone?
Life is a journey that we are all navigating through in an effort to find who we really are, what our passions are, & what we truly desire; this is necessary to have an embodied experience of authentic healing, self-expression, and living. My ‘deepest’ intention for my clients is that they feel safe, uplifted, & more closely aligned w/ their hearts’ true desires. I encourage clients to cultivate a genuine & authentic approach to life, regardless of earlier life experiences, beliefs, or messaging. Are you ready to take that inner journey of exploration & discovery, without having to do it alone?
![Photo of Kristine Lindell, LMHC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b682d3e5-b4dc-403c-81e2-8e5e5d907eb4/1/320x400.jpeg)
Serving adults, kids, and teens, I know all 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.
Serving adults, kids, and teens, I know all 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.
![Photo of Nikki Banes, MS, tLMHC, CADC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/236e5308-1b5e-4baa-9dc8-25e610315b18/1/320x400.jpeg)
Accepting New Clients in-person and telehealth! I'm so glad that you are considering therapy! I enjoy working with individuals experiencing a variety of life adjustments and mental health concerns. I really enjoy working with the following life issues: post-partum mental health, parenting, addiction concerns, issues of faith, self-esteem/body image, anxiety, depression, ADHD (adult and child), relationship concerns, life transitions, grief/loss, and trauma. If you are experiencing something you don't see on the list, reach out and we will talk! I am currently seeing individuals 10 and older.
Accepting New Clients in-person and telehealth! I'm so glad that you are considering therapy! I enjoy working with individuals experiencing a variety of life adjustments and mental health concerns. I really enjoy working with the following life issues: post-partum mental health, parenting, addiction concerns, issues of faith, self-esteem/body image, anxiety, depression, ADHD (adult and child), relationship concerns, life transitions, grief/loss, and trauma. If you are experiencing something you don't see on the list, reach out and we will talk! I am currently seeing individuals 10 and older.
![Photo of Rebecca Williams, MSW, LISW, IMH-E®, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4b164cfb-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Rebecca Williams
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LISW, IMH-E®
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
West Des Moines, IA 50266
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.
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.
![Photo of Kathleen Jo Alexander - Kathleen Alexander, LMFT, CMPE, LMFT, CMPE, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/fe762c1c-083c-416b-9478-50626c384ed6/2/320x400.jpeg)
Kathleen Alexander, LMFT, CMPE
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, CMPE
Verified Verified
West Des Moines, IA 50266
I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT). I am passionate about helping individuals, couples, and families meet their desired goals. The atmosphere in my sessions is warm, collaborative and purposeful. I provide practical feedback, including suggestions for new ways of thinking, assessing relationships and improving well-being outside of sessions.
I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT). I am passionate about helping individuals, couples, and families meet their desired goals. The atmosphere in my sessions is warm, collaborative and purposeful. I provide practical feedback, including suggestions for new ways of thinking, assessing relationships and improving well-being outside of sessions.
![Photo of Kimberly Montgomery, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/bb009506-cbcc-4b3f-9dac-aaa62137ed01/2/320x400.jpeg)
Kimberly Montgomery
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
West Des Moines, IA 50266
Waitlist for new clients
I believe my role as a therapist is to assist individuals and couples in navigating the unique challenges that life can present. I work from a Person Centered and Trauma-Based lens. My therapeutic style is open, integrative, collaborative, and engaged. Nothing brings me more joy than empowering my clients to access their inner strengths and achieve their therapeutic goals.
I believe my role as a therapist is to assist individuals and couples in navigating the unique challenges that life can present. I work from a Person Centered and Trauma-Based lens. My therapeutic style is open, integrative, collaborative, and engaged. Nothing brings me more joy than empowering my clients to access their inner strengths and achieve their therapeutic goals.
![Photo of Rachel Swanson, MS, LMHC, SOTP-II, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f1d9579e-6064-4bc7-8857-740f543594c9/1/320x400.jpeg)
In a safe environment, I support change with individuals, couples, and families to identify and build upon strengths. I hope to work towards reducing the stigma surrounding mental and sexual health. As a therapist, the diverse clients I see address mental health topics that are related but not limited to sexual trauma, couples work, LGBTQ+ concerns, kink and BDSM, non-traditional intimate relationships, and sexual wellness, education, and development.
In a safe environment, I support change with individuals, couples, and families to identify and build upon strengths. I hope to work towards reducing the stigma surrounding mental and sexual health. As a therapist, the diverse clients I see address mental health topics that are related but not limited to sexual trauma, couples work, LGBTQ+ concerns, kink and BDSM, non-traditional intimate relationships, and sexual wellness, education, and development.
![Photo of Jenna Frieden, LISW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4a84d982-d9df-4441-ba5b-c83d9471d30f/1/320x400.jpeg)
Jenna Frieden
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
West Des Moines, IA 50266
Accepting new clients! It is an honor that you are considering me as a therapist. I strive to provide a supportive and nonjudgmental environment for all of my clients and their families. I am a compassionate person with a warm personality. I typically use cognitive behavioral therapy(CBT), sand tray, child centered play therapy, and other play-based interventions in my therapy sessions. I invite your feedback throughout the therapeutic process and modify therapeutic interventions depending on your specific wants and needs.
Accepting new clients! It is an honor that you are considering me as a therapist. I strive to provide a supportive and nonjudgmental environment for all of my clients and their families. I am a compassionate person with a warm personality. I typically use cognitive behavioral therapy(CBT), sand tray, child centered play therapy, and other play-based interventions in my therapy sessions. I invite your feedback throughout the therapeutic process and modify therapeutic interventions depending on your specific wants and needs.
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![Photo of Abby Singleton, MA, tLMHC, NCC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a6b50fac-400c-4fbd-9d0f-2ebd5f4dda34/2/320x400.jpeg)
Accepting new clients! I use a radical and compassionate approach to therapy and believe that everyone deserves a safe and affirming space to feel seen, heard, and valued for who they are. I am a trauma-informed and affirming therapist with a psychodynamic background. I recognize that therapy is not one-size-fits-all, and I meet each person where they are at; I will modify therapeutic interventions and modalities based on the needs of each individual. We can work together to set goals and promote growth in whatever way feels best for you.
Accepting new clients! I use a radical and compassionate approach to therapy and believe that everyone deserves a safe and affirming space to feel seen, heard, and valued for who they are. I am a trauma-informed and affirming therapist with a psychodynamic background. I recognize that therapy is not one-size-fits-all, and I meet each person where they are at; I will modify therapeutic interventions and modalities based on the needs of each individual. We can work together to set goals and promote growth in whatever way feels best for you.
![Photo of Annie Steil, LISW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/da795346-963a-4c22-81d6-cab3d54353c1/1/320x400.jpeg)
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!
![Photo of Elaina C Riley, MSW, LISW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/fef9f913-81d0-47af-972d-4b304cafda86/1/320x400.jpeg)
Elaina C Riley
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LISW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
West Des Moines, IA 50266
Hello Beautiful People! I enjoy seeing all ages, adults, children, and teens. I see both non-traumatized people, who are usually dealing with anxiety and issues with mood, and people who experienced trauma, who deal with pain and many complexities of distress. I believe people get to where they want to if they just keep trying and do not give up. I would call that growing. I believe people want to feel regarded, respected, like they belong, and satisfied about something in their lives. I like to partner with people to create a map of how to untangle the knots, dislodge the stuck places, and move through obstacles to feeling better.
Hello Beautiful People! I enjoy seeing all ages, adults, children, and teens. I see both non-traumatized people, who are usually dealing with anxiety and issues with mood, and people who experienced trauma, who deal with pain and many complexities of distress. I believe people get to where they want to if they just keep trying and do not give up. I would call that growing. I believe people want to feel regarded, respected, like they belong, and satisfied about something in their lives. I like to partner with people to create a map of how to untangle the knots, dislodge the stuck places, and move through obstacles to feeling better.
![Photo of Hope Hunt, LISW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/982dc5c3-e83c-4f14-8da8-db8cab2fdd37/3/320x400.jpeg)
Hope Hunt
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
West Des Moines, IA 50265
Waitlist for new clients
currently have a waitlist! I offer a calm, welcoming, authentic, and supportive environment to help clients reach their full potential. My first focus with clients is building a trusting relationship and getting to know you as a whole individual as I feel this contributes to the therapeutic process. I am here to support you in making the changes you want in your life to help improve the overall quality. We will work together to create specific and attainable goals to help you achieve the outcome you desire.
currently have a waitlist! I offer a calm, welcoming, authentic, and supportive environment to help clients reach their full potential. My first focus with clients is building a trusting relationship and getting to know you as a whole individual as I feel this contributes to the therapeutic process. I am here to support you in making the changes you want in your life to help improve the overall quality. We will work together to create specific and attainable goals to help you achieve the outcome you desire.
![Photo of Kaylie Hoyle, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5059cd24-f518-4707-80a3-5993557b9345/3/320x400.jpeg)
Kaylie Hoyle
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
West Des Moines, IA 50266
I am a Licensed Master Social Worker who offers compassionate and collaborative care that is non-judgemental, client-centered, and goal-driven. My approach is largely influenced by narrative, mindfulness, and cognitive behavioral approaches. Special interests include supporting individuals with disordered eating and accompanying issues such as body image, self-esteem, anxiety, depression, and relational issues.
I am a Licensed Master Social Worker who offers compassionate and collaborative care that is non-judgemental, client-centered, and goal-driven. My approach is largely influenced by narrative, mindfulness, and cognitive behavioral approaches. Special interests include supporting individuals with disordered eating and accompanying issues such as body image, self-esteem, anxiety, depression, and relational issues.
![Photo of Lynn Burham, MS, tLMHC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d9d918ab-5a1b-4b5a-8610-c7e8e3201785/1/320x400.jpeg)
Whether you are stuck, confused, or facing a new challenge, it can be difficult to find solutions on your own. We all have times when we need an unbiased observer to help us untangle the collection of thoughts we have learned, or have been imposed upon us.
Whether you are stuck, confused, or facing a new challenge, it can be difficult to find solutions on your own. We all have times when we need an unbiased observer to help us untangle the collection of thoughts we have learned, or have been imposed upon us.
![Photo of Devon Gilliland-Minard, MSW, LISW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/33bf5c3e-a8dc-4c98-acb9-271dae009130/2/320x400.jpeg)
Devon Gilliland-Minard
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LISW
Verified Verified
West Des Moines, IA 50266
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.
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.
![Photo of Margo Hanson, LISW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8838cae6-aff3-4661-9b67-a9865bcd1f62/2/320x400.jpeg)
Margo Hanson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
West Des Moines, IA 50266
It takes courage to be vulnerable, to step into the therapy space, to be open to the process. My approach is to offer a compassionate and supportive space to remind you that none of us need to journey alone. You don’t have to have it figured out. It's all about taking the next step.
It takes courage to be vulnerable, to step into the therapy space, to be open to the process. My approach is to offer a compassionate and supportive space to remind you that none of us need to journey alone. You don’t have to have it figured out. It's all about taking the next step.
![Photo of Megan Runchey, LISW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e5231a7f-d0d1-4e35-8a6c-23de18c838a3/2/320x400.jpeg)
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.
See more therapy options for West Des Moines
Nearby Female Therapists Searches for West Des Moines
- Ankeny
- Beaverdale
- Clive
- Des Moines
- Grimes
- Johnston
- Norwalk
- Pleasant Hill
- Polk City
- Urbandale
- Waukee
- Windsor Heights
Female Therapists
Does it matter what gender my therapist is?
In general, this is not an important factor, as there is no relationship between a therapist’s gender and their efficacy. Some clients, however, prefer to see therapists of a particular gender, whether due to their own past experiences with men and women, or ingrained beliefs about how people of different genders think and behave. Exploring the roots of such preferences and considering what one wants to address in therapy can help someone determine whether their therapist’s gender truly matters to them.
Should I see a female therapist?
Many people—not just women—prefer to see a female therapist, either because they believe that a woman will be able to relate to their specific challenges (for example, sexism in the workplace) or because they imagine feeling more comfortable disclosing sensitive information to a woman. Such beliefs may not turn out to be accurate, however, and adhering too rigidly to a gender preference can at times hinder a client from finding the best therapeutic match.
Do therapists get specific training to help with women’s concerns?
Therapists are trained to provide care to clients of any gender. However, some therapists—both men and women—may pursue additional training in feminist therapy, gender-specific issues, or women’s mental health. Female clients may wish to ask prospective therapists whether they have received specific training in the client’s primary area(s) of concern, or whether they have worked extensively with women on issues similar to their own.
How can I inquire about a therapist’s experience in treating women?
It’s OK—even encouraged!—to ask a therapist directly whether and how often they have treated women in the past, or whether they have treated women dealing with the client’s most prominent concern(s). Competent therapists will be happy to share their educational background, preferred treatment modalities, and prior client experience to help an individual find the therapist best suited to their needs.