Skip to main content
Headway

Book grief and loss therapy, covered by insurance

Grief counselors and therapists in Des Moines, IA

Therapist and patient in a therapy session
Calculator Illustration
Get a cost estimate
People with insurance pay as low as $0 per session through Headway

Top grief and loss counseling therapists in Des Moines, IA

Coping with death or loss is deeply personal, and Des Moines residents can access grief counseling through Headway's network of warm, affirming providers. Whether you're grieving a partner, parent, child, or friend, our therapists use proven methods including imaginal recounting and meaning-making to help you process unresolved grief.

Dr. Kristen Kelsey

Dr. Kristen Kelsey

Psychologist

Virtual • Iowa


“I believe therapy should fit you — not the other way around. Every person brings their own story, strengths, and challenges...”
Grief or loss, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Inquisitive, Solution-oriented, Warm
Accepts 3 insurance carriers
Lynne Lutze

Lynne Lutze

Therapist

Virtual & in-person • Peosta, IA


As a seasoned practitioner (since 2006) with a Doctorate in Clinical Psychology, I have dedicated my career to mastering a diverse range of therapeutic modalities to better serve my clients.

My clinical practice is grounded in extensive training across several specialized frameworks, including Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). Additionally, I incorporate Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Interpersonal Psychotherapy, and Hypnotherapy into my work, allowing for a highly tailored and comprehensive approach to psychological wellness.

Grief or loss, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Depression
Affirming, Participatory, Warm
Accepts 4 insurance carriers
Dr. Gerald Igboanusi

Dr. Gerald Igboanusi

Therapist

Virtual • Iowa


“I believe in practicing what I teach. I don't recommend tools I haven't used myself, and I see wellness as a lifelong personal commitment.”
Grief or loss, Anger management, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression
Affirming, Direct, Holistic
Accepts 4 insurance carriers
Claire LeMay

Claire LeMay

Therapist

Virtual • Solon, IA


“My warm and accepting style brings safety to each session, and allows people to explore parts of themselves that they have hidden away for lots of different reasons.”
Grief or loss, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Family issues, LGBTQIA+
Direct, Empowering, Warm
Accepts 5 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Marla Hummel

Marla Hummel

Therapist

Virtual • Iowa


“My goal is to provide a supportive space where you can feel heard, understood, and empowered to move forward.”
Grief or loss, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Chronic conditions
Creative, Open-minded, Solution-oriented
Accepts 3 insurance carriers
Kelsey Kruse

Kelsey Kruse

Therapist

Virtual & in-person • Paullina, IA


“I am a seasoned trauma therapist who has been serving the Sioux Falls, South Dakota community and surrounding area for over 10 years...”
Grief or loss, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Depression
Empowering, Humorous, Warm
Accepts 6 insurance carriers
Kristal Steeves

Kristal Steeves

Therapist

Virtual • Iowa


If you've been told your anxiety, exhaustion, or emotional shifts are "just stress" or "just aging" — and something in you knows it's more than that — you're in the right place. I'm Kristal, a licensed therapist with over 15 years of experience supporting people through life's most challenging transitions. That career — rooted in crisis intervention, child welfare, and working alongside people experiencing homelessness — built in me a deep capacity to sit with complexity, pain, and change without flinching. That foundation now drives my specialized work with women navigating perimenopause and menopause. I bring both clinical expertise and lived experience to this work. I've walked this road myself — which means when you show up, you will be genuinely seen and heard, perhaps in a way you haven't been in a long time.

Check me out on the Grit to Growth Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mTvAK4pRlkM

Grief or loss, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Affirming, Solution-oriented, Warm
Accepts 4 insurance carriers
Megan Blaine

Megan Blaine

Therapist

Virtual • Ottumwa, IA


“My style is warm, down-to-earth, and focused on creating a space where you can be yourself without judgment.”
Grief or loss, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Depression
Direct, Open-minded, Solution-oriented
Accepts 3 insurance carriers
Kristal Williams

Kristal Williams

Therapist

Virtual • Iowa


“I often use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy in my practice. In your first session we'll explore what brought you to therapy and then we will decide the most appropriate ways to help you make progress.”
Grief or loss, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Depression
Empowering, Holistic, Open-minded
Accepts 13 insurance carriers
Dr. Chileme Ochulor

Dr. Chileme Ochulor

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • Davenport, IA


“My goal is to create a safe, nonjudgmental environment where you feel heard, respected, and supported.”
Grief or loss, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Cultural & ethnic issues
Empowering, Solution-oriented, Warm
Accepts 5 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Christina Johnson-Gunn

Christina Johnson-Gunn

Therapist

Virtual • Iowa


If you’re feeling overwhelmed by anxiety, stuck in painful relationship patterns, carrying the effects of trauma, or facing a life transition that feels hard to manage, therapy can be a place to exhale. I work with adults who want support making sense of what they’re going through and finding practical ways to feel more grounded, understood, and in control. I also support clients navigating family dynamics, including experiences related to autism, adoption, and complex relationships.

Grief or loss, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Chronic conditions
Affirming, Direct, Solution-oriented
Accepts 3 insurance carriers
Jan Lebahn

Jan Lebahn

Therapist

Virtual • Iowa


“I love my work and approach each session with passion to explore and enhance the strengths individuals possess.”
Grief or loss, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Energetic, Open-minded, Solution-oriented
Accepts 13 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Ashley Sullivan

Ashley Sullivan

Therapist

Virtual • Des Moines, IA


As a fully licensed therapist for 4+ years Ashley has had experience working with a wide range of clients. Recently she has begun to focus on women's health, ADHD and those with addiction issues.

Grief or loss, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, Family issues
Direct, Humorous, Warm
Accepts 3 insurance carriers
Breanna Young

Breanna Young

Therapist

Virtual • Iowa


“My approach to therapy is calm and supportive, with a focus on helping people feel understood and less alone in what they're facing.”
Grief or loss, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Direct, Empowering, Humorous
Accepts 5 insurance carriers
Shelly Schafer

Shelly Schafer

Therapist

Virtual • Wellsburg, IA


“I meet you where you are at right now in your life. I typically ask what you would like to talk to me about and we go from there.”
Grief or loss, Anxiety, Depression, Family issues, PTSD
Energetic, Humorous, Warm
Accepts 9 insurance carriers
Jacqueline Pickens

Jacqueline Pickens

Therapist

Virtual • Iowa


“Clients can expect to leave sessions feeling heard, valued, and supported, with a clearer understanding of themselves and their unique challenges.”
Grief or loss, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues
Empowering, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 10 insurance carriers
Jason Swain

Jason Swain

Therapist

Virtual • Council Bluffs, IA


“My approach to therapy is meeting you with unconditional positive regard, recognizing that you are the subject matter expert on you...”
Grief or loss, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Chronic conditions
Holistic, Humorous, Open-minded
Accepts 3 insurance carriers
Emily Lopez

Emily Lopez

Therapist

Virtual • Iowa


“I bring a warm, affirming, and strengths-based style, and I welcome clients of all identities and backgrounds.”
Grief or loss, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, Family issues
Affirming, Challenging, Empowering
Accepts 5 insurance carriers
Rebecca Stern

Rebecca Stern

Therapist

Virtual • Iowa


Whether you’re dealing with a long-standing struggle or a new crisis, finding the right therapist can feel overwhelming. I offer a warm, safe, and nonjudgmental space where you can feel supported from the start. Whatever you’re carrying, we’ll work through it together and find a path forward that helps you feel better.

Grief or loss, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, End of life care
Affirming, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 8 insurance carriers
Maggie Austin

Maggie Austin

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • Iowa


“I take a holistic approach to psychiatry, considering a patient's entire well-being, including their physical, emotional, mental, social, and spiritual health.”
Grief or loss, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Empowering, Holistic, Solution-oriented
Accepts 6 insurance carriers
Katelyn Adducci

Katelyn Adducci

Therapist

Virtual • Iowa


“I specialize in working with empathetic, deeply feeling, & creative individuals who struggle with anxiety, self-doubt, and feeling overwhelmed by their emotions.”
Grief or loss, Anxiety, Depression, Family issues, Panic disorders
Creative, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 10 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Carly Herbert

Carly Herbert

Therapist

Virtual • Iowa


“I am a provider that uses humor to heal. I love connecting with people and helping some that have a hard time with the idea of therapy.”
Grief or loss, Anxiety, Depression, Family issues, Maternal mental health
Challenging, Creative, Empowering
Accepts 9 insurance carriers
Abby Frazee

Abby Frazee

Therapist

Virtual • Iowa


“I prioritize developing a strong therapeutic alliance grounded in trust, collaboration, and respect.”
Grief or loss, Anxiety, Depression, End of life care, PTSD
Empowering, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 5 insurance carriers
Angela Sloan

Angela Sloan

Therapist

Virtual • Iowa


“Therapy is client centered and goal directed, so you know what to expect throughout our time together.”
Grief or loss, Anxiety, Depression, Family issues, Maternal mental health
Humorous, Inquisitive, Solution-oriented
Accepts 7 insurance carriers
Stephenie Szumny

Stephenie Szumny

Therapist

Virtual • Iowa


“I believe that the foundation of effective therapy is a strong, trusting relationship between counselor and client.”
Grief or loss, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Depression, End of life care
Empowering, Holistic, Humorous
Accepts 6 insurance carriers
Constance McConnell

Constance McConnell

Therapist

Virtual • Iowa


“I use cognitive processing, narrative and mindfulness therapies to help empower my clients to utilize their natural strengths and supports in order to build confidence in their own identities, set healthy boundaries, and advocate for themselves.”
Grief or loss, Anxiety, Depression, Family issues, Maternal mental health
Affirming, Empowering, Participatory
Accepts 3 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Elizabeth Rigsbee

Elizabeth Rigsbee

Therapist

Virtual • Iowa


“I believe therapy should happen in a judgment-free, empathetic atmosphere where you can feel safe to explore your wellness goals.”
Grief or loss, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Depression
Inquisitive, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 3 insurance carriers
Gladys Larsen

Gladys Larsen

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • Iowa


“My style is warm, collaborative, and empowering. I take time to truly listen to my clients, educate them about their diagnoses and treatment options, and engage them as active participants in their healing journey.”
Grief or loss, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Chronic conditions
Open-minded, Solution-oriented, Warm
Accepts 6 insurance carriers
Teresa Nundahl

Teresa Nundahl

Therapist

Virtual • Iowa


“My approach is warm, client-centered, and tailored to your individual needs because no two healing journeys are the same.”
Grief or loss, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Depression, Family issues
Empowering, Solution-oriented, Warm
Accepts 3 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Elizabeth Wold

Elizabeth Wold

Therapist

Virtual • Iowa


“With a kind, compassionate, and down-to-earth approach, I help you discover the tools you already have inside to move forward and find relief.”
Grief or loss, Anxiety, Depression, Family issues, Identity issues
Affirming, Empowering, Open-minded
Accepts 8 insurance carriers
Holly Ringler

Holly Ringler

Therapist

Virtual • Iowa


“I believe that therapy should be open, empathetic and validating. I am here to listen, support and guide you through your journey towards finding relief from whatever it is that's bringing you pain.”
Grief or loss, Anger management, Anxiety, Depression, Family issues
Holistic, Solution-oriented, Warm
Accepts 1 insurance carrier
Julie Butler

Julie Butler

Therapist

Virtual • Iowa


I am so happy you are here. I've practiced counseling since 2012 and am a licensed mental health counselor in Iowa. I provide telehealth therapy, which is an accessible way to receive healing from the comfort of your home. My work includes helping people with life transitions, relationship conflicts, grief, trauma, anxiety, and depression. I offer both individual and couples counseling.

Grief or loss, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Affirming, Empowering, Solution-oriented
Accepts 6 insurance carriers
Joanie Defibaugh

Joanie Defibaugh

Therapist

Virtual • Iowa


“My approach is warm, compassionate, and nonjudgmental. I work with adults to better understand how past experiences continue to shape their lives today...”
Grief or loss, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Humorous, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 4 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Logan Wissing

Logan Wissing

Therapist

Virtual • Iowa


“We focus on what's actually happening in your day-to-day life, especially in the moments where your thoughts spiral or your mood drops.”
Grief or loss, Anxiety, Chronic conditions, Depression, Family issues
Creative, Direct, Solution-oriented
Accepts 3 insurance carriers
Mary Ruhland

Mary Ruhland

Therapist

Virtual • Iowa


“I am a trauma informed therapist who collaborates with you to develop a plan to reach your potential.”
Grief or loss, Anger management, Anxiety, Depression, Eating disorders
Affirming, Empowering, Open-minded
Accepts 10 insurance carriers
Dr. Brenden Troster

Dr. Brenden Troster

Therapist

Virtual • Iowa


I am a marriage and family therapist licensed in Minnesota with a PhD in Psychology, 7 years of experience working as a therapist, and 22 years of experience working as a coach. I have accumulated a wide range of experience working with a diverse clientele. Some of the many issues I have worked with people on are depression, anxiety, self-harm, addiction, trauma, parenting problems, relationship issues, ADHD, sexual abuse, pornography addiction, and anger management.

Grief or loss, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Depression
Inquisitive, Open-minded, Solution-oriented
Accepts 4 insurance carriers
Angeline Baucom

Angeline Baucom

Therapist

Virtual • Iowa


Great to meet you!

As a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor with 6 years of experience, I believe that prioritizing your mental health is essential to creating happiness and stability in life. I know that seeking help can be one of the hardest steps, and I truly respect the courage it takes to reach out. I focus on supporting clients who are navigating addiction, trauma, and other significant stressors, and I’m committed to meeting you with empathy, understanding, and honesty from the very beginning.

Grief or loss, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Depression
Affirming, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 3 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Joanna Bement

Joanna Bement

Therapist

Virtual • Iowa


“I see myself as someone who is a giver of hope, that we can partner together, along with some good tools, to make things better.”
Grief or loss, Anxiety, Diabetes, Panic disorders, PTSD
Energetic, Participatory, Solution-oriented
Accepts 9 insurance carriers
Keife Earley

Keife Earley

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • Des Moines, IA


“I combine medication management, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), mindfulness techniques, and functional medicine principles to address mental health comprehensively.”
Grief or loss, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Empowering, Holistic, Solution-oriented
Accepts 9 insurance carriers
Shannon Miller

Shannon Miller

Therapist

Virtual • Iowa


“My goal is for my clients to be able to explore and accept all parts of themselves so that they can discover their unique tools that they can always access for lifelong personal growth.”
Grief or loss, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Chronic conditions
Direct, Humorous, Warm
Accepts 7 insurance carriers

Frequently asked questions

Therapy Chair

Happy patient looking away

Find the right grief counselor for you

Headway makes it easy to find a therapist who can support you through loss — from finding the right provider, to understanding costs, to scheduling with ease.

Find a provider - your way

Use left and right arrow keys to switch tabs. Press Shift+Tab to return to the tab list from links in the selected tab.

1 Cost may vary based on your location, age, and insurance coverage.