SouthWest Iowa Families

Everyone experiences a lifetime of changes – many predictable, arising from developmental life stages that can cause emotional distress or even personal crisis. Occasionally, the changes may be like a bolt out of the blue – unexpected death or loss of job and other similar events are examples. Others struggle with chronic physical illness or psychiatric illness that effects ability to cope with change. Whatever the situation or cause, most of us experience a time in life when professional counseling may help work through the challenges and problems of life.

Types of counseling available:
Individual
Family
Marital
Group
Children’s therapy

Confidential outpatient professional counseling services are provided in a private setting. Counseling services provided on a “fee for service” basis. Most insurance will pay depending on the nature of the services. Iowa Title 19, Medicare, Midlands Choice, Blue Cross Blue Shield, Tricare, and a variety of EAP’s are part of the companies the agency works with; ask about your group when scheduling.

Calls will be answered with discretion and sensitivity. After hours and lunch hour calls may be answered by an answering machine. Please leave a message and your call will be returned.

Credentialed Therapists and Counselors:
Iowa, like most states requires licensing for professionals who “practice” in the state. Clients should look for individuals who are licensed when seeking counseling services.

Staff:
Berneeta Wagoner, LISW (Licensed Independent Social Worker), ACSW (Academy of Certified Social Workers), QCSW (Qualified Clinical Social Worker), DCSW (Diplomate in Clinical Social Work)
Rob Hickman, LMHC (Licensed Mental Health Counselor)
Robin Sunderman, LISW (Licensed Independent Social Worker)

Angela Wallick, LMSW (Licensed Master Social Worker)

Lucia Beckendorf, LMSW (Licensed Master Social Worker)

Dinosaur School

In January ’07, the agency started an intensive treatment group for young children. Dinosaur School targets young children with behavior problems. SEED monies to start up the programs were received from Iowa West Foundations and the Heartland Foundation. This program is offered on an as needed basis when enough referrals are pending. Referrals are currently being accepted for a potential group to begin as numbers justify the need.

Carol Bellairs is currently providing support to teach the component skills of Dinosaur School in two comunity preschools. To date, three treatment groups have been initiated. 

Dinosaur School was developed by ‘The Incredible Years” program in Seattle Washington. It is a nationally recognized Best Practic Model for treatment of young children, the agency is happy to have this option available locally. Carol Bellairs is the Project Coordinator.