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Psychologist Leah Pavela-Mullins providing different types of therapy in Nichols

Leah Pavela-Mullins

Clinician
License Type(s): MN LICSW 29567, IL LCSW 149022843
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 David Fox providing different types of therapy in Nichols

David Fox

Clinician
License Type(s): IN LCSW 34012078A, IL LCSW 149020830
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 Kristin Walker-Vinal providing different types of therapy in Nichols

Kristin Walker-Vinal

Clinician
License Type(s): CO LPC LPC.0023866, IA LMHC 124497
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyAddictionsTrauma and abuseAnger managementDepression
10 years offering treatment

Hello! I am an independently licensed mental health practitioner with over 10 years of experience working as a counselor. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, parenting problems, career challenges, etc. I am certified in EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) which is incredible for trauma. My counseling style is warm and interactive but also no nonsense; I will tell you what you need to hear. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity and compassion and I don't believe in stigmatizing labels. My approach combines Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Accelerated Experiential Dynamic Psychotherapy (AEDP), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Attachment-Based Therapy and Client-Centered Therapy. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. Thank you for being brave enough to reach out for change. I am all about S.A.G.E. (Support Advocacy Guidance Enrichment) I look forward to working with you!

Psychologist Barbara "Barb" Kroening providing different types of therapy in Nichols

Barbara "Barb" Kroening

Clinician
License Type(s): IA LISW 072666
Mental Wellness Specialties: Family conflictsTrauma and abuseGriefParenting issuesSelf esteem
12 years offering treatment

Asking for help can be very difficult and I believe it takes a lot of strength. I feel everybody needs a little help at some point in their life and there is nothing wrong with that. I embrace the opportunity to be the person people can reach out to for that help. I feel honesty is very important and will offer a safe, non judgmental space for you to openly share your thoughts and struggles. I am a licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker in the state of Iowa with 15 years work experience. I believe it is important to meet people where they are at and am willing to do so while also offering gentle encouragement to help people get to where they want to be. I have worked with individuals with substance abuse issues, anger issues, trauma history, relationship issues, grief and loss, and parenting issues. I have worked closely with immigration populations on a professional and personal basis. I look forward to hearing from you.

Psychologist Elizabeth Shields providing different types of therapy in Nichols

Elizabeth Shields

Clinician
License Type(s): IA LMHC 133141, NE LIMHP 3905
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsSelf esteemCoping with life changesCompassion fatigue
4 years offering treatment

I enjoy working with a wide variety of clients from various, diverse backgrounds. What is most important in my opinion, first and foremost, is our therapist/client relationship and establishing trust and rapport between us. What this looks like and how long this can take, can vary. My hope for our therapy sessions is to be able to create a safe space where you feel free to be your authentic self, explore the past, present, or future-- and also feeling free to be able to explore your own thought processes. I consider therapy as an ongoing and constantly evolving conversation, as well as a supportive ongoing relationship. As a therapist, my approach is person-centered and strengths based. I enjoy learning about your personal goals, values systems, and relationships as you work on both smaller and larger goals for yourself. I am holistic-minded, and focus on the whole person. I have a passion for family caregivers, as I am the parent of a child with multiple disabilities too. Feel free to reach out if you would like to discuss starting therapy services. I think it is brave of you to seek support. It is my hope to end the stigma surrounding mental health issues and to help normalize the fact that we all struggle at times. It is important to me that you adapt healthy coping skills and resiliency amidst life's many challenges.

Psychologist Melody Hatter providing different types of therapy in Nichols

Melody Hatter

Clinician
License Type(s): CO LCSW CSW.09929681, IA LISW 119831
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
10 years offering treatment

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!

Psychologist Sergio Ayala providing different types of therapy in Nichols

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. Heidi Duong providing different types of therapy in Nichols

Dr. Heidi Duong

Clinician
License Type(s): WA LMHC LH 61410541, IA LMHC 124913
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseEating disordersSelf esteemDepression
7 years offering treatment

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.

Psychologist Marcella Aronson providing different types of therapy in Nichols

Marcella Aronson

Clinician
License Type(s): MT LCPC BBH-LCPC-LIC-83230, IA LMHC 001707
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseSleeping disordersSelf esteemDepression
13 years offering treatment

I am licensed in Iowa with 13 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, sleeping disorders, & 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. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

Psychologist Charlette Forteza providing different types of therapy in Nichols

Charlette Forteza

Clinician
License Type(s): IA LMHC 131924
Mental Wellness Specialties: Relationship issuesIntimacy-related issues
17 years offering treatment

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.

Psychologist Kerry Robertson providing different types of therapy in Nichols

Kerry Robertson

Clinician
License Type(s): IA LMHC 101865
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseParenting issuesDepressionCoping with life changes
4 years offering treatment

I am licensed in Iowa with 4 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, parenting issues, & 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 seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

Psychologist Trina Kroening-Skime providing different types of therapy in Nichols

Trina Kroening-Skime

Clinician
License Type(s): WI LCSW 12303-123, IA LISW 137127
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyAddictionsTrauma and abuseAnger managementDepression
3 years offering treatment

As a licensed clinical social worker in Wisconsin and a Licensed independent social worker in Iowa, I specialize in supporting individuals navigating complex emotional landscapes. My professional approach centers on compassionate, evidence-based care for those experiencing depression, anxiety, trauma, and addiction challenges. I'm committed to creating a supportive, non-judgmental environment where clients can explore their experiences and develop meaningful strategies for personal growth and healing. My therapeutic practice is rooted in understanding each individual's unique journey, with a focus on empowering clients to build resilience and discover their inner strengths. I draw from contemporary therapeutic techniques to help people develop effective coping mechanisms and work through life's most challenging emotional experiences. I approach each client relationship with deep respect, cultural sensitivity, and a genuine commitment to supporting their personal transformation. Whether you're struggling with stress, trauma, or seeking personal development, I'm dedicated to walking alongside you with empathy and professional expertise.

Psychologist Aimee Clancy providing different types of therapy in Nichols

Aimee Clancy

Clinician
License Type(s): IA LISW 072749, NE LIMHP 2494
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietySelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changesCompassion fatigue
12 years offering treatment

As a licensed therapist in Iowa and Nebraska, I work mostly with women and older women navigating seasons of change - grief and loss, health problems, caregiving for others, burnout, retirement, an empty nest, widowhood, or simply figuring out who they are as their roles in life shift. I also work with what tends to come alongside those changes: anxiety, depression, frustration and the quiet exhaustion of holding everything together for everyone else. My style is warm and down to earth. I'm not here to hand you a formula – I'm here to listen closely, take your story seriously, and help you find your footing again. I believe people already carry a great deal of their own wisdom, and good therapy helps you rediscover it. Because my work is focused on walking with people through life‘s changes rather than crisis care, I’m not the right fit if you’re in crisis or struggling with thoughts of suicide. That deserves more support than I can offer in this setting, and a different therapist or a higher level of care can better meet you there. If this sounds like the kind of support you’re looking for, I'd be glad to hear from you!

Psychologist Steven Pohlmeyer providing different types of therapy in Nichols

Steven Pohlmeyer

Clinician
License Type(s): IA LISW 01258
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesSelf esteemDepression
38 years offering treatment

Great to meet you! As a Licensed Independent Social Worker, I believe prioritizing mental health is the foundation for a stable and happy life. Taking the step to seek help can be difficult, and I truly commend you for being here! With over 38 years of experience, I’ve dedicated the last five years to specifically supporting clients as they navigate the challenges of anxiety and depression. I look forward to partnering with you on this journey toward feeling like yourself again. My approach to therapy Everyone has a unique story and deserves an individualized approach to care. As partners in your therapeutic journey, I prioritize open communication and mutual respect. I’ll be there to listen, challenge, and support you every step of the way as we work toward the stability and happiness you deserve. What you can expect from me We’ll start with an introductory session where you can share your story and what you hope to achieve—we'll figure it all out together! My goal is to create a warm, secure environment where you feel comfortable being vulnerable and truly heard. From there, we’ll partner in the sessions that follow to turn your personal goals into a reality.

*BetterHelp insurance availability, coverage, and cost may vary by state, plan, provider network, therapist availability, and deductible status.

Find a therapist near you in Nichols, Iowa

Finding a therapist near you in Nichols, Iowa starts with matching to a licensed professional who fits your needs, schedule, and goals. Iowa is home to people with diverse mental health needs across urban, suburban, and rural communities, which can make it challenging to find care. BetterHelp connects you with a licensed therapist through tailored matching, so you can begin care from home or wherever works for you. 

The network includes over 30,000 licensed therapists globally, and over 4 million people have used BetterHelp to find support through online therapy. During matching, 93% of user preferences are met, which helps you connect with a therapist suited to what you are looking for. Whether you are searching for help with anxiety, trauma, affordable or insurance covered therapy, weekend or flexible scheduling, or virtual sessions, you can find a therapist and get started when you are ready.

Why work with a licensed therapist near you?

Working with a licensed therapist near you gives you access to professional mental health support from someone trained to help you understand and manage what you are going through. A licensed therapist can offer evidence-based approaches, a steady space to talk, and guidance tailored to your situation. In Iowa, online therapy can make that care more accessible, since sessions happen from home or wherever you are, without the need to travel to an office. This can help if your schedule is full, if travel is difficult, or if you simply prefer a more discreet setting. You can learn more about what a therapist does on the therapist role page.

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

What concerns can therapists help with?

Therapists can help with a wide range of concerns, including anxiety and stress, depression, trauma and PTSD, self-esteem and identity, people-pleasing and fear of rejection, insomnia and racing thoughts, workplace stress and burnout, substance use, parenting and co-parenting stress, grief and loss, and relationship and family challenges. Therapists on BetterHelp may draw on approaches such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), depending on your needs and goals. You can explore support for specific concerns on pages such as generalized anxiety disorder, major depressive disorder, posttraumatic stress disorder, attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder, and eating disorders.

Please note that therapists on BetterHelp do not provide psychiatric medication management or formal diagnoses.

Online therapy vs. in-person therapy in Iowa

Online therapy and in-person therapy both connect you with a licensed professional, and the main difference is how you meet. In Iowa, online therapy through BetterHelp lets you have sessions by phone, video, or in-app messaging, so you can meet from home or on a schedule that fits your life. In-person therapy takes place at an office and may involve travel and set appointment windows. Online therapy may be more accessible for people with busy schedules, limited transportation, or a preference for a more discreet setting. Both formats can support meaningful progress, so the right choice often comes down to what fits your life.

Finding a therapist that accepts insurance in Iowa

BetterHelp accepts insurance through many major insurance plans. Insurance availability and coverage may vary by state, plan, provider network, and therapist availability, and deductible status. Eligible members' average copay is $23 per session. 

You can check your in-network status on the BetterHelp site through the sign up flow. If you prefer to pay without insurance, BetterHelp subscriptions range from $70 to $100 per week, billed as an alternative way to access the same care, and you can use HSA and FSA funds toward the cost. For a full breakdown of how BetterHelp works with insurance plans, see BetterHelp insurance coverage.

How BetterHelp helps you find the right therapist in Iowa

BetterHelp helps you find the right therapist in Iowa through personalized matching that considers your needs, preferences, and goals. After you answer a few questions during the sign up flow, you can be matched with a licensed therapist from a network of over 30,000 professionals, and 93% of user preferences are met during matching. The search and location matching cover common near-me needs, including anxiety, trauma, affordable or sliding-scale support, weekend or flexible scheduling, and virtual sessions. If your first match is not the right fit, you can switch therapists at no extra cost. When you are ready, you can get started and begin the process.

Therapists near you in Iowa

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

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 near you can vary by provider, format, and payment method. With BetterHelp, subscriptions range from $70 to $100 per week, and you can use HSA and FSA funds toward the cost. BetterHelp also accepts insurance through many major insurance plans, and eligible members' average copay is $23 per session. Insurance availability and coverage may vary by state, plan, provider network, and therapist availability, and deductible status.

Does BetterHelp accept insurance?

Yes. BetterHelp accepts insurance through many major insurance plans. Insurance availability and coverage may vary by state, plan, provider network, and therapist availability. Eligible members' average copay is $23 per session. Check your in-network status on the BetterHelp site through the sign up flow. For a full breakdown of how BetterHelp works with insurance plans, see BetterHelp insurance coverage.

Is online therapy effective?

Online therapy can be an effective way to receive licensed mental health care for many common concerns. Research suggests that online therapy may support progress in ways comparable to in-person care for concerns such as anxiety and depression. On BetterHelp, you connect with a licensed therapist who can use evidence-based approaches such as CBT and DBT, and you can meet by phone, video, or in-app messaging.

Do I need a diagnosis to see a therapist?

No, you do not need a diagnosis to see a therapist. Many people begin therapy to work through stress, life changes, relationships, or personal growth without any diagnosis. Please note that therapists on BetterHelp do not provide psychiatric medication management or formal diagnoses. If you are looking for a starting point, personalized matching can connect you with a licensed therapist suited to your goals.

How quickly can I start therapy?

You can often start therapy within 24 to 48 hours of signing up with BetterHelp. After you answer a few questions during the sign up flow, personalized matching connects you with a licensed therapist, and you can schedule your first session once you are matched. This process is designed to help you begin care at your own pace, without a long wait.

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 discreet?

Online therapy with BetterHelp offers a discreet setting where you can connect with a licensed therapist from the comfort of your home. Sessions take place by phone, video, or in-app messaging, so you can meet without going into an office. Your account and sessions are protected with strong safeguards, and you choose how and where you attend. This can make therapy feel more comfortable for people who prefer a discreet way to get support.

Find a Therapist in Nichols, Iowa

Ready to begin? BetterHelp can match you with a licensed therapist serving Nichols and the surrounding IA area. When you are ready to take the next step, get started.

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