Kaitlyn Howell, LISW
(she/her/hers) In person and/or telehealth
“You never have to apologize for your emotions in here”
As a therapist, I work to create a space where you can be the fullest, most uncensored version of yourself. I'm not expecting anything other than for you to show up as you and to tell me the truth of your experiences, of life as you see it. There's no "wrong" way for you to do this. I will gently guide us as we unpack whatever load you are carrying. I will meet you where you are with compassion and unconditional positive regard.
I’m an experienced clinical social worker and am licensed to practice in IA, IL, MO, MN, and PA (I can see clients virtually in any of these states). I earned a Bachelor of Arts in Sociology from The College of New Jersey in 2009 and a Master of Social Work from the University of Pennsylvania in 2012.
I have worked with adults across the lifespan in both residential and outpatient treatment settings. I spent over a decade serving Veterans at the VA, which gave me a strong foundation in working with complex and long-standing problems.
My social work background gives me a systems-based lens rooted in social justice, so I pay attention not just to what you’re going through, but also to the larger context around it. In session, I listen closely for themes and patterns, especially in how a person speaks to and about themselves. I often notice self-critical and black-and-white patterns of thinking, and I help clients begin to find more flexibility and nuance in how they understand themselves. A big part of that work is helping people learn to treat themselves with more kindness and to give themselves more grace.
Why Kaitlyn?
Young (and young-at-heart) adults and identity development
Life transitions
Relationship and interpersonal issues
Trauma and PTSD
Anxiety and self-critical thinking
Substance use
Helping professionals who are used to taking care of everyone else (therapy for therapists!)
LGBTQ+ clients and underserved populations
Specialities
My approach is relational, grounded in a trauma-informed, person-centered, and strengths-based framework.
I draw from multiple treatment modalities depending on the person and what they need, including CBT, DBT, motivational interviewing, and EMDR. I tailor the work to fit each client.
In session, I am engaged and listening actively. I share observations, ask thoughtful and sometimes direct questions, and challenge you to use all of your tools. We can work through what is painful and messy in a judgment-free space.
I work best with people who want a better understanding of themselves and who are willing to explore whatever comes up with curiosity.
Therapeutic Approach
Insurances Accepted:
Aetna
Wellmark Blue Cross Blue Shield
Midlands Choice
Cigna
Health Partners
Wellpoint
Molina
Iowa Total Care