Read more
Psychologist Leah Pavela-Mullins providing different types of therapy in Dexter

Leah Pavela-Mullins

Clinician
License Type(s): IL LCSW 149022843, FL LCSW SW7224
Mental Wellness Specialties: Relationship issuesIntimacy-related issuesSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
15 years offering treatment

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!

Psychologist Valerie Marsh providing different types of therapy in Dexter

Valerie Marsh

Clinician
License Type(s): MN LMFT 1007, IA LMFT 000314
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepression
23 years offering treatment

As a licensed marriage and family therapist and certified clinical trauma specialist, my passion is helping my clients discover their strengths. learn new skills, and empower them to create a joy-filled and purpose-driven life. 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. Drawing from cognitive behavioral therapy, mindfulness, positive psychology, somatic therapy, I guide my clients who are weighed down by life stressors, anxiety, depression, trauma, and attachment and relationship struggles, so that they don't have to face it alone. I provide a compassionate space for my clients to learn new skills, strengthen their resilience, and build more loving relationships, both with others and themselves. If you are seeking greater self-confidence, joy, peace, and contentment in your life, maybe it's time for a different approach and a breakthrough! Let's work together to create a plan to meet your unique and specific needs. I am here to support and empower you achieve personal growth and meaningful change in your life. I look forward to working with you!

Psychologist David Fox providing different types of therapy in Dexter

David Fox

Clinician
License Type(s): IL LCSW 149020830, IA LISW 132994
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyAddictionsLGBTRelationship issuesTrauma and abuse
3 years offering treatment

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.

Psychologist Heidi Bellile providing different types of therapy in Dexter

Heidi Bellile

Clinician
License Type(s): KY LPCC 270852, IA LMHC 125401
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseSelf esteemBipolar disorderDepression
10 years offering treatment

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.

Psychologist Sergio Ayala providing different types of therapy in Dexter

Sergio Ayala

Clinician
License Type(s): IL LCPC 180016866, IA LMHC 094835
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyAddictionsTrauma and abuseGriefDepression
10 years offering treatment

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.

Psychologist Dr. Jessica Martin providing different types of therapy in Dexter

Dr. Jessica Martin

Clinician
License Type(s): IA Psychologist 101972
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseIntimacy-related issuesSleeping disordersDepression
14 years offering treatment

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.

Psychologist Jennifer 'Jenna' Nevins providing different types of therapy in Dexter

Jennifer 'Jenna' Nevins

Clinician
License Type(s): IA LMHC 099339
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefSelf esteemDepression
5 years offering treatment

Hi, I’m Jenna — a person-centered therapist who believes that healing begins with connection. My approach is grounded in the belief that a positive, trusting therapeutic relationship is the foundation for meaningful growth and change. I often say that there are many ways up the mountain, and sometimes our work together involves rerouting — and that’s okay. Every journey is unique, and my role is to walk beside you as you find your way forward. I have experience working with a wide range of concerns, including trauma, grief, disability, postpartum depression and anxiety, PTSD, ADHD, parenting, OCD, and Autism. I’m passionate about helping you make sense of your symptoms — not just to manage them, but to understand where they come from and how to work with them in ways that support your overall well-being. I draw from a variety of tools, including CBT, DBT, EMDR, parts work, trauma-focused therapy, and traditional talk therapy. These are valuable methods, but I don’t believe that techniques alone create transformation. Instead, I focus on cultivating safety, curiosity, and collaboration so that you can explore what truly matters to you. I use a blend of person-centered and reality/choice theory approaches, which means I believe in both deep understanding and practical change — helping you reconnect with your sense of choice, agency, and self-worth. Above all, I want our space to feel like one where you can exhale — a space where you can bring what you need, be seen without judgment, and know that showing up, in itself, is something to be proud of. Because often, showing up is the hardest and bravest part. I look forward to working with you.

Psychologist Chidi Ojinnaka providing different types of therapy in Dexter

Chidi Ojinnaka

Clinician
License Type(s): IA LISW 01197
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepression
40 years offering treatment

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.

Psychologist James Bustamante providing different types of therapy in Dexter

James Bustamante

Clinician
License Type(s): IA LMHC 00424
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsParenting issuesDepression
25 years offering treatment

I am licensed in Iowa with over 30 years of experience in behavioral health. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, anger management, depression, relationship issues, LGBTQ issues, and issues specific to parenting individuals transitioning. 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.

Psychologist Mary Ruhland providing different types of therapy in Dexter

Mary Ruhland

Clinician
License Type(s): IA LISW 01284, SD CSW-PIP 3229
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefSelf esteemDepression
30 years offering treatment

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.

Psychologist Jill Jaster providing different types of therapy in Dexter

Jill Jaster

Clinician
License Type(s): IA LMHC 097088
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyAddictionsGriefDepressionCoping with life changes
21 years offering treatment

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!

Psychologist Megan Tafolla providing different types of therapy in Dexter

Megan Tafolla

Clinician
License Type(s): IL LCSW 149.030303, FL LCSW SW23380
Mental Wellness Specialties: Relationship issuesFamily conflictsGriefParenting issuesCoping with life changes
3 years offering treatment

I specialize in grief, anxiety, and attachment with special interests in applying these concepts to non-death related losses. I believe strongly that it’s an honor and privilege to walk with people on their journeys as they navigate grief and finding a light when the world feels like it has gone dark. I have experience working with clients in variety of settings including those experiencing homelessness, veterans, perinatal populations including those experiencing pregnancy and baby loss, parents navigating children of all ages, and geriatrics. I have experiencing working with foster and adoptive parents, biological, blended, and chosen families. I take a strong, action-oriented approach to therapy offering education and resources alongside tools with the goal of making heavy things more manageable to carry.

Psychologist Lisa Fehr providing different types of therapy in Dexter

Lisa Fehr

Clinician
License Type(s): IA LMHC 001610
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyAnger managementDepressionCoping with life changesADHD
12 years offering treatment

I am a licensed mental health counselor in Iowa with 12 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, anger management, depression & coping with life changes. I also have experience working with focus (adhd). 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. Using a Client Centered therapy approach I am here to support & empower you in that journey. I utilize Cognitive Behavioral therapy to help you recognize and challenge unhelpful thought patterns and behaviors. Learning and using techniques in relaxation, coping and stress management. Also using Solution-Focused therapy, encouraging you to focus on what you can do, setting goals and what steps are needed to achieve them based on your skill set and new skills explored.

Psychologist Sonia Azcarate providing different types of therapy in Dexter

Sonia Azcarate

Clinician
License Type(s): TX LCSW 65373, IA LISW 129035
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesParenting issuesSelf esteemDepression
4 years offering treatment

As a licensed therapist in Texas, I specialize in supporting individuals navigating complex emotional landscapes. My practice centers on helping clients develop self-love, overcome isolation, and rediscover their life purpose. I have experience supporting people through challenges related to depression, anxiety, relationship dynamics, and self-esteem. My therapeutic approach is compassionate and collaborative, focusing on understanding each person's unique journey. I'm particularly passionate about working with individuals struggling with depression, caregiver stress, and those seeking deeper personal understanding. By creating a supportive and non-judgmental space, I aim to empower clients to develop resilience, cultivate meaningful connections, and embrace their inherent worth. Drawing from evidence-based practices, I work alongside clients to develop personalized strategies that promote healing, growth, and emotional well-being. My goal is to help you build stronger, more authentic relationships—both with yourself and others.

Find a Therapist Near You in Dexter , Iowa

Finding a licensed therapist near you in Iowa can be an important step toward improving your mental health and overall well-being. Whether you’re dealing with anxiety, depression, relationship challenges, stress, or major life changes, working with a qualified mental health professional can offer meaningful support.

With a population of Iowa_POPULATION, Iowa is home to people with diverse mental health needs across urban, suburban, and rural communities. Online therapy makes it easier to connect with a therapist near you without being limited to nearby offices. BetterHelp connects you with licensed therapists authorized to practice in Iowa, allowing you to attend sessions online from the comfort of your home.

Why work with a licensed therapist near you?

Working with a licensed therapist near you ensures that your provider meets state licensing requirements and professional standards in Iowa (IA). Licensed therapists use evidence-based approaches to help individuals manage emotional challenges, develop coping skills, and work toward personal goals.

People seek therapy for many reasons. Some are navigating ongoing mental health concerns, while others want guidance during stressful periods or major life transitions. You do not need a mental health diagnosis to work with a therapist. Many individuals seek therapy to improve communication, strengthen relationships, manage stress, or gain greater self-awareness.

Online therapy can be especially helpful for people living across Iowa_COUNTIES, where access to in-person mental health care may vary by location.

What concerns can therapists help with?

Therapists on BetterHelp support adults across Iowa with a wide range of mental health concerns and life challenges, including:

Therapists use approaches such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), and other evidence-based methods tailored to individual needs.

Online therapy vs. in-person therapy in Iowa

When searching for a therapist near me in Iowa, many people compare online therapy with traditional in-person care. Online therapy offers several potential advantages:

  • Greater accessibility: Attend sessions from anywhere with an internet connection
  • Reduced wait times: Many people are matched in as little as  24-48 hours, faster than typical in-person availability
  • Flexible scheduling: Sessions that fit around work, family, or school commitments
  • Expanded provider options: Access licensed therapists across Iowa, not just nearby offices

Research shows that online therapy can be effective for many mental health concerns. Online therapy may also reduce barriers such as transportation challenges, long commutes, or limited local availability, especially in larger or more rural counties across Iowa.

Finding a therapist near me that accepts insurance

Many people looking for a therapist near me in Iowa want to know whether insurance is an option.

Many providers on BetterHelp now accept major insurance carriers in select states. In many states, certain therapists on BetterHelp may be in-network with specific insurance plans. Coverage depends on your plan, provider, and therapist availability.

When sessions are covered, insured members typically pay an average copay of about $19 per session. Coverage varies by state and provider availability, so it’s important to check your in-network status directly on the BetterHelp site.

If insurance coverage is not available, BetterHelp’s flexible subscription model remains an option, with online therapy typically costing $70 to $100 per week, billed weekly or monthly. Additional discounts or financial aid may also be available for a lower price.

How BetterHelp helps you find the right therapist in Iowa

BetterHelp simplifies the process of finding a therapist near you in Iowa without requiring you to search through tons of profiles on your own.

Here’s how it works:

  1. Complete a brief questionnaire about your needs, preferences, and goals
  2. Get matched with a licensed therapist authorized to practice in Iowa (IA)
  3. Begin online therapy sessions through video, phone, or live chat

BetterHelp works with one of the world’s largest networks of licensed therapists, with over 30,000 qualified providers globally. Many members are matched in as little as 24 to 48 hours, and 93% of user preferences are met during the matching process.

You can request a new therapist at no additional cost if your needs or preferences change.

Therapists near you in Iowa

Below, you’ll find licensed therapists authorized to provide online therapy to adults across Iowa, including residents in Iowa_COUNTIES.

Each provider meets state licensing requirements and has experience supporting clients with a wide range of mental health concerns using evidence-based therapeutic approaches.

Please note: Therapists on BetterHelp in Iowa do not provide psychiatric medication management or formal diagnoses.

Frequently asked questions about finding a therapist near me

How much does therapy cost near me?

Therapy costs vary depending on provider and location. In-person therapy sessions may cost $100 to $200 or more per session. BetterHelp offers online therapy subscriptions that typically range from $70 to $100 per week, billed weekly or monthly, depending on factors such as location, source, preferences, and therapist availability. Additional discounts or financial aid may also be available for a lower price. BetterHelp now accepts major insurance plans in select states and members pay an average copay of $19 per session. Coverage varies by plan, provider, and therapist availability. You can check coverage on the BetterHelp site.

Does BetterHelp accept insurance?

Yes. Many providers on BetterHelp now accept major insurance carriers in select states. In many states, certain therapists on BetterHelp may be in-network with specific insurance plans. When sessions are covered, insured members typically pay an average copay of about $19 per session. Coverage varies by plan, provider, and therapist availability. You can check coverage on the BetterHelp site.

Is online therapy effective?

Yes. Research shows that online therapy can be effective for many mental health concerns, including anxiety, depression, stress, and relationship challenges. Online therapy allows you to connect with a licensed therapist without commuting to an office.

Do I need a diagnosis to see a therapist?

No. You do not need a mental health diagnosis to seek therapy. Many people work with a therapist for stress management, relationship concerns, grief, life transitions, or personal growth.

How quickly can I start therapy?

Many people are matched with a licensed therapist in as little as 24 to 48 hours after completing the initial questionnaire. Match times may vary based on preferences and therapist availability.

Can I switch therapists if it’s not the right fit?

Yes. If you feel your therapist is not the right match, you can request to be matched with another licensed provider at no additional cost. You are able to do so through the BetterHelp user portal and select switch therapists if needed.

Is online therapy private and secure?

Online therapy through BetterHelp allows you to communicate with your therapist in a discreet  setting through video, phone, or messaging tools.

Finding therapy with a therapist in Dexter can change your life. Expert therapy provides the most valuable insights into managing stress, building resilience, and nurturing emotional growth. With the personalized guidance and compassionate support, from a licensed mental health therapeutic expert serving clients in your area, you can gain therapy tools to overcome life’s obstacles and improve overall well-being. It's beneficial to embrace therapy in order to unlock new paths toward happiness and lasting self-improvement. Experience renewed strength and clarity with BetterHelp online therapy services and therapists. Seeking expert therapeutic guidance from a seasoned therapy counselor can foster resilience and personal growth. Embracing professional therapy allows individuals to address their emotional challenges effectively while gaining theraprutic insight and self-assurance. Therapy enhances overall well-being, inspires healthier relationships, and empowers you to navigate their life's obstacles with renewed clarity and confidence beyond measure.
Find the right therapist for your needs
Match with a qualified therapist