Trauma Therapists in Iowa

Finding a therapist experienced in trauma care is essential for those seeking to process and heal from difficult past experiences. With 26 verified trauma therapists in Iowa who specialize in trauma therapy, you can filter by therapeutic approaches such as EMDR, somatic therapy, or trauma-focused cognitive behavioral therapy to address specific needs like PTSD, childhood trauma, or complex trauma. Each Grow Therapy-verified therapist is open to new clients and has upcoming availability, ensuring you can access the compassionate, specialized support needed to work through trauma and build resilience.

Availability updated: 11/29/2025

Amber McKinney

LMHC, 12 years of experience

Frequently rebooked

Warm
Intelligent

Specialties

Trauma and PTSD
Anxiety
Depression
+9
My name is Amber and I am just your average woman living life in the midwest. I am a wife, mother to 3 littles and therapist. I have served all kinds of populations from incarceration to outpatient working with kiddos as young as 3 to adults in their 80s. What you see in session, the laid back, goofy but can be blunt person is who you'd meet on the street if you saw me in public. I believe healing comes from within but also from the people you choose to surround yourself with. Some people have a great support system and others have me as their cheerleader and I strive to be a good one.
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Terry Driskill

LMHC, 21 years of experience

Authentic
Solution oriented

Specialties

Trauma and PTSD
Depression
Grief
+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
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Ryann Diaz

LISW, 5 years of experience

Intelligent
Humorous
Open-minded

Specialties

Trauma and PTSD
LGBTQ
Anxiety
+8
Welcome! If you are seeking a down to earth and relaxed therapist- you are in the right place! I specialize in creating a safe and affirming space for individuals within the LGBTQ+ communities- where I have lived experience, individuals navigating chronic illness and caregiving, and those impacted by hoarding behaviors. I understand how important it is to feel heard and validated, especially when dealing with sensitive topics such as gender identity, transgender health, trauma, anxiety, depression, boundary setting, communication skills, chronic disorganization, and more. I write gender affirming care letters.
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Danielle Kimble

LMHC, 18 years of experience

Authentic
Warm
Empowering

Specialties

Trauma and PTSD
Coping Skills
Depression
Hi! I am Danielle Kimble, LCPC. I earned my B.A in Psychology from Southern Illinois University at Carbondale and her M.A in Community Counseling from Argosy University. I employ different integrative approaches when working with clients including cognitive-behavioral, solution focused, and emotion-focused therapy. I believe in building a trusting relationship between the client and counselor to build the foundation of a successful counseling relationship.
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Brendalis Rios

LISW, 11 years of experience

Empowering
Authentic
Solution oriented

Specialties

Trauma and PTSD
Anxiety
Depression
+7
Hi I am Brendalis and go by Brenda. Do you feel tired of been undervalued, or feel that you do not matter? I am here to help you improve those feelings and help you understand that you do matter, and you are valuable. I love helping individual achieve their goals and help improve their well-being. I have vast experience working with individual with trauma, depression, anxieties, ADHD, self-esteem, family dynamics, and life-changing events. I consider myself an eclectic social worker who understands that one approach doesn’t fit all, and I like to utilize different techniques based on the client’s needs. Talking about our feelings make us feel vulnerable; therefore, one of the most important steps into the healing journey is working on developing a client therapist relationship. My goal is to help alleviate the stigma and to provide that comfort that will help you improve the symptoms that seems to be holding you back in a non-judgmental way. When it comes to changes, I can relate. As a military wife, I have been through a lot of changes and challenges. Whether it was having to relocate to a new place, having to leave family and friends and/or having to start all over, I completely understand how scary it is and I am here to help you through that process of change and the fear of the unknown. I recently move to Florida, and I am licensed in Illinois, Iowa, and Washington State. I am here to help you through the healing journey.
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Stephanie Tyler

LMHC, 9 years of experience

Authentic
Solution oriented
Direct

Specialties

Trauma and PTSD
Hi there! I am a Licensed Professional Counselor, accepting clients from Texas and Colorado. I have 7 years of clinical and telehealth experience, and I utilize trauma focused and evidence based techniques to help make connections. Life can be overwhelming and sometimes even exhausting, but I’m here to guide you through any obstacles you may face. My goal is to help you understand yourself more deeply and better cope with change.
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Janice Frum

LMHC, 13 years of experience

Empowering
Authentic
Intelligent

Specialties

Trauma and PTSD
Anxiety
Grief
+10
Fully licensed and accepting new clients in NC, WI, and IA. Do you wish you could lessen the effects of emotional pain without having to relive it? Internal Family Sytems is an evidence-based, intrapsychic approach rooted in the multiplicity of mind, based in systems thinking, and a very psycho-spiritual (not religioous) approach. Using 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 circumstances. Let's get together and chat about how to quiet your mind and make your life more fulfilling. 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.
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Lauren Kaplan

LP, 19 years of experience

Warm
Authentic
Intelligent

Specialties

Trauma and PTSD
Anxiety
Grief
+9
My work experience has spanned a variety of settings, through which I developed a strong clinical background rooted in ACT, DBT, and mindfulness-based approaches. As a therapist, my goal is to provide quality care using proven therapeutic approaches with compassion, dignity, and real human connection to help patients take action toward building a meaningful life enriched by connection to personal values and a deepened sense of self.
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Kelly L Brock

LISW, 10 years of experience

Empowering
Intelligent
Warm

Specialties

Trauma and PTSD
Anxiety
Depression
+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!
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Alexandra Molina

LMHC, 10 years of experience

Intelligent
Challenging
Direct

Specialties

Trauma and PTSD
Anxiety
Depression
+10
Are you seeking support on your mental health journey? With over a decade of experience as a clinical mental health counselor, I offer compassionate and personalized guidance to individuals, children, adolescents, couples, and families. As a trauma-certified counselor, I specialize in helping clients navigate mood disorders, personality disorders, anxiety, and depression. My client-focused approach ensures that your unique needs and goals are at the center of our work together. I completed my clinical education through Northwestern University. Remember, therapy is your journey, and I'm here to support you every step of the way. Let's embark on this path towards healing and a brighter future. I primarily focus on working with children, adolescent, adults, and parenting support. I generally do not specialize with couples.
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Virginia Jones

LISW, 12 years of experience

Warm
Solution oriented
Authentic

Specialties

Trauma and PTSD
Addiction
Anxiety
+10
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:-)
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Sarika Griffin

LISW, 7 years of experience

Open-minded
Direct
Empowering

Specialties

Trauma and PTSD
Self Esteem
Women's Issues
Hi there, I'm Sarika Griffin, a native Floridian who transplanted to Omaha, Nebraska, three years ago. I am a daughter, sister, niece, aunt, cousin, friend, survivor of sexual/dating violence, suicide attempt survivor, and dog mom who advocates for the voiceless—at the same time, changing the stigma of mental health care in the Black/African American community. I obtained a Bachelor of Science in Psychology from the University of North Florida and a Master of Social Work from Florida State University.   Is there something you are struggling to move past something? I empower clients to become the best version of themselves after a trauma. Together we can process these past experiences and get you to a new normal. I live by the philosophy of Lena Horne's words, "It's not the load that breaks you down; it's the way you carry it." My therapy style is empowering, warm, enthusiastic, direct, and interactive. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion, and I don't believe in stigmatizing labels. It takes courage to seek a more fulfilling and happier life and take the first steps toward change. I am here to support you if you are ready to take that step.
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Kari Ross

LMHC, 8 years of experience

Specialties

Trauma and PTSD
Anxiety
Coping Skills
+6
I am a licensed mental health counselor specializing in treating trauma. My approach is holistic, focusing on the whole body and meeting each Client where they are in their journey. Together, we will not only discuss coping skills but also explore what Clients are doing for themselves outside our sessions. I believe in the power of self-care and the importance of nourishing the mind, body, and spirit. We will explore topics such as eating well, incorporating movement into your day, building connections with others, and overall wellness practices. Mental wellness is a journey, and my goal is to help you restore balance and begin to enjoy life again. I look forward to supporting you on your path to healing and well-being. Let's start this restorative journey together.
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Jami Wood

LISW, 12 years of experience

Warm
Authentic
Intelligent

Specialties

Trauma and PTSD
Addiction
Anxiety
+10
I'm passionate about working with adults coping with depression, relationship difficulties, substance use/co-occurring disorders, complicated family dynamics, career or academic challenges, life transitions, and the effects of trauma. In our work together, I'll incorporate reflection, curiosity, and humor alongside therapeutic modalities such as solution-focused therapy, mindfulness, and cognitive-behavioral therapy. I'll hold a safe, shame-free space for us where we can explore new ways to address unhelpful patterns, move through uncomfortable feelings, and be kinder to yourself. Therapy does not need to be scary nor dull. My clients would say I come across as competent and compassionate. No one deserves to do life alone. I look forward to being on your team and tackling challenges together one step at a time.
VirtualNext available on
No reviews yet

Karen Gutherless

LMHC, 15 years of experience

New to Grow

Direct

Specialties

Trauma and PTSD
ADHD
Anxiety
+10
I am a Licensed Independent Mental Health Practitioner (LIMHP) and Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) with 15+ years of experience delivering trauma-informed care, crisis intervention, and behavioral health program leadership across private practice, healthcare, and virtual platforms. My work has impacted over 50,000 clients, helping individuals, families, and organizations, strengthen mental wellness through individual and group therapy, intensive outpatient programs (IOP), telehealth counseling, and employee assistance program (EAP) services. I have provided care to clients, addressing challenges such as PTSD, anxiety, depression, grief, workplace stress, and life transitions. Key achievements include: Led program development and quality assurance for outpatient and geriatric mental health programs. Built strategic telehealth partnerships with national EAP providers to expand virtual care access. Integrated creative therapy methods through my Fine Arts background, especially for youth and trauma survivors. Supervised and mentored early-career clinicians to elevate care quality and professional growth. Licensed in Nebraska, Iowa, Kansas, Minnesota, New Jersey, and Tennessee. I’m passionate about empowering people to reclaim their mental wellness — and helping organizations design safe, supportive, and effective mental health programs.
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Ayonna Chappell

LMHC, 11 years of experience

Open-minded
Direct

Specialties

Trauma and PTSD
Anxiety
Depression
+10
Hello, I'm Ayonna, a licensed professional counselor with over 12 years of experience working as a licensed mental health counselor. Throughout my career, I have had the privilege of working with clients facing a wide range of concerns and struggles, including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, parenting problems, divorce issues, and individuals who have experienced physical and/or sexual trauma or emotional abuse.
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Kenneth Roper

LISW, 5 years of experience

Empowering
Authentic

Specialties

Trauma and PTSD
Addiction
Anxiety
+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.
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Candace Delis

LMHC, 6 years of experience

Authentic
Open-minded
Direct

Specialties

Trauma and PTSD
Anxiety
Depression
+6
Hi, I’m Candace — a Licensed Professional Counselor with a Master’s in Community Counseling from Lakeland University and a Bachelor’s in Sociology from UW-Stevens Point. I’m a straightforward, no-fluff therapist who believes the best work happens when you feel safe enough to be fully yourself. My clients often tell me I’m not a “typical” therapist — and they’re right. I’m progressive, direct, sometimes sarcastic, and always focused on creating a space where you don’t have to pretend. I work well with people who want honesty, humor, and real conversations — whether you’re dealing with anxiety, relationship issues, burnout, identity exploration, or just feeling stuck. I’m an animal lover (my dogs are basically coworkers), I have tattoos, and I’m not easily rattled. You won’t shock me, and you don’t have to filter yourself here. If you’re looking for a therapist who keeps it real, creates a safe space, and isn’t afraid to challenge you when needed — with compassion and maybe a little dry humor — I might be a good fit.
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Terri Hoag

LISW, 30 years of experience

Authentic
Warm

Specialties

Trauma and PTSD
Anxiety
Depression
+8
Hi, I am a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker. I currently live in Mobile, Alabama but I am licensed in four other states as well. I have a Masters Degree in Social Work from the University of Iowa. I have been a Social Work for 30 years and have worked with all ages. I feel my purpose is to help you identify ways to improve your life.
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Diane Bales

LMHC, 15 years of experience

Warm
Solution oriented
Empowering

Specialties

Trauma and PTSD
Anxiety
Depression
+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
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Megan Bigler Tafolla

LISW, 3 years of experience

Solution oriented
Warm
Authentic

Specialties

Trauma and PTSD
Anxiety
Couples Counseling
+10
As a licensed clinical social worker, I am committed to collecting evidenced based "tools for my toolbox" to aid those grappling with finding the new normal after their world has shifted. I most love helping people find language to describe their losses, often when there has been difficulty finding the words, inspiring people to find hope again, and facilitate the development of a plan to move forward in a way that both honors their experiences and embraces the future. I take an action-oriented, collaborative approach to therapy. I utilize a combination of psychoeducation, storytelling, and evidenced-based interventions to offer meaningful insight to support clients’ healing. I strongly believe that rock bottom is the foundation upon which we can rebuild our lives. We do regular check-ins to review progress along the way. Our goal is not to change the past, but instead to find some relief from symptoms that impact daily functioning. I will solicit feedback regularly during sessions for takeaways to gauge progress and curate treatment interventions based on what is most engaging and productive for the individual client.
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Kat Andrade

LISW, 28 years of experience

Authentic
Solution oriented
Empowering

Specialties

Trauma and PTSD
Anxiety
Depression
+9
Greetings, my name is Dr. Katherine Andrade, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I have 28 years of experience working in Medical, Health, Mental Health, and Substance Use. I have worked as a school, mental health, medical, and military social worker. I have a Master's and Doctorate degrees in Social Work. I specialize in working with adults/seniors with mental health and substance use challenges as well as family issues, stress, adjusting to medical challenges, and military/veteran issues.
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Trent Eisenbeisz

LISW, 10 years of experience

Authentic
Solution oriented
Humorous

Specialties

Trauma and PTSD
Addiction
ADHD
+5
I am a licensed independent clinical social worker with over 14 years of experience working as a clinician, therapist , and crisis interventionist. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, substance use problems, psychosis, and ADHD. I also helped people who have experienced trauma and/or emotional abuse. I would like to clarify my expertise does not include eating disorders, or pornography addiction as of yet, although I do understand some of the symptoms and causes. My therapy style is genuine and solution focused.. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. My approach is dialectical behavioral based with strengths perspective and motivational interviewing. Any treatment plan to meet your needs will be collaborative, timely, and with measurable goals. Usually following the "S.M.A.R.T." goal format. Specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and timely. I have worked extensively in crisis intervention in the agency and on the streets, in hospitals, and in mental health courts and case management agencies, and have managed in this capacity. I also have many years experience related to substance use disorders and have worked as a therapist utilizing primarily Dialectical Behavioral Therapy as my main approach as well as utilizing Cognitive Behavior Therapy . Regardless of any experience, upbringing, current, or past situation, everyone has choices they can make that best serves them and the life they want to live. I look forward to working with you!
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W Joseph (Joe) White

LMHC, 26 years of experience

Authentic
Warm
Solution oriented

Specialties

Trauma and PTSD
Life Transitions
Self Esteem
+9
Hi, I’m Joe. With 26 years of experience across outpatient and hospital settings, I help individuals and families navigate life’s challenges with compassion and clarity. I specialize in working with teens and families during times of transition, using a collaborative approach that focuses on building insight, connection, and resilience. Together, we’ll work to understand what’s getting in the way and develop the tools you need to move forward. I’m here to support your growth every step of the way.
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Dr. Ashley Newberry

LISW, 10 years of experience

Frequently rebooked

Open-minded
Authentic

Specialties

Trauma and PTSD
ADHD
Anxiety
+6
As a trauma-informed and trauma-focused therapist, I have dedicated my academic and professional career to understanding how life experiences shape both our conscious and unconscious processes. Through my doctoral training, I expanded my research on trauma-focused treatment in virtual care settings, while also deepening my understanding of the biological and psychological foundations of trauma. This integrative approach supports a comprehensive mind-body perspective in psychotherapy, allowing for more holistic and effective healing.
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Ephraim Tokar

LMFT, 20 years of experience

Authentic
Humorous
Direct

Specialties

Trauma and PTSD
Career Counseling
Men's Issues
+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!
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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 the state. 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 insurance?

When booking you’ll be asked to verify with your Member ID. However, if you don’t have any of the insurances available 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 Trauma and PTSD?

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. For example, your selected specialty, Trauma and PTSD, is filtering therapists in Iowa that work with patients with similar concerns.

What are the "Clients say I’m" badges?

Grow Therapy asks patients about their experience with therapists after they have had a certain number of sessions. After enough responses, we add those characteristics to their profiles to help you find the best online therapists for you. We're still working on collecting this information from all our therapists.

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 to expect during your first 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.