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Founded in 2023, Daybreak Counseling focuses on holistic, trauma-informed, client -centered therapy for children and adults. Daybreak was started with the goal of wanting to have a safe, accessible, and supportive space for people to work on their personal growth and bettering their mental health.
“I believe you are the ultimate expert in your life and have the potential for healing within you already. Within a safe, supportive, and therapeutic environment (sprinkled with a little humor), we can work together to help you meet the goals you have set for yourself. Whether this is your first time or you've had therapy before, I welcome you in taking this step towards taking good care of you.”
-Kirsten B. Owner and Therapist, LISW
◊ Trauma
◊ Stress and Adjustment
◊ Grief and Loss
◊ Anxiety
◊ Depression
◊ Mood Disorders
◊ Relationships
Kirsten, the owner and therapist of Daybreak, is a Licensed Independent Social Worker in the state of Iowa and uses an integrated approach to assist in a variety of areas including but not limited to:
She has experience in a variety of settings, including residential, community based, outpatient, school based, and private practice. Kirsten has enjoyed the opportunity to work with a variety of people with a variety of needs. She is certified in TF-CBT (Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy) and uses a variety of evidence based therapy models in a tailored way as appropriate to each client. She has training and experience with the following types of therapy:
◊ EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing)
◊ Brainspotting
◊ EFT (emotions focused therapy)
◊ TBRI (Trust Based Relational Intervention)
◊ DBT (Dialectical Behavioral Therapy)
◊ ACT (Acceptance and Commitment Therapy)
◊ CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy)
◊ Mindfulness
◊ Play Therapy
◊ Others, too!
Outside of Daybreak Counseling, Kirsten is a married mom to three boys: two dogs and one human. In her free time, she and her family are usually found playing, watching Disney movies, cooking, traveling, adventuring around Des Moines at parks and Farmer’s Markets, and cheering on the Cyclones and Packers in football! Her favorite ways to practice self care are to exercise, drink coffee, listen to music (and sing badly to it), watch tv, eat, and spend time with family and friends!
LMHC, SOTP-II
I am a licensed mental health therapist and my goal in therapy is to empower and advocate for a healthy and functional life. I aid in the development of skills to explore and challenge difficult emotions, beliefs, and behaviors that become a barrier to a flourishing life. In a safe environment, I support change with individuals, couples, and families to identify and build upon strengths. I hope to work towards reducing the stigma surrounding mental and sexual health. As a sex therapist, the diverse clients I see address mental health topics that are related but not limited to sexual trauma, couples work, LGBTQ+ concerns, kink and BDSM, non-traditional intimate relationships, and sexual wellness, education, and development.
I graduated from the University of Kansas in 2017 with my Masters in Counseling Psychology. I have previously worked in community mental health, residential group care for adolescents in child welfare, private practice, and telehealth platforms. I have over 6 years of experience working with juvenile court and HHS with teens and families experiencing sexual abuse. I am a Sex Offender Treatment Provider (level II) recognized by the Iowa Board for the Treatment of Sexual Abusers (IBTSA) and a Clinical Member of the Association for the Treatment and Prevention of Sexual Abuse (ATSA). I have level 2 training of the Gottman Couples Therapy method. I am currently pursuing certification to be an American Association of Sexuality Educators, Counselors, and Therapists (AASECT) certified sex therapist through The Buehler Institute and supervision through Modern Sex Therapy Institutes. I am additionally a member of the American Mental Health Counselors Association (AMHCA) and on the board of the Iowa Mental Health Counselors Association (IMHCA) as the current Chair of Continuing Education.
In her free time, Rachel enjoys traveling, rewatching Parks and Recreation, and cuddling with her spicy cat Poppy.
Contact me at
515.635.4132 (text/call) Rachel@daybreakcounselinginc.com
LMSW
*Telehealth Services - Indiana*
I am a Licensed Master of Social Work in both Iowa and Indiana and have a long history of working with children, families, and older adults who have experienced trauma. I have worked in a variety of settings including residential, in-home, and nursing facilities. I have experience working with all different ages, families, and individuals with a variety of needs. I am currently working on obtaining my Independent Licensure and excited to be a part of your journey! Treatment will be guided by you with the support of me. Throughout our work together we will use different types of evidenced based models and trauma-informed treatment to go along side by side facing whatever barriers you may have had or currently have. I am ready to approach your treatment in a supportive, laid back, and a non-judgemental way.
When I am not working, I am a mother of 3, and have a whole lot of pets. We live on a cattle farm, so life gets interesting sometimes! I also coach my children’s sports including basketball, softball, and volleyball. I am a big fan of the Indiana Hoosiers (although the Hawkeyes usually are better).
I am currently available to clients located in either Iowa or Indiana via Telehealth and am looking forward to joining alongside you in your journey of betterment!
Contact me at
812.269.6042 (call) Kari@daybreakcounselinginc.com
LMHC, RN
Mallory is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and Registered Nurse. I have been working with children, adolescents, and adults for nearly a decade. I have experience in a variety of settings which include outpatient, partial hospitalization, inpatient, emergency room services, and juvenile corrections. I like to utilize a variety of treatment methods which include cognitive behavioral therapy, solution-focused therapy, dialectical behavior therapy, and interpersonal therapy. I strive to create a safe and supportive therapeutic environment to promote growth and change! Now accepting new clients!
Mallory is currently working towards obtaining a master’s degree in nursing with a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner emphasis through Walden University. In her free time, Mallory enjoys spending time with family and friends, organizing, cuddling with her cats, and working on puzzles.
Contact me at
515.679.3980 (text/call)
Mallory@daybreakcounselinginc.com
LMSW
Hi, I’m Sam! I’m a mental health provider who strives to create a safe and inclusive environment for all with consistent encouragement to come as you are. I work with adults on grief and loss, and in addition to bereavement I work with adolescents, children, and families on topics such as anxiety, depression, emotional regulation, and family dynamics.
I’ve worked within a wide range of settings including residential group homes, elementary schools, nursing homes, hospice houses, in-home hospice, and client’s homes for both individual and family therapy. While I now practice in office, I continue to utilize a person centered framework with a trauma informed lens.
I believe it is essential for healing to feel authentically heard. I am here to listen, empower, provide feedback, and more all while walking alongside you as you share your story and navigate how you want to continue writing what is next. Navigating life is often overwhelming and you do not have to do it alone. I can’t wait to meet you!
Contact me at
515.681.0484 (call) Sam@daybreakcounselinginc.com
DayBreak Office Space
Our office is located at:
950 Office Park Rd.
Suite 202 & 216
West Des Moines, IA 50265
A beautiful spacious space to relax and improve your mental health.
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