In life, you always need something to perk you up. When life gets hard, you want to learn how to get past it. However, depression or a lack of direction can say otherwise. In a situation such as that, a counselor based in Council Bluffs can help you. 

Council Bluffs’ motto is “Iowa’s Spirit.” Everyone can use a little more spirit in life, be it the determination to live a better life or to persevere despite all the troubles life throws at you. By speaking to a counselor, you can get some much better spirit. Talk to someone today and see what they can do.

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Valerie Marsh

Offering therapy in IA
License: M.S.,L.M.F.T.
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
22 years of experience

As a licensed marriage and family therapist and life coach with over 20 years experience, my ultimate goal is to help you uncover your full potential and lead a life that is worth celebrating. While we can't change difficult situations of the past, we can work together to release negative emotions and resolve challenges in your life that are preventing you from attaining your personal goals. By applying complimentary therapeutic approaches, I share knowledge and skills that will create a more joyful and happy life for both individuals and couples. In this turbulent time of confusion, worry and sadness that you may be experiencing, (due to problem with life stressors, depression, anxiety, relationship issues, grief and loss), I can offer you new tools and guidance to attain inner strength and confidence, have more loving relationships and a happier life. Utilizing cognitive behavioral, solution focused, mindfulness and positive psychological approaches, I specialize in a holistic approach to help people find new solutions to recover from the negative consequences of difficult life transitions and/or relationships. If you are seeking greater self confidence, joy, peace and contentment in your life, maybe it's time for a different approach and a new breakthrough! Let's work together to create a plan to meet your unique and specific needs.I am here to support and empower you, and really do understand what you are going through, and can help. I look forward to hearing from you!

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Kristilee (Kristi) Cappaert

Offering therapy in IA
License: LISW,LCSW
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsGriefDepression
5 years of experience

Hello and Welcome! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Illinois and a Licensed Independent Social Worker in Iowa. I have over five years of counseling experience in Illinois and Iowa. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, marital, life balance and job stress. Throughout my clinical career, I have worked with all different populations from children, adolescents, adults, couples and families. Deciding to get therapy can be a scary and I commend you on taking the first step and I look forward to working with you. I utilize many different treatment approaches such as Solution Focused Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Motivational Interviewing, Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Reality Based, Person-Centered and Mindfulness. My approach is to empower you to work towards the life you wants. It will be my job to guide you on your journey by helping you to gain insight to your behaviors, belies and automatic thoughts. As we get to know each other, we will figure out what interventions will work best for you. Counseling can make you feel vulnerable and I believe in creating a safe space for every one of my client. I look forward to hearing from you and starting this journey together.

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Jenny Armstrong

Offering therapy in IA
License: MA, LMHC, NCC
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsDepressionADHD
7 years of experience

I grew up in the Midwest and am an Iowa Licensed Mental Health Counselor. I love nature, I ride a motorcycle and live life to the fullest. I have great kids/grandchildren, and 2 dogs that I adore. I have extensive working knowledge and experience working with children, families, individuals and couples in a variety of scopes. I have a specialization in forensic populations which ties my criminal justice degrees to therapy track as well. Are you feeling stressed, anxious, depressed or maybe stuck and having issues on where life leads you next, I can assist with that! I encourage the use of meditation apps, mindfulness techniques and grounding techniques to help individuals to become calm, centered and relaxed. I cater to a person centered approach (not a one size fits all mentality) I fully encourage meeting the client where they are in life, according to their current needs. I use CBT techniques to tie behaviors and thoughts to produce meaningful change for my clients- let's do in session and out of session activities and homework! Want to be in nature or want to focus on fitness, lets walk together during your session (environmental therapy is FUN). I have worked at great lengths with my clients to teach assertive communication skills, setting boundaries and how to build healthy and happy relationships. I am solution focused, but also be prepared to be challenged and redirected to get you out of your comfort zones. I can assist with job searches, and seeking resources in the community to ensure that my clients have needs met in their personal lives as well. I look forward to working with you, please do not hesitate to reach out and schedule your appointment today! I am currently offering Tuesday 9 am to 6 PM MST (i.e. 11 AM to 8 PM CST) appointments, and occasionally Thursday appointments as needed. Jen

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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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Teresa Wilkinson

Offering therapy in IA
License: LISW
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseParenting issuesSelf esteemDepression
22 years of experience

I have a Masters Degree in Social Work from the University of Iowa. I have worked as a Mental Health Therapist specializing in children's mental health, especially in the areas of trauma, autism, developmental needs and foster care/adoption issues. I have my temporary CADC (Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor license) which I will fulfill this year. I am currently taking classes to obtain ministerial credentials with the Assembly of God. I am on track to become a Licensed Minister by fall 2021. I hope to use the knowledge I have gained from that program to enhance my counseling skills. A dream of mine has been to go on short term mission trips and minister to missionaries challenged by serving others in different cultures, far away from family and familiar surroundings. I have already been on three short term trips to the Caribbean, two to St. Lucia and once to Jamaica. I would love to go back! I have had training and supervision for over ten years in Play Therapy techniques from two experts in the field, Byron Norton and Terry Kottman. I have been a foster parent, an adoptive parent, a social worker for the Iowa Department of Human Services and a mental health therapist. I have gone to many Special Olympics events with my children. I have had four of my children on various waiver programs such as the children's mental health waiver, the ID waiver and the brain injury waiver. I have been a respite provider for special needs children. Some of my children have been in the Talented and Gifted programs in their schools. Of my nine children, five of them have successfully finished college degrees. Two of my special needs children (who are now adults) are working with Vocational Rehab services and either are working or seeking work. I believe in helping each individual find their own voice and express themselves bravely! I work on helping individuals find their true worth and calling for which they were created. I provide support as each individual discovers and overcomes the barriers to becoming the person they want to be.

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Katie Ladd

Offering therapy in IA
License: LISW,LMHP
Stress, AnxietySelf esteemCompassion fatigue
7 years of experience

Are you or your child struggling with a recent change? Most stress and challenges in life originate from an internal or external disconnection somewhere along the journey. My mission is to provide support for children and adults by helping others reconnect with themselves, with their priorities, their values and their loved ones. A primary goal is to be able to perceive change as a part of life. I have provided outpatient therapy for over 8 years as a clinical social worker and mental health therapist. I am trained in play therapy and trauma informed modalities, as well as early childhood social skills and challenging behaviors in children. Currently I am ONLY able to provide video &/or phone sessions for the initial session and then on an occasional frequency thereafter, meaning that the majority of sessions would be through the Live Chat Text modality. If you believe that this sounds like a good fit, please reach out today to start the next chapter in 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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Cadyn Burnside

Offering therapy in IA
Stress, AnxietyLGBTTrauma and abuseAnger managementDepression
6 years of experience

I am licensed in South Carolina with 5 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, lgbt-related issues, trauma and abuse, & anger management. 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. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. I am here to support & empower you in that journey.

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Melody Hatter

Offering therapy in IA
License: LCSW,Melody S Hatter
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
3 years of experience

Invest in yourself. You are worth it! It is not about being connected. It is about feeling connected. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Texas and Licensed Independent Social Worker in Iowa. I currently reside in Texas. I received a Master of Science in Social Work at The University of Texas at Arlington in 2014. My undergraduate degree is in Applied Gerontology. My professional experience includes inpatient psychiatric treatment and emergency departments working with adults from age 18-95. I have engaged clients in Cognitive behavioral Therapy, Reminiscent Therapy and Solution Focused Therapy. Working to manage depression, anxiety, addiction, substance use/abuse, grief and/or suicidal ideation is my passion. I have motivated individuals, couples and families to engage in change. My goal is assisting people remain in the community and not become hospitalized. Together we can make that happen! There is no problem that does not have a solution. There are always options. I have an extensive "toolbox" and will encourage you to build one as well. I am genuine and that will be evident the first time we meet. Allow me to help put 'life' back into living with a new perspective. I care. Let's talk!

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Monica Meier

Offering therapy in IA
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseGriefAnger management
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, trauma and abuse, & coping with grief and loss. 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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How to find counseling in Council Bluffs

Finding the best therapist close by in Council Bluffs 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 Council Bluffs. 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 Council Bluffs, 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 Council Bluffs 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 Council Bluffs 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 Council Bluffs, elsewhere in Pottawattamie, 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 Council Bluffs area can be found below:

How does the cost of in-person counseling compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed Council Bluffs 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 Council Bluffs 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 Council Bluffs 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 Council Bluffs, 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 Council Bluffs 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 Council Bluffs 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 Council Bluffs 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 Council Bluffs 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 Council Bluffs 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 51503 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 Council Bluffs 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 Council Bluffs 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 Council Bluffs, 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.

Council Bluffs 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 Council Bluffs.

Below are some of the zip codes served by BetterHelp therapists in Council Bluffs:

51501, 51502, 51503

Popular cities near Council Bluffs, IA

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