Biography of Crystal Hemesath, LMFT, LMHC
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and Licensed Mental Health Counselor in the state of Iowa. I am also a Clinical Member of the American Association for Marriage and Family Therapy-AAMFT. I received my master’s degree in Marriage and Family Therapy from Kansas State University in 1997. I also hold a bachelor’s degree in Psychology from Iowa State University.
I have been practicing therapy post-graduate since 1998. For seven years I was employed by Madison County Hospital, Bridge Counseling Center where I provided mental health services for Madison County. My clientele included adults, couples, children and adolescents. Presenting problems included chronic mental illness, medication management, personality disorders, child and adolescent issues, family and couple relational difficulties, depression, sexual abuse, domestic violence, anxiety and substance abuse. Through my position at the hospital I gained experience in crisis intervention, emergency room consults, group facilitation and public speaking.
Additionally, I have been employed as a therapist with Children and Families of Iowa, Ankeny location, providing therapy to adolescents who have co-occuring disorders in mental health and substance abuse and their families.
I grew up in a small rural Iowa community prior to receiving my higher education and landing in the Des Moines area. I am married and have three children. I am currenty in private practice.
Professional Affiliations and Licenses
- Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, State of Iowa
- Licensed Mental Health Counselor, State of Iowa
- Clinical Member of American Association of Marriage and Family Therapy-AAMFT
- Member of Iowa Association of Marriage and Family Therapy-IAMFT
- Former editor of Iowa Marital & Family Therapist, publication of the Iowa Association of Marriage and Family Therapy
My Approach to Therapy
I believe my clients have the strength and resources to resolve their problems and are temporarily “stuck” when they decide to enter treatment. Although I believe it is best for clients to come to their own conclusions about what is best for them, I consider myself an active therapist who gives feedback. I work closely with my clients in creating goals and setting up a plan of action, which helps the client achieve these identified goals. I also believe that therapy does not have to be long-term to be productive. The therapeutic models I work from are Solution-Focused, Brief Therapy, Cognitive-Behavioral, Narrative, and Family Systems Theory. My treatment approach is determined by the presenting problem I am treating and the best fit for the client. I also utilize education to assist my clients in gaining skills that will help them realize their full potential currently and in the future. I value the importance of communication and collaboration with physicians or other helping professionals involved in your care that you may want me to have contact with. I am also happy to refer to other professionals such as family physicians; psychiatrists or other providers who together we feel may be of benefit to your improved wellbeing. I will provide a straightforward approach to your treatment with guidance and practical solutions.
Who do I treat?
I treat a variety of clientele and presenting problems including, individual, couple, and family therapy. I specialize in family and couple relational difficulties, individuals, adolescents, adults, parenting, depression, anxiety, victims of sexual abuse, women's issues, and a variety of other emotional problems both male and female.
