The capitol of Iowa, as well as its most populated city, Des Moines is home to a number of large insurance companies and publishing houses. Tech operations have also taken to building logistics and data-processing centers in this growing area. With so many high-pressure jobs, many may need some help managing life stressors. 

When it comes to finding a therapist, Des Moines, IA may offer more choice than many places in the Midwest. However, finding the right therapist can be more complicated than just reaching out to the nearest practice. For one thing, there are a number of evidence-based therapeutic methods in psychotherapy. What works best can depend on the nature of the mental health challenge, as well as personal preferences. 

With online therapy through a platform like BetterHelp, you get a wider variety of choices. BetterHelp offers access to over 30,000 mental health care professionals who specialize in everything from adjustment disorders, to blended family issues, to personality disorders. By taking an online questionnaire, BetterHelp will connect you with a therapist who meets your personal needs. And because therapeutic alliance can be so essential to client success, if you feel the need to change therapists you can do so at no additional cost. 

Current clients of BetterHelp also have access to a level of convenience that in-person therapy doesn’t offer. Sessions can fit easily into any schedule, and video chat, phone, and text messaging options allow you to speak to your therapist from the comfort of your own home or office. 

Therapy can be a solution to dealing with many of life’s challenges. Whether you’re using therapy as a complementary treatment to psychiatric medication, learning coping skills to manage anxiety disorders, or healing family conflict, BetterHelp can connect you to the right mental health professional. Increased mental wellness and self-understanding may be closer than you think.

 

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Jeffrey Randall

Offering therapy in IA
License: LISW
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseDepression
6 years of experience

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with 7 years postgraduate experience as a mental health therapist. I have worked with children, teens, transition aged youth, adults, and families across many areas of social work including: disability services, HIV/AIDS, juvenile detention, youth homelessness, public schools, fitness coaching, primary care and community mental health clinics. As a therapist, I rely on client centered, attachment based, solution-focused approaches to help clients gain a greater understanding of the strengths and struggles that have brought them to where they presently find themselves. I believe they are the expert of their own lives and my role is to help them recognize patterns and gain insights. Armed with this greater self-knowledge, I help them to strengthen their relationship with themselves through mindfulness practices, motivational interviewing, dialectical behavioral therapy, and cognitive behavioral approaches to empower them to improve their life in whatever way is most meaningful to them. I look forward to working together.

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Anna Murphy

Offering therapy in IA
License: LMHC
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefSelf esteemDepression
9 years of experience

Hello! My name is Anna and I am a licensed mental health counselor in the state of Iowa with over five years of experience providing therapy services. Prior to and including these last nine or so years I have worked in various settings including psychiatric hospitals, schools, community mental health centers, and private agencies. I have experience with a wide variety of populations and ages ranging from three years old to geriatric. I have experience with persistent/chronic mental illness, life transitions, trauma, mood disorders, anxiety disorders, personality disorders, substance use, DHS involvement, codependency, grief and loss, and with individuals who are struggling with managing their emotions. I received my Bachelors degree from the University of Iowa with majors in Psychology and Studio Arts, and a minor in Sociology in 2012. I then graduated from The college of New Rochelle in New Rochelle, New York with my Masters of Science in Art Therapy and Counseling in 2015. My approach to therapy is warm, interactive, and client centered. I believe individuals are experts on their stories and experiences and I am here to empower and support you. I aim to assist clients in learning the strategies and coping skills best tailored to their individual situation. I draw my approach from a combination of styles: trauma-informed, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, and Solution Focused. I also enjoy utilizing expressive therapy modalities if client's are open to these experiences.

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Carly Turner

Offering therapy in IA
License: LISW
Stress, AnxietyGriefSelf esteemDepressionCompassion fatigue
4 years of experience

Hello, My name is Carly Turner. I am a Licensed Independent Social Worker in Iowa. I have been practicing as a Therapist for 4 years. I graduated in May of 2017 from the University of New England with my Master’s Degree in Social Work. I have experience working with people who have struggled with depression, anxiety, self-esteem, grief, trauma, abuse, bipolar disorder, relationship concerns, anger management, eating disorders, personality disorders, caregiving, and geriatric concerns. My counseling style is warm and reflective. I believe the most important component of a counseling relationship is listening in a sensitive and respectful way. My approaches include; Strengths Based, Client Centered Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy, Narrative Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Mindfulness, and Trauma Focused Therapy. We will work together to find the best tools to empower you as you navigate the trail you are taking and achieve your goals. Thank you for taking time to read more about me. I look forward to walking alongside you on your journey.

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Dr. Jill Hackley

Offering therapy in IA
License: Psy.D.
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsParenting issuesAnger managementDepression
15 years of experience

Dr. Jill Hackley is a Licensed Psychologist. She is licensed in Iowa, Missouri, Kansas, Minnesota and Nebraska. She is an Iowa Health Services Provider with diverse clinical experiences. She obtained her Doctoral Degree in Clinical Psychology from Forest Institute of Professional Psychology. She obtained a Master’s Degree from Drake University in Community Counseling. She uses a variety of treatment modalities such as Cognitive Behavior Therapy and Solution Focused Therapy. Dr. Hackley’s areas of focus include anxiety, depression, adoption/attachment, foster care and family issues. A majority of her experiences have been working with children and adolescents within an inpatient and residential setting. She has been working in the mental health field as a psychologist for 15 years doing individual, group, family therapy and psychological testing.

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Vanessa Chase

Offering therapy in IA
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseParenting issuesDepressionCoping with life changes
7 years of experience

I am licensed in Iowa with 7 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, parenting issues, & depression. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

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Cynthia Mitchell

Offering therapy in IA
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesSelf esteemDepressionADHD
3 years of experience

I am a licensed mental health counselor committed to helping adolescents, adults and couples on their path to bettering themselves or working through difficulties. I aim to meet my clients where they need to be met and try to utilize out of the box thinking when it comes to therapy. I try to mix both traditional and holistic methods to serve my clients fully where they are.

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Jenna Nevins

Offering therapy in IA
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefSelf esteemDepression
3 years of experience

I am licensed in Iowa with 3 years of professional work experience as a Mental Health therapist. Prior to my work as a therapist, I have experience working with behavioral issues, hospice, autism and inpatient psychiatric clients. I have been trained in EMDR, DBT, TR-CBT, Polyvagal Theory, Parts Work, Somatic Therapy and Motivational Interviewing. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, coping with grief and loss, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. The therapeutic relationship is very important to me as I believe that the space between us is where we can explore all the things that need to be explored. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

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Wendy Durant

Offering therapy in IA
License: LPC-S,RPT-S
Stress, AnxietyLGBTRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseIntimacy-related issues
16 years of experience

Hello there, I am a licensed professional counselor licensed in Louisiana and Texas with over 17 years’ experience working as a therapist and art therapy certified life coach. I have also recently completed advanced studies in naturopathic medicine (natural medicine), with a specialization in behavioral health disorders. I have supported clients with multiple concerns, including behavioral modification support, impulsivity, depression, anxiety, relationship issues, parenting support, sexual dysfunction, intimacy challenges, sexually addictive behaviors, career challenges, and trauma. My counseling style is warm, encouraging, and supportive. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion, and I don't believe in stigmatizing labels. My approach to supporting clients combines cognitive-behavioral therapy, client-centered, solution-focused counseling, and holistic (natural) interventions to support your therapeutic goals . This space is designed to support you with addressing your expressed goals, and I will tailor our dialogue and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. It takes courage to seek a more fulfilling and happier life. Please know, you are not alone, I am here as part of your team to support, empower, and share valuable strategies you as you begin this quest to being your best! I look forward to connecting soon! ~Dr. Wendy Q. Durant, ND, LPC-S, RPT-S, CST Areas of Expertise • ADHD • Anger management • Anxiety, Panic Disorder, & Stress Management • Behavior Modification • Communication Challenges, • Codependency • Coping Skills • Career coaching • Depression/Postpartum Depression • Divorce • Family conflicts • Intimacy Challenges • Parenting Issues • Pre-Marital Supports • Relationship Challenges • Self-esteem • Trauma • Work-Life-Balance Clinical approaches: • Art Certified Life Coach • Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) • Client-Centered Therapy • Mindfulness Practices • Holistic Therapeutic Interventions • Solution-Focused Therapy

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Kate Bell

Offering therapy in IA
Stress, AnxietyLGBTFamily conflictsSelf esteemCoping with life changes
3 years of experience

(She/Her) I became a mental health provider because I am passionate about helping people find their own strengths and better their understanding of themselves. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker currently licensed in Iowa and Virginia, and I have experience supporting adolescents/young adults and adults with concerns such as anxiety, depression, life transitions, self-esteem, family systems, work issues and LGBTQIA+ affirming care. My therapy style is warm and interactive. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I utilize a variety of approaches, often drawing upon Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), and Solution-Focused Models. I prioritize creating a safe environment individualized for each client built upon warmth, empathy, and trust. I strongly believe each client is the expert on their life and I enjoy exploring how systems, cultural norms, and individual identities and beliefs interact to impact one’s overall health and mental well-being. It takes courage to seek a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards change. If you are ready to take that step, I am here to support and empower you.

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Lindsey Hays

Offering therapy in IA
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
12 years of experience

I am licensed in Iowa with 12 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & depression. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

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How to find counseling in Des Moines

Finding the best therapist close by in Des Moines can feel challenging, but know that once you narrow your search for a counselor serving your area, you can find a therapist in your city that is accepting new clients and fits your goals. Whether you're struggling with depression, anxiety, marriage, family issues, or other emotional challenges, feel proud that you have begun your search to find the mental health care services that work best for you in order to begin your personal journey towards emotional healing.

Understanding the type of therapy you'd like to search for is crucial before finding a therapist or psychologist in Des Moines. Perhaps you're interested in narrowing your search for a psychotherapist that can offer psychodynamic, cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), talk therapy, provide group therapy, marriage and family therapy for individuals or couples, or couples therapy. Each type of therapy can offer various benefits and address or treat different disorders. If you're still unsure or are new to counseling in Des Moines, feel free to contact the provider via email to find out which methods they practice.

It is also important to understand that mental health professionals in the United States are accredited to provide care, helping individuals and couples, with a variety of licenses. These include licensed marriage and family therapist (LMFT), licensed clinical social worker (LCSW), and clinical psychologist or doctor of psychology (PsyD). Regardless of their licensure, they are trained to treat individuals and couples counseling, and sometimes children, in any type of therapy. Find a therapist under any of these distinctions and know that the sessions they offer can provide a safe place to heal.

Mental health professionals working through their own in- person therapy practice in Des Moines or online may assist clients in improving healthy relationships, communication skills, working through life transitions, managing a mood disorder, improving coping skills, or change in negative thinking patterns. They may also provide a safe place and validation for clients experiencing emotional pain. Verified providers can provide licensed marriage and couples therapy, tailor to individual needs, and create a therapeutic relationship as a National Certified Counselor.

There are all kinds of therapists working with clients today across the United States and in the greater Des Moines area in different types of therapy, including:

  • CBT
  • DBT
  • Substance use therapy
  • Couples therapy

When you're ready to start your search and find therapists, have in mind what type of therapy you'd like your provider to be most experienced with and choose an experienced provider with a practice located near you in the city of Des Moines, elsewhere in Polk, or in the greater state of Iowa.

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

Some other commonly asked questions on therapy with a licensed counselor and BetterHelp serving the Des Moines area can be found below:

How does the cost of in-person counseling compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed Des Moines therapist?

The average price of an in-person therapy session in the US is $100 to $200 per hour. These prices may be higher in Des Moines due to a higher cost of living. The price also depends on the type of provider you are looking for. See the following average prices for various mental health providers without insurance:

  • Counseling with a psychiatrist: $150-$500
  • Counseling with therapists: $100-300
  • Therapy with a psychologist: $100

While many psychologists in Des Moines may not take health insurance, some in the state of Iowa may work on a sliding scale, meaning they'll factor in your income and charge what you can afford per session. With BetterHelp or clinicians throughout the state of Iowa you can expect significantly more affordable options, with sessions ranging from $65 to $100 per week (billed every four weeks).

How is a licensed therapist on this online therapy platform verified?

Therapists in Des Moines, Iowa working on BetterHelp are licensed, trained, experienced, and accredited as a doctor of psychology (PhD / PsyD), licensed marriage and family therapists (LMFT), licensed clinical social worker (LCSW / LICSW), or licensed professional counselors (LPC). All of these psychology clinicians have a Masters Degree or a Doctorate Degree in their field of psychology sciences, and follow the APA Code of Ethics. They have been qualified and certified by their state's professional board after successfully completing the necessary education, exams, training and practice with a patient, and extensive experience in a healthcare clinic or treatment centers, in order to become a mental health provider. While their lived experience, expertise, careers, and background vary, they all possess at least 3 years and 1,000 hours of hands-on experience with adult and sometimes teen patients, and have the necessary therapist credentials to provide a safe space for long lasting emotional healing in therapy. 

Please note BetterHelp does not offer or provide care from psychiatrists to prescribe a drug as treatment, or perform psychological assessments.

How does working with a counselor in BetterHelp online therapy sessions work?

BetterHelp clinicians treat clients online across the United States (individuals and couples) through life transitions, inner child exploration, long term depression or anxiety, and more. An online mental health professional, including the therapists in Des Moines above, can work with young adults, children, adolescents, and adults virtually as an accredited licensed clinical social worker (LCSW) or licensed marriage and family therapist (LMFT). You do not have to commute to a an office as a psychotherapy client.

Through BetterHelp therapy, you can partake in video, phone, or live chat therapy sessions with your licensed therapist. You can work through various symptoms, use the in app journaling feature, and receive worksheets. You'll also find support groups or group therapy lead by a therapist in Des Moines helping individuals on topics including managing life transitions, symptoms affecting sexual health, behavioral health, coping skills for anxiety or depression, trauma, stress, marriage counseling, and more. 

What mental health issues can psychotherapy address?

BetterHelp's verified Des Moines therapists specialize and have clinical experience in a wide range of mental health issues and modalities, helping clients to feel better and improve their lives every day. See below for examples.

Specialties on BetterHelp include:

You may also be struggling with relationship problems that could be addressed in couples therapy or with a sex therapist. In that case, you may choose to work with one of BetterHelp's experienced cognitive-behavioral therapists or licensed marriage family therapists (LMFT) who work with clients in relationships. You can also try a Des Moines therapy provider through BetterHelp's sister platform, ReGain, which is dedicated to couples and spouses worldwide. 

How do I know if online counseling is right for my family?

One of the potentially rewarding aspects of working with a therapist is the validation and active listening they can provide. Your friends and loved ones may also be available to listen, but you may feel that they may lack the skills to provide objective guidance. Counselors are trained to respond to various concerns, symptoms, and mental health conditions.

A psychologist in your city can support you toward a healthier emotional state, regardless of your mental health, life concerns, or healing needs. While supporting individuals in developing healthier habits, another good benefit of therapy is having an understanding, safe space with a non-judgmental party who can support you through challenging experiences.

Many people have sensitive topics that they may feel ashamed to discuss with their friends or partner. A Des Moines therapist can help you confront these concerns and open up through unique methods of support. There are also many types of therapy, such as art therapy, where you may find you can express yourself through creativity instead of words.

With a lot of people in IA, providers may be booked out with clients. Through the list of profiles above and others within BetterHelp's team, you may be able to find a psychologist within 24 to 48 hours. If you're searching to find a a nearby psychotherapist close to 50950 or the surrounding zip codes, consider others available through the BetterHelp site. No matter if you are seeking help in your area or beyond, online therapy can be a great option.

How should I prepare for my first therapy session with a Des Moines counselor?

Before seeing your therapist, prep for your session by reading to understand the therapy process. You might write a list of questions you want to ask your psychotherapist, any emotional pain you may feel, and the ways in which you hope to improve. When you attend your session, let them know if you have any concerns about therapy or feel unsure about what to talk about. They may help guide you with open-ended therapeutic questions. The first session will often serve as an intake to get to know you as a person and learn why you're attending therapy.

Should I find a therapist or psychologist if I feel fine? 

Some simply don't feel the need to see a psychologist. However, some people may avoid attending therapy due to stigma or preconceived notions of what therapy entails. Although psychologists often support people with mental health conditions, you do not need a diagnosis or condition to attend therapy. You can discuss grief, relationship concerns, stress, or life changes and ask for general feedback and advice. A Des Moines licensed clinical social worker may help you gain power over your life and emotions while you navigate day-to-day experiences.

Gaining a new perspective on yourself through various therapies might allow you to improve your self-esteem, work through relationships, and gain a better sense of your mental health goals. The success you may find through therapy can be dependent on your process.

People may also attend therapy for specific motives, such as bullying, an autism diagnosis, a desire to learn mindfulness meditation, personality concerns, trouble with office workers, specific phobias, and many other principles.

Is mental health care and therapy worth it? 

Therapy is effective and has the power to change individuals' lives. Each client is at a different stage of their emotional healing journey in life, as each human can be unique in their personality, expression, skills, and goals. A psychologist can target various symptoms, experiences, and personalities to help you feel your best and put you on the path to healing. Unlike advice from a friend, family, or non-professional, a mental health professional has an understanding of various disorders like ADHD and depression with many hours of experience in treating adults in their practice. For this reason, seeing an evidence based psychologist in Des Moines, Iowa can be worth it. Over 41 million adults in the US attend therapy services each year, showing it's a popular option and is proven to be effective.

Des Moines has many clinicians who practice person or client-centered individual therapy in-person and through online therapy to assist clients in their healing journey. If you opt into online therapy, you might also be able to meet with providers all over the United States and change therapists easily at any time. Many people struggling with anxiety and depression, substance abuse, body image issues, and more find therapists that are a good fit for them, feel supported, and gain further insight into their lives through internet-based therapy.

Do therapists judge you in therapy sessions?

The boundaries between you and a therapist are in place to help you and them regarding ethical concerns. Mental health professionals are held by ethical standards through the American Psychological Association (APA) and are not allowed to judge or harm their clients. If you are concerned about sharing details about yourself, feel free to withhold personal information. Their job in the therapeutic relationship is to create a safe place, help you gain a deeper understanding of your mental health, and support you. You might consider changing counselors if you don't feel safe or respected.

Stay up to date with the leading online counseling platform

To stay up to date with BetterHelp's initiatives through their social channels, you can follow them on Pinterest, LinkedIn, Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook. For mental health tips, check out the BetterHelp YouTube channel.

Take some time today to learn more about the team of therapists at BetterHelp to understand the services available to you clearly. If you are new to therapy or have any questions about the services and terms, please reach out through the contact page or send an email to contact@betterhelp.com.

If you’re ready to sign up for online therapy, consider signing up with a platform like BetterHelp and get matched within 24 to 48 hours.

If you are experiencing a crisis or emergency, don't use this site's online services. If you are in life-threatening danger, call 911. If you require support for a crisis, reach out to the hotlines below:

A woman meets with a therapist online in her home city of Des Moines.

Below are some of the zip codes served by BetterHelp therapists in Des Moines:

50301, 50302, 50303, 50304, 50305, 50306, 50307, 50308, 50309, 50310, 50311, 50312, 50313, 50314, 50315, 50316, 50317, 50318, 50319, 50320, 50321, 50328, 50329, 50330, 50331, 50332, 50333, 50334, 50335, 50336, 50339, 50340, 50359, 50360, 50361, 50362, 50363, 50364, 50367, 50368, 50369, 50380, 50381, 50391, 50392, 50393, 50394, 50395, 50396, 50936, 50940, 50947, 50950, 50980, 50981, 50982, 50983

Popular cities near Des Moines, IA

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