P: 641-777-2774
SEEKING HELP
Do you have a question that you’d like to ask? We’re committed to giving our clients the best care and experience we can. There’s no such thing as a bad question when it comes to mental health. It is always ok to ask for help.
The information provided below can help you to determine when to seek help.
Do you have questions about the process of getting started with counseling or therapy services?
Iowa Family Counseling is in-network with several insurance companies as well as offering self-pay packages.
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.
WHAT IS THERAPY?
Therapy is also known as psychotherapy or counseling. Therapy (or Counseling) is the process of working with a licensed therapist, who uses research-based techniques to help people work through difficult or problematic feelings, behaviors, relationships, and other issues.
WHAT CAN I EXPECT FROM THERAPY SESSIONS?
Initial visits are typically 60-90 min long, with follow-up visits ranging between 30 and 60 minutes. Typically, sessions occur once per week, however, treatment frequency and duration will be discussed at the initial assessment.
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At your first appointment, we will complete the necessary paperwork including consents, releases of information, and insurance information.
We will have a conversation that covers topics including types of symptoms, the severity of symptoms, support systems, resources, and briefly touch on family social history. We will also discuss treatment needs, goals, duration, and frequency of services.
HOW DO I PREPARE FOR MY APPOINTMENT?
To prepare for a counseling session, start by setting 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.
HOW DO I PREPARE MY CHILD FOR THEIR THERAPY APPOINTMENT?
Preparing your child for a counseling appointment can help them feel more comfortable and engaged.
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Start by explaining what counseling is in simple terms, emphasizing that it’s a safe space to talk about feelings and thoughts.
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Normalize any feelings of nervousness or uncertainty, as many kids experience this before their first session.
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Encourage your child to ask questions about the process, addressing any concerns they may have.
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Role-playing what a session might be like can also demystify the experience and make it feel less intimidating.
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Discussing their goals for counseling—such as managing emotions or improving relationships—can provide clarity and motivation.
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Reassure your child that they don’t have to share anything they’re not comfortable with and that the counselor is there to help.
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Finally, consider planning a fun activity after the appointment to create a positive association with counseling.
ARE YOU ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS?
We are accepting new clients, but do currently have a waitlist for services. The wait time to receive services ranges from a week or more to a few months and depends 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 be placed on our waitlist for services, 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 waitlist does not constitute a client/therapist relationship.
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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:
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Marked change in personality, eating or sleeping patterns
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Inability to cope with problems or daily activities
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Strange or extreme ideas
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Excessive anxiety
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Prolonged depression or loss of interest or enjoyment
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Thinking or talking about suicide
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Substance abuse
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Extreme mood swings or excessive anger, hostility or violent behavior
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.
If you're concerned about your mental health or a loved one's mental health, don't hesitate to seek advice.
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.
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Call or Text #988
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Domestic Violence Intervention Program at (800) 373-1043
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Iowa Warm Line (5-10PM/7 days per week) at 1-844-775-9276
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Poison Control at 1-800-222-1222
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Nationwide Suicide Prevention Hotline at 1-800-273-TALK (8255) or 911 locally
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Chat Crisis Services via IMAlive.org or CrisisChat.org
HOW IS TALKING TO A THERAPIST OR COUNSELOR DIFFERENT THAN TALKING TO A FRIEND OR FAMILY MEMBER?
Talking with a therapist differs from conversing with a friend or family member in several key ways. Therapists provide a professional, unbiased perspective, allowing for a safe space to explore feelings without judgment. Unlike friends or family, therapists are trained to guide conversations and offer coping strategies tailored to individual needs. This professional fosters deeper self-reflection and personal growth, which may not always occur in casual discussions with loved ones.
