Fort Dodge has over 24 thousand people living there, and they are incredibly proud of their heritage and history. Knowing about your history is also important for you as a person because there may be both physical and mental health issues that run in the family. The Fort Dodge psychologists can help you find out about your history. 

Along the banks of the Des Moines River you will find many places to picnic, camp, fish, or swim with your family and friends. If you are having a hard time getting motivated to do things that you used to love to do, you may need to talk to a psychologist. Contact one of the Fort Dodge psychologists today. 

This is Christine Ewald's avatar and link to their profile

Christine Ewald

Clinical therapist offering therapy in IA, Fort Dodge
Counselor License Type(s): LMHC,CADC,LPC
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsRelationship issuesFamily conflictsDepression
9 years of experience

Hello! I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and an International Drug and Alcohol Counselor in Iowa as well as a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Arizona. I have 20 years of experience in the counseling field, having worked in the school settings, hospital environments, residential treatment centers and outpatient behavioral health clinics. I would describe my style as caring and supportive. I use a combination of different tools and therapies to meet the individual needs of each person that I work with. I view each session like a puzzle as you lay the pieces out there and we work together to put it together in a way that makes sense to you. I use a variety of tools to help you feel comfortable, accepted and understood. I use education, history taking, client centered therapy, family systems theory, narrative therapy and cognitive behavioral therapy, and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR). I believe that you are the author of your life story. I see counseling as a way to help you determine when to close a chapter and when to start a new one. I want to help you on your journey to talk about your options and make changes when you feel the need to gain a new perspective on your journey. Life is not a race, it is a journey, Each of us is simply a work in progress, trying to learn from our past so we can write our best life story. I look forward to working with you and learning your story. Specialties: Depression Anxiety Substance abuse Relationship issues Trauma Transitional Life Changes I have experience in working with Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar disorder, Borderline Personality Disorder, Grief, Eating Disorders, Career/School stressors, coping with life changes, family relationships, codependency, etc. Years of experience 20

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Kimber Brokaw

Clinical therapist offering therapy in IA, Fort Dodge
Counselor License Type(s): LISW,LCSW
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesGriefSelf esteemDepression
16 years of experience

First let me say how happy I am that you are seeking counseling support. That takes a lot of courage and shows that you want more for yourself and your life! I've been in the social work field for 25 years working non-profit, in the schools and for the last 13 years in private clinical practice. I also serve as a Health and Wellness Coach for clients all over the United States as my own battle with an auto-immune condition led me to find a more natural path. My overall mission is to bring freedom through health – body, soul and spirit – because when we feel better, we do better! My overall areas of expertise are in helping people get “un-stuck” through a better understanding of how they are wired and how they’ve been wounded. I help clients discover the life they most desire to live and teach them how to get into alignment with that desire. I use cognitive behavioral therapy approaches, narrative therapy, psychodynamic and solution focused approaches but I love to use experiential exercises to help people get out of their head and into their heart to find the answers they need for moving forward into their fullest life. I look forward to working with you, Kimber

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Dr. Daniel Ephraim Pott-Pepperman

Clinical therapist offering therapy in IA, Fort Dodge
Counselor License Type(s): Psy.D., LP
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsBipolar disorderDepressionADHD
15 years of experience

I have a doctorate in Clinical Psychology with a special emphasis in neuropsychology and forensic psychology. I am licensed in the states of Colorado, Iowa, and Washington, and I have worked in it for the past 15 years. In the time I have practiced in Colorado and Iowa, I worked with patients with depressive and anxiety symptoms, using an approach to assist patients in identifying their current methods of exacerbating emotional problems, such as constant verbalization of their worries. An approach that helps patients select methods of reducing depressive and anxiety symptoms from their brainstorm-generated alternatives. A modality that challenges patients' thoughts and transforms rational concerns into overpowering and irresolvable conflicts. A modality that has given the power to patients to see life through different lenses while empathizing with them; most of these patients are with depressive and anxiety symptoms. Through this modality, patients are assisted in understanding the negative functional consequences of their psychological maladies, and how these maladies are perpetuating self-defeating behaviors, such as social withdrawal, disturbed family and interpersonal relationships. An approach that has helped patients select a few methods of reducing depressive and anxiety symptoms through brainstorm-generated alternatives. An approach that has been used to challenge patients' thoughts and transform rational concerns into overpowering and irresolvable conflicts. Also, I have worked with adolescent and adult patients with serious and persistent mental illnesses, such as schizophrenia and bipolar disorder. I was able to assess and help those patients with traumatic brain injury, neurological diseases, such as multiple sclerosis, Huntington's disease, and all forms of dementias. I have also used several neuropsychological assessments in diagnosing depression, anxiety, traumatic brain injury, and all forms of dementias. Additionally, I have worked with family members to perform capacity evaluations and the completion of a statement of expert evaluation forms for competency hearings. It is important that one recognizes when help is needed to subdue life's challenges. And it is laudable when one actually takes the steps to confront those life's challenges. It is laudable because, in today's society, it is difficult to get to that stage. Thank you for recognizing what it takes to get well emotionally. I am looking forward to serving you.

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Tuyet Noriega

Clinical therapist offering therapy in IA, Fort Dodge
Counselor License Type(s): MA,LMHC
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
12 years of experience

I am a Licensed Mental Health Therapist since 2010. I have worked with individuals, families, and couples in many of their life challenges. My primary focus is working with individuals who have struggles with anxiety, depression, relationship, trauma, sexual abuse, domestic violence, LGBTQ and parenting concerns. My experience is not limited in these topics, I have also worked with many individuals who have a wide range of concerns and/or diagnosis. My therapy style is interactive and direct, however I believe that as a client, they should be able to lead sessions and I at times change my style to fit the needs of the client. I am very flexible, compassionate, and believe in encouraging healthier boundaries and communication for clients. I have an ecliptic therapy style and will incorporate many styles in sessions if the occasions arise. My goal is to help clients feel more self confident in their life choices and work towards fulfilling the needs they are searching for in their life.

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Arthur Garvin

Clinical therapist offering therapy in IA, Fort Dodge
Counselor License Type(s): LCPC,LPC,MA
Stress, AnxietyCareer difficultiesBipolar disorderCoachingCompassion fatigue
22 years of experience

I am a clinical professional counselor licensed in Kentucky, Missouri Kansas, Iowa, and Colorado with more than 15 years of experience working as a psychotherapist. I've treated clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, substance abuse issues, process addictions, career challenges, OCD, and ADHD. I've also helped many people heal, who have experienced physical trauma, neglect, emotional abuse, and sexual abuse. My therapy style is warm and interactive. I believe in treating everyone with sensitivity, mutual - respect, and compassion. My approach combines cognitive-behavioral, humanistic, psychodynamic and gestalt, with mindfulness and awareness. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. It takes courage to confront dysfunctional habits and patterns, and to seek a more fulfilling and meaningful life. You are ready to take that step to change, and I am here to support and empower you. I look forward to working with you!

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Jena Byorum

Clinical therapist offering therapy in IA, Fort Dodge
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsParenting issuesCoping with life changes
11 years of experience

Hello- My name is Jena and I am a licensed therapist in Iowa with 11 years of professional work experience. Sometimes life is just hard. Sometimes feelings don't make sense or seem overwhelming. Sometimes having someone to help you figure things out can help you to start feeling better. I believe that you are the expert of your own story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. 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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Jennifer Ruden

Clinical therapist offering therapy in IA, Fort Dodge
Stress, AnxietyGriefDepression
11 years of experience

I am licensed in Iowa with over10 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with grief and loss, motivation, self esteem, and confidence. 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!

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Kelly Kinney

Clinical therapist offering therapy in IA, Fort Dodge
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseBipolar disorderDepression
22 years of experience

I am licensed in Iowa (LISW) with 22 years of professional experience providing individual therapy. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, and bipolar disorder. I also have significant experience working with depression. 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 improve your life through therapy takes courage and I am here to support you in that process. Seeing people change and make progress towards their goals has always been my favorite part of this work.

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Barbara Lind

Clinical therapist offering therapy in IA, Fort Dodge
LGBTTrauma and abuseBipolar disorderDepressionCompassion fatigue
18 years of experience

I am licensed in Iowa with 18 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with lgbtq+ related issues, trauma and abuse, bipolar disorder, & depression. 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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Nicole Hamilton-Brahm

Clinical therapist offering therapy in IA, Fort Dodge
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsTrauma and abuseGriefDepression
4 years of experience

I am licensed in Iowa with 4 years of professional work experience. 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.

How to find a therapist for counseling in Fort Dodge

Finding the best therapist close by in Fort Dodge 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 with therapists in Fort Dodge that work best for you in order to begin your personal journey towards emotional healing with a therapist.

Understanding the type of therapy you'd like to search for is crucial before finding a therapist or psychologist in Fort Dodge. Perhaps you're interested in narrowing your search for a psychotherapist that can offer psychodynamic, cognitive-behavioral (CBT), talk therapy, provide group therapy, marriage and family therapy for individuals or couples, or couples therapy. Each type of support of this kind with BetterHelp therapists can offer various benefits and address or treat different disorders. If you're still unsure or are new to counseling in Fort Dodge, 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 for therapists. 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 able to treat individuals and couples counseling, and sometimes children, in any type of therapy in the Fort Dodge region and in the state of Iowa. Find a therapist under any of these distinctions and know that the sessions they offer can provide a safe place to heal.

A mental health counselor working through their own in-person therapy practice in Fort Dodge or online may assist clients in improving healthy relationships, communication skills, working through life transitions, couples counseling, managing a mood disorder, improving coping skills, self help tips, offer life coaching, family therapy, or change in negative thinking patterns. A Fort Dodge therapist may also provide a safe place and validation for clients experiencing emotional pain, or that simply want a psychological assessment. Verified providers and therapists 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 Fort Dodge area offering:

  • CBT
  • DBT
  • Substance use therapy
  • Couples therapy

When you're ready to start your search keep in mind what support 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 Fort Dodge, elsewhere in Webster, or in the greater state of Iowa. Get matched with one of the therapists working on the BetterHelp platform today.

Frequently asked questions (FAQs) about therapists and mental health services

Some other commonly asked questions on therapy with a licensed counselor and BetterHelp serving the Fort Dodge area can be found below:

How does the cost of in-person counseling with a therapist compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed Fort Dodge therapist?

The average price of an in-person therapy session in the US with most therapists is $100 to $200 per hour. These prices may be higher in Fort Dodge due to a higher cost of living, and a limited number of therapists taking new clients. 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 Fort Dodge 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 a BetterHelp therapist throughout the state of Iowa you can expect significantly more affordable options, with therapists sessions ranging from $65 to $100 per week (billed every four weeks). 

How is a licensed therapist on this Fort Dodge online therapy platform verified?

Therapists in Fort Dodge, 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. Therapists 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, therapists here 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 Fort Dodge psychiatrists to prescribe a drug or medication as treatment, or perform psychological assessments and other psychiatric services.

How does working with a professional counselor in BetterHelp online therapy sessions work?

BetterHelp clinicians and therapists treat clients online across the United States (individuals and couples) through life transitions, inner child exploration, long term depression or anxiety, post traumatic stress disorder, and more. An online mental health professional, including the therapists in Fort Dodge 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 helping individuals on topics including managing life transitions, symptoms affecting sexual health, behavioral health, coping skills for anxiety, depression, trauma, stress, marriage counseling, and more. Get matched today.

What mental health issues can psychotherapy address with the help of psychologists?

BetterHelp's verified 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.

Our therapists specialties on BetterHelp include:

  • Cognitive behavioral therapy - This is provided by professional counselors, helping clients identify and change negative thought patterns through structured sessions.
  • Behavior therapy - Behavior therapy techniques are used to help clients modify harmful behaviors and develop healthier habits, often through the guidance of a professional counselor.
  • EMDR therapy - EMDR therapists assist clients in processing traumatic memories to alleviate emotional distress and improve overall well-being, utilizing the expertise of a professional counselor.
  • Talk therapy - Clients explore their feelings and develop strategies for dealing with various mental health issues, often guided by a professional counselor.
  • Depression - This counseling is designed to help individuals manage symptoms of depression and improve their mood and functioning, often working closely with a professional counselor.
  • Anxiety disorders - Sessions for anxiety disorders, offer strategies to manage and reduce anxiety symptoms effectively, often through counseling sessions with a professional counselor.
  • Stress - Tools and techniques to help clients cope with stress and improve their mental resilience, frequently under the supervision of a professional counselor.
  • Eating disorders - Professionals experienced in eating disorders offer specialized counseling to address unhealthy eating patterns and body image issues, with the support of a professional counselor.
  • Grief - Support and guidance are offered to clients experiencing grief, helping them navigate the stages of loss, often in collaboration with a counselor.
  • Attachment therapy - Therapists use this to help clients understand and improve their emotional bonds and relationships, often with the assistance of a counselor.
  • Relationships - Therapists work with clients to improve communication, resolve conflicts, and strengthen their connections with others, often using the skills of a counselor.
  • Children, adolescents, and teens - Therapists specializing in youth therapy address the unique mental health needs of children, adolescents, and teens, often involving a counselor in the process.
  • Addiction (substance abuse) - Therapists offer counseling for addiction, helping clients overcome substance abuse and maintain long-term recovery, often under the guidance of a counselor.
  • Divorce - Therapists support individuals through the emotional and practical challenges of ending a marriage, often working with a psychologist to provide comprehensive care.
  • Trauma or PTSD - Therapists specializing in trauma and PTSD help clients process traumatic experiences and reduce their symptoms, frequently collaborating with a psychologist.
  • Bipolar disorder - Therapists provide counseling to manage the mood swings and challenges associated with bipolar disorder, often in consultation with a psychologist.
  • Psychodynamic treatment - Therapists use psychodynamic treatment to explore unconscious processes and how they affect current behavior, often guided by psychologists.
  • Career counseling - Therapists assist clients in making informed decisions about their professional paths and resolving work-related issues, often with the help of psychologists.
  • Alcohol use disorders - Therapists offer specialized counseling to help clients manage and overcome alcohol use disorders, frequently under the supervision of psychologists.
  • OCD - Therapists provide strategies and support to manage obsessive-compulsive disorder symptoms, often via psychotherapy.
  • ADHD - Therapists offer counseling to help clients with ADHD improve focus, organization, and overall functioning, often via psychotherapy.
  • Mood disorders - Therapists work with clients to stabilize and improve mood through various therapeutic approaches, frequently in psychotherapy.
  • Sex addiction
  • Complex trauma
  • Life transitions

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 Fort Dodge provider through BetterHelp's sister platform, ReGain, which is dedicated to couples and spouses worldwide with licensed therapists. 

How do I know if online counseling is right for my family in Fort Dodge?

One of the potentially rewarding aspects of working with a Fort Dodge 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 and therapists are trained to respond to various concerns, symptoms, and mental health conditions.

Therapists 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 Fort Dodge 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 Fort Dodge 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 psychotherapist.

With a lot of people in IA, therapists may be booked out with clients. Through the list of profiles or therapists 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 50501 or the surrounding zip codes, consider others available through the BetterHelp site where you can schedule a session based on your and the therapist's schedule. No matter if you are seeking help from therapists in your area or beyond, online therapy can be a great option.

How should I prepare for my first therapy session with a Fort Dodge counselor?

Before seeing your Fort Dodge therapist, prep for your session by reading to understand the 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, you can let our therapists know if you have any concerns or feel unsure about what to talk about. Fort Dodge therapists here may help guide you with open-ended therapeutic questions while offering mental health services. 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 for therapy 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 it might entail. Although psychologists often support people with mental health conditions, you do not need a diagnosis or specific condition. You can discuss grief, relationship concerns, stress, or life changes and ask for general feedback. A Fort Dodge 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 with a Fort Dodge counselor 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 that a counselor can help with.

Is mental health care and therapy with a therapist worth it?

Therapy with a licensed counselor 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 therapist 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 Fort Dodge, 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.

Fort Dodge has many clinicians who practice person or client-centered individual therapy in-person and through online sessions 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 during telehealth appointments?

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 for Fort Dodge, Iowa

To stay up to date with BetterHelp's initiatives through their social channels, you can follow them on PinterestLinkedInInstagramTwitter, and Facebook. For mental health tips, check out the BetterHelp YouTube channel.

Take some time today to learn more about the team of Fort Dodge 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 to customer service 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 Fort Dodge.

Below are some of the zip codes served by BetterHelp therapists in Fort Dodge:

50501

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