Mental Health Therapists

Taya Thostenson, LISW, FT | Clinical Director

(she/her/hers)

Offers Telehealth Only

Taya Thostenson’s National Provider Identifier (NPI): 1689214017
As of January 1, 2026, Taya offers private pay only.

Education & Experience

I’m a Licensed Independent Social Worker (LISW) who received my Bachelor of Social Work from the University of Iowa and my Master of Social Work from the University of Southern California (USC). While there, I developed a strong interest in how physical health and mental health are intermeshed. My pursuit of further education has led to a focus on death, dying, and loss, and I earned my Master of Science in Thanatology in 2025.

Since 2013, I’ve worked in healthcare, specifically focusing on end-of-life care, which has taken me from ICU settings to the oncology field and more. Over the last 10 years, I have worked primarily with families in crisis immediately following the injury or death of a loved one. I work with individuals experiencing grief and loss, those in the healthcare field, folks facing terminal illness, and women addressing concerns that come with changing life stages. I’m also proud to serve on the board of directors for a local non-profit that supports families navigating the death of a child.

What My Support Looks Like

My view of the therapeutic relationship is that the client is the expert and center of all planning and goal-setting. Life is filled with elements of grief and loss, so navigating your unique experiences as they occur can set your future self up for success. My approach and style are influenced by cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), interpersonal psychotherapy, dialectical behavior therapy, and mindfulness.

I am trauma-informed and have advanced training in brief therapy and crisis intervention, problem-solving therapy, and perinatal mood disorders, along with perinatal grief and loss. I tailor my approach to fit your unique beliefs, needs, and goals, meeting you where you are, quite literally, as a telehealth provider. My goal is to empower you to be the expert in your own life by equipping you with the tools to do so. This may look like processing past life events, writing or rewriting internal narratives, or navigating a new version of yourself without a loved one.

In My Free Time

I enjoy the little things in life most of all. My dog and family, traveling to national parks, trying new restaurants, and rewatching the same five Netflix shows on repeat bring me a lot of joy.

Book with Taya

To schedule an appointment with Taya, please email her by clicking the button below.

Karla Reznicek, LISW

(she/her/hers)

Offers Telehealth & In-Person Sessions

Karla Reznicek’s National Provider Identifier (NPI): 1528439007

Education & Experience

After graduating from the University of Northern Iowa with my Bachelor of Social Work, I moved on to Aurora University, where I received my Master’s Degree in Social Work. I worked for several years in hospital settings as a medical social worker, helping patients and families navigate the difficulties of health concerns and the decisions those hardships can bring. Because I felt such a strong calling to help empower individuals to care for their own emotional well-being while navigating life transitions, I made the decision to become a therapist. I started working in community counseling, then at a university counseling center, where I gained experience in crisis counseling. I’ve also had specific training in mood and anxiety disorders through Postpartum Support International (PSI).

What My Support Looks Like

I consider walking along with a client during their life’s journey a sincere privilege. My approach is client-centered and holistic, and I consider my clients the experts of their own experiences. I use an eclectic mix of therapeutic methods when it comes to care, including cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), mindfulness-based strategies, and trauma-informed care. Not only will we process the concerns leading you to seek counseling, but we’ll work together to help you find the solutions that work best for you. Currently, I’m working toward my certification in perinatal mental health so that I may offer women experiencing symptoms of perinatal mood and anxiety disorders the support they need. I also have special interests in grief counseling, relationship issues, and life transitions. 

Taking the first step into beginning therapy can be a difficult one. I hope to create a safe space where everyone feels comfortable as we start on the therapy journey together.

In My Free Time

I’m a mother of two (one in high school and one in college), so if we aren’t at a baseball game or track meet, my husband and I are probably enjoying biking, kayaking, or spending time with our three furry friends. Our kids love traveling and we have fun creating those new experiences with them. As for my daily routine, I like to start my day relaxing with a cup of coffee on our deck in the morning.

Karla Reznicek’s National Provider Identifier (NPI): 1528439007

Ashley Homstad, LISW, OIHC

(she/her/hers)

Offers Telehealth Only

Ashley Homstad’s National Provider Identifier (NPI): 1366206013

Education & Experience

My expertise is in nervous system regulation and post-traumatic growth. I hold advanced certifications from Organic Intelligence’s Human Empowerment and Resiliency Training, a somatic institute rooted in the latest research in body psychotherapy, complex systems, contemplative practice, and neuroscience. I am a Licensed Independent Social Worker (LISW) in Iowa and a proud alumnus of the University of Hawai’i at Mānoa and Cal Poly University, San Luis Obispo. I’m also experienced in mindfulness, compassion-focused therapy, dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), and various cognitive behavioral therapies (CBT). This includes inference-based cognitive behavioral therapy (I-CBT), an evidence-based option for treating OCD, and trauma-focused cognitive behavioral therapy (TF-CBT), an evidence-based option for treating PTSD. Currently, I’m continuing my education with Organic Intelligence and Postpartum Support International (PSI). My longing for a more just, peaceful, and compassionate world has been my guiding compass to specialize in the field of somatic psychotherapy and perinatal mental health.

What My Support Looks Like

As a somatic psychotherapist specializing in perinatal mental health, I am passionate about helping women discover their unique paths to resilience and growth. I offer a compassionate, empowering, and nurturing space for pregnant and postpartum mothers facing anxiety and mood disorders or healing from trauma. I typically work with clients using body-oriented talk therapy, integrating evidence-based treatment interventions relevant to their unique therapy goals and preferences.

I also have a special interest in supporting mothers, birthing parents, and caregivers with attachment and bonding, healing from generational trauma, and navigating the pressures of multiple roles and identity shifts. 

In My Free Time 

My husband, Matt, our rescue kitty, Jaws, and our mini bernadoodle, Juniper, live in the Driftless region of northeastern Iowa. We enjoy spending our downtime involved in nature-based activities around town and on our property. I also love thrifting, writing poetry and songs, participating in community singing, traveling, and cozying up with a good TV show or romantasy book.

Book with Ashley

To schedule an appointment with Ashley, please email her by clicking the button below. 

Laura Taggart, t-LMHC

(she/her/hers)

Offers Telehealth Only

Laura Taggart’s National Provider Identifier (NPI): 1881349322

Education & Experience

I earned my Master’s in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Grand View University. I’m in the process of becoming fully certified in Perinatal Mental Health through Postpartum International. I completed my clinical hours at a community mental health center where I worked with children and adults experiencing depression and anxiety.

Prior to counseling, I worked in marketing for 12 years. I loved it but life experiences began to pull me towards a helping career. I ignored that feeling until I found the faith to pursue a career change and began my grad program the month after my youngest was born. It was a wild ride, but so worth it. Now I get the privilege of helping other mothers navigate their motherhood journeys, changes, stories, and challenges.

What My Support Looks Like

A mother’s well-being and mental health have a large impact on not only herself but on her children and family. My passion is supporting women as they navigate the internal and external challenges that come with motherhood and growing a family.

We’ll work together to navigate the situations of your choosing. You are the expert of your life and I feel honored to be here to support you and your therapeutic goals, as healing can be a hard thing to do by ourselves. Whether your situation or symptoms are past or present, an individualized approach can help you on your path to personal growth, healing, and mental wellness in the present. Drawing from a variety of therapeutic modalities, such as CBT, ACT, SFBT, mindfulness-based strategies, and trauma-informed care, we will navigate your thoughts, feelings, and motherhood journey together. Doing this in a client-centered, compassionate, and collaborative way can ultimately help you, your family, and future generations.

In My Free Time

I reside in rural Iowa where I’m a wife and a mom to three energetic children who I love spending time with. If I’m not working, I’m probably running them to their activities in my mini (ahem… sport) van. Yes, I will admit that I said I would never drive a minivan (until I sat in one). I have a special interest in supporting military families with their unique experiences, as my roots were formed there and my husband also served. I enjoy being at home or the farm with my family, spending time with friends, reading, and going on the occasional vacation when time allows. Sunset rides on the Ranger are calming to me and one of our favorite things to do as a family.

Book with Laura

To schedule an appointment with Laura, please email her by clicking the button below.

Amanda Wynia, t-LMHC

(she/her/hers)

Offers Telehealth & In-Person Sessions

Amanda Wynia’s National Provider Identifier (NPI): 1881349322

Education & Experience

I grew up in Sioux Falls, SD, and attended Augustana University where I studied Philosophy, then received my Master’s Degree in School Counseling at South Dakota State University. After completing my internship in the Johnston School District, I worked as a K-5 school counselor in the Des Moines Public School System for three years (fun fact: I met Bloom owner, Madison there and have been inspired by her since). My family then moved to Indianapolis, where I worked as a K-8 school counselor in the Indianapolis Public School System for five years. 

While I’ve always loved working with kids, I also have a deep-rooted passion for women and my own perinatal experiences served as catalysts to gain my Clinical Mental Health License. In Indianapolis, I gained experience supporting people in a community mental health center. I’ve also completed training in Perinatal Mood and Anxiety Disorders through Postpartum Support International (PSI) and am working toward the final steps for my Perinatal Mental Health Certification (PMH-C). My work lets me help clients navigate life changes, perinatal transitions, anxiety, fertility challenges, loss, grief, and more.

What My Support Looks Like

My unique, diverse therapeutic style is focused on wanting each person to feel supported from the moment they walk through the door. My support is client-centered and empathetic, and I believe in highlighting and capitalizing on strengths. I strive to cater to individual needs to find a more meaningful life and accomplish individualized goals because you know yourself best! I truly believe that you can heal with the right support and am hopeful that we can work together to grow and bloom. I hope you know how brave you are to reach out for support and how proud I am of you for taking that first big step!

In My Free Time

I’m a wife and mama to three young kids. Family dance parties and being “nap-trapped” by a toddler rank high on my list! I am still figuring out how to remedy the fact that I’m a night owl and my kids are early risers (coffee is essential). I also enjoy cleaning, organizing, doing yoga, walking, running, singing, and listening to music! I love getting together with friends and neighbors when time allows. My husband and I became big fans of the Pacers and Colts while living in Indianapolis for five years and a dream date weekend would include attending a game, enjoying popcorn, and being able to sleep in!

Book with Amanda

To schedule an appointment with Amanda, please email her by clicking the button below.

Emily Cave, LISW

(she/her/hers)

Offers Telehealth & In-Person Sessions

Emily Cave’s National Provider Identifier (NPI): 1639693252

Education & Experience

I received my Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) and Master of Social Work (MSW) degrees from Clarke University in Dubuque, Iowa. Following graduate school, I worked at a non-profit organization as a school-based counselor for children and adolescents in Dubuque elementary and high schools. I later moved back to the  Des Moines area to work at a nonprofit organization as a school-based mental health therapist for children, adolescents, and families in the public school setting.

I am also a Licensed Independent Social Worker (LISW) in the state of Iowa with certification in Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT) and training in various treatment modalities, including Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR). My perinatal background includes professional training in perinatal mental health as well as personal experience with pregnancy loss and a prolonged stay in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) for my micro-preemie son.

What My Support Looks Like

I have a passion for working with teens, young adult women, and parents who are navigating life during and after their baby’s NICU stay. Whether your little one(s) is in the NICU for one day or hundreds of days, it’s often an extremely tough and unexpected experience, filled with an abundance of grief and uncertainty. It can be difficult to explain the ins and outs of your family’s NICU stay to someone who’s unfamiliar with the NICU world. With my knowledge of the NICU, you’ll be able to discuss your experiences and be met with more of an understanding, so we can focus on healing rather than spending your valuable time and energy defining all of the NICU terminology.

My counseling style is warm, compassionate, and non-judgmental. My goal is to provide a safe space for you to be your authentic self. I offer a client-centered and collaborative approach, tailoring treatment to your individual goals and preferences. I value the fact that you are the expert in your own life and am honored to join in your healing journey.

In My Free Time

My husband and I have a little boy who brings us so much joy and keeps us busy. In my free time, I enjoy getting together with family and friends, traveling to England to visit my in-laws and traveling to nearby countries, checking out local events and restaurants, going on walks, thrift shopping, and relaxing at home watching a movie or TV show.

Book with Emily

To schedule an appointment with Emily, please email her by clicking the button below. 

Breanne Bitz, LISW

(she/her/hers)

Offers Telehealth & In-Person Sessions

Breanne Bitz’s National Provider Identifier (NPI): 1689244642

Education & Experience

I graduated from the University of Iowa with my bachelor’s and master’s degrees in social work. During my master’s program, I worked with the Make-A-Wish Foundation, supporting families across Iowa, and served as a medical social worker on the mother-baby floor and in the NICU. There, I discovered my passion for supporting women and families during the transformative stages of pregnancy, postpartum, and early parenthood.

Since earning my master’s degree, I’ve provided therapy in school settings, on college campuses, and in private practice, working with kids and adults. These experiences have deepened my understanding of the unique challenges individuals face at different stages of life. I’m currently in the process of pursuing specialized training in maternal mental health, as I’m deeply committed to supporting women through the emotional and psychological challenges of motherhood and beyond.

What My Support Looks Like

My favorite thing about showing up authentically in the world—and in therapy—is showing that therapists are humans, too. I believe in the power of therapy to provide a safe, non-judgmental space where you can explore your true self and develop a deeper understanding of who you are. My approach is rooted in authenticity, compassion, and collaboration, and I’m dedicated to offering individualized care that honors your unique background and journey.

I have a particular interest in supporting women through life transitions, including the challenges of pregnancy, postpartum, and motherhood. Together, we’ll uncover themes and patterns that may be influencing your life, build resilience, and create meaningful change. Using a strengths-based perspective, I’ll help you leverage your unique qualities and resources, empowering you to thrive both inside and outside of therapy.

To me, therapy is not just about alleviating symptoms. It’s a space to grow and thrive. I’ll support you in exploring what living authentically means for you, helping you make choices that align with your values.

In My Free Time

When I’m not working, I love spending time with my husband and son, whether we’re camping, traveling to national parks, or going for walks. After moving back to Des Moines from Arizona, I’ve been enjoying re-exploring the city and all it has to offer. These moments of connection and adventure help me recharge and bring a sense of balance to my life.

Book with Breanne

To schedule an appointment with Breanne, please email her by clicking the button below.

Nadyne Montiel de Gagnier, LISW, LCSW, ACS, PMH-C

(she/her/ella)

Offers Telehealth & In-Person Sessions

Nadyne Montiel de Gagnier’s National Provider Identifier (NPI): 1881062719
Nadyne is bilingual, speaking English and Spanish.

Education & Experience

I am a Licensed Independent Social Worker (LISW) who is bilingual in Spanish and bicultural, with a Mexican heritage. I graduated from Grand View University in 2009 with a Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology and Human Services. I attended the University of Iowa for my Master of Social Work degree, graduating in 2015. My clinical journey began in a rural community mental health clinic, working primarily with children and families before moving to Colorado in 2017. From 2017 to 2024, I worked for the University of Colorado, College of Nursing, in a Federally Qualified Health Center, as a behavioral health provider in an integrated care setting. I provided support to pediatric patients in our clinic and our school-based clinic, working alongside our pediatric nurse practitioners and our midwife/OB providers to support pregnant and postpartum parents. 

I am trained in eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) and hold my Perinatal Mental Health Certification through Postpartum Support International. I’ve also been a certified Approved Clinical Supervisor since 2021 and am passionate about supervising unlicensed clinicians.

What My Support Looks Like

I’m passionate about creating a safe and supportive space for my clients, where they can explore their feelings and experiences without judgment. My therapeutic approach is client-centered, rooted in an attachment-based and multicultural lens, using strength-based, solution-focused approaches to help those who are experiencing life challenges and are looking to heal and grow.

I begin by developing a therapeutic alliance, allowing you to feel heard and understood. After hearing your story and goals, I personalize a mix of therapeutic interventions, including cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), mindfulness-based strategies, and trauma-informed care to best support your goals. I check in periodically to assess progress and ensure that we continue to be aligned throughout your treatment.

My belief is that therapy is a collaborative journey and I am here to walk alongside you as you work toward your goals. Therapy should be a positive experience, so I encourage you to find a therapist that you can connect with and feel supported by.

In My Free Time

I hold many identities that I am proud of. I am a first-generation Latina born in Mexico, raised in southwest Iowa. I am a mother, wife, daughter, sister, and friend, amongst many other hats. Outside of my professional life, I enjoy any activity that takes place outdoors, including running, hiking, swimming, walking, or even just hanging out and getting some sun. You can find me enjoying dirty oatmilk chai and protein drinks daily. If you think we would work well together in a therapeutic space, please don’t hesitate to reach out! I look forward to the opportunity to support you on your journey to well-being.

Book with Nadyne

To schedule an appointment with Nadyne, please email her by clicking the button below.

Kelly Knipp, T-LMHC | Play Therapist

(she/her/hers)

Offers Telehealth & In-Person Sessions

Kelly Knipp’s National Provider Identifier (NPI): 1881349322

Education & Experience

I graduated from Northwest Missouri State University, earning a Bachelor’s in Elementary Education and a Master’s in School Counseling. After graduating, I worked as a K-2 school counselor in Missouri for two years, then moved to Kansas, where I was a K-5 counselor with Olathe Public Schools for 11 years. I served young students from diverse backgrounds and became well-equipped to help children navigate a variety of challenges, such as anxiety, depression, ADHD, family transitions, and other social-emotional issues.

In 2023, I earned a play therapy certificate from MidAmerica Nazarene University and transitioned to private practice to begin my journey as a trained play therapist. With Bloom, I am working toward full licensure as a Mental Health Counselor and Registered Play Therapist.

What My Support Looks Like

I believe in using the therapeutic powers of play to facilitate healing. With compassion and empathy, I create a supportive environment where children can explore their inner world through play. I use both child-led and goal-oriented approaches to help children express their emotions, strengthen relationships, and increase their self-acceptance. Parents are an important part of a child’s healing journey and should be included in the therapeutic process. I like to collaborate during parent-only sessions and offer parent-child sessions to foster growth.

In addition to play therapy, I work with adolescents and create a safe space for them to navigate the complexities of their world. I use evidence-based practices such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), mindfulness strategies, sand tray therapy, and solution-focused therapy to help clients reach their goals.

In My Free Time

I’m a wife and mother to three young kids. As a family, we enjoy being active, spending time outdoors, and relaxing at the lake (my happy place). As a parent in a busy season of life, I understand the challenges and pressure we often place on ourselves to have it all figured out. That’s why I’m passionate about journeying with children, adolescents, and their families to unlock their full potential for connection, growth, and healing. 

Book with Kelly

To schedule an appointment with Kelly, please email her by clicking the button below.

Shannon Kaster, LISW, RPT | Play Therapist

(she/her/hers)

Offers Telehealth & In-Person Sessions

Shannon Kaster’s National Provider Identifier (NPI): 1568156289

Education and Experience

I am a Licensed Independent Social Worker and a Registered Play Therapist. I received my Bachelor’s Degree in Social Work at Grand View University and my Master’s in Social Work at the University of Iowa. After graduating, I pursued additional training and supervision through Heartland Play Therapy Institute.

My clinical training includes the DC:0-5 diagnostic manual for infant and early childhood mental health as well as play therapy modalities in child-centered play therapy, sandtray therapy, and inner child work with adults.

Play therapy isn’t just play—it is grounded in neuroscience. I was invited to share my passion

for play at the 2025 Iowa Symposium for the National Association of Social Workers (NASW), where I provided training to other professionals. I’ve also facilitated many workshops that focus on breaking the stigma surrounding play therapy for adults.

What My Support Looks Like

Play therapy with me is active, creative, and deeply attuned. My approach is grounded in evidence-based play therapy, honoring imagination, curiosity, and your unique strengths. Sessions often include creativity, humor, movement, and reflection, because healing doesn’t have to feel clinical or cold. Instead, it can feel engaging, relational, and even joyful.

For children, play therapy with me looks like a space filled with carefully chosen toys, movement, and sensory experiences that allow them to express what they may not yet have words to describe. For parents, our work is collaborative and supportive. I believe that meaningful change happens when caregivers feel confident, informed, and equipped with everything you need to move through challenges. You’ll gain practical tools, deeper insight into your child’s behavior, and guidance on how to respond in ways that strengthen connection and emotional security at home.

Together, we’ll create a space where big feelings are welcome, stories are honored, and growth unfolds naturally.

In My Free Time

I love gathering around the table for D & D campaigns, where storytelling, creativity, and a little bit of chaos bring us together. I also enjoy riding BMX bikes with my two boys. There’s something freeing about movement and being fully present in the moment.

To recharge, I like to unplug and spend time outdoors. Camping and gardening give me a quiet, grounding rhythm that reminds me that growth takes patience and care. 

Play, creativity, movement, and connection aren’t just part of my work—they’re woven into my everyday life.

Working with Shannon

Shannon may be a good fit if you are:

• Raising a child who struggles to express feelings with words and would benefit from a creative, play-based approach
• Navigating transitions such as divorce, blending families, relocation, grief, or other major changes that may be impacting your child
• Supporting a child who has experienced trauma, chronic stress, or instability and needs a safe, developmentally appropriate path toward healing
• Parenting a sensitive, strong-willed, or neurodivergent child and looking for an approach that honors their strengths
• Wanting practical tools to strengthen connections at home and collaborate more effectively with co-parents, teachers, or caregivers
• Supporting a child who has experienced trauma, chronic stress, or instability and needs a safe, developmentally appropriate path toward healing
• An adult ready to explore inner child work through expressive, creative interventions
• Feeling stuck in old patterns and are ready for meaningful, lasting change

Book with Shannon

To schedule an appointment with Shannon, please email her by clicking the button below.

Jordyn Jondle, Intern

(she/her/hers)

Offers Telehealth & In-Person Sessions

Education and Experience

For the past five years, I’ve had the beautiful opportunity to work one-on-one with families in the Des Moines area, being welcomed into their homes. I have honed my skills through countless hours of research, gaining new experiences with an open perspective. I began my higher education at Iowa State University, obtaining a Bachelor of Human Development and Family Studies degree, and worked with Healthy Start and Empowerment, a nonprofit organization designed to support new mothers and their babies. 

I’ve spent time working in child development centers, mentoring at-risk youth at a residential treatment facility, and mentoring with the Iowa State Athletic Department. Additionally, I have been trained as a family life educator (through the National Council of Family Relations or NFCR), a postpartum doula (through Childbirth and Postpartum Professional Association or CAPPA), and as a health and life coach (through the Health & Life Coach Institution). I also hold certifications in trauma-informed care, in-home care visiting, early childhood development, and as a court-appointed special advocate (CASA). I’m excited to continue my education at the University of Iowa’s Master of Social Work program.

What My Support Looks Like

I am fascinated by the effects habits have on the identities we develop and believe that these habits have the power to shape our stories, ignite change, and build bridges from where we are now and where we want to be tomorrow. Through my services, I am to contribute to a world where understanding, empathy, and personal development thrive. Ultimately, my philosophy revolves around the notion that we are capable of creating a positive and meaningful impact in the world, starting from within ourselves.

In My Free Time

I work with families creating a harmonious and holistic lifestyle. I love connecting with little ones while supporting the mamas and dads in my life! I am the oldest of six siblings and enjoy supporting my siblings at their sporting events and visiting them when I can. You can find me at the gym often because I love to exercise and move my body; I’m currently strength training and love to support others who are training as well! When I’m not at the gym or connecting with others, I enjoy watching reality TV, reading books on child development and motherhood, listening to podcasts, meditating, spending time outside, and eating home-cooked meals.

Book with Jordyn

Jordyn is leading free support groups and reduced-fee individual therapy sessions. To schedule an appointment with Jordyn, please email her by clicking the button below. 

Valyn Bodensteiner, Intern

(she/her/hers)

Offers Telehealth Only

Valyn officially joins Bloom in May, but you may book with her now.

Education & Experience

After a decade of working in marketing and design, I transitioned to a counseling career to help others navigate pregnancy, birth, and parenthood! I hold a Master of Arts in Strategic Communication from the University of Iowa and am currently a graduate student in the Clinical Mental Health Counseling program at Grand View University. My own postpartum challenges of a surprise NICU stay, limited social support, pumping, and changes to my identity completely shifted my worldview and inspired me to help other women going through their own journeys of motherhood.

I’ve been trained in perinatal mood and anxiety disorders through Postpartum Support International (PSI) and am currently completing the Prenatal & Perinatal Educator (PPNE) Certificate Program through the Association for Prenatal & Perinatal Psychology & Health (APPPAH). I am trained in Brainspotting Phase I and hope to gain additional training in trauma-focused care.

What My Support Looks Like

The transition into parenthood can be one of the most meaningful and overwhelming times in life. You don’t have to navigate this season alone. As a future licensed mental health counselor (LMHC), I hope to create a space where women feel seen and heard. My support is holistic and honors the connection between mind, body, and spirit. I take a humanistic, person-centered approach to therapy, helping you address unresolved emotions that are impacting your life. My background in user experience focused on understanding people’s stories, building connections, and translating complex needs into meaningful solutions. I like to use humor, empathy, and honesty to help clients become more aware of their thoughts and actions. I’m a lifelong learner and am interested in learning more about attachment, somatic, and mindfulness-based approaches to therapy.

In My Free Time

When I’m not working, you can find me spending time with my husband and toddler on our acreage or visiting national parks together. Other fun facts about me: I love cats and consider myself a fantasy/sci-fi nerd. I also love to read, practice SomaYoga, play board games and video games, keep bees, and plant flowers.

Book with Valyn

Valyn also offers sessions at $25/session or on a pro-bono basis, depending on your needs, and is currently offering telehealth sessions. To schedule an appointment with Valyn, please email her by clicking the button below.