Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) Therapists in Ames, IA

Photo of Martha Norton, Counselor in Ames, IA
Martha Norton
Counselor, MS, LMHC, CCDP-D, IADC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ames, IA 50010
I have over 20 years of experience as a counselor. I do my best to develop a warm, safe environment for you to explore and grow. I work with all ages to expand internal resources, heal from past negative experience and explore new directions. I feel it is an honor to with clients, connecting the pieces of each person's unique experiencial puzzle and exploring ways to have more freedom to form the future.
I have over 20 years of experience as a counselor. I do my best to develop a warm, safe environment for you to explore and grow. I work with all ages to expand internal resources, heal from past negative experience and explore new directions. I feel it is an honor to with clients, connecting the pieces of each person's unique experiencial puzzle and exploring ways to have more freedom to form the future.
(515) 462-0950 View (515) 462-0950
Photo of Thomas Patterson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Ames, IA
Thomas Patterson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Ames, IA 50010
I often think of my role as one who guides clients through their experience of being 'lost in the woods' of their psychological space. Symptoms of being lost in this way are various sorts of anxiety, depression, a sense of meaninglessness, and a feeling of paralysis or just simply being stuck. I help clients minimize their needless suffering, interpret the valuable information the symptoms are presenting, with the ultimate goal of helping them reorient themselves to a more valued, purposeful experience in the world.
I often think of my role as one who guides clients through their experience of being 'lost in the woods' of their psychological space. Symptoms of being lost in this way are various sorts of anxiety, depression, a sense of meaninglessness, and a feeling of paralysis or just simply being stuck. I help clients minimize their needless suffering, interpret the valuable information the symptoms are presenting, with the ultimate goal of helping them reorient themselves to a more valued, purposeful experience in the world.
(515) 585-1339 View (515) 585-1339
Photo of Red Couch Counseling LLC., Counselor in Ames, IA
Red Couch Counseling LLC.
Counselor, MEd, LMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Ames, IA 50010
Currently accepting new clients. I have been a practicing licensed therapist for over 27 years. I work with adults, adolescents, couples, families, and children. I possess a comprehensive expertise in many fields, namely; anxiety, depression, trauma and stress. My Goal is to work WITH you to create a therapeutic space that is supportive and safe. I am knowledgeable about the biological, emotional, and relational aspects of mental health and have both respect and compassion for the complexity of these factors in your life.
Currently accepting new clients. I have been a practicing licensed therapist for over 27 years. I work with adults, adolescents, couples, families, and children. I possess a comprehensive expertise in many fields, namely; anxiety, depression, trauma and stress. My Goal is to work WITH you to create a therapeutic space that is supportive and safe. I am knowledgeable about the biological, emotional, and relational aspects of mental health and have both respect and compassion for the complexity of these factors in your life.
(515) 705-0288 View (515) 705-0288
Photo of Central Iowa Psychological Services in Ames, IA
Central Iowa Psychological Services
CADC, PsyD, LISW, PhD, ARNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ames, IA 50010  (Online Only)
Central Iowa Psychological Services helps enable children, teens, adults, and families to live more fulfilling and productive lives, children to be more resilient, and families to be happier and healthier. We serve the greater Des Moines area through multiple community sites, collaborations with local partnerships, and telehealth services. Conveniently located in West Des Moines, Ames, and Ankeny, our caring staff welcomes clients in a safe and accepting environment.
Central Iowa Psychological Services helps enable children, teens, adults, and families to live more fulfilling and productive lives, children to be more resilient, and families to be happier and healthier. We serve the greater Des Moines area through multiple community sites, collaborations with local partnerships, and telehealth services. Conveniently located in West Des Moines, Ames, and Ankeny, our caring staff welcomes clients in a safe and accepting environment.
(515) 715-4895 View (515) 715-4895
Photo of Krystyna Thompson, Marriage & Family Therapist in Ames, IA
Krystyna Thompson
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ames, IA 50010
Waitlist for new clients
My name is Krystyna Thompson and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, as well as a clinician trained in EMDR. I work with couples, individuals, and families on a variety of emotional and relational issues. As a therapist, it is important to me that I partner with my clients to create an individualized plan that fits best to encourage recovery. Each person is different and I hope to help you overcome the obstacles that have stopped you from feeling happy, fulfilled, and joyous in your life. You have taken the first step in achieving these goals, so congratulations!
My name is Krystyna Thompson and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, as well as a clinician trained in EMDR. I work with couples, individuals, and families on a variety of emotional and relational issues. As a therapist, it is important to me that I partner with my clients to create an individualized plan that fits best to encourage recovery. Each person is different and I hope to help you overcome the obstacles that have stopped you from feeling happy, fulfilled, and joyous in your life. You have taken the first step in achieving these goals, so congratulations!
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Photo of Clear Brook Counseling Professionals, Marriage & Family Therapist in Ames, IA
Clear Brook Counseling Professionals
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, CADC, CCH
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Ames, IA 50010
NOW OFFERING MEDICATION MANAGEMENT IN ANKENY AND AMES. At Clear Brook Counseling Professionals, we work together to provide you the therapy - family, couples, or individual that will deliver the best results for your unique needs. We believe life has meaning, and every moment is worth living. That's the end goal. At Clear Brook you'll experience a team of counselors, proven treatment, and techniques that work. The process is about finding clarity in the situation, and seeing change. Clear Brook Counseling Professionals weave proven practices and life-exercises into your therapy to help foster results.
NOW OFFERING MEDICATION MANAGEMENT IN ANKENY AND AMES. At Clear Brook Counseling Professionals, we work together to provide you the therapy - family, couples, or individual that will deliver the best results for your unique needs. We believe life has meaning, and every moment is worth living. That's the end goal. At Clear Brook you'll experience a team of counselors, proven treatment, and techniques that work. The process is about finding clarity in the situation, and seeing change. Clear Brook Counseling Professionals weave proven practices and life-exercises into your therapy to help foster results.
(515) 200-7584 View (515) 200-7584
Photo of Andrew McGinn, Counselor in Ames, IA
Andrew McGinn
Counselor, tLMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
Ames, IA 50010
I live with obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) and I have learned to let it color my life, not control it.
Are you ready to live, laugh, and love again? (Did I really just open my Psychology Today profile by ripping off everyone’s favorite/least favorite home décor slogan?) Seriously, though, life is too short to be miserable. It’s my hope that our time together will empower you to live with more purpose. I approach therapy in an informal way, because counseling doesn’t have to be so uptight. It’s OK to laugh! I spent 23 years as a newspaper feature writer before changing careers, writing thousands of stories. I now want my clients to look at the narrative of their lives and choose, for themselves, the direction their own story takes.
I live with obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) and I have learned to let it color my life, not control it.
Are you ready to live, laugh, and love again? (Did I really just open my Psychology Today profile by ripping off everyone’s favorite/least favorite home décor slogan?) Seriously, though, life is too short to be miserable. It’s my hope that our time together will empower you to live with more purpose. I approach therapy in an informal way, because counseling doesn’t have to be so uptight. It’s OK to laugh! I spent 23 years as a newspaper feature writer before changing careers, writing thousands of stories. I now want my clients to look at the narrative of their lives and choose, for themselves, the direction their own story takes.
(515) 316-6951 View (515) 316-6951
Photo of Mary Nii Munteh, Psychologist in Ames, IA
Mary Nii Munteh
Psychologist, PsyD, LP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ames, IA 50014
I believe that childhood interactions play a huge part in the development of psychological pain, wounds, and hurts. I am sensitive to the process of therapy and work hard to make it a safe and trusting space for you and myself to work together. The here and now interactions in the room are important and I intentionally use them to foster the healing process. Your strengths and goals are important to the way I work because my aim is to free up the energy that has been suppressed by pain so that you can focus on the things that are important to you.
I believe that childhood interactions play a huge part in the development of psychological pain, wounds, and hurts. I am sensitive to the process of therapy and work hard to make it a safe and trusting space for you and myself to work together. The here and now interactions in the room are important and I intentionally use them to foster the healing process. Your strengths and goals are important to the way I work because my aim is to free up the energy that has been suppressed by pain so that you can focus on the things that are important to you.
(515) 585-1248 View (515) 585-1248
Photo of Brooks Witter, Counselor in Ames, IA
Brooks Witter
Counselor, MA, LPC, LMHC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Ames, IA 50010
"If you don't know where you're going, you may never get there." My work supports clients in getting clear with where they want to be going in life, and in learning and applying skills to take meaningful steps aligned with guiding values. I offer clients practical tools and techniques to create more flow and vitality in life. Come away from therapy with more flexibility, humor and confidence to meet life's challenges and see them as opportunities.
"If you don't know where you're going, you may never get there." My work supports clients in getting clear with where they want to be going in life, and in learning and applying skills to take meaningful steps aligned with guiding values. I offer clients practical tools and techniques to create more flow and vitality in life. Come away from therapy with more flexibility, humor and confidence to meet life's challenges and see them as opportunities.
(720) 548-1798 View (720) 548-1798
Photo of Ames Therapy & Consulting, PC, Counselor in Ames, IA
Ames Therapy & Consulting, PC
Counselor, PhD, MD, LMHCs, NCC, ACS
Verified Verified
Ames, IA 50010
Welcome to Ames Therapy where your mental well-being is our utmost priority. We understand that life's journey can be challenging, and at times, we all need a helping hand to navigate the ups and downs. Our dedicated team of compassionate professionals is here to provide you with the support and guidance you need to achieve mental and emotional wellness. You are not alone on this path, and we are here to walk it with you. We bring a wealth of experience and expertise to help you on your journey . Our team of highly qualified and compassionate counselors has collectively spent decades working in the field of mental health.
Welcome to Ames Therapy where your mental well-being is our utmost priority. We understand that life's journey can be challenging, and at times, we all need a helping hand to navigate the ups and downs. Our dedicated team of compassionate professionals is here to provide you with the support and guidance you need to achieve mental and emotional wellness. You are not alone on this path, and we are here to walk it with you. We bring a wealth of experience and expertise to help you on your journey . Our team of highly qualified and compassionate counselors has collectively spent decades working in the field of mental health.
(515) 393-4982 View (515) 393-4982
Photo of Ryan McClure, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Ames, IA
Ryan McClure
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ames, IA 50010
Waitlist for new clients
I have been providing therapy support within the Des Moines area and surrounding communities for over 24 years. My primary areas of interest include helping individuals overcome challenges with depression, anxiety, social phobias, low self-esteem, anger issues and overall learning how to effectively manage challenging emotions that often present themselves. Typically, I serve clients older than 12 years and younger than 99. I love my profession and take pride in assisting and supporting clients that I see each week.
I have been providing therapy support within the Des Moines area and surrounding communities for over 24 years. My primary areas of interest include helping individuals overcome challenges with depression, anxiety, social phobias, low self-esteem, anger issues and overall learning how to effectively manage challenging emotions that often present themselves. Typically, I serve clients older than 12 years and younger than 99. I love my profession and take pride in assisting and supporting clients that I see each week.
(515) 368-8229 View (515) 368-8229
Photo of Tami Wirth Hunter, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Ames, IA
Tami Wirth Hunter
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW, RPT-S
Verified Verified
Ames, IA 50010
Are you seeking compassionate therapy for yourself or your child? Look no further! I'm a Registered Play Therapist passionate about helping young children and adults find healing and growth. My journey in social work has taken me through diverse and impactful experiences. With a background that includes domestic violence, sexual assault advocacy, and the child welfare system, I bring a deep understanding of the complex issues individuals and families may face. My commitment to helping others thrive and find healing drives my private practice in Ames.
Are you seeking compassionate therapy for yourself or your child? Look no further! I'm a Registered Play Therapist passionate about helping young children and adults find healing and growth. My journey in social work has taken me through diverse and impactful experiences. With a background that includes domestic violence, sexual assault advocacy, and the child welfare system, I bring a deep understanding of the complex issues individuals and families may face. My commitment to helping others thrive and find healing drives my private practice in Ames.
(515) 512-4493 View (515) 512-4493
Photo of Monique Jeanette Maldonado, Counselor in Ames, IA
Monique Jeanette Maldonado
Counselor, MACP, IADC, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ames, IA 50010
Searching for help is a courageous first step to change. You may be feeling anxious or depressed. Are you looking for support in changing addictive behaviors from a non-judgmental approach? Perhaps you have experienced traumatic events that have left you feeling "stuck." Or maybe you have relationship issues and aren't sure where to go from here. Many of my clients have experienced grief and loss and simply need support working through the stages of grief. I have also served children and families. Whatever your needs, there IS hope.
Searching for help is a courageous first step to change. You may be feeling anxious or depressed. Are you looking for support in changing addictive behaviors from a non-judgmental approach? Perhaps you have experienced traumatic events that have left you feeling "stuck." Or maybe you have relationship issues and aren't sure where to go from here. Many of my clients have experienced grief and loss and simply need support working through the stages of grief. I have also served children and families. Whatever your needs, there IS hope.
(515) 500-2103 View (515) 500-2103
Photo of Barbara Ann Kennedy, Marriage & Family Therapist in Ames, IA
Barbara Ann Kennedy
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD
Verified Verified
Ames, IA 50014  (Online Only)
I have private practice dedicated to working with people to help them identify, clarify and resolve their issues. Adolescents through adults are treated. I also provide services to veterans and do divorce mediation. Most insurances are accepted. Appointments are available in 2-3 business days.
I have private practice dedicated to working with people to help them identify, clarify and resolve their issues. Adolescents through adults are treated. I also provide services to veterans and do divorce mediation. Most insurances are accepted. Appointments are available in 2-3 business days.
(515) 800-4201 View (515) 800-4201
Photo of April L Falzone, Counselor in Ames, IA
April L Falzone
Counselor, MA, LMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
Ames, IA 50014
Not accepting new clients
I believe that creating a safe environment for my client and developing a caring relationship is critical to successful therapy. I work adults who have experienced abuse and trauma to expand internal resources, heal from past experiences, and explore new directions. I work with an emphasis on using Motivational Interviewing, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR). I work with individuals on problems related to relationship issues, family communication, anxiety, eating disorders, depression, and other life transitions.
I believe that creating a safe environment for my client and developing a caring relationship is critical to successful therapy. I work adults who have experienced abuse and trauma to expand internal resources, heal from past experiences, and explore new directions. I work with an emphasis on using Motivational Interviewing, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR). I work with individuals on problems related to relationship issues, family communication, anxiety, eating disorders, depression, and other life transitions.
(515) 512-5312 View (515) 512-5312
Photo of Nicole Scherle Scheidel, Counselor in Ames, IA
Nicole Scherle Scheidel
Counselor, MEd, LMHC
Verified Verified
Ames, IA 50010
I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor with 20 years experience in the practice of psychotherapy. I received my Bachelor and Master degrees from Loyola University Chicago. I provide counseling to older adolescents and adult individuals. My specialties include depression, anxiety, life transitions, trauma, mood disorders, perinatal mood and anxiety disorders, and OCD. I work to provide my clients with a compassionate & supportive therapeutic alliance to help them address their current concerns and help them live a happier, healthier life.
I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor with 20 years experience in the practice of psychotherapy. I received my Bachelor and Master degrees from Loyola University Chicago. I provide counseling to older adolescents and adult individuals. My specialties include depression, anxiety, life transitions, trauma, mood disorders, perinatal mood and anxiety disorders, and OCD. I work to provide my clients with a compassionate & supportive therapeutic alliance to help them address their current concerns and help them live a happier, healthier life.
(515) 368-8284 View (515) 368-8284
Photo of James Everett Judkins, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Ames, IA
James Everett Judkins
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW, ACSW
Verified Verified
Ames, IA 50010  (Online Only)
Are you are worried, scared, and depressed? Do have an experience that you cant get out of your mind and find yourself avoiding anything that reminds you of it? Do you have an addiction or behavioral issue that is keeping you from living the life you want? I have helped clients from all walks of life deal with these issues. It can be scary to reach out for help. However, it can be very worthwhile. Sharing your experiences in a safe environment with someone who will listen and have a compassionate and competent approach with you is very important.
Are you are worried, scared, and depressed? Do have an experience that you cant get out of your mind and find yourself avoiding anything that reminds you of it? Do you have an addiction or behavioral issue that is keeping you from living the life you want? I have helped clients from all walks of life deal with these issues. It can be scary to reach out for help. However, it can be very worthwhile. Sharing your experiences in a safe environment with someone who will listen and have a compassionate and competent approach with you is very important.
(641) 485-2914 View (641) 485-2914
Photo of Therapeutic Innovations, PLLC, Counselor in Ames, IA
Therapeutic Innovations, PLLC
Counselor, PhD, LMHC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Ames, IA 50014
Do you struggle with feeling disconnected from yourself and others? Do you put your needs at the bottom of the to-do list? Do you wonder if life should feel somehow better? Happier? Now more than ever, people are feeling anxious, overwhelmed and uncertain about how they are supposed to manage their relationships, careers and their lives. Pushing away your needs and not taking time for yourself can lead to long-term issues for your mind and body. We believe it shouldn’t be so hard to live a better life.
Do you struggle with feeling disconnected from yourself and others? Do you put your needs at the bottom of the to-do list? Do you wonder if life should feel somehow better? Happier? Now more than ever, people are feeling anxious, overwhelmed and uncertain about how they are supposed to manage their relationships, careers and their lives. Pushing away your needs and not taking time for yourself can lead to long-term issues for your mind and body. We believe it shouldn’t be so hard to live a better life.
(319) 251-2089 View (319) 251-2089
Photo of Eric Eittreim, Counselor in Ames, IA
Eric Eittreim
Counselor, MA, LMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ames, IA 50010  (Online Only)
You have taken a courageous step on the path to healing by seeking out help, whether you are looking for yourself or a loved one. As a therapist, I am here to walk alongside you on that journey. Whether you are struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, or other concerns, together we can find ways to help you heal and grow! My therapeutic approach is client centered and aims to provide a safe environment in which clients feel accepted, supported, and encouraged. We will work collaboratively to address challenges, set obtainable goals, and work towards making progress on those goals in and outside of therapy sessions.
You have taken a courageous step on the path to healing by seeking out help, whether you are looking for yourself or a loved one. As a therapist, I am here to walk alongside you on that journey. Whether you are struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, or other concerns, together we can find ways to help you heal and grow! My therapeutic approach is client centered and aims to provide a safe environment in which clients feel accepted, supported, and encouraged. We will work collaboratively to address challenges, set obtainable goals, and work towards making progress on those goals in and outside of therapy sessions.
(800) 531-4236 View (800) 531-4236
Photo of Jessica Galvin, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Ames, IA
Jessica Galvin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LISW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ames, IA 50013
Not accepting new clients
We all experience bumps and bruises throughout our lives. When those bumps and bruises become too much to handle it can be very difficult to reach out for comfort and help, not knowing where to turn. It can make you feel defeated, helpless, and isolated. You don't deserve to walk through life just surviving day-to-day. I believe in meeting my clients where they are at in life, wherever that may be, and helping them to learn how heal and grow so they no longer are just surviving, but able to fully live their lives. I work from an open-minded, non-judgmental framework and believe in a true therapeutic partnership with my clients.
We all experience bumps and bruises throughout our lives. When those bumps and bruises become too much to handle it can be very difficult to reach out for comfort and help, not knowing where to turn. It can make you feel defeated, helpless, and isolated. You don't deserve to walk through life just surviving day-to-day. I believe in meeting my clients where they are at in life, wherever that may be, and helping them to learn how heal and grow so they no longer are just surviving, but able to fully live their lives. I work from an open-minded, non-judgmental framework and believe in a true therapeutic partnership with my clients.
(515) 325-1381 View (515) 325-1381
Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) Therapists

How long does OCD treatment take?

Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) is often treated on a weekly or twice-weekly schedule, depending on symptom severity and the client’s preferences. Some clients may start to see a noticeable improvement in symptoms in as little as six weeks, but it’s also possible, especially in more severe cases, for treatment to take several months to a year before significant progress is made.

What happens if OCD is not treated?

Some people with OCD, especially those with mild symptoms, may find that they are able to adapt reasonably well to life with the condition, even if their symptoms never resolve completely. However, many people, particularly those whose symptoms are severe at the outset, find that their obsessions and compulsions grow more intrusive with time, making it harder to maintain relationships, hold down a job, or navigate the world successfully.

Are there medications for OCD?

Medication can be used to treat OCD. The class of drugs most often prescribed are selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors, or SSRIs, which include fluvoxamine (under the brand name Luvox), fluoxetine (Prozac), and sertraline (Zoloft), among others. In cases of treatment-resistant OCD, other classes of medication, such as tricyclic antidepressants or atypical antipsychotics, may be prescribed. Medication is frequently used in conjunction with therapy.

Can OCD come back after treatment?

Yes. Major life transitions, periods of stress, or other factors can cause symptoms to return or, if they were never fully eradicated, to ramp back up in intensity. For some, these relapses are brief and do not require additional treatment; identifying specific triggers and practicing the skills learned in therapy can help speed their course. For others, returning to therapy for a brief period can help address the underlying stress and strengthen coping mechanisms.