Mary Ruhland, LISW, CSW-PIP
About me
As a licensed therapist in Iowa with three decades of experience, I specialize in supporting individuals through complex emotional landscapes. My practice centers on helping clients navigate challenges like depression, anxiety, trauma, grief, and self-esteem issues. I am particularly passionate about working with individuals experiencing social isolation, relationship difficulties, and life transitions.
My therapeutic approach is deeply compassionate and tailored to each person's unique journey. I focus on empowering clients to develop self-love, improve communication, explore life purpose, and heal from past experiences. Whether you're struggling with panic attacks, relationship challenges, body image concerns, or midlife transitions, I provide a supportive and understanding environment.
I believe in creating a collaborative space where clients can explore their emotions, develop resilience, and rediscover their inner strength. My goal is to walk alongside you as you work towards healing, personal growth, and meaningful life changes.
Professional experience
Additional areas of focus: Addictions, Intimacy-related issues, Eating disorders, Anger management, Compassion fatigue, Abandonment, Attachment issues, Body image, Communication problems, Control issues, Divorce and separation, Forgiveness, Guilt and shame, Impulsivity, Isolation / loneliness, Life purpose, Midlife crisis, Mood disorders, Panic disorder and panic attacks, Post-traumatic stress, Self-love, Sexuality, Social anxiety and phobia, Women's issues
Clinical approaches: Client-Centered Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Emotionally-Focused Therapy (EFT), Gottman Method, Mindfulness Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Narrative Therapy, Trauma-Focused Therapy, Internal Family Systems
License information
IA LISW 01284
SD CSW-PIP 3229
Reviews
These quotes represent just a few of the many positive reviews that we have received for Mary Ruhland. We don't pay anyone to provide their review and they are all made voluntarily. Some people's experience receiving therapy with BetterHelp might be different.
Thank you Mary for helping me identify obsticals in my life and manage them.
Written on Jan 08, 2026 after therapy with Mary for 3 months on issues concerning depression, stress, anxiety, addictions, relationship issues, trauma and abuse, intimacy-related issues, eating disorders, sleeping disorders, parenting issues, self esteem, career difficulties, coping with life changes, coaching, compassion fatigue, and
Very understanding. Patient.
Written on Dec 26, 2025 after therapy with Mary for 3 weeks on issues concerning depression, stress, anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, trauma and abuse, intimacy-related issues, self esteem, career difficulties, compassion fatigue, and adhd
Mary was awesome and listened to me, my needs and understood what I needed help with. I really appreciated her professionalism.
Written on Oct 30, 2025 after therapy with Mary for 2 weeks on issues concerning depression, stress, anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, trauma and abuse, self esteem, and adhd
Mary is a wonderful counselor who truly listens and makes me feel heard. I appreciate how attentive she is and how she follows up promptly, which reassures me that I am supported even between our meetings.
Written on Oct 12, 2025 after therapy with Mary for 2 weeks on issues concerning career difficulties
Mary is very knowledgeable, patient and speaks to me on a relatable and non judgemental level. The is the first therapist that I've enjoyed and made any real progress with. Her down to earth tone and treats of expertise has been incredibly beneficial for me. I'm very grateful to her!
Written on Oct 04, 2025 after therapy with Mary for 2 months on issues concerning depression, stress, anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, grief, intimacy-related issues, self esteem, and coping with life changes
Mary is a warm and welcoming person. She listens and talks through issues with me. I feel encouraged and more confident in my abilities to manage my life.
Written on Sep 30, 2025 after therapy with Mary for 3 weeks on issues concerning depression, stress, anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, sleeping disorders, and anger management