The decision to see a therapist is a very personal one. Therapy involves looking closely at yourself, your situation and the people around you. Having a trained & experienced counselor to work with you in this process is an invaluable asset. Therapy helps people to enhance and maintain physical and mental health, and promote honesty, intimacy and fulfillment in their lives.

At Ames, Altoona, and West Des Moines Therapy & Consulting offices, you and your therapist will work closely together during your sessions. Our clinical training and expertise enables our counselors to challenge and support you. Because confidentiality is paramount, it is important to have a safe space where you feel comfortable sharing whatever you like, without feeling embarrassed or judged. Our mental health experts are here to put you at ease, and support you on your journey to living a happier, healthier life.

Does what we talk about in therapy remain confidential?

Confidentiality is one of the most important components between a client and psychotherapist. Successful therapy requires a high degree of trust with highly sensitive subject matter that is usually not discussed anywhere but the therapist's office. Every therapist should provide a written copy of their confidential disclosure agreement, and you can expect that what you discuss in session will not be shared with anyone. This is called “Informed Consent”. 

In some cases, you may want your therapist to share information or give an update to someone on your healthcare team (your Physician, Psychiatrist, or Nurse Practitioner), but by law your therapist cannot release this information without obtaining your written permission.

However, state law and professional ethics require therapists to maintain confidentiality except for the following situations:

• Suspected past or present abuse or neglect of children, adults, and elders to the authorities, including Child Protection and law enforcement,      based on information provided by the client or collateral sources.
• If the therapist has reason to suspect the client is seriously in danger of harming him/herself or has threatened to harm another person.

Clinical Telehealth

Technology has integrated itself with our society. Daily we use technology to communicate at a very rapid pace. As technology continues to grow it has begun to stretch out into many venues. Our philosophy with clinical telehealth technology sessions assist the patient and his or her convenience/schedule.  The goal will always be to provide the best practices and promote the highest clinical standards. Ames Therapy and Consulting utilizes HIPPA Compliant Videoconferencing through therapy sites. Our clients will be able to access immediate care conveniently and privately now with the option to follow up in person.  

Initial paperwork will still need to be completed by each client. All of our initial paperwork can be easily accessed on one's HIPPA complaint online portal connected to our offices. You will be able to immediately book online or call in and schedule your appointment. You are able to schedule by clicking 'Book Now' above or call.

What insurance plans do you participate in? 

Our offices do accept many insurance plans. Services may be covered in full or in part by your health insurance or employee benefit plan.

• Blue Cross/ Blue Shield- BC/BS Wellmark
• Health Alliance
• Cigna
• UMR
• Flat Rate

Do you offer a flat-rate fee?

We do offer flat-rate fee services! We have graduate interns and practicum students under Dr. Mooney's supervision that allows the practice to accommodate a wider variety of clients, schedules and budgets. Flat rates are $50 for college students and $60 for all other clients.