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!
Michelle Hoff
I am Christian Marriage and Family Therapist. I am licensed in Iowa and Illinois as Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and in the state of Nebraska I am a Licensed Mental Health Practitioner with a Marriage and Family Certification. I am a National Certified Counselor. I am a Certified Clinical Anxiety Treatment Professional. I am a member of American Association of Christian Counselors and American Association of Marriage and Family Therapy. I have been working in the mental health field since 2015 and doing clinical work since 2017. I own my own private practice Unfolding With Truth Counseling, LLC as well as work with BetterHelp part time. I have worked with individuals, couples, families, and groups. I have experienced with helping individuals who suffer with depression, anxiety, addiction, family dynamic issues, relational conflicts, stress, trauma and abuse, personality issues, spiritual and military issues. My counseling style is warm and understanding. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion, and I don't believe in stigmatizing labels. My approach combines cognitive-behavioral, humanistic, solution-focused, mindfulness, and family dynamics. I believe in providing the best approach to meet your needs and will do my best to tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. It takes courage to seek for a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. If you are ready to take that step I am here to support and empower you. If you would like to schedule a session please feel free to reach out in a message and let me know when you are available and what times work best for you. 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.
Jacquelyn "Jackie" Berke
I am licensed in Iowa with 7 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, 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 sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started! All scheduled sessions are done through Jackie as her schedule is busy. She does apologize for this inconvenience.
David Fox
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.
Jennifer Van Fosson-Roelfs
I have had the privilege to be a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and provide therapy services for over 2o+ years. I completed my MS.Ed at Southern Illinois and my undergraduate work at the University of Iowa. I am passionate about working with adolescents, adults, families and couples. I believe in using a relationship based, strength driven approach for each individual. I provide a safe and relaxed environment to encourage you to achieve the goals you have identified. I have experience in addressing areas such as depression, grief and loss, crisis management, anxiety, trauma, suicide and crisis, LGBTQ, women’s issues, stress, mood disorders and comorbidity and many others. I believe I offer a very positive experience, as my goal is always to build a solid relationship out of trust and caring. I have worked within the fields of corrections, schools and education, communities, addictions, residential and outpatient settings. I believe in focusing on strengths, meeting you where you are at regarding your goals and building relationships with each individual. I use techniques based on your needs; including CBT, TFCBT, RET, Relationship and strength based, culturally sensitive, solution focused, addiction. mindfulness, Systems and Brief approaches. I address the biological, emotional and relational aspects in your life. I believe each individual has the ability to make changes in their life. I feel it is a honor to be chosen to engage in the therapy journey with you. I will empower you to find your strengths, your abilities and to be the expert in your life. Seeking therapy is often the hardest step and I look forward to being a part of your future story.
Linda Dollen
As a licensed therapist serving clients in Iowa, I bring over two decades of compassionate counseling experience. My practice is deeply rooted in understanding the unique challenges individuals face across different life stages. I specialize in supporting adults and young adults navigating complex emotional landscapes, including communication difficulties, social anxiety, mood disorders, and relationship transitions. My therapeutic approach is grounded in Christian values and a conservative, empathetic framework. I'm particularly passionate about helping clients work through isolation, interpersonal challenges, and personal growth. Whether you're struggling with seasonal mood changes, family dynamics, or seeking guidance during significant life transitions like divorce or adoption, I offer a supportive and understanding environment. I focus on creating personalized strategies that empower individuals to develop healthier coping mechanisms, improve communication skills, and cultivate emotional resilience. My goal is to walk alongside you as you explore healing, self-understanding, and positive change.
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.
Joseph Mungai
I am licensed in Iowa with 12 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, & coping with grief and loss. 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.
Elizabeth Souba
Where is home? Where do I belong? Will I ever feel settled? If you find yourself asking these questions, let us navigate it together. Life is unscripted and messy but if you are ready to embrace the unsettled feeling, today is a good day to start. I had the pleasure to live and work overseas for 8 years and here to support those that were once an expat or Third Culture Kid. I refer to myself as a Third Culture Adult, finding comfort in working with those from a transient lifestyle, even though my first time living outside my passport country was in my 20s. My background began as a teacher and school counselor till I left education to advance my professional career to more clinical counseling. I can support a variety of life stages from post high school exploration, careers/university to adulthood hurdles. I take a Humanistic approach where I like to build a rapport and relationship with each person and support your story. As an unknown source said "Never judge my story by the chapter you walk in on."
James Judkins
As a licensed therapist in Iowa with nearly four decades of clinical experience, I specialize in supporting individuals navigating complex emotional landscapes. My practice focuses on helping clients address challenges such as depression, anxiety, trauma, and life transitions, with a deep commitment to fostering personal growth and emotional resilience. I bring extensive expertise in supporting older adults, veterans, and individuals struggling with panic disorders, obsessive-compulsive patterns, and post-traumatic stress. My approach centers on empowering clients to develop self-love, discover life purpose, and cultivate meaningful healing strategies. Drawing from years of professional practice, I create a compassionate, non-judgmental space where clients can explore their deepest challenges. Whether you're confronting social anxiety, processing past traumas, or seeking guidance through end-of-life transitions, I am dedicated to walking alongside you with understanding and professional support. My therapeutic work is grounded in evidence-based practices that honor each individual's unique journey, helping you build emotional strength, develop healthier coping mechanisms, and move toward greater personal fulfillment.
James Bustamante
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.
Connie Seth
I am licensed in Iowa with 30 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, coping with grief and loss, & anger management. 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.
LaQunana Cistrunk
I’m licensed in Mississippi, Nevada, and Iowa with over 11 years of professional experience in the mental health field. I’ve had the privilege of helping clients work through stress, anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, motivation, confidence, life changes, and LGBTQ+–related concerns. My journey as a therapist began through my work with young adults in clinics, universities, and correctional settings, where I discovered my true passion for supporting others through life’s challenges. These experiences have strengthened my belief that healing starts with empathy, understanding, and the courage to take the first step. I take a person-centered approach, blending Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) with creative and practical techniques to meet each client where they are. I strive to create a safe and judgment-free space where you can process your story, explore your strengths, and find new ways to cope and grow. The trust clients place in me to walk alongside them during their most vulnerable moments is something I value deeply. Together, we can work toward healing, resilience, and lasting change.
Find a Therapist Near You in Stuart , 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:
- Anxiety and stress
- Depression and mood-related concerns
- Trauma and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
- Grief and loss
- Relationship and family challenges
- Life transitions and adjustment concerns
- Self-esteem and confidence
- Job stress and burnout
- ADHD-related challenges
- Sleep concerns
- Parenting stress
- Eating disorder support
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:
- Complete a brief questionnaire about your needs, preferences, and goals
- Get matched with a licensed therapist authorized to practice in Iowa (IA)
- 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.