Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC)

Owner, Ankeny Family Counseling

I opened Ankeny Family Counseling in 2015 after working for others in the counseling field for over 30 years, My vision is to be deeply committed to your counseling experience. My hope for you is that will heal, that with help you are able to solve life's difficulties that stand in your way of happiness.

I have always had a heart for helping others and believe my work isn't really work, its a calling. In my late teens and early 20s I struggled with my own problems in life. After years of trying to solve problems on my own without success I was helped by some of the most caring and talented counselors. My life has been on positive trajectory ever since. I know that I would not be where I am today without the help of others.

With the help of Department of Vocational Rehabilitation I was able to obtain a Bachelors Degree in Social Work from Mt Mercy College in Cedar Rapids. I worked with the substance abuse population for many years and then returned to college at Drake University earning a Master's Degree in Counseling.

I have found myself very interested in working with developmental, sexual, relational, and family trauma. Fifteen years ago I became certified in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR). I have had great success using EMDR for PTSD, phobias, addictions, complex grief, religious abuse, anxiety and depression.

I am also trained in Sue Johnson's model of Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT). Using EFT I have helped couples overcome relationship injuries, helped couples who have been living like roommates become intimate partners and improve communication.

Area of Expertise

EMDR (Certified)
Gottman for Couples
Emotionally Focused Therapy for Couples
Couples Counseling
Christian Counseling- only for those that request this
Trauma Focused
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)

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