Leah Pavela-Mullins
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!
Valerie Marsh
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!
Dr. Brenden Troster
I’m a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with a PhD in Developmental Psychology. I bring over 7 years of experience as a therapist and more than 25 years of experience as a coach. My career has taken me into school-based mental health, addiction treatment, residential care for children and teens, and outpatient settings supporting individuals with severe and persistent mental illness. This wide range of experience has given me a deep understanding of the many ways people struggle—and the many ways they can heal. I have supported clients working through depression, anxiety, trauma, ADHD, addiction (including pornography), self-harm, anger management, and recovery from abuse. I am trained in Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT) and have extensive experience walking alongside people as they process and overcome painful life experiences. Therapy starts with your story. You are the expert on your life, and my role is to listen, understand, and help you move toward the goals that matter most to you. I provide a space grounded in respect, compassion, and dignity where you can feel safe to be yourself. I draw from approaches such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Solution-Focused Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Bowenian theory, and Rational-Emotive Behavioral Therapy. I don’t believe in “one-size-fits-all” therapy. Instead, we collaborate to create a plan that fits your needs, your values, and your pace. Life brings challenges that none of us are meant to face alone. Whether you’re working through anxiety, healing from trauma, managing stress, or wanting a clearer perspective on where you’re headed, I will be in your corner. Together, we’ll build practical strategies and lasting tools so you can move forward with confidence, resilience, and hope. I look forward to getting to know you, listening to your story, and supporting you as you work toward positive change.
Janet Pedroza Ramos
I am licensed in Iowa with 6 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & depression. I also have experience working with coping with life changes. 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 sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!
Barbara "Barb" Kroening
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.
Sergio Ayala
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.
James Khile
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.
Marcella Aronson
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.
Kerry Robertson
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.
Jill Jaster
As a therapist, I do not believe in telling people what to do. When working with me, we are equal partners throughout the therapeutic process. The therapeutic relationship is key to the success of therapy. I feel strongly in providing a safe space for people to share their personal experiences built on a foundation of profession rapport and mutual respect. For some people, beginning therapy can be a daunting and stressful experience. Making the choice to participate in therapy is brave and a form of self-care. Many of us experience psychological pain throughout our lives. My hope is that as a team we can walk the journey toward mental health together.
Lisa Fehr
Hello, I’m Lisa, a Licensed Mental Health Counselor with over 12 years of experience. I work with teens and adults who feel overwhelmed, uncertain, or ready for change. I believe you are the expert of your own life, and I provide a supportive, compassionate, and judgment-free space to help you build on your strengths. Using an eclectic, client-centered approach, I tailor sessions to your needs and goals, walking alongside you toward insight, growth, and healing.
Shannon Schaeffer
I am licensed in Iowa with 3 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, trauma, abuse, coping with grief, coping with loss, motivation, self esteem, & confidence. I also have 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. 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.
Teresa Sanchez
Hello! I am an experienced Child And Family Therapist with a demonstrated history of working in the non-profit organization management industry. I am Skilled in Child Therapy (ages 0-18), Family Therapy, Affirming Care & LGBTQIA2S+ Rights, Parent-child Relationships, and Mental Health Counseling. I am a strong healthcare services professional, who graduated from the University of Nebraska at Omaha. My counseling style is casual, free of judgment, validating, and fun!
Elizabeth Smith
As a licensed clinical social worker with over 20 years of professional experience, I have experience with teens, adults, and geriatric individuals and groups. I specialize in supporting individuals navigating complex emotional landscapes, particularly around grief and life transitions. My approach is compassionate and client-centered, focusing on helping people develop resilient coping strategies during challenging periods of change. I understand that each person's journey is unique, and I'm committed to creating a supportive, non-judgmental space where you can explore your emotions and develop meaningful strategies for healing and personal growth. Drawing from evidence-based practices, I work collaboratively with clients to build emotional strength and self-understanding. My professional background has equipped me with deep insights into how individuals process loss and adapt to significant life changes. I'm dedicated to walking alongside my clients, offering gentle guidance and empowering support as they rediscover their inner resources and move toward emotional wellness.
*BetterHelp insurance availability, coverage, and cost may vary by state, plan, provider network, therapist availability, and deductible status.
Find a therapist near you in Pomeroy, Iowa
Finding a therapist near you in Pomeroy, 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 Pomeroy.
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 Pomeroy, Iowa
Ready to begin? BetterHelp can match you with a licensed therapist serving Pomeroy and the surrounding IA area. When you are ready to take the next step, get started.