Photo of Malay Bouaphakeo, Counselor in Des Moines, IA
Malay Bouaphakeo
Counselor, tLMHC, CPC, ELI-MP
Verified Verified
Des Moines, IA 50312
My theoretical approach combines a person centered approach and CBT methods, as well as methods I've used as a life and leadership coach.
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 theoretical approach combines a person centered approach and CBT methods, as well as methods I've used as a life and leadership coach.
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 Jay Foote, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Des Moines, IA
Jay Foote
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, MSW, AmSAT
Verified Verified
Des Moines, IA 50309
I utilize Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Exposure and Response Prevention, somatic awareness skills, CBT, and mindfulness to create an open, creative, and confidential space to help you feel at ease with your past, be clear about your present, and intentionally direct your future.
I have immediate openings. Like most of my clients, you may want to improve your emotional well-being, manage stress, anxiety, and depression, or boost self-confidence. You may also want to be challenged to become the best version of yourself, to live and love authentically.
I utilize Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Exposure and Response Prevention, somatic awareness skills, CBT, and mindfulness to create an open, creative, and confidential space to help you feel at ease with your past, be clear about your present, and intentionally direct your future.
I have immediate openings. Like most of my clients, you may want to improve your emotional well-being, manage stress, anxiety, and depression, or boost self-confidence. You may also want to be challenged to become the best version of yourself, to live and love authentically.
(515) 379-8267 View (515) 379-8267
Photo of Christa Eribal, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Des Moines, IA
Christa Eribal
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Des Moines, IA 50311
No matter where you are on your journey to a brighter future, I’m ready to walk alongside you. I have been trained in providing trauma-focused therapy, and I specialize in using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). However, I pull from many other practices as well, so we can work together to find what works best for you.
No matter where you are on your journey to a brighter future, I’m ready to walk alongside you. I have been trained in providing trauma-focused therapy, and I specialize in using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). However, I pull from many other practices as well, so we can work together to find what works best for you.
(515) 209-3206 View (515) 209-3206
Photo of Angela Clausen, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Des Moines, IA
Angela Clausen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW, MSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Des Moines, IA 50309
I specialize in trauma and brain-based therapy including Brainspotting, EMDR, CBT, Clinical Hypnosis and Accelerated Resolution Therapy.
Welcome! I have over 25 years experience and specialize in Trauma, PTSD, anxiety, chronic pain, illness, grief, fear, phobias, testing/performance anxiety, weight loss/binge eating, narcissistic trauma and self-esteem. Medical research estimates 90% of illness and disease are stress related. The mind and body are one and the symptoms we experience are interconnected. My passion is for you to heal and release the anxiety, trauma and pain you are experiencing and find optimal physical and mental health. I am honored to be part of your journey as you move toward letting go of what holds you back from living your best life.
I specialize in trauma and brain-based therapy including Brainspotting, EMDR, CBT, Clinical Hypnosis and Accelerated Resolution Therapy.
Welcome! I have over 25 years experience and specialize in Trauma, PTSD, anxiety, chronic pain, illness, grief, fear, phobias, testing/performance anxiety, weight loss/binge eating, narcissistic trauma and self-esteem. Medical research estimates 90% of illness and disease are stress related. The mind and body are one and the symptoms we experience are interconnected. My passion is for you to heal and release the anxiety, trauma and pain you are experiencing and find optimal physical and mental health. I am honored to be part of your journey as you move toward letting go of what holds you back from living your best life.
(515) 206-8101 View (515) 206-8101
Photo of Annie Bendgen, Counselor in Des Moines, IA
Annie Bendgen
Counselor, MS, LMHC
Verified Verified
Des Moines, IA 50309
I use CBT, EMDR, Inner Child Work and other modalities as needed to address your need.
Hello, my name is Annie Bendgen. I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in Florida and Iowa specializing in trauma, addiction, prenatal & postpartum, and codependency. Over the years I have worked with teens and adults in all levels of care including residential, PHP, IOP, and outpatient. I am passionate about the work I do and love coming alongside my clients to help them break free of the beliefs, toxic shame, and other obstacles that are preventing them from moving forward and being the people they are capable of being.
I use CBT, EMDR, Inner Child Work and other modalities as needed to address your need.
Hello, my name is Annie Bendgen. I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in Florida and Iowa specializing in trauma, addiction, prenatal & postpartum, and codependency. Over the years I have worked with teens and adults in all levels of care including residential, PHP, IOP, and outpatient. I am passionate about the work I do and love coming alongside my clients to help them break free of the beliefs, toxic shame, and other obstacles that are preventing them from moving forward and being the people they are capable of being.
(561) 782-8076 View (561) 782-8076
Photo of Alex Albright, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Des Moines, IA
Alex Albright
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW
Verified Verified
Des Moines, IA 50312
I enjoy this part of therapy as much as when using the nuts and bolts of EMDR, TFCBT, family therapy, or CBT.
If you have experienced trauma, loss, significant or unexpected change, family conflict, felt down and depressed, anxious, or all of the above I hope to be of help to you. I work with individuals, children, and families.
I enjoy this part of therapy as much as when using the nuts and bolts of EMDR, TFCBT, family therapy, or CBT.
If you have experienced trauma, loss, significant or unexpected change, family conflict, felt down and depressed, anxious, or all of the above I hope to be of help to you. I work with individuals, children, and families.
(515) 500-5816 View (515) 500-5816
Photo of Kate McVey, Psychologist in Des Moines, IA
Kate McVey
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Des Moines, IA 50325  (Online Only)
I specialize in treating psychological symptoms associated with traumatic events, anxiety disorders (including OCD), and using cognitive behavioral approaches to couples and family therapy.
Are you ready to make a positive change? Are you looking to address your personal challenges in a constructive, collaborative therapeutic environment? I am a licensed clinical psychologist experienced working with individuals, their partners, and family members, to help them achieve their therapeutic goals. I strive to help challenge you discover insights and make progress at a pace that suits your needs. I may be the clinician, but I know you are the true expert in your own experiences. By working together, we can identify a course of treatment and therapy goals that best fit your needs.
I specialize in treating psychological symptoms associated with traumatic events, anxiety disorders (including OCD), and using cognitive behavioral approaches to couples and family therapy.
Are you ready to make a positive change? Are you looking to address your personal challenges in a constructive, collaborative therapeutic environment? I am a licensed clinical psychologist experienced working with individuals, their partners, and family members, to help them achieve their therapeutic goals. I strive to help challenge you discover insights and make progress at a pace that suits your needs. I may be the clinician, but I know you are the true expert in your own experiences. By working together, we can identify a course of treatment and therapy goals that best fit your needs.
(515) 972-5058 View (515) 972-5058
Photo of Kate Simmons, Counselor in Des Moines, IA
Kate Simmons
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Des Moines, IA 50311
I am certified in multiple trauma-informed approaches such as TF-CBT, EMDR, CFTSI, and integrate CBT, ACT, Family Systems, and other modalities.
Hello! I'm currently accepting new clients. As a dedicated therapist, I'm known for compassionate and strength-based approaches. My commitment to individualized care offers empathetic support and evidence-based strategies tailored to meet your needs. I have worked with children, adolescents, adults, and families who have experienced significant life challenges and have offered guidance and support for those struggling with anxiety, depression, life transitions, family conflict, parenting, sexual abuse, and trauma.
I am certified in multiple trauma-informed approaches such as TF-CBT, EMDR, CFTSI, and integrate CBT, ACT, Family Systems, and other modalities.
Hello! I'm currently accepting new clients. As a dedicated therapist, I'm known for compassionate and strength-based approaches. My commitment to individualized care offers empathetic support and evidence-based strategies tailored to meet your needs. I have worked with children, adolescents, adults, and families who have experienced significant life challenges and have offered guidance and support for those struggling with anxiety, depression, life transitions, family conflict, parenting, sexual abuse, and trauma.
(515) 516-3440 View (515) 516-3440
Photo of @The Mental Health Lab, PLLC, Counselor in Des Moines, IA
@The Mental Health Lab, PLLC
Counselor, MS, LMHC
Verified Verified
Des Moines, IA 50301
I have trained at the Beck Institute in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT,) and have done extensive training in Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT.
I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor that have been serving the rural area for the past 10 years in a Community Based Mental Health Center. I am now in my Private Practice. My style is direct, practical, nurturing, challenging, strength based and eclectic. I feel that I'm a pretty easy going person and look forward to meeting you. ​ I specialize in identifying your negative thoughts and beliefs, connecting your past to your present to build a more authentic future and assist you on learning coping and life skills to manage your overall mental health. ​
I have trained at the Beck Institute in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT,) and have done extensive training in Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT.
I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor that have been serving the rural area for the past 10 years in a Community Based Mental Health Center. I am now in my Private Practice. My style is direct, practical, nurturing, challenging, strength based and eclectic. I feel that I'm a pretty easy going person and look forward to meeting you. ​ I specialize in identifying your negative thoughts and beliefs, connecting your past to your present to build a more authentic future and assist you on learning coping and life skills to manage your overall mental health. ​
(641) 329-2614 View (641) 329-2614
Photo of Abby Smith, Counselor in Des Moines, IA
Abby Smith
Counselor, tLMHC
Verified Verified
Des Moines, IA 50301
Abby supports individuals aged 12 and above dealing with various mental health challenges like eating disorders, sports-related performance anxiety, depression, stress, relationship issues, and prenatal-postnatal concerns. She specializes in working with athletes at high school, college, and professional levels. Abby employs therapeutic approaches including CBT-E, IPT, FBT, ACT and IFS. She has presented at athletic conventions, emphasizing preventive care for eating disorders among athletes, and is passionate about raising awareness of mental health in the athletic community.
Abby supports individuals aged 12 and above dealing with various mental health challenges like eating disorders, sports-related performance anxiety, depression, stress, relationship issues, and prenatal-postnatal concerns. She specializes in working with athletes at high school, college, and professional levels. Abby employs therapeutic approaches including CBT-E, IPT, FBT, ACT and IFS. She has presented at athletic conventions, emphasizing preventive care for eating disorders among athletes, and is passionate about raising awareness of mental health in the athletic community.
(319) 432-0765 View (319) 432-0765
Photo of The Anxiety and OCD Center of Iowa, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Des Moines, IA
The Anxiety and OCD Center of Iowa
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Des Moines, IA 50312
Waitlist for new clients
I received two years of post graduate training in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for the treatment of Anxiety Disorders.
Have you ever had the thought "Maybe I have a problem with anxiety?" One of the worst things about anxiety (aside from the feeling) is the avoidance it creates in a person's life. From mildly interfering with enjoyment to outright avoiding things altogether, anxiety can be paralyzing. Whether it's related to social situations, more generalized, panic attacks, phobia, agoraphobia, or related disorders such as OCD. These are my first and foremost areas of expertise. One of the most rewarding aspects of my job is seeing and comparing the progress a person makes along the way.
I received two years of post graduate training in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for the treatment of Anxiety Disorders.
Have you ever had the thought "Maybe I have a problem with anxiety?" One of the worst things about anxiety (aside from the feeling) is the avoidance it creates in a person's life. From mildly interfering with enjoyment to outright avoiding things altogether, anxiety can be paralyzing. Whether it's related to social situations, more generalized, panic attacks, phobia, agoraphobia, or related disorders such as OCD. These are my first and foremost areas of expertise. One of the most rewarding aspects of my job is seeing and comparing the progress a person makes along the way.
(515) 512-5167 View (515) 512-5167
Photo of Ryan McClure, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Des Moines, IA
Ryan McClure
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Des Moines, IA 50310
Waitlist for new clients
I have been providing therapy support within the Des Moines area for over 24 years and the co-founder of the counseling agency Lifeworks Inc. 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 and younger than 99. I love my profession and take pride in assisting and supporting clients that I see each week. Therapy is a good thing. It will surprise you.
I have been providing therapy support within the Des Moines area for over 24 years and the co-founder of the counseling agency Lifeworks Inc. 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 and younger than 99. I love my profession and take pride in assisting and supporting clients that I see each week. Therapy is a good thing. It will surprise you.
(515) 368-8229 View (515) 368-8229
Photo of Jerome Miller, Pre-Licensed Professional in Des Moines, IA
Jerome Miller
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS, (t)LMHC, IADC
Verified Verified
Des Moines, IA 50310
Welcome, you have made the decision to begin moving forward in a positive direction. A direction toward growth and well-being. While we cannot change difficult situations of the past, we can move forward to ensure a better present, and a thriving future. I have over 10 years in the Mental Health industry, and I am a active listener and goal oriented; as we move forward on your goals, we will be using complementary therapeutic approaches and techniques to facilitate the desired change. Remember, "You are on a road to a better place!"
Welcome, you have made the decision to begin moving forward in a positive direction. A direction toward growth and well-being. While we cannot change difficult situations of the past, we can move forward to ensure a better present, and a thriving future. I have over 10 years in the Mental Health industry, and I am a active listener and goal oriented; as we move forward on your goals, we will be using complementary therapeutic approaches and techniques to facilitate the desired change. Remember, "You are on a road to a better place!"
(515) 498-3928 View (515) 498-3928
Photo of Diamond Ruth, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Des Moines, IA
Diamond Ruth
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Des Moines, IA 50309
Hello! My name is Diamond Ruth (she/her) and I am a Licensed Master of Social Work. I believe one of the bravest things you can do is begin to understand your own story. It is unique and has helped shape and influence how you perceive and respond to the world around you, and sometimes everything isn't always positive. Understanding how past and potential traumas can influence the present, as well as help give you the power to promote positive change is the goal. I believe in the dignity, power, and potential of human beings and make it my personal and professional mission to help clients recognize this power within themselves.
Hello! My name is Diamond Ruth (she/her) and I am a Licensed Master of Social Work. I believe one of the bravest things you can do is begin to understand your own story. It is unique and has helped shape and influence how you perceive and respond to the world around you, and sometimes everything isn't always positive. Understanding how past and potential traumas can influence the present, as well as help give you the power to promote positive change is the goal. I believe in the dignity, power, and potential of human beings and make it my personal and professional mission to help clients recognize this power within themselves.
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Photo of Ann Flood Counseling, Counselor in Des Moines, IA
Ann Flood Counseling
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Des Moines, IA 50309
Our minds are really good at shuttling between past and future, driven by our fears and desires, memories and imagination. This disconnection with our present reality has become even more severe with the advent of smartphones, the high levels of stress in our modern day lives, and endemic psychological trauma in our communities.
Our minds are really good at shuttling between past and future, driven by our fears and desires, memories and imagination. This disconnection with our present reality has become even more severe with the advent of smartphones, the high levels of stress in our modern day lives, and endemic psychological trauma in our communities.
(515) 493-7520 View (515) 493-7520
Photo of Luke Katuin, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Des Moines, IA
Luke Katuin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LMSW
Verified Verified
Des Moines, IA 50309
Ever wondered why you feel stuck? Is life not going the way you always thought it would? Are you constantly wondering what to do next? With all that life throws at you, it makes sense that your mind is looking for an answer. Life is tough and I am on your team! I practice using a non-judgmental approach to who you are and accepting you.
Ever wondered why you feel stuck? Is life not going the way you always thought it would? Are you constantly wondering what to do next? With all that life throws at you, it makes sense that your mind is looking for an answer. Life is tough and I am on your team! I practice using a non-judgmental approach to who you are and accepting you.
(515) 579-5048 View (515) 579-5048
Photo of Andrea Vignovich, Counselor in Des Moines, IA
Andrea Vignovich
Counselor, MA, LMHC, RPT
Verified Verified
Des Moines, IA 50309
Hello! My name is Andrea Vignovich (she/her) and I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC). An important part of my therapeutic role is to meet you where you are on your journey toward emotional wellness and stability. I believe empathy, empowerment, and connection can help lead you toward your personal goals. In counseling, it is pivotal to create a safe and open space for you to foster growth and learning in yourself and your goals. Seeking counseling can be scary and challenging, however, it can also be rewarding and its effects are long-lasting. I hope to join you on your journey of growth and emotional wellbeing.
Hello! My name is Andrea Vignovich (she/her) and I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC). An important part of my therapeutic role is to meet you where you are on your journey toward emotional wellness and stability. I believe empathy, empowerment, and connection can help lead you toward your personal goals. In counseling, it is pivotal to create a safe and open space for you to foster growth and learning in yourself and your goals. Seeking counseling can be scary and challenging, however, it can also be rewarding and its effects are long-lasting. I hope to join you on your journey of growth and emotional wellbeing.
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Photo of Rachel Ukena, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Des Moines, IA
Rachel Ukena
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Des Moines, IA 50312
Accepting new clients! Life is hard, and everyone needs support at one time or another. If you are experiencing anxiety, depression, tough relationships, or difficult transitions – you are not alone. We all reach points in our lives when we could use additional care and support to help us view things from a different angle. It can be hard to ask for help. It might even be scary, and that is okay. In many cases, feeling scared may be the first step in an amazing journey of growth and new opportunities.
Accepting new clients! Life is hard, and everyone needs support at one time or another. If you are experiencing anxiety, depression, tough relationships, or difficult transitions – you are not alone. We all reach points in our lives when we could use additional care and support to help us view things from a different angle. It can be hard to ask for help. It might even be scary, and that is okay. In many cases, feeling scared may be the first step in an amazing journey of growth and new opportunities.
Photo of Elijah James Evans, Counselor in Des Moines, IA
Elijah James Evans
Counselor, LMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Des Moines, IA 50322
Waitlist for new clients
I enjoy working with clients who want to improve the way they approach their relationships with themselves, others, or the world. These clients may have recognized their current way of doing things is hurting themselves or others, or they may have simply identified they are not feeling their best. I am passionate about helping people understand and enact more effective patterns of being.
I enjoy working with clients who want to improve the way they approach their relationships with themselves, others, or the world. These clients may have recognized their current way of doing things is hurting themselves or others, or they may have simply identified they are not feeling their best. I am passionate about helping people understand and enact more effective patterns of being.
(515) 209-3680 View (515) 209-3680
Photo of Heidi Valdez, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Des Moines, IA
Heidi Valdez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW, MSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Des Moines, IA 50312
Are you feeling stuck in your life, school, career, sports performance and/or relationships? Could your physical, emotional, spiritual and mental health be better? If so, I am here to help. In a supportive environment, we will work together to build whole health and wellness while integrating both mind and body approaches. We all need support and guidance throughout our lives and I am passionate about supporting athletes, teachers, children, parents, and families in being the best they can be no matter what struggles may come their way. I do have immediate openings at this time.
Are you feeling stuck in your life, school, career, sports performance and/or relationships? Could your physical, emotional, spiritual and mental health be better? If so, I am here to help. In a supportive environment, we will work together to build whole health and wellness while integrating both mind and body approaches. We all need support and guidance throughout our lives and I am passionate about supporting athletes, teachers, children, parents, and families in being the best they can be no matter what struggles may come their way. I do have immediate openings at this time.
(515) 373-8926 View (515) 373-8926
Cognitive Behavioral (CBT) Therapists

How does cognitive behavioral therapy work?

Cognitive behavioral therapy works by exploring how your thoughts affect your emotions and experiences. CBT helps you identify distortions in your thinking. For example, you may tend to jump to the worst case scenario catastrophizing or think in extremes (all-or-nothing thinking). A therapist can teach you how to push back against those thoughts to ultimately change your feelings and behavior for the better. They can also provide coping skills to better deal with stressors and challenges.

When do I know to seek treatment with cognitive behavioral therapy?

It’s reasonable to consider cognitive behavioral therapy if you struggle to manage difficult emotions or behaviors to such an extent that you are not getting the most out of life on a day-to-day basis. If you want a shorter term, concrete, skills-based approach, CBT is a great option. (By contrast, other types of therapy may devote more time to exploring your past and its effects.) The decision to seek CBT also depends on the condition you’re treating; CBT is an effective treatment for anxiety, depression, trauma, and many other disorders.

How can I find a cognitive behavioral therapist for someone else?

To find a cognitive behavioral therapist for someone else, you may want to begin by discussing the person’s problem, researching cognitive behavioral therapy, and assessing whether the approach is the right fit. You could then reach out to a few cognitive behavioral therapists in this directory, explain the scenario, have a consultation with those available, and determine who could be a good match.

Why is CBT such a popular form of therapy?

CBT has become a popular form of therapy because it is effective and accessible. Robust research has demonstrated that CBT is an effective treatment for many mental health conditions. And CBT can be learned in relatively few sessions, which means that many people can engage in the process, afford it, and see results quickly. It involves learning concrete skills such as disputing unhelpful thoughts; these skills can also be taught and spread widely.