Grief Therapists in West Des Moines, IA

Photo of Erin Knauer, LISW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Erin Knauer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW
Verified Verified
West Des Moines, IA 50266
I specialize in depression, anxiety, grief and loss, trauma, relationships difficulties, chronic illness, pain and end of life issues.
Going to therapy is a challenging decision. I get it, vulnerability sucks. However, if you’ve come to the point in your life where you feel like you’re spinning your wheels and can’t quite get on the right track then therapy could be what you need. As a therapist, I am direct yet supportive and empathetic. I strive to take a collaborative and compassionate approach with my clients.
I specialize in depression, anxiety, grief and loss, trauma, relationships difficulties, chronic illness, pain and end of life issues.
Going to therapy is a challenging decision. I get it, vulnerability sucks. However, if you’ve come to the point in your life where you feel like you’re spinning your wheels and can’t quite get on the right track then therapy could be what you need. As a therapist, I am direct yet supportive and empathetic. I strive to take a collaborative and compassionate approach with my clients.
(515) 497-2225 View (515) 497-2225
Photo of Samantha Ness, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Samantha Ness
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
West Des Moines, IA 50265
Hi, I’m Sam! I’m a mental health provider who strives to create a safe and inclusive environment for all with consistent encouragement to come as you are. I work with individuals on grief and loss, and in addition to bereavement I work with adults, adolescents, children, and families on topics such as anxiety, depression, emotional regulation, and family dynamics.
Hi, I’m Sam! I’m a mental health provider who strives to create a safe and inclusive environment for all with consistent encouragement to come as you are. I work with individuals on grief and loss, and in addition to bereavement I work with adults, adolescents, children, and families on topics such as anxiety, depression, emotional regulation, and family dynamics.
(515) 517-2546 View (515) 517-2546
Photo of Melissa Cribari, LMHC, Counselor
Melissa Cribari
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
West Des Moines, IA 50266
Through my years of experience as a clinician I have collaborated with clients grappling with an array of mental health challenges, encompassing anxiety, depression, grief and loss, cancer, chronic illness, postpartum depression/anxiety, and relationship conflicts.
I have a passion for helping individuals improve their emotional well-being and enhance their overall quality of life. I believe in creating a non-judgmental and supportive space for my clients to explore their thoughts, feelings, and experiences. I strive to foster a strong therapeutic alliance by building trust, empathy, and mutual respect with each individual I work with.
Through my years of experience as a clinician I have collaborated with clients grappling with an array of mental health challenges, encompassing anxiety, depression, grief and loss, cancer, chronic illness, postpartum depression/anxiety, and relationship conflicts.
I have a passion for helping individuals improve their emotional well-being and enhance their overall quality of life. I believe in creating a non-judgmental and supportive space for my clients to explore their thoughts, feelings, and experiences. I strive to foster a strong therapeutic alliance by building trust, empathy, and mutual respect with each individual I work with.
(515) 516-3121 View (515) 516-3121
Photo of Heidi Lohff, LISW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Heidi Lohff
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW
Verified Verified
West Des Moines, IA 50266  (Online Only)
I am committed to provide a safe and a supportive space for those who have experienced trauma, grief or any type of experience that needs extra support.
Are you struggling with depression, anxiety, emotional trauma, or self-doubt? I help people develop the coping and communication skills needed to effectively manage the symptoms of a mental health challenge. We’ll connect online via telehealth sessions designed to help you heal from past trauma, uncover strengths, improve relationships, and just feel better. I’m a therapist at Embrace Health, a virtual mental health clinic that connects people to therapists and psychiatric specialists. It’s easy to sign up and get started. Just call us at 515-972-9938 or send me an email or visit our website to book an appointment.
I am committed to provide a safe and a supportive space for those who have experienced trauma, grief or any type of experience that needs extra support.
Are you struggling with depression, anxiety, emotional trauma, or self-doubt? I help people develop the coping and communication skills needed to effectively manage the symptoms of a mental health challenge. We’ll connect online via telehealth sessions designed to help you heal from past trauma, uncover strengths, improve relationships, and just feel better. I’m a therapist at Embrace Health, a virtual mental health clinic that connects people to therapists and psychiatric specialists. It’s easy to sign up and get started. Just call us at 515-972-9938 or send me an email or visit our website to book an appointment.
(515) 972-9938 View (515) 972-9938
Photo of Amy Marie Davis, MSW, LISW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Amy Marie Davis
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LISW
Verified Verified
West Des Moines, IA 50266
I am active in our community in regard to survivors of suicide loss and prevention.
“What you seek is seeking you.” The mere fact that you are looking for a therapist right now tells me that you are ready to heal. We all go through ups and downs in life, and sometimes we just need someone to listen without fear of judgement. Maybe you’ve experienced trauma, and can’t quite, “get over it.” Perhaps you are showing one side of yourself to the world, but internally dying to be recognized for who you show yourself when nobody is looking. There are so many different reasons as to why you are choosing now to look in the mirror. I can help you see with clarity, with an unbiased, open-minded viewpoint.
I am active in our community in regard to survivors of suicide loss and prevention.
“What you seek is seeking you.” The mere fact that you are looking for a therapist right now tells me that you are ready to heal. We all go through ups and downs in life, and sometimes we just need someone to listen without fear of judgement. Maybe you’ve experienced trauma, and can’t quite, “get over it.” Perhaps you are showing one side of yourself to the world, but internally dying to be recognized for who you show yourself when nobody is looking. There are so many different reasons as to why you are choosing now to look in the mirror. I can help you see with clarity, with an unbiased, open-minded viewpoint.
(515) 519-3466 View (515) 519-3466
Photo of Caroline Oestreich - Here With You Counseling (Caroline Oestreich LISW), MSW, LISW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Here With You Counseling (Caroline Oestreich LISW)
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LISW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
West Des Moines, IA 50265
Hello, therapy seeker! Sometimes we need a little help to find the answers within ourselves. This is an environment for individuals that are open to self-exploration and are motivated to improve their well-being. Here, you're ready to develop improved coping skills and find relief from negative thought patterns and persistent feelings of distress. I work closely with individuals experiencing grief, stress, anxiety, depression, and life transitions.
Hello, therapy seeker! Sometimes we need a little help to find the answers within ourselves. This is an environment for individuals that are open to self-exploration and are motivated to improve their well-being. Here, you're ready to develop improved coping skills and find relief from negative thought patterns and persistent feelings of distress. I work closely with individuals experiencing grief, stress, anxiety, depression, and life transitions.
(515) 444-5687 View (515) 444-5687
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 Susan Sharp Heitshusen, MS, LMHC, Counselor
Susan Sharp Heitshusen
Counselor, MS, LMHC
Verified Verified
West Des Moines, IA 50266
I am a Certified Grief Recovery Specialist.
We have all been through difficulties and transitions where we seek a sense of strength and healing. Therapy is a way of exploring struggles and developing strengths and coping strategies while enriching life by integrating the mind, body, and spirit to achieve a greater sense of purpose and meaning. It is my goal to walk a path with you in a non-judgmental, accepting, and empathetic atmosphere to help you discover and utilize your strengths, overcome barriers, and achieve mental wellness.
I am a Certified Grief Recovery Specialist.
We have all been through difficulties and transitions where we seek a sense of strength and healing. Therapy is a way of exploring struggles and developing strengths and coping strategies while enriching life by integrating the mind, body, and spirit to achieve a greater sense of purpose and meaning. It is my goal to walk a path with you in a non-judgmental, accepting, and empathetic atmosphere to help you discover and utilize your strengths, overcome barriers, and achieve mental wellness.
(515) 657-7072 View (515) 657-7072
Photo of Karin Beschen, LMHC, PMH-C, Counselor
Karin Beschen
Counselor, LMHC, PMH-C
Verified Verified
West Des Moines, IA 50266
Not accepting new clients
I have specialized training in grief and traumatic grief.
Over the years I've worked with clients related to life transitions such as career/job challenges, relationships, family dynamics, loss, anxiety and depression. When these detours are a part of your path, you may lose your sense of direction or question your destination. I believe we all have the capacity to better manage our struggles and the potential to feel better ... a lot better!
I have specialized training in grief and traumatic grief.
Over the years I've worked with clients related to life transitions such as career/job challenges, relationships, family dynamics, loss, anxiety and depression. When these detours are a part of your path, you may lose your sense of direction or question your destination. I believe we all have the capacity to better manage our struggles and the potential to feel better ... a lot better!
View
Photo of Alicia Peña, MS, LMHC, Counselor
Alicia Peña
Counselor, MS, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
West Des Moines, IA 50265
Welcome! Life is a continual journey of healing the mind, body, and spirit. I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and I provide individual and family therapy. My passion is working with people from multi-cultural populations who have experienced trauma, PTSD, depression, anxiety, suicidal ideation, grief/loss, anger, irritability, stress, and substance abuse. I am a Certified EMDR Therapist and Consultant, (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing), and offer Mindfulness, Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy and Client Centered Therapy,
Welcome! Life is a continual journey of healing the mind, body, and spirit. I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and I provide individual and family therapy. My passion is working with people from multi-cultural populations who have experienced trauma, PTSD, depression, anxiety, suicidal ideation, grief/loss, anger, irritability, stress, and substance abuse. I am a Certified EMDR Therapist and Consultant, (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing), and offer Mindfulness, Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy and Client Centered Therapy,
(515) 608-8892 View (515) 608-8892
Photo of Eric Williamson, tLMHC, Pre-Licensed Professional
Eric Williamson
Pre-Licensed Professional, tLMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
West Des Moines, IA 50265  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
In addition, I have worked with clients addressing men’s issues, loss, and end of life situations.
If you are reading this, you are most likely considering getting in touch with a therapist. Regardless of the reason or reasons, I believe that it is important for you to recognize and honor your strength in reaching this point. I know that it can be difficult to ask for help, but if you are ready, I am here. Creating an environment that is judgment-free and unwaveringly supportive is exceptionally important to me. My desire is to work with clients who feel that there is something preventing them from living their best and most fulfilling life.
In addition, I have worked with clients addressing men’s issues, loss, and end of life situations.
If you are reading this, you are most likely considering getting in touch with a therapist. Regardless of the reason or reasons, I believe that it is important for you to recognize and honor your strength in reaching this point. I know that it can be difficult to ask for help, but if you are ready, I am here. Creating an environment that is judgment-free and unwaveringly supportive is exceptionally important to me. My desire is to work with clients who feel that there is something preventing them from living their best and most fulfilling life.
(515) 461-8595 View (515) 461-8595
Photo of Brie Carl, LISW, CGP, ASDCS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Brie Carl
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW, CGP, ASDCS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
West Des Moines, IA 50265
I have taken additional trainings in the area of grief and loss and working with those individuals on the autism spectrum.
Life can be overwhelming and, at times, take unexpected turns. In those moments, it is refreshing to know that we have someone to turn to who can support us as we navigate those challenges. After all, just like children, emotions heal when they are heard and validated.
I have taken additional trainings in the area of grief and loss and working with those individuals on the autism spectrum.
Life can be overwhelming and, at times, take unexpected turns. In those moments, it is refreshing to know that we have someone to turn to who can support us as we navigate those challenges. After all, just like children, emotions heal when they are heard and validated.
(515) 203-8286 View (515) 203-8286
Photo of Beverly Robinson - RPB Counseling Services, LLC, MS, LMHC, LPCC, Counselor
RPB Counseling Services, LLC
Counselor, MS, LMHC, LPCC
Verified Verified
West Des Moines, IA 50266
Overwhelmed by intense bouts of guilt, anger, shame and fear? Trapped. I specialize in helping clients who are struggling with PTSD, Trauma, Grief, Acute Life Challenges, Relationship Issues, Anxiety and Depression. Through our work together, clients will learn techniques to reduce intensity and practical resources to address persistent emotions. Allowing clients to be more present and achieve a new state of balance in their lives.
Overwhelmed by intense bouts of guilt, anger, shame and fear? Trapped. I specialize in helping clients who are struggling with PTSD, Trauma, Grief, Acute Life Challenges, Relationship Issues, Anxiety and Depression. Through our work together, clients will learn techniques to reduce intensity and practical resources to address persistent emotions. Allowing clients to be more present and achieve a new state of balance in their lives.
(319) 220-0014 View (319) 220-0014
Photo of Krista Long, LISW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Krista Long
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
West Des Moines, IA 50266
I specialize in supporting Women's Issues. Relationships (marriage, divorce, dating, family), stage of life adjustments, anxiety, depression, parenting, workplace issues and grief are challenges I commonly help with. I have 25 years experience helping good people with difficult problems find a pathway forward, think more clearly, take steps to make their lives and relationships better, and increase overall calm and contentment.
I specialize in supporting Women's Issues. Relationships (marriage, divorce, dating, family), stage of life adjustments, anxiety, depression, parenting, workplace issues and grief are challenges I commonly help with. I have 25 years experience helping good people with difficult problems find a pathway forward, think more clearly, take steps to make their lives and relationships better, and increase overall calm and contentment.
(515) 705-0696 View (515) 705-0696
Photo of Shellie Matt Therapist - Shellie Matt Psychotherapy, EdS, MA, Counselor
Shellie Matt Psychotherapy
Counselor, EdS, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
West Des Moines, IA 50266
As a psychotherapist with 30 years experience I provide depth therapy for people suffering from personal or collective trauma, depression, stress, anxiety, relationship, identity concerns, grief and loss, religious injury, emptiness, mood regulation, creative blocks, and career and life transition struggles. Jungian psychotherapy not only addresses one's immediate personal life problems, but also explores the underlying psychological and spiritual issues that might be contributing to your suffering. It can provide an opportunity to become more conscious of unhealthy and maladaptive patterns and increase overall well-being.
As a psychotherapist with 30 years experience I provide depth therapy for people suffering from personal or collective trauma, depression, stress, anxiety, relationship, identity concerns, grief and loss, religious injury, emptiness, mood regulation, creative blocks, and career and life transition struggles. Jungian psychotherapy not only addresses one's immediate personal life problems, but also explores the underlying psychological and spiritual issues that might be contributing to your suffering. It can provide an opportunity to become more conscious of unhealthy and maladaptive patterns and increase overall well-being.
(515) 996-4721 View (515) 996-4721
Photo of Jessica Brase, LISW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jessica Brase
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
West Des Moines, IA 50266
Not accepting new clients
As a Licensed Independent Social Worker (LISW), I enjoy working with adolescents and adults as they work towards their identified goals. My approach is to offer empathy, compassion and transparency throughout your journey. My therapeutic focus is helping others with depression, anxiety, trauma, grief, relationships and life transitions.
As a Licensed Independent Social Worker (LISW), I enjoy working with adolescents and adults as they work towards their identified goals. My approach is to offer empathy, compassion and transparency throughout your journey. My therapeutic focus is helping others with depression, anxiety, trauma, grief, relationships and life transitions.
(515) 361-7196 View (515) 361-7196
Photo of Lindsey Olsen, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Lindsey Olsen
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
West Des Moines, IA 50266
Waitlist for new clients
Some common concerns are, but not limited to: anxiety, depression, self-esteem, abuse (emotional, sexual, physical), attachment, family conflict, communication issues, somatic issues (pain, seizures, loss of vision), grief and loss, addictions and compulsions, trauma and PTSD, and changes and adjustments in life.
Hi! I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, and I am passionate about working with individuals, couples, and families to meet their desired goals. I have an interest in working with clients who have experienced trauma and/or PTSD. I am a certified therapist in Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR). EMDR is a type of therapy that enables people to heal from symptoms and/or emotional distress that can result from disturbing life experiences. I also work with clients experiencing somatic (body) issues from traumatic experiences. Please do not hesitate to ask questions about specific issues you would like to address.
Some common concerns are, but not limited to: anxiety, depression, self-esteem, abuse (emotional, sexual, physical), attachment, family conflict, communication issues, somatic issues (pain, seizures, loss of vision), grief and loss, addictions and compulsions, trauma and PTSD, and changes and adjustments in life.
Hi! I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, and I am passionate about working with individuals, couples, and families to meet their desired goals. I have an interest in working with clients who have experienced trauma and/or PTSD. I am a certified therapist in Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR). EMDR is a type of therapy that enables people to heal from symptoms and/or emotional distress that can result from disturbing life experiences. I also work with clients experiencing somatic (body) issues from traumatic experiences. Please do not hesitate to ask questions about specific issues you would like to address.
(515) 505-1833 View (515) 505-1833
Photo of Courageous Minds - Courageous Minds Counseling, LLC, MS, LMHC, NCC, Counselor
Courageous Minds Counseling, LLC
Counselor, MS, LMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
West Des Moines, IA 50266
Immediate Openings! Sometimes you find yourself preferring to be alone because you feel unhappy, sad or loss. You feel defeated and overwhelmed by the stressors you have to face everyday. You feel helpless and like your life is out of your control. NOW, Imagine feeling like you are starting to have control over things that are happening in your life. You're not allowing past, current or worry of future experiences to control how you handle your life right now. You have a sense of who you are, who you want to be and how to achieve personal goals. Now, you have found the COURAGE to change things that are not healthy for you.
Immediate Openings! Sometimes you find yourself preferring to be alone because you feel unhappy, sad or loss. You feel defeated and overwhelmed by the stressors you have to face everyday. You feel helpless and like your life is out of your control. NOW, Imagine feeling like you are starting to have control over things that are happening in your life. You're not allowing past, current or worry of future experiences to control how you handle your life right now. You have a sense of who you are, who you want to be and how to achieve personal goals. Now, you have found the COURAGE to change things that are not healthy for you.
(515) 444-5993 View (515) 444-5993
Photo of Emma Sakanovic, tLMHC, Counselor
Emma Sakanovic
Counselor, tLMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
West Des Moines, IA 50266
I work with variety of issues and concerns including anxiety, depression, self-esteem, abuse, family conflict, communication issues, grief and loss, addiction, PTSD and trauma and changes in everyday life.
I believe that therapy is a sacred place where my clients will feel safe, welcome, and heard. Our lives can bring adversity and tribulations that shake us to our core, leaving us lost and alone. With me, you don’t have to be alone in your journey. With 20+ years of experience working with adults in the criminal justice system, I bring patience, empathy, understanding, and a nonjudgmental stance. I am grateful for the opportunity to help you grow and reach your full potential. While we can’t change our past experiences, together we can find ways to better understand and resolve life challenges.
I work with variety of issues and concerns including anxiety, depression, self-esteem, abuse, family conflict, communication issues, grief and loss, addiction, PTSD and trauma and changes in everyday life.
I believe that therapy is a sacred place where my clients will feel safe, welcome, and heard. Our lives can bring adversity and tribulations that shake us to our core, leaving us lost and alone. With me, you don’t have to be alone in your journey. With 20+ years of experience working with adults in the criminal justice system, I bring patience, empathy, understanding, and a nonjudgmental stance. I am grateful for the opportunity to help you grow and reach your full potential. While we can’t change our past experiences, together we can find ways to better understand and resolve life challenges.
(515) 824-2443 View (515) 824-2443
Photo of Kristine Lindell, LMHC, Counselor
Kristine Lindell
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
West Des Moines, IA 50266
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.
(515) 758-7315 View (515) 758-7315
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Grief Therapists

How long does therapy take for grief?

There is no exact timeline for grief counseling. Some people may start to feel better after just a few sessions, while others may take months or longer to feel relief. Some specific approaches, including some types of CBT, may involve a set number of sessions, or therapy may be open-ended until the patient determines they are ready to wrap up. Just as there is no right or wrong way to grieve, there is no right or wrong way to seek therapy for grief.

When should you seek therapy for grief?

Many people mistakenly believe that their grief needs to be debilitating or all-encompassing to warrant therapy. This is not the case. While people who experience severe, prolonged grief—particularly those who are considering self-harm or engaging in unhealthy substance use—are especially likely to benefit from therapy, so too are people whose grief is less intense but still interfering with well-being or daily functioning. In practice, almost anyone struggling to process a loss could benefit from grief counseling.

Can grief be managed without therapy?

Oftentimes, yes. Grief is a near-universal part of being human, and many find that their grief, while profound, does not stop them from participating in day-to-day life and steadily eases over time without outside help. For others, however, the harsh pain of early grief persists for months or years or leaves them unable to function. This group is especially likely to benefit from seeing a therapist, who can guide them through their grief and help them reconnect with the world.

What happens if grief is left untreated?

Because grief does not in itself necessitate therapy, untreated grief will often resolve on its own. However, for some people—particularly those who would qualify for a diagnosis of prolonged grief disorder—untreated grief can be a source of seemingly endless pain or lead them to withdraw from the world. In such cases, treatment can be indispensable, as it can help an individual adapt to the loss and start living again.