Substance Use Therapists in Iowa
Dalton Schindler
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Cedar Rapids, IA 52402
I have experience working with adults, mental and physical health issues, anxiety, depression, substance use, life transitions, stress, OCD, ADHD, family & relationship issues, mood disorders, trauma, emotion management.
Imagine a space where you can fully be yourself, free from judgment and full of possibilities. In our busy lives, that is often hard to envision. Creating this collaborative space is my responsibility as your therapist. I use a whole-person approach in treatment which grants clients a greater understanding not just of the presenting concern itself, but how the concern impacts other areas of your daily life. I’m committed to help you develop insight, resilience, and actionable tools to create the life you envision. I work with diverse populations and connect with clients using an open mind.
I have experience working with adults, mental and physical health issues, anxiety, depression, substance use, life transitions, stress, OCD, ADHD, family & relationship issues, mood disorders, trauma, emotion management.
Imagine a space where you can fully be yourself, free from judgment and full of possibilities. In our busy lives, that is often hard to envision. Creating this collaborative space is my responsibility as your therapist. I use a whole-person approach in treatment which grants clients a greater understanding not just of the presenting concern itself, but how the concern impacts other areas of your daily life. I’m committed to help you develop insight, resilience, and actionable tools to create the life you envision. I work with diverse populations and connect with clients using an open mind.
Ellie Van Dam
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Urbandale, IA 50322
Waitlist for new clients
I consider myself to be an existential therapist and believe that through suffering sometimes we find purpose and meaning in life. None of us are above suffering. Everyone will experience trauma or loss at some point in life and deserve a safe place to work through those experiences. I know what it is to suffer and have personal and professional experience with trauma, domestic violence, and substance use issues. I believe the therapeutic relationship is the most important component of effective therapy and place value on providing a non-judgmental, peaceful, safe space to heal.
I consider myself to be an existential therapist and believe that through suffering sometimes we find purpose and meaning in life. None of us are above suffering. Everyone will experience trauma or loss at some point in life and deserve a safe place to work through those experiences. I know what it is to suffer and have personal and professional experience with trauma, domestic violence, and substance use issues. I believe the therapeutic relationship is the most important component of effective therapy and place value on providing a non-judgmental, peaceful, safe space to heal.
Now accepting new clients. When we face challenges in life, we go to what has worked in the past. We distract ourselves, distance ourselves, or self-medicate with food, relationships, substances and more. At some point, these methods do more harm than good. Let's work together to identify the ways you cope and find better options. I will create a comfortable and safe environment free from judgment that encourages self-discovery. I have experience helping people with trauma, relationships, self-esteem, body image, substance use, anxiety, depression, OCD, binge eating disorder, suicidal thoughts and more.
Now accepting new clients. When we face challenges in life, we go to what has worked in the past. We distract ourselves, distance ourselves, or self-medicate with food, relationships, substances and more. At some point, these methods do more harm than good. Let's work together to identify the ways you cope and find better options. I will create a comfortable and safe environment free from judgment that encourages self-discovery. I have experience helping people with trauma, relationships, self-esteem, body image, substance use, anxiety, depression, OCD, binge eating disorder, suicidal thoughts and more.
I am proficient in treating substance use disorders and completing ASAM-compliant assessments, which are acceptable for residential treatment referral if necessary and often meet requirements for legal obligation/DHS.
I am ready to help individual adults, couples, and children (ages 8+) improve their mental health! My skills lie in helping clients improve communication skills and increase healthy coping to manage anxiety, depression, historical trauma, substance abuse, and personality issues. I view the therapeutic relationship as essential to facilitate this change; whether this is your first time seeking counseling services or you've been through a number of providers trying to find your 'fit,' I will work hard to help you feel comfortable and safe as you progress in therapy using transparency, humor, and reflective feedback.
I am proficient in treating substance use disorders and completing ASAM-compliant assessments, which are acceptable for residential treatment referral if necessary and often meet requirements for legal obligation/DHS.
I am ready to help individual adults, couples, and children (ages 8+) improve their mental health! My skills lie in helping clients improve communication skills and increase healthy coping to manage anxiety, depression, historical trauma, substance abuse, and personality issues. I view the therapeutic relationship as essential to facilitate this change; whether this is your first time seeking counseling services or you've been through a number of providers trying to find your 'fit,' I will work hard to help you feel comfortable and safe as you progress in therapy using transparency, humor, and reflective feedback.
Colyn Burbank
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, CADC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Des Moines, IA 50309
Waitlist for new clients
I am trained in Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART) to treat trauma and other ongoing problems such as substance use, anxiety, depression, and grief.
I am an approachable therapist with a down to earth style. My goal is to provide a setting that is welcoming and safe for clients to explore their thoughts and feelings. I strive to help my clients overcome difficulties they are working through using an empathetic and compassionate approach.
I am trained in Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART) to treat trauma and other ongoing problems such as substance use, anxiety, depression, and grief.
I am an approachable therapist with a down to earth style. My goal is to provide a setting that is welcoming and safe for clients to explore their thoughts and feelings. I strive to help my clients overcome difficulties they are working through using an empathetic and compassionate approach.
Areas of focus include trauma and substance use.
Offering both in person and telehealth options. Schedule is Monday, Wednesday, and Fridays, 10-5PM.
Areas of focus include trauma and substance use.
Offering both in person and telehealth options. Schedule is Monday, Wednesday, and Fridays, 10-5PM.
Angela La Luzerne
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
West Des Moines, IA 50266
For 20+ years I've worked with clients to address depression, anxiety, chronic pain, relationship issues, substance use reduction or elimination, trauma, family conflict, etc.
Ever wonder, "why is this so hard?" "How did I find myself here?" "What do I do now?" You may feel hopeless or stuck. The desire to get unstuck - to make changes and show up for life in a happier, healthier way - is a noble one. The therapeutic relationship provides a safe, sacred space for you to explore new possibilities, especially as the journey may feel overwhelming at times. We often uncover thoughts, beliefs and behaviors that no longer serve you well. Through a variety of interventions, tailored to your individual needs, change IS possible! It is never too late to start caring for ourselves and others more effectively.
For 20+ years I've worked with clients to address depression, anxiety, chronic pain, relationship issues, substance use reduction or elimination, trauma, family conflict, etc.
Ever wonder, "why is this so hard?" "How did I find myself here?" "What do I do now?" You may feel hopeless or stuck. The desire to get unstuck - to make changes and show up for life in a happier, healthier way - is a noble one. The therapeutic relationship provides a safe, sacred space for you to explore new possibilities, especially as the journey may feel overwhelming at times. We often uncover thoughts, beliefs and behaviors that no longer serve you well. Through a variety of interventions, tailored to your individual needs, change IS possible! It is never too late to start caring for ourselves and others more effectively.
Hello! My name is Kelsey, and I am a licensed mental health counselor at Hope Tree Counseling Services. I love horses, pets, travel, The Golden Girls, FBI thrillers, and being a counselor. I believe that everyone deserves a non-judgmental space where the focus can be on them and their goals. Meeting people where they are at is important to me, and your goals are our goals in therapy. I have a background working with individuals struggling with anxiety, depression, substance use, and trauma. I work with teenagers, adults, and older adults from a variety of backgrounds.
Hello! My name is Kelsey, and I am a licensed mental health counselor at Hope Tree Counseling Services. I love horses, pets, travel, The Golden Girls, FBI thrillers, and being a counselor. I believe that everyone deserves a non-judgmental space where the focus can be on them and their goals. Meeting people where they are at is important to me, and your goals are our goals in therapy. I have a background working with individuals struggling with anxiety, depression, substance use, and trauma. I work with teenagers, adults, and older adults from a variety of backgrounds.
Abby is a fully licensed mental health clinician in Iowa. She is certified in dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) and specializes in personality disorders, substance use/addictive behaviors, and Christian counseling. Abby also enjoys working with teens and using art-based interventions during in person sessions. Abby will see ages 12 and above both in person in Fort Madison or via telehealth!
Abby is a fully licensed mental health clinician in Iowa. She is certified in dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) and specializes in personality disorders, substance use/addictive behaviors, and Christian counseling. Abby also enjoys working with teens and using art-based interventions during in person sessions. Abby will see ages 12 and above both in person in Fort Madison or via telehealth!
You are the expert on you. As a therapist, I work to assist you in identifying your goals, processing your thoughts, and creating a safe space to explore and strive towards personal growth. Whether addressing a situational life stressor, substance use, family/relationship conflicts, personal identity, or symptoms of trauma – I strive to create a judgement free, client centered environment. I have a professional history working in the areas of substance use and systemic trauma in both residential and community environments. I have an educational focus in trauma-informed care.
You are the expert on you. As a therapist, I work to assist you in identifying your goals, processing your thoughts, and creating a safe space to explore and strive towards personal growth. Whether addressing a situational life stressor, substance use, family/relationship conflicts, personal identity, or symptoms of trauma – I strive to create a judgement free, client centered environment. I have a professional history working in the areas of substance use and systemic trauma in both residential and community environments. I have an educational focus in trauma-informed care.
Greg E Brostad
Counselor, LMHC, IADC, SOTPII, CSAT-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sioux City, IA 51103
In addition to helping clients with anxiety and depression my expertise is in the treatment of addiction including substance use concerns and sexual acting out including pornography and sex addiction.
Many of the clients that I work with find themselves in need of help identifying healthy and effective means of coping with life's transitions and concerns. By utilizing extensive experience and training my goal is to help those clients address their concerns and create a path for sustainable and healthy recovery. I do this by honoring my client's values and wishes while creating a life that is free from addiction.
In addition to helping clients with anxiety and depression my expertise is in the treatment of addiction including substance use concerns and sexual acting out including pornography and sex addiction.
Many of the clients that I work with find themselves in need of help identifying healthy and effective means of coping with life's transitions and concerns. By utilizing extensive experience and training my goal is to help those clients address their concerns and create a path for sustainable and healthy recovery. I do this by honoring my client's values and wishes while creating a life that is free from addiction.
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Judy Thomas
Independent Mental Health Practitioner, LIMHP, LPC, PLADC
Verified Verified
Council Bluffs, IA 51501
I have experience working with substance use issues, anger, incarcerated individuals, teenagers, adults, couples, military, trauma and grief.
I believe therapy is a process that takes effort from both the client and the therapist working together to achieve the client's goals. Through Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and other therapies, I show my clients how they can replace their current thoughts with more positive and adaptive thoughts, which will change their mood and behaviors. I believe that clients have control of their treatment and can achieve a lot more than they think they can. I will work with clients in providing the skills that will help them achieve their goals. I am licensed in both Iowa and Nebraska and can diagnose co-occurring disorders.
I have experience working with substance use issues, anger, incarcerated individuals, teenagers, adults, couples, military, trauma and grief.
I believe therapy is a process that takes effort from both the client and the therapist working together to achieve the client's goals. Through Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and other therapies, I show my clients how they can replace their current thoughts with more positive and adaptive thoughts, which will change their mood and behaviors. I believe that clients have control of their treatment and can achieve a lot more than they think they can. I will work with clients in providing the skills that will help them achieve their goals. I am licensed in both Iowa and Nebraska and can diagnose co-occurring disorders.
Sara Gamblin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, CADC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Des Moines, IA 50310
Mental health, substance use, chronic illness & the criminal justice system are my areas of specialty.
My name is Sara Gamblin, I am a Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW) and Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor (CADC). I firmly believe everyone deserves to feel heard, safe and supported. My goal is to help you discover more about yourself, your strengths, better understand your relationships and build tools as well as strategies to help you navigate the challenges in your life. I strongly support meeting a client where he or she is at and giving them autonomy to work at the pace the client is comfortable. I look forward to working with you to help you find the person you want to be and the life you want to live! I
Mental health, substance use, chronic illness & the criminal justice system are my areas of specialty.
My name is Sara Gamblin, I am a Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW) and Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor (CADC). I firmly believe everyone deserves to feel heard, safe and supported. My goal is to help you discover more about yourself, your strengths, better understand your relationships and build tools as well as strategies to help you navigate the challenges in your life. I strongly support meeting a client where he or she is at and giving them autonomy to work at the pace the client is comfortable. I look forward to working with you to help you find the person you want to be and the life you want to live! I
I specialize in the areas of grief/trauma/crisis, symptoms of psychosis, cognitive difficulties – including symptoms of dementia – depression/anxiety and substance use issues.
As a mental health professional I believe in supporting individuals in their life's journey and the many transitions and challenges it brings from a creative, person-centered and nonjudgmental place. I feel strongly in providing a safe space for people to share their personal experiences built on a foundation of professional rapport and mutual respect.
I specialize in the areas of grief/trauma/crisis, symptoms of psychosis, cognitive difficulties – including symptoms of dementia – depression/anxiety and substance use issues.
As a mental health professional I believe in supporting individuals in their life's journey and the many transitions and challenges it brings from a creative, person-centered and nonjudgmental place. I feel strongly in providing a safe space for people to share their personal experiences built on a foundation of professional rapport and mutual respect.
Acceptance Recovery Counseling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW, CADC, MSL
Verified Verified
Coralville, IA 52241
If you are looking for help for a family member, you can make a huge difference in your loved one's substance use and treatment.
Do you or a loved one struggle with drinking or drug use? Are you living day-to-day with no real hope for the future? Have you turned to other unhealthy habits- food, gambling, toxic relationships? Have you tried therapy or treatment in the past and walked away feeling worse than when you started?
If you are looking for help for a family member, you can make a huge difference in your loved one's substance use and treatment.
Do you or a loved one struggle with drinking or drug use? Are you living day-to-day with no real hope for the future? Have you turned to other unhealthy habits- food, gambling, toxic relationships? Have you tried therapy or treatment in the past and walked away feeling worse than when you started?
Heather Joy Thomas
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW, CADC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Des Moines, IA 50316 (Online Only)
Welcome! My name is Heather Thomas, and I am a Licensed Independent Social Worker (LISW) and a Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor (CADC) with over 18 years of experience in the mental health and substance abuse fields. Currently, I serve as the Director of Counseling at Grand View University, where I provide short-term therapy services, oversee internship programming, and actively contribute to various committees including the Peer Wellness, Behavior Intervention Team, and DEI committee. I have a rich background working as a Therapist, Director, and Regional Director in community mental health, substance use, and crisis services.
Welcome! My name is Heather Thomas, and I am a Licensed Independent Social Worker (LISW) and a Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor (CADC) with over 18 years of experience in the mental health and substance abuse fields. Currently, I serve as the Director of Counseling at Grand View University, where I provide short-term therapy services, oversee internship programming, and actively contribute to various committees including the Peer Wellness, Behavior Intervention Team, and DEI committee. I have a rich background working as a Therapist, Director, and Regional Director in community mental health, substance use, and crisis services.
I specialize in assisting clients with a range of presentations, including substance use, depression, anxiety, grief, trauma, life transitions, and other challenges.
I am committed to supporting clients aged 13 and older through their unique mental health journeys. I use a person-centered, strengths-based approach where respect for the human experience is paramount. I integrate techniques from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Motivational Interviewing (MI), Interpersonal Therapy (IPT), and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) to create tailored treatment plans that address individual needs. I am deeply empathetic, fostering a connection that helps clients feel understood and supported as they explore their personal challenges and growth.
I specialize in assisting clients with a range of presentations, including substance use, depression, anxiety, grief, trauma, life transitions, and other challenges.
I am committed to supporting clients aged 13 and older through their unique mental health journeys. I use a person-centered, strengths-based approach where respect for the human experience is paramount. I integrate techniques from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Motivational Interviewing (MI), Interpersonal Therapy (IPT), and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) to create tailored treatment plans that address individual needs. I am deeply empathetic, fostering a connection that helps clients feel understood and supported as they explore their personal challenges and growth.
Richelle Derfus
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LISW, CCTP
Verified Verified
North Liberty, IA 52317
I assist in helping clients heal from trauma, sexual abuse, depression, anxiety, eating disorder recovery and substance use recovery. I use a wide variety of treatment modalities to assist in overcoming difficulties. I use several treatment modalities, based on what you need. I am certified in EMDR, which is a first line treatment for helping people to overcome trauma. It is also used to treat other emotional experiences. I also assist with people struggling to cope in healthy manners, and help you to discover and implement new coping skills. You will learn new skills to assist you in having the life you want.
I assist in helping clients heal from trauma, sexual abuse, depression, anxiety, eating disorder recovery and substance use recovery. I use a wide variety of treatment modalities to assist in overcoming difficulties. I use several treatment modalities, based on what you need. I am certified in EMDR, which is a first line treatment for helping people to overcome trauma. It is also used to treat other emotional experiences. I also assist with people struggling to cope in healthy manners, and help you to discover and implement new coping skills. You will learn new skills to assist you in having the life you want.
I am a licensed clinical social worker in the state of Iowa, and I work with adults (18 and up) in both individual and couples therapy. I have experience working with diverse clients on a wide-range of concerns, that include grief and loss, anxiety, depression, substance use, family-of-origin concerns, interpersonal functioning, trauma, identity-based concerns, and sex/intimacy concerns. I work best with individuals who are motivated and interested in change, and in engaging with deep exploration of their own behaviors and experiences.
I am a licensed clinical social worker in the state of Iowa, and I work with adults (18 and up) in both individual and couples therapy. I have experience working with diverse clients on a wide-range of concerns, that include grief and loss, anxiety, depression, substance use, family-of-origin concerns, interpersonal functioning, trauma, identity-based concerns, and sex/intimacy concerns. I work best with individuals who are motivated and interested in change, and in engaging with deep exploration of their own behaviors and experiences.
My specialties include working with individuals in recovery for substance use disorders, treating mental health disorders, and providing mental health coaching.
Whether you are looking for traditional talk therapy or simply have a desire to discover your purpose and a better way of life, I'm here to help! I have openings for folks who are motivated and ready to create change in their own lives.
My specialties include working with individuals in recovery for substance use disorders, treating mental health disorders, and providing mental health coaching.
Whether you are looking for traditional talk therapy or simply have a desire to discover your purpose and a better way of life, I'm here to help! I have openings for folks who are motivated and ready to create change in their own lives.
See more therapy options for Iowa
Substance Use Therapists
How do substance and drug recovery or rehabilitation programs work?
In inpatient programs, individuals live in a facility with other clients in recovery; in outpatient programs, individuals reside at home. These facilities are staffed with healthcare professionals including physicians, nurses, psychologists, counselors, and psychotherapists. Staff often also includes people who have recovered themselves, serving as mentors and guides. These programs may use abstinence, harm reduction, detoxification, psychotherapy, and other methods.
How do 12-step programs combined with psychotherapy work?
Members of 12-step programs help each other reach abstinence and work to maintain it. These programs promote complete change in the individual’s emotional, mental, physical, and even spiritual perspectives. Some programs require that new members attend 90 meetings in 90 days. Many people do attend these programs in conjunction with their work in psychotherapy; the combination of therapy along with 12-step can be extremely effective.
How does harm reduction combined with psychotherapy work?
According to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, harm reduction prevents death, injury, disease, overdose, and substance misuse. People who choose harm reduction for substance use reduce the amount of drugs they consume. It is not abstinence-based like a 12-step program, but combining harm reduction with psychotherapy proves to be effective for many people.
Are there specific medications for substance and drug use?
There are medications approved to treat substance use disorder—such as buprenorphine, methadone, naltrexone, and acamprosate. These medications do help people cope with substance use as well as avoid the problem of relapse. Naltrexone can help reduce cravings, methadone is an opioid medication used to treat severe pain, and acamprosate may help ease symptoms like poor sleep and anxious feelings.