YOU HAVE QUESTIONS,
WE HAVE ANSWERS.

My office is located at 2425 N Ankeny Blvd Suite 106 Ankeny, IA, 50023
Along with this in-person office setting I also offer telehealth services that will be sent to you through a link to connect through the Simple Practice Portal.
I take Wellmark BCBS, Midlands Choice and Health Partners Insurance. I also take private-pay at the following pricing rates:
Psychiatric Diagnostic Evaluation $200
Psychotherapy, 60 minute $185
Psychotherapy 45 minute $150
Psychotherapy 30 minute $100
You might consider therapy if you're experiencing persistent or overwhelming feelings of sadness, anxiety, or stress that impact your daily life. Other signs include difficulty coping with significant life changes, strained relationships, recurring patterns of behavior you'd like to change, or if you feel stuck and unable to make progress on your own. Therapy can provide support, guidance, and tools to help you navigate these challenges and improve your overall well-being.
The frequency of therapy sessions varies depending on your needs, goals, and the recommendation of your therapist. Initially, sessions might occur weekly or bi-weekly to establish rapport and work through immediate concerns. As progress is made and you start to feel better, sessions may become less frequent, such as every few weeks or once a month. Ultimately, the frequency is determined collaboratively between you and your therapist to ensure that you receive the support and guidance you need while also considering practical factors like scheduling and affordability.

Accolades

Testimonials

“I have had the privilege of collaborating with Melissa over many years, and her expertise as a therapist is truly commendable. Melissa demonstrates remarkable skills and versatility in her practice, spanning child therapy, individual counseling, and couples therapy. Notably, her dedication to advocating for the rights of neurodivergent individuals is both inspiring and deeply impactful. What truly sets Melissa apart is her exceptional balance of empathy and energy. This combination ensures that individuals under her care receive both nurturing support and the necessary push toward growth and self-discovery. “

Leisha Ristau, LISW

“Melissa is an exceptional counselor who combines clinical expertise, compassion, and creativity in her work. Melissa has a warm and engaging personality that helps her establish rapport and trust with her clients. She is empathic, respectful, and supportive, and strives to make a positive difference in the lives of her clients while empowering them to make positive changes in their lives. She is skilled at working with children, teens, and adults and specializes in those with neurodiversity such as ADHD and autism.”

Kim Pontius, LMHC

“I have had the pleasure of working alongside Melissa for several years, and I can confidently say that she is an exceptional therapist. Melissa's kindness and genuine care for her clients are unparalleled. She goes above and beyond to ensure that each individual feels heard, understood, and supported throughout their therapeutic journey. If my own family were seeking therapy Melissa would be on my recommendations."

Daniel Chavarria, LMHC