Attachment-based Therapists in Des Moines, IA

Photo of Humble Hearts Counseling Services LLC, Counselor in Des Moines, IA
Humble Hearts Counseling Services LLC
Counselor, LCPC-S, LPC-S, LMHC, CPT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Des Moines, IA 50325
Is your child struggling at home, school or just in any social setting? Is your family in chaos during family events? Are you searching for answers and help to equip your child with the skills needed to maintain? Here at Humble Hearts Counseling we use attachment based therapy methods to help children and families sort things out and get back on track. Humble Hearts Counseling provides high quality therapy services. We practice Play Therapy and CBT Play therapy to help children express their emotions and communicate effectively.
Is your child struggling at home, school or just in any social setting? Is your family in chaos during family events? Are you searching for answers and help to equip your child with the skills needed to maintain? Here at Humble Hearts Counseling we use attachment based therapy methods to help children and families sort things out and get back on track. Humble Hearts Counseling provides high quality therapy services. We practice Play Therapy and CBT Play therapy to help children express their emotions and communicate effectively.
(913) 286-7113 View (913) 286-7113
Photo of Shelly Johnson (Ifs 🫶 Therapist), Counselor in Des Moines, IA
Shelly Johnson (Ifs 🫶 Therapist)
Counselor, LMHC, CIFST
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Des Moines, IA 50312  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
IFS is a powerful modality for reclaiming one’s vitality in life! It is an intuitive, psycho-spiritual, attachment-based model.
Life is a journey that we are all navigating through in an effort to find who we really are, what our passions are, & what we truly desire; this is necessary to have an embodied experience of authentic healing, self-expression, and living. My ‘deepest’ intention for my clients is that they feel uplifted & more closely aligned w/ their hearts’ true desires. I encourage clients to cultivate a genuine & authentic approach to life, regardless of earlier life experiences, beliefs, or messaging. Are you ready to take that inner journey of exploration & discovery, without having to do it alone?
IFS is a powerful modality for reclaiming one’s vitality in life! It is an intuitive, psycho-spiritual, attachment-based model.
Life is a journey that we are all navigating through in an effort to find who we really are, what our passions are, & what we truly desire; this is necessary to have an embodied experience of authentic healing, self-expression, and living. My ‘deepest’ intention for my clients is that they feel uplifted & more closely aligned w/ their hearts’ true desires. I encourage clients to cultivate a genuine & authentic approach to life, regardless of earlier life experiences, beliefs, or messaging. Are you ready to take that inner journey of exploration & discovery, without having to do it alone?
(515) 446-7351 View (515) 446-7351
Photo of Megan Jackson, Marriage & Family Therapist in Des Moines, IA
Megan Jackson
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Des Moines, IA 50322
Megan's hope is that therapy will be a safe and non-judgmental space for her clients to engage with their deepest emotions and experience transformational healing and growth. She desires to offer a supportive and peaceful environment for clients to share in a unique and powerful therapeutic relationship. Megan admires any person who chooses to enter the therapy process and hopes to come alongside of her clients in a collaborative process so that they can experience the fullness of what therapy has to offer. Megan is deeply passionate about walking with her clients on their healing journeys.
Megan's hope is that therapy will be a safe and non-judgmental space for her clients to engage with their deepest emotions and experience transformational healing and growth. She desires to offer a supportive and peaceful environment for clients to share in a unique and powerful therapeutic relationship. Megan admires any person who chooses to enter the therapy process and hopes to come alongside of her clients in a collaborative process so that they can experience the fullness of what therapy has to offer. Megan is deeply passionate about walking with her clients on their healing journeys.
(515) 854-3596 View (515) 854-3596
Photo of Nina Pressman, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Des Moines, IA
Nina Pressman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Des Moines, IA 50309
Waitlist for new clients
Life can be hard. From daily stressors to past trauma to life changes and more, I know that you are dealing with a lot! I am here to partner with you to help you get through the hard things in life and help you find joy.
Life can be hard. From daily stressors to past trauma to life changes and more, I know that you are dealing with a lot! I am here to partner with you to help you get through the hard things in life and help you find joy.
(515) 854-3390 View (515) 854-3390
Photo of Jen Sand, Psychologist in Des Moines, IA
Jen Sand
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Des Moines, IA 50312  (Online Only)
I believe therapy is a way to develop a secure connection that can be rare in everyday life. Developing this connection allows one a space to express authentically what may have been hidden or not heard. Within the safety of this space, real change can begin to occur. So often we believe that it is by applying willpower to an issue that we can instigate change, and are left feeling defeated in the end. In therapy, we get the chance to take these moments of defeat and transform them. We can reorganize, reorient, gain hope, and live more satisfying lives.
I believe therapy is a way to develop a secure connection that can be rare in everyday life. Developing this connection allows one a space to express authentically what may have been hidden or not heard. Within the safety of this space, real change can begin to occur. So often we believe that it is by applying willpower to an issue that we can instigate change, and are left feeling defeated in the end. In therapy, we get the chance to take these moments of defeat and transform them. We can reorganize, reorient, gain hope, and live more satisfying lives.
(515) 532-5047 View (515) 532-5047
Photo of Jason Stark, Counselor in Des Moines, IA
Jason Stark
Counselor, MS, LMHC, CRC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Des Moines, IA 50310
I believe the first step to all healing and change is to desire something different. The fact that you are considering counseling is a good sign. I would be honored to hear your story and be involved in your journey.
I believe the first step to all healing and change is to desire something different. The fact that you are considering counseling is a good sign. I would be honored to hear your story and be involved in your journey.
(515) 361-3714 View (515) 361-3714
Lauren Merten
Pre-Licensed Professional, BS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Des Moines, IA 50322
Life creates difficulties to identify what you need to create the life you want for yourself or the life you would like for your child. Whether it is experiencing stress & anxiety about life circumstances, symptoms of depression, working on managing emotions, additional ways of supporting yourself, your child or what you would like in the future, I can assist in decreasing those symptoms, identify skills to assist & ways to help you reach your goals to have the life you want for yourself.
Life creates difficulties to identify what you need to create the life you want for yourself or the life you would like for your child. Whether it is experiencing stress & anxiety about life circumstances, symptoms of depression, working on managing emotions, additional ways of supporting yourself, your child or what you would like in the future, I can assist in decreasing those symptoms, identify skills to assist & ways to help you reach your goals to have the life you want for yourself.
(515) 305-3870 View (515) 305-3870
Photo of Sampson Family Therapy Services, LLC, Marriage & Family Therapist in Des Moines, IA
Sampson Family Therapy Services, LLC
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Des Moines, IA 50309
Sampson Family Therapy Services staff strive to engage in a collaborative process with clients, coworkers, and the community to welcome growth, embrace strengths and successes, and acknowledge our role in making wellness a priority for others and ourselves. We work with many client needs and make it a priority to provide attentive and consistently accessible therapy services. It is the mission of Sampson Family Therapy Services, LLC to embody a dynamic and progressive therapeutic service environment for the cultivation of health and well-being for clients served, employees, and the community at large.
Sampson Family Therapy Services staff strive to engage in a collaborative process with clients, coworkers, and the community to welcome growth, embrace strengths and successes, and acknowledge our role in making wellness a priority for others and ourselves. We work with many client needs and make it a priority to provide attentive and consistently accessible therapy services. It is the mission of Sampson Family Therapy Services, LLC to embody a dynamic and progressive therapeutic service environment for the cultivation of health and well-being for clients served, employees, and the community at large.
(515) 421-9313 View (515) 421-9313
Photo of Greg Allen Fuqua, Counselor in Des Moines, IA
Greg Allen Fuqua
Counselor, MA, T-LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Des Moines, IA 50312
Waitlist for new clients
I'm Greg Fuqua, MA, T-LMHC, at Lifeworks (Des Moines). I am not currently taking new clients and referrals. I work with clients 13 yrs old and up. I have an art as therapy program for cancer survivors through Above and Beyond Cancer. I also love working with individuals, couples and families, sexual and gender diversity, neurodiversity, ADHD, chronic disease, cancer, grief, depression, anxiety, trauma and more. I often use Art Therapy, SE, IFS, ACT and I have an existentialist theoretical orientation. I believe in two big humanistic values; our need for connection and our need for expression. I cant wait to meet you!
I'm Greg Fuqua, MA, T-LMHC, at Lifeworks (Des Moines). I am not currently taking new clients and referrals. I work with clients 13 yrs old and up. I have an art as therapy program for cancer survivors through Above and Beyond Cancer. I also love working with individuals, couples and families, sexual and gender diversity, neurodiversity, ADHD, chronic disease, cancer, grief, depression, anxiety, trauma and more. I often use Art Therapy, SE, IFS, ACT and I have an existentialist theoretical orientation. I believe in two big humanistic values; our need for connection and our need for expression. I cant wait to meet you!
(515) 316-2460 View (515) 316-2460
Photo of Jake Pierce-Walsh, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Des Moines, IA
Jake Pierce-Walsh
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LISW
Verified Verified
Des Moines, IA 50312  (Online Only)
I provide confidential, professional therapy for a variety of issues and concerns. From resolving depression or anxiety to healing past trauma, improving relationships to ending addiction; therapy with me is about no longer managing or coping, but instead getting to the source of your issues and discovering what helps you heal. Whether this is your first time considering therapy or you're feeling ready to return, I help people from all walks of life find solutions and feel better.
I provide confidential, professional therapy for a variety of issues and concerns. From resolving depression or anxiety to healing past trauma, improving relationships to ending addiction; therapy with me is about no longer managing or coping, but instead getting to the source of your issues and discovering what helps you heal. Whether this is your first time considering therapy or you're feeling ready to return, I help people from all walks of life find solutions and feel better.
(218) 343-3406 View (218) 343-3406
Photo of Hilary Johnson, Counselor in Des Moines, IA
Hilary Johnson
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Des Moines, IA 50309
Immediate appointments availiable. My name is Hilary Johnson and I am a licensed Mental Health Therapist (LMHC). Making the decision to come to therapy is not an easy one whether it is for you or your child. I am here to help by providing a safe, compassionate, and judgement free space. As a client centered therapist my goal is to focus on you and what you need out of therapy. I specialize in children (age 10 and up), teens, and young adults who have experienced trauma in their life. I also specialize in the LGBTQIA population, as an identified therapist.
Immediate appointments availiable. My name is Hilary Johnson and I am a licensed Mental Health Therapist (LMHC). Making the decision to come to therapy is not an easy one whether it is for you or your child. I am here to help by providing a safe, compassionate, and judgement free space. As a client centered therapist my goal is to focus on you and what you need out of therapy. I specialize in children (age 10 and up), teens, and young adults who have experienced trauma in their life. I also specialize in the LGBTQIA population, as an identified therapist.
(515) 375-5576 View (515) 375-5576
Photo of Darcy Jones-Cook, Marriage & Family Therapist in Des Moines, IA
Darcy Jones-Cook
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Des Moines, IA 50315  (Online Only)
Do you sense something important is missing? You may have achieved a certain level of success in life, such as in your work and career, relationships, family. Or perhaps you feel out of balance, with one part of life on track while other parts struggle. Depending on many factors you may be focusing your attention in one area at the expense of other aspects of personal growth. Are stress-provoking events in the world increasingly “getting to you” and leaving you with even more distress? You're not alone. Whether you're new to therapy or a long time user, feel free to reach out to me.
Do you sense something important is missing? You may have achieved a certain level of success in life, such as in your work and career, relationships, family. Or perhaps you feel out of balance, with one part of life on track while other parts struggle. Depending on many factors you may be focusing your attention in one area at the expense of other aspects of personal growth. Are stress-provoking events in the world increasingly “getting to you” and leaving you with even more distress? You're not alone. Whether you're new to therapy or a long time user, feel free to reach out to me.
(909) 474-7810 View (909) 474-7810
Photo of Jim Hanson, Counselor in Des Moines, IA
Jim Hanson
Counselor, PhD, LMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Des Moines, IA 50316
Hi. My name is Dr. Jim Hanson and I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor. I work with individuals and couples. My main approach is Cognitive-Behavioral, which means that we will focus on the role thoughts and behaviors play in psychological functioning and well-being. For couples counseling, I prefer the Gottman method, pioneered by John and Julie Gottman. The counseling relationship is very important and I believe that this therapeutic relationship must include trust, mutual respect and empathy. As your therapist, this relationship will allow us to work together to foster positive growth and development.
Hi. My name is Dr. Jim Hanson and I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor. I work with individuals and couples. My main approach is Cognitive-Behavioral, which means that we will focus on the role thoughts and behaviors play in psychological functioning and well-being. For couples counseling, I prefer the Gottman method, pioneered by John and Julie Gottman. The counseling relationship is very important and I believe that this therapeutic relationship must include trust, mutual respect and empathy. As your therapist, this relationship will allow us to work together to foster positive growth and development.
(515) 446-7273 View (515) 446-7273
Photo of Malay Bouaphakeo, Counselor in Des Moines, IA
Malay Bouaphakeo
Counselor, tLMHC, CPC, ELI-MP
Verified Verified
Des Moines, IA 50312
My belief is if we are disconnected with ourselves, we aren't showing up to this world authentically it is impacting our relationships with others and most importantly, ourselves. We allow ourselves to be defined by our experiences we've had and trauma we've endured, we lose a sense of self, leaving us feeling lost and "broken". So I welcome you to get lost with me because I'll be right there with you when you find your way.
My belief is if we are disconnected with ourselves, we aren't showing up to this world authentically it is impacting our relationships with others and most importantly, ourselves. We allow ourselves to be defined by our experiences we've had and trauma we've endured, we lose a sense of self, leaving us feeling lost and "broken". So I welcome you to get lost with me because I'll be right there with you when you find your way.
(515) 882-5514 View (515) 882-5514
Photo of Ben Lehl, Counselor in Des Moines, IA
Ben Lehl
Counselor, MS, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Des Moines, IA 50312
Ben is a kind and energetic Licensed Mental Health Counselor! He believes kindness, care and compassion are the foundations for successful therapy. He also feels honest, direct and authentic teamwork adds to positive outcomes. Ben is an EMDR-trained provider who specializes in trauma work, relationship issues, emotional or mood problems including anxiety and depression. He spent several years working in a public/community mental health environment and believes care belongs to every person, and there can be room for laughter and joy in it as well! Ben is a lifelong musician and loves the rock n' roll.
Ben is a kind and energetic Licensed Mental Health Counselor! He believes kindness, care and compassion are the foundations for successful therapy. He also feels honest, direct and authentic teamwork adds to positive outcomes. Ben is an EMDR-trained provider who specializes in trauma work, relationship issues, emotional or mood problems including anxiety and depression. He spent several years working in a public/community mental health environment and believes care belongs to every person, and there can be room for laughter and joy in it as well! Ben is a lifelong musician and loves the rock n' roll.
(515) 972-9484 View (515) 972-9484
Photo of Nancy K Miller, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Des Moines, IA
Nancy K Miller
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Des Moines, IA 50322
You’re stronger than you think. My passion for helping others has been fueled by the adversity in my own life and the strength I’ve witnessed in others. Your struggles and concerns are valid, and I want to help you learn to manage them in the healthiest way possible. You’ll be surprised by your own resilience! I enjoy working with young adults and adults who are motivated to find a solution to alleviate their depression, anxiety, ADHD, PTSD, and self-harming behaviors. I have experience working with BPD, substance and pornography issues, betrayal trauma, and general life transitions.
You’re stronger than you think. My passion for helping others has been fueled by the adversity in my own life and the strength I’ve witnessed in others. Your struggles and concerns are valid, and I want to help you learn to manage them in the healthiest way possible. You’ll be surprised by your own resilience! I enjoy working with young adults and adults who are motivated to find a solution to alleviate their depression, anxiety, ADHD, PTSD, and self-harming behaviors. I have experience working with BPD, substance and pornography issues, betrayal trauma, and general life transitions.
(515) 575-2540 View (515) 575-2540
Photo of Anna Sposeto, Counselor in Des Moines, IA
Anna Sposeto
Counselor, MS, LMHC, CADC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Des Moines, IA 50321  (Online Only)
Availability: Private Pay Adult Clients for appointments on Mondays, Tuesdays, and Wednesdays 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Anna's clinical focus is on treatment of anxiety, depression, trauma and events. She utilizes Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Person-Centered Approach with several mindfulness practices.
Availability: Private Pay Adult Clients for appointments on Mondays, Tuesdays, and Wednesdays 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Anna's clinical focus is on treatment of anxiety, depression, trauma and events. She utilizes Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Person-Centered Approach with several mindfulness practices.
(515) 206-8302 View (515) 206-8302
Photo of Hannah Vestal, Counselor in Des Moines, IA
Hannah Vestal
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Des Moines, IA 50309  (Online Only)
Hi, my name is Hannah (or Han). I have been working in the field of mental health for the past several years across several disciplines including residential treatment, inpatient hospitalization, substance use rehabilitation, and crisis counseling. No matter what the position, I found myself deeply drawn to how sitting with someone in darkness can make the darkness feel not as lonely. My job isn’t necessarily to make the darkness go away; in fact, darkness is a part of the natural cycle of life. However, I am committed to creating a space where we can sit with hard things and navigate where to go, together.
Hi, my name is Hannah (or Han). I have been working in the field of mental health for the past several years across several disciplines including residential treatment, inpatient hospitalization, substance use rehabilitation, and crisis counseling. No matter what the position, I found myself deeply drawn to how sitting with someone in darkness can make the darkness feel not as lonely. My job isn’t necessarily to make the darkness go away; in fact, darkness is a part of the natural cycle of life. However, I am committed to creating a space where we can sit with hard things and navigate where to go, together.
(515) 293-5856 View (515) 293-5856
Photo of Jennifer Haidar, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Des Moines, IA
Jennifer Haidar
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW, MEd
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Des Moines, IA 50311  (Online Only)
I am honored to walk alongside children, adolescents, adults and couples as they learn to navigate and find strength and purpose in their own story. I believe therapy is a healing relationship, in which individuals are empowered to use their own gifts and resiliency to heal and grow. I utilize several trauma-informed therapeutic approaches including EMDR, CBT, and IFS. With children, I enjoy using play, art, bibliotherapy and sand tray therapy alongside EMDR.
I am honored to walk alongside children, adolescents, adults and couples as they learn to navigate and find strength and purpose in their own story. I believe therapy is a healing relationship, in which individuals are empowered to use their own gifts and resiliency to heal and grow. I utilize several trauma-informed therapeutic approaches including EMDR, CBT, and IFS. With children, I enjoy using play, art, bibliotherapy and sand tray therapy alongside EMDR.
(515) 206-8307 View (515) 206-8307
Photo of Susin Bredice, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Des Moines, IA
Susin Bredice
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW, RPT-S
Verified Verified
Des Moines, IA 50322
Making the decision to start therapy can be a very vulnerable time, whether it be for you or your child. In therapy you will have a safe and judgement free space to meet your goals. I enjoy working with children and adults to recognize strengths and build on them to assist you in meeting your well being needs. Whether you are struggling to overcome an incident or event, wanting to make specific changes in your life, or looking to improve your overall quality of life and feel better about yourself, we will work together.
Making the decision to start therapy can be a very vulnerable time, whether it be for you or your child. In therapy you will have a safe and judgement free space to meet your goals. I enjoy working with children and adults to recognize strengths and build on them to assist you in meeting your well being needs. Whether you are struggling to overcome an incident or event, wanting to make specific changes in your life, or looking to improve your overall quality of life and feel better about yourself, we will work together.
(515) 512-4658 View (515) 512-4658
Attachment-based Therapists

Is attachment-based therapy the same as attachment therapy?

Attachment-based therapy may be confused with what is called “attachment therapy” (sometimes called “holding therapy”), a discredited and dangerous approach to treating children with attachment disorders, autism, or other mental health concerns. Attachment therapy—not attachment-based therapy—may involve restraining a child, forcing eye contact, and other coercive or abusive techniques. None of these practices are used in attachment-based therapy and the two modalities are in no way related.

What should I expect from attachment-based therapy?

Attachment-based therapy is based on attachment theory, which posits that children’s early relationships with their caregivers strongly influence their ability to navigate the world later in life. Thus, adults who seek attachment-based therapy should expect to deeply explore their childhood, identifying the dynamics or experiences that disrupted their attachment and the steps necessary to overcome challenges that arose as a result. Parents and children should expect to explore the possible factors that disrupted the parent-child relationship and work toward restoring trust and connection.

How long does attachment-based therapy last?

Certain forms of attachment-based therapy, especially those designed for parents and children, last for a set number of sessions; for example, Attachment and Biobehavioral Catch-Up, a specific attachment-based approach for young children who have undergone early adversity, unfolds over 10 one-hour sessions. When attachment-based therapy is practiced on adults or combined with other modalities, it may not last a specific length of time; clients may wish to ask prospective therapists how long they expect treatment to take.

Does attachment-based therapy work?

Most of the research on attachment-based therapy focuses on children and adolescents. Some of this research shows a positive effect, especially for attachment-based family therapy (ABFT). Other studies, however, have found that attachment-based therapy is no more effective than other approaches to childhood depression, anxiety, or suicidality. Less is known about the therapy’s efficacy on adult populations.