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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This is Leah Pavela-Mullins's avatar and link to their profile

Leah Pavela-Mullins

Offering therapy in Iowa
License: IL LCSW 149022843, FL LCSW SW7224
Relationship issuesIntimacy-related issuesSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
15 years of experience

I am a licensed clinical social worker with over 15 years of experience in helping people find solutions to their problems. Over the years, I have been told by clients that they really feel that I am listening to them and trying to understand what is going on in their lives and how they feel. Clients have also told me that they do not feel any sense of judgment, but rather that I accept them for who they are and where they are in their life’s journey. My style is empathetic and solution focused. I will spend time asking you questions in order to get to know you and try to find out what is at the heart of your issue. Together, we will talk about possible avenues you may want to take, or changes you may want to consider. I may give you some “homework” assignments…things to write out or think about, worksheets to complete, or even techniques/exercises to practice in your own time so that some of what we discuss in our sessions is reinforced. Most of all, I will be an objective listener, helping you to gain insight into what is going on with you, so that you are able to make the choices and changes you want to, in your own time. I look forward to working with you!

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Sherile Smith

Offering therapy in Iowa
License: IA LMHC 133507, LA LPC 2830
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesAnger managementSelf esteemDepression
25 years of experience

Welcome and congratulations on choosing you! I enjoy working with people (16 and up) from any background, ethnicity, gender - people are people. I draw upon over 25 years of providing therapeutic services to assist you in reaching your goals for treatment. Counseling is as unique as a fingerprint so we will develop a plan together that best meets your needs for wellness, growth, and an improved quality of life. You get to be heard; lead the way! I am here to support and empower you throughout this process.

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Dr. Kimberly Athuman

Offering therapy in Iowa
License: IA LISW 008253
Parenting issuesDepressionADHD
11 years of experience

I am licensed in Iowa with 10 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with parenting issues, depression, & concentration, memory and focus (ADHD). 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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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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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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Dr. Heidi Duong

Offering therapy in Iowa
License: IA LMHC 124913, WA LMHC LH 61410541
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseEating disordersSelf esteemDepression
3 years of experience

Have you ever felt that something was missing from your life, as though you were attempting to reach a destination; however, it could not be reached? We will be looking at ways to fill up our lives that provide feelings of purpose. Sometimes it's easy to look for the next quick fix only to discover we are right where we started. Back to square one! Together, we will discover what areas of life feel unfulfilling and identify barriers and approaches to overcome the obstacles to bring more life satisfaction and self-congruency. I provide hypnotherapy, spiritual counseling as a Kvantum Energy Facilitator and mental health therapy. Through holistic and integrative therapy, we will examine the areas of life that may feel unfulfilling and develop strategies to build more meaning and consistency. By examining our current behaviors, we can develop interventions that focus on self-direction and self-autonomy. I provide mental health counseling, energy healing strategies including fitness. By reaching out to me as your mental health counselor, various resources and tools can be discovered to build more life satisfaction and congruency. This time is your time. Let's work together to find real potential and bring more life purpose and identify strategies to conquer any negative self-doubt and address any feelings of uncertainty.

This is Zachery Sheeley's avatar and link to their profile

Zachery Sheeley

Offering therapy in Iowa
License: IA LMHC 092940
AddictionsRelationship issuesFamily conflictsParenting issuesAnger management
6 years of experience

I am licensed in Iowa with 6 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with coping with addictions, relationship issues, family conflicts, & parenting issues. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. 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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Charlette Forteza

Offering therapy in Iowa
License: IA LMHC 131924
Relationship issuesIntimacy-related issues
17 years of experience

I am licensed mental health counselor with a human-centered, holistic approach to healing. I have 17 years combined experience working with adults as well as children. I integrate mindfulness practices with evidence-based therapeutic techniques to support clients in reconnecting with their inner wisdom and navigating life’s challenges with greater clarity and compassion. I have worked with clients on relationship issues, family conflicts, self -esteem, anxiety and life transitions. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage, and I am here to support you in that process.

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Larry Jackson

Offering therapy in Iowa
License: IA LMHC 001738
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesAnger managementDepression
10 years of experience

I am licensed in Iowa with 10 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, anger management, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. 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. 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.

This is Edward Matovu's avatar and link to their profile

Edward Matovu

Offering therapy in Iowa
License: IA LMHC 111625
Relationship issuesParenting issuesSelf esteemCareer difficultiesCoping with life changes
5 years of experience

I am licensed in Iowa with 5 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with relationship issues, parenting issues, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & career difficulties. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. 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.

This is Alyssa Crawford's avatar and link to their profile

Alyssa Crawford

Offering therapy in Iowa
License: IA LMHC 133446, MT LCPC BBH-LCPC-LIC-56874
Relationship issuesFamily conflictsAnger managementDepressionCoping with life changes
6 years of experience

I am a licensed counselor in Montana with over 6 years of professional work experience. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialogue and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

This is Kristen Udell's avatar and link to their profile

Kristen Udell

Offering therapy in Iowa
License: IA LMHC 00942
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseSelf esteemCoping with life changes
8 years of experience

I am licensed mental health counselor (LMHC) in Iowa with 8 years of professional work experience. My therapy style and approach draws influence from Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, Client-Centered Therapy, and Solution-Focused Therapy. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, and mild depression. 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. I view us as a team, working at finding solutions to the issues you bring to therapy as well as healing from past or present trauma. I will typically respond to messages in 24 hours after receiving them or in 48 hours if it's over the weekend. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage, and I am proud of you for getting started!

This is Jill Jaster's avatar and link to their profile

Jill Jaster

Offering therapy in Iowa
License: IA LMHC 097088
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsGriefDepressionCoping with life changes
21 years of experience

I am licensed in Illinois and Iowa with 21 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, coping with grief and loss, & depression. 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 sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

This is Juan Rivera's avatar and link to their profile

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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