our TEAM
GOOD LIFE THERAPISTS
GOOD LIFE PSYCHIATRIC PROVIDERS
GOOD LIFE SUPPORT STAFF
GRADUATE INTERNS
THE GOOD LIFE TEAM
Anna Zuidema MA, LMHC, NCC
Clinical Director | Therapist
West Des Moines | 1st Floor | Suite 104
I graduated from Northwestern University's Master of Clinical Mental Health Counseling program in 2018. Prior to that, I received my B.A in Sociology from Wheaton College in Norton, Massachusetts (2006).
As a counselor, I work with adults using Person-Centered and Psychodynamic approaches to help facilitate change and growth through increased insight and awareness into the impact of past experiences and beliefs on present thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. I also work to incorporate Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance Commitment Therapy (ACT), Positive Psychology, and Mindfulness approaches that are tailored to your specific treatment goals and values.
I specialize in mood disorders, trauma, adjustment issues, and chronic pain. I am trained in EMDR and Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT), both evidence-based interventions used to treat PTSD and reduce distress related to other traumatic events.
Outside of my own practice, I am contracted with the Central Iowa Trauma Recovery Center in Des Moines, where I provide individual counseling services for victims of crime in Iowa.
Anna accepts Blue Cross Blue Shield insurance and also offers a direct rate.
Breanne Meisenheimer MSW, LISW
Therapist and Social Worker
West Des Moines | 3rd Floor | Suite 340
I hold a Master of Social Work degree from the University of Northern Iowa, graduating in 2019. I am also a Licensed Independent Social Worker (LISW). Since completing my degree, I’ve been dedicated to offering mental health support to individuals and families in the Des Moines area.
As a therapist, I offer counseling to adolescents and adults. I am passionate about addressing concerns such as trauma, anxiety, depression, stress, grief, and life transitions. I am committed to creating a judgment-free space where clients can feel heard, understood, and comfortable to progress at their own pace.
I utilize Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT). I integrate these therapeutic modalities into my practice, working collaboratively with clients to tailor sessions to their individual needs.
I believe that each person is the expert of their own experience and it is a privilege to support clients in developing the tools and skills to overcome challenges and work toward achieving their desired outcomes.
Chad Peters MS, TLMHC
Therapist
West Des Moines | 1st Floor | Suite 100
I graduated from Grand View University with a Master’s in Clinical Mental Health Counseling and am currently a temporary licensed mental health counselor. I graduated from Colorado State University with a B.A. in Sociology.
I utilize Narrative, Person-Centered, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapies, and value the therapeutic relationship between the therapist and client. I work to build positive relationships with my clients and provide a welcoming and comfortable environment to help individuals reach their goals and make positive life changes.
I focus on working collaboratively with the individual to shape the counseling experience to help the client feel empowered to address the issues brought to counseling. Your story matters and sometimes we all need a little help understanding our own story. I can help you find your strengths and help you address negative aspects of your story to live a more fulfilling life.
My areas of focus are LGBTQIA+ issues, loss and grief, anxiety, depression, and adjustment issues. I work primarily with adults and LGBTQIA+ people of all ages.
Ellen Petersen MSW, LISW
Therapist and Social Worker
West Des Moines | 1st Floor | Suite 104
I’m Ellen, a licensed therapist dedicated to promoting healing, growth, and empowerment. With a deep understanding of the effects of systematic oppression and a feminist alignment, I provide therapy sessions grounded in the principles of Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and I firmly believe in the principles of gender equality and social justice. I recognize the unique challenges faced by individuals who identify within a minority identity and the intersections of their identities within other forms of oppression. I aim to create a safe and inclusive space where individuals can explore and heal from the wounds they may have incurred due to these systemic injustices and recent or generational trauma.
The heart of my practice is Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT). We focus on developing psychological flexibility, promoting mindfulness, and fostering values-driven action. Whether you are struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, self-esteem, or navigating relationship issues, I am committed to tailoring our therapeutic journey to meet your unique needs.
I firmly believe in the inherent resilience and potential for growth within each individual. Together, we can navigate the complexities of your experiences, empower you to challenge oppressive systems, explore your authentic self, and cultivate a life of meaning and fulfillment. Let's embark on this transformative journey together, empowering you to reclaim your voice, and rewrite your narrative.
Ellen accepts Blue Cross Blue Shield insurance and also offers a direct rate.
Deena Leonard MS, LMHC
Therapist
Johnston | 1st Floor | Suite 101
I graduated from Drake University with a Master’s in Rehabilitation, Community and School Counseling in 2007. I originally worked as a school therapist before moving into a community setting.
As a therapist I believe therapy should be individualized, based on each person’s specific needs. My ultimate goal is to empower clients to change what can be changed and to identify appropriate coping skills for what cannot be changed. I do this by creating a safe, client-centered therapeutic environment that allows the client to identify their individual goals. I believe each person is the ultimate expert in their own lives and I am there to assist them in achieving their personal goals.
Each of my clients receives individualized treatment. Interventions are specific to your needs. I utilize a variety of Cognitive Behavioral, Solution-Focused and Rational Emotive Behavioral Therapy to assist my clients.
I currently work with adults and couples. I have experience in dealing with a variety of issues: Depression, anxiety, stress, behavioral concerns, adjustment, grief and loss, work and career issues, addiction and recovery, relationships, identity work, and ADHD.
I also am a Certified First Responder Counselor. I've been trained in the unique culture that first responders and police officers experience. They have experiences that others don't have. Their mental health needs are not "typical" mental health needs. A Certified First Responder Counselor is specially trained to understand the needs of these heroes, including the importance of confidentiality and trust.
Deena accepts Blue Cross Blue Shield insurance and also offers a direct rate.
Kimberly Montgomery MSW, LISW
Therapist and Social Worker
West Des Moines | 1st Floor | Suite 100
I believe my role as a therapist is to assist individuals and couples in navigating the unique challenges that life can present. I work from a Person Centered and
Trauma-Based lens. My therapeutic style is open, integrative, collaborative, and engaged. Nothing brings me more joy than empowering my clients to access
their inner strengths and achieve their therapeutic goals.
My educational background includes a Master’s of Social Work from the University of Iowa in 2013 and two Bachelor’s degrees in Psychology and Child,
Adult and Family Services from Iowa State University in 2009. With over 12 years of work experience in the mental health field, I have had the privilege to work with many different populations in a number of settings.
I have been trained in trauma therapy, bereavement therapy, the Gottman Method (Couples), and perinatal mood disorders. My areas of interest include depression, grief, perinatal recovery, sexuality, and trauma. My goal as a therapist is to foster clarity and healing, and to make a safe space for my client’s therapeutic journey to unfold as they are meant to.
Kimberly is currently accepting new clients. Individuals 17 and older & Couples.
Jenn Demiter MS, TLMHC
Therapist
West Des Moines | 1st Floor | Suite 104
I am a graduate of Drake University's Clinical Mental Health Counseling program. Prior to this, I received my B.S in Psychology and Criminology from Iowa State University in 2018. I have provided group and individual counseling to diverse individuals in a community substance abuse and mental health clinic, as well as in private practice setting.
As a therapist, I recognize past experiences impact our present beliefs, thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. My goal is to help promote change and healing by increasing awareness and insight into these experiences. I utilize a Psychodynamic approach and also work to incorporate Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and Mindfulness approaches.
Through these therapies, I work to individually tailor activities that meet your needs and aid in bringing you closer to your goals. My areas of clinical interest include anxiety, depression, trauma, chronic pain, and mood disorders. I am also passionate about how trauma and stress impact the body physiologically.
I strive to be compassionate and take a collaborative approach to your care. I view clients as the expert in their own lives with a voice that deserves to be heard and seen without judgement.
Melissa Wilson MS, TLMHC
Therapist
West Des Moines | 1st Floor | Suite 100
I received my Master’s in Clinical Mental Health Counseling with specializations in Marriage, Couples, and Family Counseling, as well as Addiction Counseling from Walden University. Prior to that, I received my B.A. in Health Promotions from the University of Northern Iowa.
As a Therapist, I enjoy working with adults and couples. Listening to clients helps me to better understand their desires, values, and goals for the life they want to live, all while creating a judgment free space that promotes increased vulnerability through feelings of safety and trust. When working with couples I like to cultivate a healthy support system to meet both parties individual's needs within the marriage and to create a healthy union as they discover how to better communicate and make behavior modifications that will support growth.
I enjoy incorporating several theoretical approaches including Narrative Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and Gestalt Therapy. However, the foundation of my practice centers on person-centered approaches that honor the inherent knowledge and experiences of clients to find the answers they are seeking within themselves as I am alongside them for the journey.
My areas of focus include: anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, grief, divorce, PTSD, and OCD.
Erin Knauer MSW, LISW
Therapist and Social Worker
West Des Moines | 3rd Floor | Suite 340
I have worked in the field of social work for over 15 years since receiving my Master of Social Work degree in 2015 from University of Northern Iowa.
I have provided both group and individual counseling services to adults and adolescents. I work with diverse populations in a variety of settings; these include residential, school, and supportive community living. I have worked with a range of clients including domestic violence survivors, people struggling with substance abuse, and elderly clients facing chronic and life limiting health conditions. I am also a support group leader for the US Pain Foundation.
Through therapies like ACT, I individually tailored activities to aid clients in identifying their own goals and steps needed to bring them closer to those goals every week. I primarily serve adults and am available for both in-person and Telehealth appointments. My areas of clinical interest are depression, anxiety, stress, grief and loss.
My goal is to help empower each individual to live the life they envision. I strive to be compassionate and take a collaborative approach to your care. I work with you to incorporate treatment modalities that fit your needs so you can live your best life.
Erin accepts Blue Cross Blue Shield insurance and United Healthcare.
Samantha Schwennen LMHC, NCC, CAdPT
Child Therapist | Certified Play Therapist
West Des Moines | 3rd Floor | Suite 340
Lakewood Elementary
I graduated from the University of Northern Iowa in 2020 with a master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. I have been working in the school setting for over five years.
I work with individuals ages 6 and older. I believe play has the power to change and heal. Often, children are unable to express their emotions verbally because they have not developed the vocabulary or thinking skills necessary to do this. Sometimes adults even struggle to put their feelings into words. I utilize art, music, puppets, storytelling, role play, and talk therapy as needed to explore the client’s inner world and introduce new ways of thinking and behaving.
In the therapy room I will create a safe space for each individual to express themselves and gain insight into their own thoughts or behaviors that may be getting in the way. We will then connect this experience with the outside world and practice new, healthier patterns of living. I will explore the client’s ability to connect with others, capability to do hard things, courage to try new experiences, and how they gain significance in their world.
I believe as a parent or guardian you can support your child daily, whereas I may only see them once a week. Parent involvement is often a crucial aspect of success and therefore parent or family therapy will be added to the treatment plan as necessary.
I have experience with anxiety, depression, trauma, attachment, and grief and have witnessed the power of play in lessening these symptoms and empowering the individual to make changes in their daily life.
Nelly Meyer MS, LMHC
Therapist
West Des Moines | 1st Floor | Suite 100
I graduated from The Chicago School of Professional Psychology’s Master of Counseling Psychology program in 2020 and am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC). Prior to this, I graduated from the University of Iowa in 2018 with a B.A. in Psychology.
During graduate school and my clinical internship, I received specific training in providing culturally competent, trauma-informed, care through a social justice framework. As a therapist, I have experience providing individual, group, and family therapy in both community and private practice settings.
I currently work with adults navigating issues such as anxiety, depression, ADHD, interpersonal relationships, attachment issues, self-esteem, boundary work, and identity development. In therapy, I utilize an integrative approach combining psychodynamic, relational, family-systems, person-centered, and cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT). I also utilize many tenants of dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), and attachment theory.
I believe to fully understand another person and what they’re struggling with, we must understand their environment and lived experience. In therapy, we will explore how various systems and environments have impacted your lived experiences and in turn, how your experiences have shaped the way you think, feel, and act. I believe we must truly know ourselves in order to grow and thrive.
Isaac Deike LMSW
West Des Moines | 3rd Floor | Suite 340
I am deeply passionate about supporting the growth and well-being of children and adolescents through social work. With a focus on utilizing solution-focused and strength-based approaches, alongside techniques such as motivational interviewing and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), I strive to empower young individuals to navigate life's challenges and discover their inner resilience.
Having earned my Master's degree in Social Work, I've dedicated my career to working with young people, recognizing the unique potential and strengths each individual possesses. My approach centers on creating a safe and supportive space where kids and adolescents feel empowered to explore their thoughts, feelings, and experiences.
My journey in social work began at the University of Northern Iowa, where I earned my undergraduate degree. There, I cultivated a deep interest in psychology and the complexities of human behavior.
Driven by a desire to delve deeper into supporting individuals facing crises and trauma, I pursued my Master's degree at Clarke University, with a specific emphasis on Crisis and Trauma Counseling. This program equipped me with the knowledge and skills necessary to provide effective support to those in need during their darkest moments.
During my free time, I love to watch basketball as my favorite team is the New York Knicks. I also enjoy hiking and disc golfing.
Meredith Stahl MA, LMHC, NCC
Therapist
West Des Moines | 1st Floor | Suite 104
I graduated from Northwestern University’s Master’s of Clinical Mental Health Counseling program in 2020. I am a National Certified Counselor (NCC) and also a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC).
Sometimes we need a little help navigating life. Therapy provides a space to discover who you are. Together we can explore ways to help you live a life that aligns with your values and goals.
I work with adults and adolescents and have experience with clients experiencing anxiety, depression, loss, and trauma. I use an integrative approach combining psychodynamic, person-centered, and cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), and I also utilize DBT concepts to help increase mindfulness. I use these modalities to help clients achieve a sense of wellness and gain perspective.
If you’re struggling with anxiety, depression, or everyday stressors, therapy can help you develop tools to more effectively manage your symptoms and handle the curve balls that life throws at us. As a therapist, I create an affirming, safe space for my clients where they can explore and reflect on their authentic selves.
Meredith accepts Blue Cross Blue Shield insurance and also offers a direct rate.
Angela Hopkins MS, TLMHC
Johnston Office | Suite 101
As a mental health therapist, I am dedicated to providing individuals with a safe and supportive space to explore their thoughts, feelings and behaviors. With over 25 years of experience in the mental health field, I am equipped to help clients navigate a variety of mental health challenges including anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship issues and sexual behavior problems. My approach to therapy is client-centered and collaborative. I work with each individual to develop personalized goals that address their unique needs. I use evidenced-based techniques such as cognitive-behavioral therapy, mindfulness practices and trauma-informed care to help clients build resilience, develop coping skills and cultivate self-awareness. My goal is to empower clients to lead fulfilling and meaningful lives by supporting them on their journey towards emotional and mental well-being.
My ideal client would be someone who is motivated and committed to making positive changes in their life, A client that is open to exploring their thoughts and feelings, willing to participate in therapy sessions, and willing to put in the work necessary to make changes.
Susan E. Myers MS, tLMHC, CADC
West Des Moines | 1st Floor | Suite 100
I graduated from Drake University in 2023 with a Master of Science in Counseling, and am a temporary Licensed Mental Health Counselor (tLMHC). I have maintained certification as a Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor (CADC)for the last 8 years, providing co-occurring counseling to youth and adults since 2015 in outpatient community health and hospital settings. Prior to that, I worked as a mediator for divorce, child custody and special education cases for county social service agencies and the state of Iowa’s Department of Education.
My experience includes working with under-served populations, including immigrants, LGBTQ+, people with substance use challenges, and people who are court-involved or living without stable housing. I have experience assisting clients facing various challenges, including depression, anxiety, early life trauma and attachment issues, family conflict, relationship challenges, immigration and adoption, adult ADHD, and life transitions.
My training in therapeutic modalities includes Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavior Therapy (TF-CBT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Solution Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Motivational Interviewing (MI) and Restorative Justice practices. My therapeutic approach honors each client as the expert of their life and needs. I seek to help clients identify their unique strengths as the starting point for our work together. Using a collaborative approach, I invite clients to identify desired goals and objectives for growth and change. My goal is to provide an affirming environment of safety and unconditional acceptance in which you experience the freedom to discover your authentic self and build a life in harmony with your truth and values.
Maddie Moree LISW, MSW
Johnston | 1st Floor | Suite 101
I am a therapist who is dedicated to helping my clients identify and actively work on their therapeutic goals. I specialize in empowering individuals facing various life challenges. My practice focuses on supporting individuals navigating infertility and pregnancy loss along with pregnancy after loss. I have years of experience helping individuals work through stress, work/school related issues, creating and upholding boundaries, communication (including people pleasing tendencies) and becoming strong advocates for themselves!
With a compassionate and straight forward approach, I assist in guiding clients through their personal journeys and struggles, helping them understand themselves on a deeper level. My therapeutic framework is rooted in empathy, understanding, and evidence-based techniques tailored to meet each client’s unique needs.
Throughout my career, I have been committed to fostering a safe and supportive environment where clients feel heard and empowered to explore their emotions and experiences. I firmly believe in the transformative power of therapy to facilitate healing, enhance self-awareness and foster confidence.
In addition to my clinical practice, I am passionate about helping my clients create positive change, both within and beyond our time in therapy. I work collaboratively with clients to cultivate resilience, promote mental well-being and achieve meaningful personal growth.
My goal is to continue making a positive impact in the lives of my clients, empowering them to confidently navigate life’s challenges with strength and resilience.
GOOD LIFE PSYCHIATRIC PROVIDERS
Lisa Weatherwax, MSN, ARNP, PMHNP-BC
Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner
West Des Moines | 3rd Floor | Suite 340
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I completed my postgraduate nursing studies at Purdue University Global. Prior to that I completed my Master of Science in Nursing at WGU Texas and my Bachelor of Science in Nursing at the University of Iowa.
I have almost 35 years of experience in the nursing field caring for patients in multiple settings across the care continuum, in both direct patient care and management/administrator roles. I have always had a passion for mental health as it is a vital component of our overall health and wellbeing.
My role in your journey is to provide evidence-based medication management, with a focus on safety and outcomes that align with your personal goals. I believe in holistic, person-centered, collaborative care, and I will work as a partner with you and other trusted care providers to create an individualized treatment plan that fits your needs and priorities. I believe it takes a village, and that there are many pieces to the puzzle of overall health, with medication as one piece that can serve as a valuable tool in your toolbox. I strive to provide a relaxed, safe, non-judgmental, and accepting environment where you feel seen and heard.
My Good Life includes spending time with family and friends, traveling, serving on the board of the Ankeny Service Center, and watching football, GO CHIEFS!
Rebecca Baker MSN, ARNP, PMHNP-BC
Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner
West Des Moines | 3rd Floor | Suite 340
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I completed my Master of Science in Nursing with a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Postgraduate certificate through Purdue University Global. Prior to that I completed my Bachelor of Science in Nursing at WGU and my Associate of Science in Nursing at DMACC.
With having over 10 years of experience in healthcare, I believe mental health contributes greatly to the happiness and well-being of an individual. I look forward to working with individuals to help create unique and individualized treatment plans that work for them. I believe the best patient care is obtained through collaboration amongst team members and with the use of the most up-to-date evidence based practices and techniques.
My goodlife includes spending time with my family and friends. We enjoy watching football, going to concerts, and spending time in the great outdoors.
GOOD LIFE SUPPORT STAFF
Linda Wynter
Administrative Assistant
I graduated from Des Moines Area Community College in Ankeny Iowa with a certificate in Medical Insurance Billing and Coding in 2012. I am working towards my AA in Liberal Arts. I have worked in healthcare for the last 9 years in various positions.
Good Life Therapy creates a safe atmosphere for clients to be open and receive care in any life situation that may occur. I enjoy helping people and my compassion for others has helped me to transition into my position as Administrative Assistant at Good Life Therapy.
My good life includes my family and friends, walking, reading, and cooking. Outside of work, you can find me working on arts and crafts and baking. I love to try new recipes and chill with my friends and family.
Meghan Anderson
Administrative Assistant
After completing a Bachelor of Arts in Communication Studies at Luther College, I attended University College Dublin, where I graduated with a Master of Science in Digital Policy. Through my communication and digital policy studies, I furthered my passion for people, interpersonal communication, and our ability to connect safely online. While I plan to continue my education in the near future, I look forward to assisting you with all your scheduling needs during my time at Good Life Therapy.
As a therapy advocate and participant, I am pleased to assist you on your therapy journey. As one part of the administrative team, I aim to ease the scheduling process and assure you that care is exercised when handling your appointments.
My good life includes traveling, reading, being with my loved ones and taking on the general newness that makes life interesting
Isabella Ippolito
Administrative Assistant
I graduated from Des Moines Area Community College with my Liberal Arts AA Degree, along with a Marketing Diploma. I am currently working towards my Bachelor's Degree in Business Administration with an emphasis on marketing.
I believe taking care of our mental health is of high importance, and I am happy to help you along your journey in therapy. My goal is to make the scheduling process simple and to answer any questions or concerns you may have.
My Good Life includes spending time with my friends and family, going to concerts, reading, and being outdoors.
Kaitlynn Wamser
Administrative Assistant
I am currently working towards my undergrad in psychology with a focus in family studies at Grand View University. I plan to graduate in May of 2025 and move forward with graduate school to further my studies.
As someone who values mental health and has a passion for aiding others, I am happy to be of help during your time at Good Life. I hope to bring comfort to your scheduling process and have my compassion shine through when assisting you with your needs.
My Good Life consists of traveling with my family, spending time with friends, and enjoying the outdoors.
Puddles
Puddles is the official good dog of Good Life Therapy. She has her American Kennel Club license for being a Canine Good Citizen and believes everybody should have the chance to pet her. She understands that a little empathy can go a long way.
She was found pregnant in a Tijuana alleyway during a rainstorm when she was under a year old. Since then she has dedicated herself to helping other people regulate and can often be found lying where everyone can match her calm and relaxed energy.
GOOD LIFE GRADUATE INTERNS
Morgan Edgeton MS
Graduate Counseling Intern
Perry School District
West Des Moines | 3rd Floor | Suite 340
Lakewood Elementary
I earned my Masters in School Counseling from Upper Iowa University in December 2023 and am currently pursuing my Masters in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. With over 8 years of experience in various school districts across the Des Moines metro, my journey in education has allowed me to work closely with children aged 5-14. My profound understanding of the unique challenges faced by this age group has fueled my desire to expand my expertise in clinical mental health counseling.
My interests include supporting clients ages 4-17 who navigate through a spectrum of challenges, including anxiety, panic disorders, depression, OCD, attachment issues, self-esteem concerns, and the complexities of relationships and divorce. In my therapeutic practice, I draw upon the principles of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) as well as techniques used in Adlerian therapy.
As a continuous learner and advocate for mental health, I am enthusiastic about contributing my skills and knowledge to enhance the well-being of those I work with and am dedicated to creating a safe and empathetic space for clients to explore, grow, and overcome the obstacles they face. Let's embark on a journey of healing, growth, and empowerment together.
Madi Gregory
Graduate Counseling Intern
I graduated from Iowa State University in 2021 with a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Psychology and Spanish and a minor in Child, Adult, Family Services. I am currently in my final year at Drake University in the Master of Science in Counseling program with a concentration in Clinical Mental Health Counseling.
I believe in a customized experience that considers the needs of each individual client through the utilization of empathy, understanding, and person-centered approaches. Day to day life can be so centered around others, therefore I am passionate about providing a space that allows clients to focus completely on themselves and their needs. My goal as a clinician is to help clients achieve a sense of empowerment, self-acceptance, and resilience.
I am currently accepting clients ages 18 through the lifespan. My interests include various challenges including life transitions, anxiety, women’s related mental health, interpersonal relationships, work/school related stress, and family conflict.
My Good Life includes spending time with friends and family, being outside, practicing yoga, or
trying a new recipe!
Shelby Karr
Graduate Counseling Intern
I graduated from Iowa State University in 2021 with my Bachelors of Arts in Psychology and Communications. I am currently working towards my Master’s in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Grand View University. I have over 2 years of experience working one-on-one with children who have been diagnosed with autism in a clinical setting.
My interests include supporting clients ages 4-18 years old dealing with a spectrum of challenges, including anxiety, depression, grief and loss, life transitions, self-esteem issues, trauma, and autism. In my therapeutic approach, I utilize play in therapy, while also drawing upon principles of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Person-Centered Therapy (PCT). I am committed to helping clients navigate their mental health journeys with compassion and evidence-based strategies.
Passionate about promoting mental wellness, I am dedicated to continuous learning and professional development. I believe in the power of a strong therapeutic alliance and strive to build meaningful connections with each client. I strive to create a safe, empathetic environment for clients to thrive, grow, achieve their goals, and improve their overall well-being!