Skip to main content
Headway

Book LGBT-friendly therapy, covered by insurance

LGBT 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 LGBT-friendly therapists and psychiatrists in Des Moines, IA

Headway connects LGBTQIA+ individuals in Des Moines with affirming mental health providers who understand your unique experiences. Our network of 104 licensed providers offers virtual and in-person sessions, with many accepting insurance to keep care affordable. Find a provider who gets you and start your journey toward greater emotional wellbeing today.

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.”
LGBTQIA+, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Chronic conditions
Direct, Humorous, Warm
Accepts 7 insurance carriers
Chelesia Burkes-Brown

Chelesia Burkes-Brown

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • Iowa


“Expect to walk away feeling heard and valued, knowing you are being cared for by a knowledgeable and passionate provider.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Open-minded, Participatory, Solution-oriented
Accepts 9 insurance carriers
Travis Underwood

Travis Underwood

Therapist

Virtual • Ottumwa, IA


I am seasoned therapist with over 10 years of experience. I have worked with a wide range of clientele.

LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Direct, Inquisitive, Open-minded
Accepts 4 insurance carriers
Brandie Boehmer

Brandie Boehmer

Therapist

Virtual • Iowa


“I tend to view experiences in terms of how it alters the brain functioning and use approaches that heal the impact of those experiences.”
LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Depression, Diabetes, Grief or loss
Humorous, Solution-oriented, Warm
Accepts 14 insurance carriers
Mark Hillenbrand

Mark Hillenbrand

Therapist

Virtual • Iowa


“I am trained in counseling interventions designed to positively impact stress, life adjustments and marital issues as well as psychological concerns such as addictions, depression and anxiety.”
LGBTQIA+, Anger management, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression
Creative, Empowering, Participatory
Accepts 9 insurance carriers
Steven Pohlmeyer

Steven Pohlmeyer

Therapist

Virtual • Iowa


“With over 38 years of experience, I've dedicated the last five years to specifically supporting clients as they navigate the challenges of anxiety and depression.”
LGBTQIA+, Anger management, Anxiety, Depression, End of life care
Direct, Empowering, Solution-oriented
Accepts 3 insurance carriers
Tara Ostromencki

Tara Ostromencki

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • Iowa


“My approach to mental health care is a combination of traditional psychiatry and integrative health practices...”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Empowering, Holistic, Inquisitive
Accepts 5 insurance carriers
Dr. Miranda Mbutambe

Dr. Miranda Mbutambe

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • Bettendorf, IA


“She provides compassionate care for both physical and mental health needs, helping patients find practical solutions and regain balance in their lives.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Cultural & ethnic issues
Holistic, Solution-oriented, Warm
Accepts 9 insurance carriers
Sarika Griffin

Sarika Griffin

Therapist

Virtual • Iowa


“I am a daughter, sister, niece, aunt, cousin, friend, survivor of sexual/dating violence, and suicide attempt survivor who advocates for the voiceless—at the same time, changing the stigma of mental health care in the Black/African American...”
LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression, Family issues
Empowering, Inquisitive, Open-minded
Accepts 9 insurance carriers
Alberto Vital

Alberto Vital

Therapist

Virtual • Iowa


“I have realized that I enjoy working with adolescents and young adults struggling with anxiety, depression, suicide, crises, trauma, and phobias.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues
Affirming, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 11 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Robi Brewer

Robi Brewer

Therapist

Virtual & in-person • Maquoketa, IA


“I believe in developing a strong therapeutic rapport with my clients to ensure they are comfortable and feel safe throughout the therapeutic process.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Affirming, Empowering, Open-minded
Accepts 6 insurance carriers
Dr. N. Nicole Richardson

Dr. N. Nicole Richardson

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • Iowa


“I believe in working together with my patients to reach their health goals for mental wellness and vitality.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Cultural & ethnic issues
Empowering, Open-minded, Solution-oriented
Accepts 7 insurance carriers
Brandi Starks

Brandi Starks

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • West Des Moines, IA


You’re the one who usually has everything under control, but lately, the "strong" version of you feels like a mask that’s getting too heavy to wear. Whether you’re a mother wondering why you feel detached from the life you worked so hard to build, or a parent exhausted by the cycle of ADHD-related challenges—you don’t have to carry this alone.

I provide a warm, judgment-free space where you can stop surviving and start thriving. My approach is patient-centered, trauma-informed, and evidence-based, tailored to move you toward a life where you feel present, connected, and capable.

I specialize in:

  • Perinatal & Maternal Mental Health: Navigating the "new reality" of motherhood.
  • High-Achieving Professionals: Managing burnout, perfectionism, and "mental load."
  • Neurodiversity-Affirming Care: Supporting parents and children navigating ADHD and behavioral hurdles.

Why Work With Me?

I offer a "cozy" office experience in Houston, TX, and convenient virtual care across 7 states ( DE, FL, GA, IA, KS, MT, and TX). My goal is to make mental health easy, accessible and relatable.

LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Affirming, Energetic, Open-minded
Accepts 6 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.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Empowering, Holistic, Solution-oriented
Accepts 9 insurance carriers
Alee Larson

Alee Larson

Therapist

Virtual • Iowa


“I am a dual diagnosis therapist, focusing largely on substance use and mental health, with a specialty in trauma work.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, Family issues
Affirming, Humorous, Open-minded
Accepts 3 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Tara Kane

Tara Kane

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • West Des Moines, IA


“I believe everyone deserves a safe and welcoming space to share their truth, to be seen, heard and respected.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Creative, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 4 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Adria Booth-Tyler

Adria Booth-Tyler

Therapist

Virtual • Des Moines, IA


“I specialize in sexual issues and mental health, across the life span, with an emphasis on healing from sexual trauma.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Chronic conditions, Depression
Challenging, Direct, Empowering
Accepts 9 insurance carriers
Rachael Daniel

Rachael Daniel

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • Iowa


“I specialize in diagnosing and treating mental health conditions such as, but not limited to: Anxiety, Depression, OCD, ADHD, PTSD, and Bipolar disorder, using a holistic approach that integrates medication management and psychotherapy.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Depression
Open-minded, Solution-oriented, Warm
Accepts 6 insurance carriers
Lisa Johnson

Lisa Johnson

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • Iowa


“My clients are often navigating high stress, burnout, trauma, or life transitions—and they're ready for real support that actually works.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, Family issues
Affirming, Empowering, Solution-oriented
Accepts 3 insurance carriers
Tiffany Blevins

Tiffany Blevins

Therapist

Virtual • Iowa


“I am a licensed clinical social worker in Kansas, Colorado, Oklahoma, Iowa, North Dakota, Arizona and Idaho with over 20 years of experience working with adults struggling with difficult relationships, anxiety, depression, trauma and grief/loss.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Empowering, Solution-oriented, Warm
Accepts 10 insurance carriers
Levin Manabat

Levin Manabat

Therapist

Virtual • Iowa


“My approach is compassionate, collaborative, and evidence-based, integrating trauma-informed care with therapies tailored to your unique goals and experiences.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Holistic, Open-minded, Solution-oriented
Accepts 10 insurance carriers
Christine Ewald

Christine Ewald

Therapist

Virtual • Iowa


“I believe that we all have a need to feel truly heard and understood in a safe and supportive space.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Empowering, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 7 insurance carriers
Dr. Jennifer Pipitone

Dr. Jennifer Pipitone

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • Iowa


“I believe in putting humanity back into healthcare... they need warmth, compassion, and care that truly prioritizes their well-being.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Affirming, Empowering, Holistic
Accepts 6 insurance carriers
Andrea Douglas

Andrea Douglas

Therapist

Virtual • Iowa


“I bring a compassionate and collaborative approach to therapy, tailoring evidence-based methods like CBT, SFT, and trauma-informed care to fit each client's unique needs.”
LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression, Family issues
Challenging, Open-minded, Solution-oriented
Accepts 3 insurance carriers
Lynn Murphy

Lynn Murphy

Therapist

Virtual • Iowa


“I am passionate about creating a supportive, compassionate environment where clients feel empowered to heal, grow, and achieve meaningful change.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Depression
Empowering, Humorous, Open-minded
Accepts 4 insurance carriers
Shannon Hilliker

Shannon Hilliker

Therapist

Virtual • Iowa


“I view clients as the expert in their own lives, and tailor treatment according to individual needs, allowing us to build a collaborative relationship.”
LGBTQIA+, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Cultural & ethnic issues
Holistic, Open-minded, Solution-oriented
Accepts 11 insurance carriers
Jessica Vandercoy

Jessica Vandercoy

Therapist

Virtual • Iowa


“I take a person in environment approach and will walk along side you on a journey of self-discovery and healing.”
LGBTQIA+, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Chronic conditions
Creative, Humorous, Solution-oriented
Accepts 11 insurance carriers
Dr. Kadesha Evans

Dr. Kadesha Evans

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • Iowa


“I provide a safe, non-judgmental space to explore challenges, identify strengths, and develop personalized solutions...”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Cultural & ethnic issues
Affirming, Empowering, Open-minded
Accepts 7 insurance carriers
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.

LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, Family issues
Direct, Humorous, Warm
Accepts 3 insurance carriers
Elisabeth Netjes

Elisabeth Netjes

Therapist

Virtual • Iowa


“True healing begins when we feel genuinely seen and heard. You deserve to be known, supported, have your story understood, and have help in navigating life's obstacles.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Chronic conditions, Cultural & ethnic issues
Empowering, Holistic, Warm
Accepts 10 insurance carriers
Wendy Durant

Wendy Durant

Therapist

Virtual • Iowa


Hi, I’m Wendy Durant-Nelson, LPC-S, PhD, N.D. New Orleans is home, and for more than 20 years I’ve had the privilege of helping adults, couples, and families navigate life’s challenges. My counseling style blends evidence-based care with the warmth, authenticity, and genuine connection that the South is known for; you’ll find a space where you can show up exactly as you are and feel truly heard. I specialize in anxiety, OCD, trauma, relationship concerns, depression, and women’s issues, using practical, compassionate approaches tailored to your unique needs. Whether you’re feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or simply ready for growth, I’d be honored to walk alongside you on your journey. ⚜️💜💚💛

LGBTQIA+, Anger management, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Family issues
Affirming, Empowering, Warm
Accepts 6 insurance carriers
Amy Iannitelli

Amy Iannitelli

Therapist

Virtual • Iowa


“I specialize in working with concerns including social anxiety, panic disorders, PTSD, body image issues, women's concerns, parenting challenges, and young adult experiences.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Depression
Affirming, Humorous, Warm
Accepts 3 insurance carriers
Sadie Lipman

Sadie Lipman

Therapist

Virtual • Iowa


Many of the people I work with don't look like they're struggling. They're responsible, dependable, insightful, and often the person others turn to for support. They've learned to cope by staying productive, keeping their emotions in check, and trying to get things "right." Those strategies probably helped them at one point. Left unmanaged, though, they can lead to anxiety, burnout, loneliness, or a feeling that life has become more about managing than actually living.

I'm especially passionate about helping people understand these patterns without shame. Together, we'll work toward a life that feels guided by your values rather than by fear, pressure, or the need to stay in control.

I'm Sadie Lipman. I have over 7 years of experience in the mental health field. I work with adult clients in Florida, Virginia, and Iowa virtually. I would describe my therapy approach as warm, empowering, and reliable. This is therapy that is up-to-date and down-to-earth. As a therapist, I blend new‐age thinking with reliable, evidence‐based interventions.

LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, Grief or loss
Empowering, Inquisitive, Warm
Accepts 3 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Minon Maier

Minon Maier

Therapist

Virtual • Iowa


“My approach to therapy is collaborative and focused on helping all clients feel safe and comfortable in sessions so that change is more likely to occur.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Depression
Direct, Empowering, Warm
Accepts 6 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Hollie Schechinger

Hollie Schechinger

Therapist

Virtual • Iowa


“My style of therapy is a little different than the "normal" therapist. I do believe the best way to learn is by having fun...”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Affirming, Humorous, Open-minded
Accepts 3 insurance carriers
Katie Winer

Katie Winer

Therapist

Virtual • Iowa


“My approach is gentle and direct, and while I have confidence in my knowledge about therapy, I treat every client as an individual and learn from every person who works with me.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Chronic conditions
Affirming, Empowering, Holistic
Accepts 6 insurance carriers
Ann DeYoung

Ann DeYoung

Therapist

Virtual • Iowa


“I am passionate about working with my clients to promote reflection, develop self-compassion, improved relationships, and find a more peaceful pace of life.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Chronic conditions
Creative, Empowering, Solution-oriented
Accepts 7 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
LeAnn Lord

LeAnn Lord

Therapist

Virtual • Iowa


“My approach is grounded in evidence-based practices, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR)... and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) concepts.”
LGBTQIA+, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Chronic conditions
Direct, Empowering, Warm
Accepts 5 insurance carriers
Darcy Wiebrand

Darcy Wiebrand

Therapist

Virtual • Iowa


“I love helping clients learn the skills that will allow them to be resilient no matter what life throws at them.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Chronic conditions, Depression
Affirming, Direct, Humorous
Accepts 8 insurance carriers
Amber Sherman

Amber Sherman

Therapist

Virtual • Iowa


“My style is warm, conversational, and collaborative. I want therapy to feel approachable and grounded...”
LGBTQIA+, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Depression
Affirming, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 3 insurance carriers

Frequently asked questions

Therapy Chair

Happy patient looking away

Find the right LGBTQ-friendly therapy provider for you

Headway makes it easier to connect with affirming therapists who understand your identity — from finding the right therapist, to understanding costs, to scheduling with ease.

Factors to Consider When Choosing a LGBTQIA+ Mental Health Therapist in Des Moines, IA

Searching for LGBTQIA+ therapists in Des Moines starts with finding identity-affirming care. Look for a therapist who lists experience with LGBTQIA+ people, gender-diverse clients, affirmative therapy, WPATH training, or gender-affirming support. This can matter when you want care related to identity, anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship concerns, or life transitions. Reading a therapist’s bio can help you see whether their training, listed specialties, and approach match what you want from care.

Des Moines has a meaningful mental health care community, but affirming therapists may be fewer than in larger metro areas. Virtual appointments can expand your options across Iowa while still giving you access to in-person care when available nearby. As you narrow your search, consider appointment times, whether the therapist is accepting new patients, and whether they offer a free phone consultation. Look for profiles that clearly mention LGBTQIA+ populations, gender-affirming care, or experience with transgender and gender-diverse people.

Therapy in Des Moines can be a significant investment without insurance. Using in-network insurance is one of the most reliable ways to reduce session costs, and Headway makes it easier to see your estimated out-of-pocket cost before you book. You can search for LGBTQIA+ therapists, filter by insurance, review bios, and choose between virtual and in-person appointments. From there, you can book directly when you find a therapist who matches your needs, accepts your plan, and is ready to take new patients.

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.