Working with a therapist can help you develop healthy coping skills and overcome many mental health challenges. If you’re looking for a therapist in Iowa, barriers to treatment can make it difficult to find in-person treatment. 

With BetterHelp, you can work with a licensed marriage and family therapist, social worker, or other mental health professional from the comfort of your home at a time that suits your schedule. Your therapist will use a person-centered therapy approach to ensure you get support tailored to your unique needs and preferences, whether you’re having mental health issues related to past trauma like sexual abuse or are experiencing low self-esteem, relationship challenges, or work-related stress.

Note that while many of the licensed mental health professionals on the platform may have served children in their prior training and careers, BetterHelp does not currently provide services like play therapy to children or adolescents.

If you’re looking for an online therapist, IA has many qualified professionals licensed to provide therapy state-wide. Connect with one of the counselors below to learn more about how therapy can help you along your life journey.

 

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Jennifer Enders

Offering therapy in Iowa
License: AZ LPC LPC-13230, IA LMHC 132800
Stress, AnxietySelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changesCompassion fatigue
23 years of experience

**Jennifer Enders, MA, NCC, LPC, LMHC** I am a licensed professional counselor with over 23 years of experience supporting adults in navigating life’s challenges and cultivating lasting change. My work blends **evidence-based approaches**—including **CBT, DBT, mindfulness, trauma-informed care, and person-centered therapy**—with a compassionate, collaborative, and individualized style. As a **Christian**, my faith inspires a deep sense of **hope, compassion, and ethical guidance**, which I bring to my work while honoring each client’s unique beliefs and values. I work with adults navigating **anxiety, depression, ADHD, trauma histories, stress, low self-worth, relationship difficulties, boundaries, burnout, chronic illness, LGBTQ+ identity concerns, and life transitions**. I am committed to providing **allyship and inclusive care for LGBTQ+ individuals and diverse populations**, creating a safe, affirming, and culturally sensitive space for every client. Together, we explore your goals, develop practical skills, and cultivate resilience, self-compassion, and clarity. In addition to traditional therapeutic modalities, I integrate **mindfulness, meditation, and holistic wellness practices** into my work, supporting clients in reconnecting with their body, mind, and values. I founded **Beyond Wellness** to create a space where individuals can **thrive, heal, and grow**, blending professional expertise with a warm, faith-informed, human-centered approach. I am passionate about guiding clients toward meaningful change, helping them **move through life’s challenges with awareness, balance, and self-compassion**, and celebrating the courage it takes to seek support.

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Christopher Carlson

Offering therapy in Iowa
License: MA LICSW 121254, IA LISW 132204
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsSelf esteemDepression
6 years of experience

I am a licensed independent clinical social worker in Massachusetts with 11 years of experience working within various environments (community based mental health services, residential mental health services, outpatient behavioral health practice) and with clientele from multiple backgrounds. My specific clinical interests and specialties include depression, anxiety, life changes, interpersonal relationship resolution, and life coaching. I also helped many people who have experienced physical trauma or emotional abuse. My counseling style is warm and interactive. I believe in treating anyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion, and I don't believe in stigmatizing labels. My approach combines cognitive-behavioral, solution focused, psychodynamic and rational-emotive counseling. I will 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.

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David Fox

Offering therapy in Iowa
License: IL LCSW 149020830, IA LISW 132994
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsLGBTRelationship issuesTrauma and abuse
3 years of experience

I am a licensed clinical social worker in Illinois and Indiana, I have spent most of my career working to help people that have experienced trauma understand their own narrative. Sometimes, life events occur in adulthood that necessitate short term intervention to assist us to process, understand and reset. My treatment approach involves not only listening, but more importantly, hearing exactly what each person chooses to tell me so that I can understand their unique issue and help them move forward. Your treatment plan will be created by you and for you so that the piece of you that has been impacted is made whole. I look forward to meeting you and working together to empower you to be excited about today, tomorrow and your future.

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Alice Rock

Offering therapy in Iowa
License: IA LMHC 00255, AZ LPC LPC-23171
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsRelationship issuesSelf esteemDepression
10 years of experience

Hi. I have many years of doing substance abuse counseling in a hospital setting in Iowa. I have also worked as a school counselor with grades K - 8, I have taught Psychology courses on the college level and am familiar with all aspects of counseling theories and brain development. The college course I enjoyed teaching the most is "Wellness." This course discussed all aspects of both physical and mental health, which, of course are connected. I incorporate wellness and long-term balance in my counseling sessions.

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Dawn O'Regan

Offering therapy in Iowa
License: IA LISW 06148
Stress, AnxietySelf esteemBipolar disorderDepressionCoping with life changes
25 years of experience

Hello! My name is Dawn and I am a Licensed Independent Social Worker. I have 25 years of experience Working in Community Mental Health Organizations and in Private Practice settings. I live in Iowa and also travel frequently with my life partner. I work with clients affected by depression, anxiety, communication, inter and intrapersonal relationship difficulties. My expertise that I bring you includes building blocks of healthy relationships: 1. Clear communication 2. Emotional regulation 3. Self-worth 4. Compassion 5. Insight 6. Ability to acknowledge and verbalize others strengths and emotions. I worked as a bachelor’s level social worker for 4 years prior to Graduate School, achieving my independent license in Social Work, I have worked in private group practice, started my own individual practice and currently work in a community mental health setting. My approach to therapy is client centered: clients are the experts of their lives, and we work together on the direction an individual determines. Through a strengths-based and solutions-focused lens, I draw on multiple treatment modalities to guide clients in identifying strengths and developing treatment plans that accomplish their goals. Through Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), I assist clients in exploring relationships among thoughts, feelings, and behaviors to aid in discovering dysfunctional thought patterns leading to self-destructive behaviors and beliefs. Using Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), I support clients through developing skills: mindfulness, distress tolerance, interpersonal effectiveness, and emotion regulation with the goal of moving clients towards a life involving the capacity for experiencing joy and freedom. If clients are open to it, we also work using an internal family systems approach. This work goes inside your own system and identifies different parts that can be helpful or may need updating as you grow and develop. Outside of my work as a therapist, I enjoy exercise, yoga, walking and hiking and meditation practice in the beautiful outdoors. I also enjoy my life partner and our two dogs. Izzy is the newest member to our family and is a sweet, sassy handful!I am incredibly grateful for my precious support system of family, friends and colleagues. SPECIALTIES Stress, Anxiety Relationship issues Self esteem Depression Intra and Interpersonal Communication Coping with life changes Bipolar disorder, emotional intensity disorder, anger management and self-care. Years of Experience: 25 years

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Melody Hatter

Offering therapy in Iowa
License: CO LCSW CSW.09929681, IA LISW 119831
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
10 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, Iowa, Colorado and Utah. 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 among other therapeutic modalities. 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 do not provide faith based therapy nor prayer in session. If this is the type of therapy you are looking for, I will not be a good fit and recommend seeking someone with a seminary background. Thank you very much. I care. Let's talk!

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Heidi Bellile

Offering therapy in Iowa
License: KY LPCC 270852, IA LMHC 125401
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseSelf esteemBipolar disorderDepression
10 years of experience

I am licensed in Kentucky with 10 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & bipolar disorder. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. 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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Sergio Ayala

Offering therapy in Iowa
License: IL LCPC 180016866, IA LMHC 094835
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsTrauma and abuseGriefDepression
10 years of experience

I am licensed in Iowa and Illinois with 9 years of professional clinical work experience. I have a Masters of Science in Mental Health Counseling, a Masters of Divinity with 4 Units of Clinical Pastoral Education, and over 15 years of Ministerial/Pastoral Practice. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, trauma and abuse, coping with grief and loss, & dementia caregiver stress. 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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Dr. Jessica Martin

Offering therapy in Iowa
License: IA Psychologist 101972
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseIntimacy-related issuesSleeping disordersDepression
14 years of experience

I am licensed in State of Iowa with 12 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with coping with chronic pain, sleeping disorders, medical/health adversity, geriatric-related life changes, career difficulties, military related issues, anxiety, and depression. After gathering a comprehensive history and your identified goals for therapy during our initial session, I will work with you to tailor our dialogue and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. For some, taking the first step and signing-up for therapy can feel intimidating and unfamiliar. I am committed to fostering a supportive and accepting environment to assist you with reaching you identified goals and become a healthier you.

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Mary Pulscher

Offering therapy in Iowa
License: IA LMHC 00687
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefSelf esteemDepression
30 years of experience

I see myself as both a guide and a fellow traveler on the path of growth. My work is rooted in the belief that resilience isn’t about avoiding pain, but about transforming it into wisdom. I create spaces where people can pause, reflect, and reconnect with themselves—whether through healing worksheets, rituals, or creative practices that honor change and vulnerability. Professionally, I focus on helping people navigate transitions with clarity and compassion. I design practical tools that support emotional regulation, resilience, and self-discovery, blending structure with creativity. My approach is straightforward: honor each person’s dignity, provide encouragement, and offer resources that help them uncover their own strength. At the heart of it all, my goal is simple: to help others feel seen, valued, and empowered to grow.

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Brenda Hanson

Offering therapy in Iowa
License: IA LISW 135454, KS LSCSW LSCSW 1607
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefCareer difficultiesDepression
41 years of experience

As a licensed therapist in Kansas with over four decades of clinical experience, I specialize in supporting individuals through complex life transitions and emotional challenges. My approach is compassionate and holistic, focusing on helping clients navigate issues like depression, anxiety, trauma, grief, and relationship dynamics. I have extensive expertise in addressing women's issues, life purpose exploration, communication challenges, and emotional healing. My therapeutic style emphasizes self-love, personal growth, and empowering individuals to develop healthier coping strategies. Whether you're struggling with social anxiety, workplace stress, or midlife transitions, I provide a supportive and understanding environment. My practice welcomes diverse clients across different ages and backgrounds. I'm committed to walking alongside you as you work through difficult emotions, build resilience, and create meaningful personal transformation.

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James Khile

Offering therapy in Iowa
License: IA LMFT 090655
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseParenting issuesDepression
5 years of experience

Hello and kudos for taking the first steps in seeking answers! Life can be challenging, sometimes confusing and other times painful. Taking the first step to a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in the state of Iowa with over 4 years of professional work experience, and over 20 years related counseling expertise. I have experience in helping individuals, couples and families from many backgrounds. I am also a ‘Dad’ to three, beautiful and amazing, adult daughters; so (maybe) I am a veteran parent! I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion, regardless of their background or station in life. Our talks will be in a judgement free zone, tailored to meet your unique and specific needs. I am here to listen and support you as best I can and look forward to talking with you on the teletherapy platform.

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Chidi Ojinnaka

Offering therapy in Iowa
License: IA LISW 01197
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepression
40 years of experience

I am licensed in Iowa with 40 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, trauma and abuse, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. 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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Juan Rivera

Offering therapy in Iowa
License: HI Psychologist PSY-1823, IA Psychologist 115791
Stress, AnxietyDepression
18 years of experience

I am licensed Doctoral Level Psychologist in Puerto Rico, Hawaii and Iowa with 18 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, anger management, motivation, self esteem, confidence, & depression. I also have experience in the process of work in coping with life changes. I believe that there are no accidents in life, and that adversity aids in molding us for the best by eliciting our strengths. It takes courage to open up and communicate with transparency for a journey of a better life and to take the first steps towards a change. I am here to walk with you in this short time and gift we call life.

How can a counselor support you?

Therapists can practice many types of counseling, from marriage and family therapy to cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and dialectical behavior therapy (DBT). They may also assist you with symptoms of depression, stress, or anxiety.

Therapists may help you set and achieve career goals, work on current issues you may be facing, or address your past. Over 2,499,317 people live in IA, and one out of five Americans has a mental health condition. Searching for local licensed professionals may help you find mental health support for personal growth, anxiety disorders, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and other mental health concerns. You do not need a mental health diagnosis to seek support from one of BetterHelp's licensed providers above.  

The mental health field can include psychiatric medication management, online therapy, marriage counseling, couples therapy, clinical social work, licensed counseling, and other mental health services in person and online. Seeing a licensed provider can help you navigate mental health conditions and life circumstances through mindfulness and other specialized techniques.

Please note that BetterHelp therapists in Iowa does not offer diagnostic or medication management services in therapy.

Why do people choose to work with a licensed counselor or therapists?

People reach out for mental health support for a variety of reasons. Many individuals work with a counselor for general life advice, while others may attend therapy for a specific concern. Whether you live in a large city or a smaller county, BetterHelp can match you with a licensed professional tailored to your preferences noted when you sign up.

The mental health therapists in Iowa support clients with varying issues through therapy, working with:

  • Challenging situations or life stressors
  • Eating disorders requiring therapy
  • Anxiety disorders in need of therapeutic support
  • Depression or depressive mental health conditions
  • Adjustment issues in need of therapeutic support
  • Emotional support for a terminal illness
  • Chronic pain emotional support
  • Grief therapy
  • Personality disorders
  • Trauma therapy
  • Relationship conflicts and mental health concerns

Finding a therapist in Iowa that takes new clients in online therapy can be the first step in finding a treatment plan that works for you. Your therapist can provide a safe space for you to focus on self-care and well-being.

If you're interested in speaking to one of the therapists above or being matched with a counselor in 24 to 48 hours, consider signing up for BetterHelp. BetterHelp has over 35,000 providers, including those listed above.

Emergency services to contact in a crisis

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

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

Some of the most commonly asked questions about therapy can be found in the section below.

How much does therapy with a licensed therapist cost?

Mental health professionals can differ in price. Forbes found that the average cost of in-person Iowa therapy in the US is around $100 to $200 per hour. Pricing can also vary based on your location. 

BetterHelp offers payment plans of $70 to $100 per week. You can also take advantage of this pricing on one of BetterHelp's sister platforms, like ReGain for couples or TeenCounseling for teens aged 13 to 19.

Is it possible to find a therapist, counselor, or psychology practitioner that offers affordable therapy?

Many therapists may be upfront about their pricing and whether or not they take health insurance from the beginning. Additionally, some in your area may offer a sliding scale plan to allow those with lower incomes to pay less for therapy. However, services online can often save individuals a few hundred dollars per month.

When should I get a therapist in Iowa?

Mental health services and mental health providers may help you navigate various concerns. 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 advice. A counselor may help you gain power over your life and emotions while you navigate day-to-day experiences.

What can a psychologist help me with in therapy?

Mental health issues don't always present as a crisis. Many professionals provide talk therapy and support for life transitions, skills learning, relationship problems, or life coaching. Online therapy sessions can allow clients seeking therapy to experience professional help through video, phone, or live chat sessions without commuting to an office.

Does BetterHelp accept insurance?

Yes. BetterHelp has joined with major insurance carriers in select states to provide in-network therapy coverage. Coverage may vary by plan, provider, and therapist availability. Insured members pay an average co-pay of $19 per session. Average co-pay is based on current insured BetterHelp members. Explore insurance coverage in major cities like ArlingtonCorpus ChristiPlanoLubbockJacksonvilleMiamiTampaOrlandoSt. PetersburgPort St. LucieHialeahCape CoralTallahasse and Fort Lauderdale.

Are online therapy sessions the safe option?

Online therapy through BetterHelp and its sister platforms is safe. Therapists are licensed, experienced, and vetted before being contracted with the platform. If you experience any concerns with your therapist, you change your counselor through the platform or app at any time.

In today's fast-paced society, mental well-being has become a cornerstone of a fulfilling life. Amid the daily challenges and stressors that can overwhelm even the most resilient individuals, seeking professional guidance often offers a path to clarity and balance. The journey toward improved emotional health involves understanding personal triggers, embracing self-compassion, and developing effective coping strategies. While self-help books and online resources provide valuable information, nothing compares to the personalized support offered by a qualified mental health professional. One-on-one sessions with experienced experts can help uncover the underlying issues contributing to anxiety, depression, or other emotional hurdles. With a careful and empathetic approach, these professionals tailor their advice to suit individual needs, ensuring that each person receives strategies that work best for their unique circumstances. Whether through cognitive behavioral techniques, mindfulness practices, or other innovative methods, the aim is to foster resilience and empower individuals to take control of their inner lives. For those living in bustling urban centers, engaging in face-to-face sessions in a welcoming environment can be particularly beneficial. Access to a caring clinician provides not only a safe space to explore difficult emotions but also builds a support network essential for long-term recovery. The process encourages self-reflection and greater insight into behavioral patterns that might otherwise go unnoticed. While the journey can be challenging at times, the rewards include enhanced emotional stability, improved interpersonal relationships, and a renewed sense of self-worth. In one notable case, the guidance provided by a highly trained therapist proved instrumental in navigating a tumultuous period. Through structured sessions and tailored interventions, the individual learned to identify stressors and develop healthier responses to adversity. This experience underscored the transformative impact that dedicated support can have on one's overall quality of life. In a region like Texas, community-based initiatives and accessible mental health programs further reinforce the value of professional help. These efforts emphasize early intervention, preventive care, and continuous support, ensuring that more people are equipped to face life's inevitable challenges. Ultimately, investing in mental well-being is an act of self-care that yields lifelong benefits. By embracing professional support, individuals can unlock new levels of emotional resilience and discover pathways to a brighter, more balanced future. Each step taken toward healing represents a commitment to personal growth, enabling a life filled with renewed optimism and strength. Embracing this transformative journey consistently paves the way for deeper understanding, lasting peace, and meaningful personal progress.
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