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Discover Support & Begin Healing

Taking the step to consider counseling is an act of strength and hope. At Iowa Family Counseling, we understand that life can bring challenges that feel overwhelming, and you don’t have to face them alone. Our team provides a safe, compassionate space where you can share your story, explore your struggles, and discover new ways to heal and grow.

 

Whether you are navigating anxiety, depression, grief, relationship challenges, or simply seeking greater balance in your life, counseling offers tools and support tailored to your unique needs. Together, we’ll work toward meaningful change and greater well-being.

This is your invitation to begin the healing process.

 

When you’re ready, we’re here to walk alongside you—every step of the way.

WHAT IS THERAPY?

Therapy, often referred to as psychotherapy or counseling, is a supportive process that involves collaboration with a licensed therapist who has a minimum of a master’s in psychology or a related field.

 

These professionals employ research-backed techniques and methodologies, such as EMDR, DBT, and play therapy, to guide individuals through a range of challenging feelings, behaviors, and relationships.

 

By participating in therapy, individuals can effectively address and work through various issues that may their emotional well-being and overall quality of life.

 

It's to note that therapists differ from life coaches and peer mentors, as they are trained to diagnose and treat mental health disorders, providing a depth of expertise that goes beyond the scope of coaching.

HOW DO I KNOW WHEN TO SEEK MENTAL HEALTH TREATMENT FOR MYSELF OR A LOVED ONE?

Each mental health condition has its own set of signs and symptoms. In general, however, professional help may be warranted if you or a loved one experiences:

  • Marked change in personality, eating or sleeping patterns

  • Inability to cope with problems or daily activities

  • Strange or extreme ideas

  • Excessive anxiety

  • Prolonged depression or loss of interest or enjoyment

  • Thinking or talking about suicide

  • Substance abuse

  • Extreme mood swings or excessive anger, hostility or violent behavior

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Many people who have mental health conditions consider their signs and

symptoms a normal part of life or avoid treatment out of shame or fear.

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If you're concerned about your mental health or a loved one's mental health, don't hesitate to seek advice.

HOW IS TALKING TO A THERAPIST OR COUNSELOR DIFFERENT THAN TALKING TO A FRIEND OR FAMILY MEMBER?

Engaging with a therapist is distinct from chatting with friends or in several important ways.

  • Therapists offer a professional, impartial viewpoint, creating safe environment for exploring emotions without fear of judgment.

  • Unlike loved ones, therapists are trained to steer conversations and provide personalized coping strategies.

  • This professional relationship encourages deeper self-reflection and personal development that might not happen in casual talks with those close to you.

Therapy Session

WHAT TO EXPECT DURING FIRST VISIT:

Your first therapy session is designed to help us get to know you and your unique needs. Initial visits typically last 60–90 minutes, while follow-up sessions are usually 30–60 minutes. Many clients start with weekly sessions, but we’ll work together to determine the frequency and duration that best supports your goals.

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During your first appointment, we’ll complete any remaining paperwork, such as consents, releases of information, and insurance details. Most importantly, we’ll spend time talking about what brought you to therapy. This conversation will include:

  • Your current concerns and symptoms and history of 

  • How long and how intensely these symptoms have been affecting you (and your family)

  • Your support system and personal history

  • Your resources and needs

  • Relevant family background

Together, we’ll also begin setting treatment goals and outlining a plan that feels manageable and meaningful to you. This first step is the foundation for your journey toward healing and growth.​​

HOW DO I PREPARE MY CHILD FOR THEIR INITIAL THERAPY APPOINTMENT?

HOW DO I PREPARE FOR MY INITIAL THERAPY APPOINTMENT?

Preparing your child for a counseling appointment can help them feel more comfortable and engaged.

  • Start by explaining what counseling is in simple terms, emphasizing that it’s a safe space to talk about feelings and thoughts.

  • Normalize any feelings of nervousness or uncertainty, as many kids experience this before their first session.

  • Encourage your child to ask questions about the process, addressing any concerns they may have.

  • Role-playing what a session might be like can also demystify the experience and make it feel less intimidating.

  • Discussing their goals for counseling—such as managing emotions or improving relationships—can provide clarity and motivation.

  • Reassure your child that they don’t have to share anything they’re not comfortable with and that the counselor is there to help.

  • Finally, consider planning a fun activity after the appointment to create a positive association with counseling. 

If you want to get the most out of your appointment(s), it's best to come prepared. To prepare for the initial counseling session (biopsychosocial assessment), start by:

  • Set clear goals about what you want to achieve - jot down any thoughts or experiences you'd like to discuss to help you remember key points.

  • Being honest during your session is crucial for building trust, so approach the conversation openly.

  • It can also be helpful to prepare any questions you have in advance, in addition, bring a list of your medications and health insurance card.

  • Engage in some self-care beforehand, such as deep breathing or a calming activity, to help you feel centered. Aim to arrive a bit early to give yourself time to relax.

  • Finally, keep an open mind, as this will allow you to explore new ideas and perspectives that may arise during the session. These steps can enhance the effectiveness of your counseling experience.

DO YOU ACCEPT INSURANCE? HOW WILL I PAY FOR SESSIONS?

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Services may be covered in full or in part by your health insurance or employee benefit plan.

 

To determine your coverage, contact your insurance company or benefits provider prior to your first appointment.

 

We have put together a list of questions to ask when calling your health insurance company, as well as payment information on our Insurance and Payments page.  

WHAT ARE TELETHERAPY SESSIONS LIKE AND HOW DO I GET STARTED?

Teletherapy sessions are simply therapy sessions where the client and therapist are not in the same physical location. Though you may not be able to be in the same

location as your therapist, you can still receive consistent, quality mental health

care.

 

We typically connect through our secure, EHR telehealth platform

(Simple Practice) via your client profile, however, back-up compliant platforms we

may utilize include Google Meet. 

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Click the Beginning Teletherapy button to download a helpful resource for getting started with teletherapy. It includes basic tips and instructions for how to join a

video session as well as some frequently asked questions to make your teletherapy sessions successful.

Online Meeting
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HOW DO I SCHEDULE AN APPOINTMENT?

If you are interested in scheduling an appointment, email us or use the button below to get started with an appointment request. â€‹One of our team members will contact you to review your needs and provide further instruction surrounding accessing your online client portal account. We will let you know which forms need to be completed prior to your appointment. For your convenience, most forms will be sent electronically using our patient portal and can be completed using a computer, tablet, or phone. We do have paper-copies (including braille), available to complete at the office - please let our staff know if this or any other accommodation is necessary. 

 

A pre-assessment questionnaire will also be sent with some demographic questions, request for insurance information (if applicable), in addition to your access to basic needs and your current medications. 

ARE YOU ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS?

We are always accepting new clients, however, the wait time to receive services could range from as little as a few business days, to 8-12 weeks, and depend on a few factors. These factors include scheduling availability and alignment between your schedule and therapist availability and specialty and openness to teletherapy/virtual sessions. 

 

If you would like to start services with us, please add your information (and/or intended client's information), using the link below and a staff member will reach out to you to follow up with you. Please note that being added to our appointment request/waitlist, does not constitute a client/therapist relationship. 

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WHAT DO I DO IF I AM IN CRISIS?

Iowa Family Counseling is not a crisis facility and not available at all times. 

If you are experiencing a psychiatric emergency, please contact

an emergency service provider, call 911 or go to the nearest

emergency room. Below is a list of helpful numbers to have on-hand.

INSURANCE & pAYMENT

Our therapists are in-network with most major health insurance companies (including Iowa Medicaid and Medicare). Click here to learn more about health insurance and fees.

FORMS

While most of our forms will be sent to you via our Patient Portal prior to your initial visit, our required consents and forms can also be viewed online.

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