Your mental health and wellness is just as important as your physical health. In fact, it is recommended that you schedule a mental health "checkup" each year to proactively address life concerns as they arise before they get out of hand. However, we're here to help during a mental health crisis, a difficult life transition, recent trauma and more. We are here for you - to be the light in the darkness.
Lutheran Family Service offers professional mental health counseling from master’s prepared and licensed therapists in Iowa, Nebraska and South Dakota. As we meet with you in a private, confidential office setting or virtual session, you can begin to explore your thoughts and feelings in a nonjudgmental, safe environment.
Our minds are created to be beautifully complex, capable of enjoying great pleasure but also sometimes enduring significant pain. Trauma, emotional distress or mental illness can negatively impact anyone, and when it does, we are left searching for answers without knowing where to find help.
As you may have guessed, Lutheran Family Service specializes in offering Christian counseling should a client want that aspect integrated into their wholistic therapy approach. However, you do not have to be Lutheran or Christian to receive our services. Just know that you will be treated with kindness, compassion and love.
If you are struggling, worried, angry, sad or afraid, call us. The decision to begin counseling can be a difficult one, but can be life-changing. Our team of counselors are prepared to treat a variety of mental health concerns, including but not limited to:
We’re here to listen, to understand and to help you sort through your situation, however complicated, hopeless or overwhelming it may seem.
Call to make an appointment with a Lutheran Family Service mental health counselor today. Reaching out and inquiring costs nothing and commits you to nothing. Scroll down to find the number for the location nearest you.
Lutheran Family Services offers frequent in-person and online support opportunities.
To learn more about our current groups and workshops, click the link below.
You may contact us via phone listed below or by filling out the Contact Form at the bottom of this page.
Mental Health Counseling & Christian Counseling Office locations in Iowa:
Mental Health Counseling & Christian Counseling Office locations in South Dakota:
Mental Health Counseling & Christian Counseling Office locations in Nebraska:
Virtual Mental Health Counseling & Christian Counseling in Illinois:
Toni Larson, LISW at Lutheran Family Service, addresses some of the most frequently asked questions about mental health counseling, Christian counseling, and more in this “Ask The Expert” video.
When your life is unsettled, even deciding to get help is a difficult decision. Here are a few common questions about Lutheran Family Service’s mental health counseling and their answers.
Is mental health counseling right for me? I can usually solve my problems on my own.
Asking others for help is not a sign of weakness, but a sign of strength. In today’s fast-paced world, everyone could benefit from having a safe, confidential, trustworthy place to share burdens. Lutheran Family Service counseling allows you to not have to carry your burdens alone. We can help lighten your load and walk towards wellness together.
What is mental health counseling like?
Counseling begins with an assessment designed to give you and your counselor a complete picture of your concerns. Your Lutheran Family Service counselor may ask questions about your history to more fully understand your current situation. Together, you and your counselor will set goals and work to resolve anything that stands in the way of your successfully achieving them.
How long will I need to be in counseling?
Each person and situation is unique, so there is no definite predetermined timeline. We center your appointments around your needs, and if you are committed to working hard, you will see improvement. Lutheran Family Service clients find counseling to be effective, with 98% reporting they were satisfied or very satisfied with their relationship with their counselor and the help they received.
How much will mental health counseling cost?
Lutheran Family Service accepts a variety of insurance plans. We can help you determine what your insurance benefits are before you start, and we submit the billing for you. If you aren’t able to access insurance, you can use our sliding fee scale. Thanks to the partnership Lutheran Family Service shares with many individuals, organizations and congregations in Iowa who care about you, your counseling can be provided based on what you are able to pay.
Is what I talk about in counseling going to remain confidential?
Absolutely. Anything said in a counseling session is held in the strictest confidentiality in accordance with professional ethical standards and the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA).
“Because He Lives, I Can Face Tomorrow” by Bill and Gloria Gaither
What To Do When Worries Start Snowballing
Recovering from Mental Illness
WARNING: Holiday Stress Approaching! (shopping list too long?)
I have found my Lutheran Family Service counselor's approach to counseling and her methods to be very effective. I feel very engaged and comfortable. This style has helped me open up and understand the benefits of counseling.
- Mark
Hope Amid Despair
by Ruth Barz, tLMHC
Like the Jews of the Old Testament, many of us assumed that the Messiah’s birth was supposed to protect us from all the pain and struggle of this world. We thought you moved into the neighborhood, Lord? All the pain, disappointment, fear, and uncertainty in life can leave each of us wondering where the hope is this Christmas.
