Aetna - Medicare Therapists in Iowa

Finding mental health care with Aetna Medicare can sometimes feel limiting due to provider availability and complex coverage options. With 17 verified therapists in Iowa who accept Aetna Medicare, you have access to professionals skilled in working with Medicare clients, providing therapeutic approaches like cognitive behavioral therapy, supportive counseling, and interpersonal therapy to address challenges like depression, anxiety, and grief. Each Grow Therapy-verified therapist listed below is accepting new clients and has sessions available soon, offering timely, compassionate care tailored to your needs within your Aetna Medicare plan—without the common delays Medicare recipients often face.

Availability updated: 5/31/2026

Authentic
Open-minded
Humorous

Specialties

Anxiety
Depression
Life Transitions
+9
I am a licensed clinical social worker. I am a compassionate social worker who is an active listener, who is dedicated to working tirelessly to help you resolve issues and thrive on your own terms. I am trained in cognitive behavioral therapy, situational family therapy, trauma-informed therapy, EMDR, and NLP I also have experience in grief and bereavement counseling. I primarily use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, with mindfulness.
VirtualAvailable
Warm
Empowering
Intelligent

Specialties

Anxiety
Depression
Self Esteem
+10
My name is Katy Thompson and I work to serve those that know they can do better, but don't seem to have the strength they need to pick themselves up out of the ditch. I'm a licensed Clinical Social Worker who believes that this world is hard, but inside of us is something greater just waiting to be expressed and proved through a more fulfilling life.
VirtualAvailable
Authentic
Warm
Direct

Specialties

Addiction
Anxiety
Depression
+10
I work with adults who are navigating depression, relationship struggles, substance use and co-occurring disorders, complicated family dynamics, academic or career stress, life transitions, and the impact of trauma. Whatever brings you to therapy, my goal is to meet you where you are and create a space that feels supportive, steady, and real. In our work together, I bring curiosity, reflection, and a bit of humor into the room. I draw from approaches like cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), solution-focused therapy, and mindfulness, and I tailor our sessions to what feels most helpful for you. Therapy isn’t one-size-fits-all, and we’ll figure out what works best—together. I aim to offer a safe, nonjudgmental space where we can look at patterns that may be keeping you stuck, make room for difficult emotions, and practice being a little kinder to yourself along the way. Therapy doesn’t have to feel intimidating or overly clinical—it can be thoughtful, engaging, and even relieving. Clients often describe me as both compassionate and direct. You don’t have to do this alone. I’d be honored to be on your team as we take it one step at a time.
VirtualAvailable
Warm
Authentic
Empowering

Specialties

Addiction
Chronic Illness
Life Transitions
+8
Welcome, I am Virginia and it is so nice to meet you! Thank you for taking this first step in feeling better, I believe this is the hardest one because people generally don't wake up one morning and desire to include a stranger in on their personal thoughts, beliefs, feelings, and troublesome behaviors. I hope to be a helpful fellow traveler to you and I am happy to let you be in the drivers seat regarding your treatment, I have lot's of suggestions - but they each only work if you put them to use:-)
VirtualAvailable
Authentic
Intelligent
Empowering

Specialties

Anxiety
Grief
Trauma and PTSD
+10
Fully licensed and accepting new clients in NC, WI, and IA. LGBTQ-friendly therapist. Do you want to neutralize effects of emotional trauma/pain without having to relive it? Internal Family Sytems is an evidence-based, psycho-spiritual approach, rooted in systems thinking which, together wIth Polyvagal somatic therapy, is a highly effective way to heal. Also offering art & journal therapy, EFT & relaxation & meditation, we will work together to calm your mind and free parts of you that are frozen in time. I believe each of us have both a unique set of gifts and a world view shaped by past experiences and present circumstance. I believe we each have both a unique set of gifts and a world view shaped by past experiences and present circumstances. As an evidence-based relaxation and meditaiton trainer, I am uniquely qualified to help you learn to cope with grief, anxiety, past trauma, women's issues, and vicarious trauma experienced by veterans and first responders. My approach is eclectic, using interventions from a broad base of solidly-grounded, accepted theoretical orientations, including Cognitive Processing Therapy, an evidence-based, brief modality for resolving PTSD symptoms. I see clcients for anxiety, trauma, life transitions, and women's issues. Through sessions together, I will collaborate with you to assist you in recognizing your individual strengths and strive to empower you with the self-awareness and self-confidence to pursue your dreams. i also practice Internal Family Systems, a means of healing PTSD without having to revisit the event. this is evidence based and rooted in both Attachment Theory and Family Systems Therapy. I take a person-centered, creative, non-judgmental approach to creating a safe space for counseling sessions, allowing you to unburden yourself and share your goals, while helping you to see how your uniquely shaded lenses of experience have color your perceptions.
VirtualAvailable
Authentic
Open-minded
Empowering

Specialties

Anxiety
Grief
Postpartum
+2
Are you feeling frustrated and overwhelmed, as if you have lost control over your own life and are unsure how to get back on track? It happens to all of us sometimes. Our minds can be our biggest enemies, where our expectations get the best of us. Allow me to collaborate with you in order to unpack your thoughts and emotions to gradually make adjustments to help you become a stronger version of yourself. Whether you are struggling with a life transition, pregnancy and postpartum, caregiving for a loved one, grief and loss, anxiety or depression; I will work with you to process and navigate through these difficult times. I will empower you to find your strengths and use them to make a little progress every day.
VirtualAvailable
Warm
Authentic
Intelligent

Specialties

Depression
Grief
Trauma and PTSD
+5
With over 21 years of experience in behavioral health, I’ve had the privilege of working with clients of all ages—from children to older adults—in settings such as private practice and inpatient care. I bring a calm, steady presence and strong listening skills to each session, helping clients uncover the root causes of their distress. My goal is to walk alongside you on your journey to healing, offering compassion, understanding, and practical tools that support your growth. Blessings
VirtualAvailable
Open-minded
Intelligent
Authentic

Specialties

Crisis Intervention
Family Therapy
Foster Care/Adoption
+8
Meet Mike Arieta, LICSW Hello and welcome. I’m Mike Arieta, a licensed clinical social worker with nearly three decades of experience supporting individuals, couples, families, and teens through life’s most complex challenges. Since 1995, I’ve worked across diverse settings—from foster care and homelessness to adoption and refugee support—and have been practicing clinically since 2011. My therapeutic approach is body-based and trauma-informed. I believe our bodies often speak before our minds can make sense of what we’re feeling. This philosophy guides my work with clients navigating trauma, PTSD, and transitions that require deep emotional resilience. I integrate movement-based and somatic strategies to help clients reconnect with themselves and their communities. Currently, I’m completing my Doctor of Social Work degree at Tulane University, where my research focuses on trauma recovery and evidence-informed practices that foster healing. I also hold advanced training in adoption competence and provide support to foster youth, adoptive families, and caregivers navigating complex systems. Therapy, for me, is a collaborative journey. I’m honored to walk alongside my clients as they reclaim their stories, build strength, and move toward meaningful change. Thank you for taking the time to learn more about my work—I look forward to connecting with you.
VirtualAvailable
Authentic
Warm
Solution oriented

Specialties

Anxiety
Coping Skills
Depression
Hi! I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with 20 years of dedicated experience in the field of mental health, practicing across Illinois, Indiana, and Iowa. I hold a Master’s degree from Loyola University, where I gained a strong foundation in clinical practice and therapeutic techniques. Throughout my career, I have specialized in empowering individuals, from young adults to seniors, to overcome depression, anxiety, and effectively navigate life’s transitions. I am passionate about helping my clients build resilience and confidence, enabling them to lead fulfilling and meaningful lives. My approach is rooted in empathy, compassion, and a deep commitment to providing personalized care that meets each client's unique needs and goals.
VirtualAvailable
Authentic
Empowering
Warm

Specialties

Anxiety
Depression
Trauma and PTSD
+10
Hello! My name is Kelly Brock and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the state of Pennsylvania and also in Iowa. Maybe you are just feeling stuck, and don't know why? Or maybe you know why, but don't quite understand what tools to use or how to use them to get yourself to that next level up in self-understanding and comfort? I believe finding one's peace in life is a journey of exploration… Sometimes our human side tends to make the exploration in life's journey a tad bit complicated. When we know more about ourselves (and others)... we are just able to navigate life better!
VirtualAvailable
Warm
Authentic
Empowering

Specialties

Child or Adolescent
Coping Skills
Mood Disorders
+17
Are you a parent worried about your child’s anxiety, big emotions, or past stressful experiences? Or are you an adult looking for trauma-informed therapy in Spanish or English? I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC), NCC, and EMDR-trained therapist who works with children, adolescents, and adults. I specialize in supporting parents and children using child-friendly EMDR and virtual play therapy, as well as providing EMDR therapy in Spanish and English for adults navigating trauma, anxiety, and life transitions. My approach is compassionate, culturally responsive, and trauma-informed. I integrate EMDR, CBT, ACT, and creative interventions such as art and play to help clients feel safer, more regulated, and more confident as they move forward.
VirtualAvailable
Authentic
Warm
Empowering

Specialties

Anxiety
Depression
Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
+3
Hi! My name is Diane Bales MS, LMHC, LPC. I am passionate about what I do. I love walking with clients through their journey of healing. I am known for really caring about my patients and I think that shows. I use an eclectic approach to treatment. I feel that everyone is different and not one approach works for everyone. I want my clients to feel that they have accomplished or overcome something during their time in therapy. Note I do charge for No show and Late Cancellations $70.00
VirtualAvailable
Authentic
Direct
Warm

Specialties

Coping Skills
Depression
Domestic Violence
+10
Finding the right therapist can be a journey in itself and connecting with your therapist is imperative. I offer services for depression, grief, anxiety, stress, career & workplace difficulties, women's issues, postpartum anxiety, anger management, and coping with life changes. Nutrition is also a key player in some mental wellness issues and I feel is very important to assess. My approach provides empathy, engaged listening and behavior change support as part of my therapy style. I am licensed in both Iowa (MHC License 123416) & Texas (LPC 62282) as a counselor. I look forward to supporting you.
VirtualAvailable
Solution oriented
Warm
Authentic

Specialties

Anxiety
Depression
Grief
+10
I’m Julio Cruz Rodríguez, a Clinical Mental Health Counselor, and I provide services exclusively in Spanish. I have extensive experience in clinical mental health and dedicate my work to supporting individuals in their emotional growth process, helping them navigate challenges such as anxiety, depression, grief, and life transitions. I use an integrative approach, tailoring interventions to the unique needs of each person to promote their well-being and personal development. Soy Julio Cruz Rodríguez, Consejero Clínico en Salud Mental, y ofrezco servicios exclusivamente en español. Cuento con amplia experiencia en salud mental clínica y me dedico a acompañar a personas en su proceso de crecimiento emocional, ayudándolas a manejar retos como la ansiedad, la depresión, el duelo y las transiciones de vida. Utilizo un enfoque integrativo, adaptando las intervenciones a las necesidades únicas de cada persona para promover su bienestar y desarrollo personal.
VirtualAvailable
Solution oriented
Intelligent
Authentic

Specialties

Anxiety
Depression
Life Transitions
+10
I am an experienced professional with a strong background in supporting people facing a wide range of concerns, including anxiety and depression, life changes, lack of confidence, communication issues, and chronic illness. I work collaboratively with clients to identify practical, meaningful changes that can create the greatest positive impact in their lives. My approach is interactive, respectful, direct, encouraging, and sometimes includes a bit of humor. I strive to create a supportive environment that is both encouraging and authentic. All are welcome. If you’re ready to move toward meaningful change, I invite you to take the first step today. I do not treat substance abuse or addictions. I do not do court related work.
VirtualAvailable
Authentic
Warm
Solution oriented

Specialties

Addiction
Anxiety
Depression
+10
I thank you for the opportunity to collaborate with you in your healing journey. My desire is to help you through life’s struggle, and challenges. My goal is to provide authentic, compassionate, and nonjudgmental quality care. Building a therapeutic relationship is the first step in the treatment process. I offer person centered therapy specific to your individualized and unique experience, in order to assist you through the struggles of life. I am a passionate and empathetic therapist with strong counseling abilities and an understanding of interpersonal familial relationships. I utilize a goal- oriented, strength-based approach with my clients. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and a graduate of the University of Georgia and have been practicing for 5 years. Thank you for taking the first step and for allowing me to be part of this very important journey.
VirtualAvailable
Direct
Solution oriented
Authentic

Specialties

Career Counseling
Men's Issues
Self Esteem
+16
Hi there, my name’s Ephraim Tokar. I'm a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with 20+ years of experience. My specialties consist of relationships, men’s issues, career counseling, and psychosomatic illnesses. I received my Bachelors degree in Child Psychology, working initially with the adolescent population before transitioning over to adults. I then received my Masters in Marriage and Family Therapy. Whether it's individuals or couples, I'm happy to get to work with whomever comes my way. I do my best to facilitate a warm, trusting environment. Looking forward to meeting with you soon!
VirtualAvailable
Frequently asked questions

Why filter by Iowa rather than a city like Des Moines?

When looking for online therapy, you can see anyone that is credentialed in Iowa. We want you to find the best fit, therefore, Grow Therapy shows available therapists across Iowa from Cedar Rapids to Davenport! If you’d rather see someone in-person, you can change the filter from virtual and find a therapist near you in Iowa.

Will my therapist take Aetna - Medicare?

Yes! If you use Aetna - Medicare you’ll be asked to verify your Member ID at the time you book the appointment. However, if you don’t have Aetna - Medicare you can select cash. Our therapists will have their cost of appointment on their profile. Individual session costs will vary.

How does the Specialty Filter work? Can I find a therapist that focuses on a specific issue?

The specialty filter is optional. You don’t need to check any boxes to see a provider. However, fit is very important when selecting an online therapist. If you have knowledge or experience to recognize what specialties you may need.

Why use Gender, Age, and Identities filters?

Finding a provider with a similar life experience can be beneficial because it can be easier to establish rapport and potentially be understood quicker and clearer.

What happens during the first therapy session?

Your first therapy session is for you and your therapist to meet each other and to ask any questions that you have about the counseling process. This is where you can expect your therapist to do the same as they will ask questions to gain insight into your specific situation. In this first session the therapist is doing their part to gather as much information so they can better assess if they are able to meet your therapeutic needs. Depending upon your provider's specialty, you may also discuss the methods the therapist will use. For additional information on therapy methods, please visit the Grow Therapy Help Center.Some people feel nervous before their first appointment, and that is totally normal! Coming prepared with a list of questions for your therapist may help. Remember, you're taking a brave step by seeking therapy, and it is okay to be nervous as you try something new.