In life, you just want to be cool and stand amongst the crowd, or just accomplish your goals your own way. However, depression has other plans. Or life sometimes throws you a wrench and you have no idea how to handle it. In this situation, a counselor based in West Des Moines can help. 

West Des Moines is known for being a hipster city. People go against the grain and live life by their own rules. You can be like that as well, and a counselor can help. Speak to one today and see what you can do. 

This is Deborah Pogel's avatar and link to their profile

Deborah Pogel

Offering therapy in IA
License: MSW, LISW,
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesSelf esteemDepression
17 years of experience

My name is Deborah Pogel, and I'm a licensed psychotherapist in Iowa. You can take a look at my profile to learn a little bit more about my background and approach. Please also feel free to ask questions. I approach psychotherapy from the view point that we humans don't fully know our own hearts and minds. The things we don't know about ourselves still impact our lives and our relationships. They can limit us and cause us pain. There is value in coming to know our hearts and minds more fully because it gives us the option to be able to do things differently. It offers an alternative to recreating and reliving the same painful patterns. I like to focus on identifying your strengths and helping you to maximize them to overcome your obstacles. I'm here to help you sort through the things that are difficult right now, and offer you a safe place to be open and honest without fear of judgment. Please write to me about the challenges you are facing now as well as your goals and let's go from there. It would be helpful to include a short background of your life, including major events and significant relationships. It is my belief that positive life changes can occur when a safe, empathic and supportive space is provided. I commend those willing to open themselves up and invite this positive change. When provided with the opportunity to share our thoughts and feelings with someone, that process in itself, creates healing and therefore change. I warmly invite you to contact me.

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Michelle Hoff

Offering therapy in IA
License: LMFT,LMHP,NCC
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseIntimacy-related issues
6 years of experience

I am Christian Marriage and Family Therapist. I am licensed in Iowa and Illinois as Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and in the state of Nebraska I am a Licensed Mental Health Practitioner with a Marriage and Family Certification. I am a National Certified Counselor. I am a Certified Clinical Anxiety Treatment Professional. I am a member of American Association of Christian Counselors and American Association of Marriage and Family Therapy. I have been working in the mental health field since 2015 and doing clinical work since 2017. I own my own private practice Unfolding With Truth Counseling, LLC as well as work with BetterHelp part time. I have worked with individuals, couples, families, and groups. I have experienced with helping individuals who suffer with depression, anxiety, addiction, family dynamic issues, relational conflicts, stress, trauma and abuse, personality issues, spiritual and military issues. My counseling style is warm and understanding. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion, and I don't believe in stigmatizing labels. My approach combines cognitive-behavioral, humanistic, solution-focused, mindfulness, and family dynamics. I believe in providing the best approach to meet your needs and will do my best to tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. It takes courage to seek for a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. If you are ready to take that step I am here to support and empower you. If you would like to schedule a session please feel free to reach out in a message and let me know when you are available and what times work best for you. I look forward to working with you!

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Matthew Manz

Offering therapy in IA
License: LMHC,MDiv,MS
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesSelf esteemDepression
4 years of experience

I am passionate about helping people deal with ongoing emotional struggles that they just can't seem to get past. Clients that are willing to engage the hard work of personal development by immersing themselves in the therapeutic process are my most rewarding clients with which to work. I am deeply committed to the Client-Centered Therapy approach as developed by Carl Rogers. I am passionate about addressing spiritual issues with clients as well as porn addiction. Finally, if you are looking for someone you can just talk to, I'm ready to just listen. I have a Master's in Counseling degree from Drake University, Iowa, USA. I am licensed in the state of Iowa (LMHC #080281) and I'm a Canadian Certified Counsellor (C.C.C. #11245693).

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Tasha Lowman

Offering therapy in IA
License: LISW
Stress, AnxietyAnger managementSelf esteemDepression
7 years of experience

I am a mental health counselor licensed in Iowa with over 5 years experience working with children, teens and adults. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, ADHD, ODD, anger management and trauma. My counseling style is warm and interactive. I believe in treating anyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. My approach combines several therapy techniques including cognitive behavioral therapy and solution focused. I will tailor our conversations and create individualized treatment plan to meet your specific needs. It takes courage to take the first steps towards change in order to have a happier life. If you are ready to take that step I am here to give you support and help you along the way. I check my messages Monday through Friday, with the goal of responding in 48 hours or less. I do check messages on Saturday and Sunday in the mornings. I look forward to the possibility of working with you.

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Barbara "Barb" Kroening

Offering therapy in IA
License: LISW
Family conflictsTrauma and abuseGriefParenting issuesSelf esteem
9 years of experience

Asking for help can be very difficult and I believe it takes a lot of strength. I feel everybody needs a little help at some point in their life and there is nothing wrong with that. I embrace the opportunity to be the person people can reach out to for that help. I feel honesty is very important and will offer a safe, non judgmental space for you to openly share your thoughts and struggles. I am a licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker in the state of Iowa with 15 years work experience. I believe it is important to meet people where they are at and am willing to do so while also offering gentle encouragement to help people get to where they want to be. I have worked with individuals with substance abuse issues, anger issues, trauma history, relationship issues, grief and loss, and parenting issues. I have worked closely with immigration populations on a professional and personal basis. I look forward to hearing from you.

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This is Melanie Reese's avatar and link to their profile

Melanie Reese

Offering therapy in IA
License: LISW,Ed.S.
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseParenting issuesDepression
10 years of experience

I am a licensed independent social worker (LISW) based in Iowa. I have over twenty years of experience working with children and adults in clinical and school settings. My experience is varied, I have worked with clients ages birth- 18 years old with a wide range of concerns including developmental delays, depression, anxiety, trauma, Autism Spectrum Disorder, OCD and ADHD. I have also had the opportunity to work with adults challenged by depression, anxiety, trauma, abuse, anger issues and life changing situations. I am trained in Solutions Focused and Cognitive Behavioral Therapies. I use evidence based practices and interventions to assist clients in whatever it is they want support with. I have a laid back approach to therapy and my priority is building trust and understanding to develop a positive therapeutic relationship with every client. I look forward to working with you!

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This is Jennifer Fitkin's avatar and link to their profile

Jennifer Fitkin

Offering therapy in IA
Stress, AnxietyParenting issuesAnger managementSelf esteemDepression
18 years of experience

I am licensed in Utah, Colorado, Florida and Iowa with 18 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with parenting issues, attachment, anger management, & depression. 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 seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

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This is Jena Byorum's avatar and link to their profile

Jena Byorum

Offering therapy in IA
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsParenting issuesCoping with life changes
11 years of experience

Hello- My name is Jena and I am a licensed therapist in Iowa with 11 years of professional work experience. Sometimes life is just hard. Sometimes feelings don't make sense or seem overwhelming. Sometimes having someone to help you figure things out can help you to start feeling better. I believe that you are the expert of your own 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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This is Jennifer Harrington's avatar and link to their profile

Jennifer Harrington

Offering therapy in IA
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepression
7 years of experience

I am licensed in Texas and Iowa with 7 years of clinical counseling experience, and 14 years in the mental health field. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, depressed mood, relationship issues, trauma and abuse, motivation, self esteem, and confidence. 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 seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

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Eric Mason

Offering therapy in IA
License: LCSW
AddictionsLGBTTrauma and abuseAnger managementSelf esteem
3 years of experience

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Nevada, Nebraska, and Iowa with over 9 years experience working in substance abuse therapy and over 5 years experience in mental health therapy. I have worked with children, adolescents, adults, and the elderly with an extensive range of concerns including depression, anxiety, anger management, victims of crime, trauma, physical abuse, sex abuse, and LGBTQ issues. I have also helped people who have experienced incarceration and perpetrators of physical abuse. I completed my undergraduate degree in Psychology with a minor in addiction studies at Nevada State College in 2011. I continued my education and completed my masters degree in Social Work at the University of New England in 2015. My counseling approach is inviting, warm, and interactive. I believe in meeting clients where they are at with respect, compassion, and empathy. My approach combines motivational interviewing, cognitive-behavioral, solution focused, psychodynamic, humanistic therapy.

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How to find counseling in West Des Moines

Finding the best therapist close by in West 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 West 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 West 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 West 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 West 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 West 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 West Des Moines area can be found below:

How does the cost of in-person counseling compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed West 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 West 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 West 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 West 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 West 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 West 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 West 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 West 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 West 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 50263 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 West 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 West 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 West 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.

West 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 West Des Moines.

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

50061, 50263, 50265, 50266, 50398

Popular cities near West Des Moines, IA

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