The Team

Meet the Hearts Behind the Healing

At MOSAIC Family Counseling Center, every therapist brings unique skills, experience, and compassion to the work of helping clients heal and grow. Kristen is committed to creating a safe, supportive space where clients can explore challenges, build resilience, and take meaningful steps toward change.

Healing.
Connection.
Empowerment.
Compassion.

Meet our team

Kristen Peterson LISW

EMDR-Trained Therapist

alt="Portrait of Kristen Peterson, LISW – EMDR Trained Therapist in West Des Moines, Iowa"

Clinical Supervisor & EMDR Trained Therapist

"Healing Begins Where You Are - Together We'll Rediscover Your Resilience & Walk Toward Wholeness"

Kristen is accepting clients

Kristen Specializes In

Women's Issues

Trauma

Integrated Approaches to Self Care

Adults and Adolescents

EMDR

Christian & Spiritual Based Counseling

Kristen serves clients at our West Des Moines location


Kristen received her undergraduate degree from Iowa State University.  She moved on to complete her Master of Social Work through the University of Iowa and has been practicing as an Independent Licensed Social worker since 2013.

 

Kristen focuses on helping clients manage worries and life stressors more effectively through developing healthy boundaries, build confidence and self-acceptance, and improve communication skills for happier relationships. 

 

Kristen is also trained in EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing), a trauma-focused therapy designed to help individuals overcome past negative experiences.  Kristen also utilizes Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Mindfulness and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy.

 

Kristen enjoys incorporating her passion for physical health and wellness into the therapeutic process.  Kristen believes that true healing comes when an individual is willing to address the emotional, spiritual and physical barriers to living a fulfilling life.

Populations

  • Adults

  • Teens

  • Women's Issues

  • Adjudicated / System-Involved

  • Personality Disorders

  • Behavioral Disorders

Therapy Choices

  • EMDR
    (Eye Movement Desensitization & Reprocessing)

  • DBT
    (Dialectical Behavioral Therapy)

  • Solution-Focused Therapy

  • Trauma-Focused Therapy

  • Spiritual-Based Counseling

Our Testimonial

Real Stories, Real Transformations

I had been struggling with anxiety and depression for years, and it felt like no matter what I tried, nothing worked. Coming to this clinic was a turning point in my life. The therapists here truly listen, understand, and provide a tailored approach that made me feel safe and supported. I began to understand my emotions and thought patterns, and over time, I gained the confidence to make positive changes in my life. Thanks to the caring professionals at this clinic, I’ve learned to manage my anxiety and live a more fulfilling life. I feel empowered, and for the first time in years, I believe in myself again.

– Sarah J.

Therapy FAQs

What insurances does Kristen accept in Iowa and the Des Moines area?

I accept the following forms of payment:

Wellmark BCBS plans

Optum/UHC plans including UMR, Medica and Oscar

Aetna

ClaimDoc

Health Partners

WPS Medicare 

Midland’s Choice

Vital Work Life

Iowa Medicaid Plans 

Crime Victim Assistance

Self-pay

Some Medicare Plans

Where Does Kristen Practice?

I Practice in the West Des Moines Office

Does Kristen provide online or telehealth therapy in Iowa?

I provide mostly in person therapy. However, there are occasions when it is appropriate.

What types of clients does Kristen work with (children, teens, adults, couples, families)?

I work with older teens, adults, couples, families, professionals & providers

What therapeutic approaches and modalities does Kristen use (e.g., EMDR, CBT, DBT, family systems)?

I help clients manage worries and life stressors by supporting them in developing healthy boundaries, building confidence and self-acceptance, and improving communication skills for more fulfilling relationships.

I'm trained in EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing), a trauma-focused therapy that helps individuals process and heal from past negative experiences. I also draw from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Mindfulness, and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) in my approach.

I enjoy incorporating my passion for physical health and wellness into the therapeutic process. I believe true healing occurs when we’re willing to explore and address the emotional, spiritual, and physical barriers that may be holding us back from living a fulfilling life.

What mental health concerns does Kristen specialize in treating

I specialize in treating trauma, adverse experiences, anxiety, depression, complex trauma, interpersonal relationship issues, family development, performance issues and self view.

What is Kristen's therapy style and approach to working with clients?

My therapeutic style is compassionate, collaborative, and holistic. I work alongside clients to help them manage anxiety, stress, and relationship challenges by building healthy boundaries, fostering self-acceptance, and strengthening communication skills. Drawing from evidence-based approaches, I tailor my work to meet each client’s unique needs. I also integrate my passion for physical health and wellness, believing that true healing comes from addressing the emotional, spiritual, and physical aspects of well-being.

Does Kristen integrate cultural, faith-based, or holistic perspectives in therapy?

Yes, I integrate cultural, faith-based, and holistic perspectives into therapy when it's meaningful to the client. I believe that each person’s background, values, and beliefs play an important role in the healing process. I strive to create a supportive and inclusive space where clients feel safe bringing their whole selves into the work we do together—emotionally, spiritually, and culturally. My approach is flexible and respectful, always guided by what feels most helpful and authentic to each individual.

How long are therapy sessions with Kristen, and how often do clients usually meet?

I provide traditional ongoing therapy sessions that are typically 50–55 minutes in length, these sessions are scheduled weekly, bi-weekly or as often as scheduling allows and is needed.

How can I schedule an appointment with Kristen at MOSAIC Family Counseling?

Call 515.724.8920 to reach the receptionist or click here to request an appointment online.

Does Kristen offer evening or weekend therapy appointments?

I offer limited evening and weekend therapy session, by appointment only.

Can Kristen provide therapy for couples or family counseling in central Iowa?

I provide therapy for couples and family counseling in Iowa. I work closely with couples and families to support and heal relationships. With an attachment focused lens we work to create deeper connections and care in the relationship attending to attachment/relationship ruptures and create space for healing.

What makes Kristen's approach unique compared to other therapists in Des Moines?

What makes my approach unique compared to other therapists in Des Moines is the way I blend evidence-based practices with a holistic, personalized approach to healing. I serve clients at our West Des Moines location, where I draw from over a decade of experience as an Independent Licensed Social Worker.

I’ve continued to grow my practice by focusing on the whole person—not just the problem. I help clients manage anxiety and life stressors by building healthy boundaries, developing self-acceptance, and improving relationship skills.

I'm trained in EMDR, a powerful trauma-focused therapy, and also use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Mindfulness, and Dialectical Behavior Therapy. What truly sets my work apart is my passion for integrating physical health and wellness into therapy, and my belief that lasting change happens when we address the emotional, spiritual, and physical parts of life together.

Can Kristen work with clients experiencing grief, loss, or life transitions?

Yes, I have experience working with many life issues including, grief, loss, life transitions, career development, performance concerns, and women's issues.

How does Kristen support clients in building coping skills and resilience?

I meet you where you are and develop a comprehensive plan that suits your goals. Using known methods, best practices and evidence based therapies, I teach, provide skills, remind you of your resilience & strengths, become curious, consult, counsel and provide therapy for symptoms that interfere with your happiness and day to day life.

What should I expect in my first session with Kristen?

Our first session is a chance to begin getting to know each other and to create a foundation of safety and understanding. We’ll start by reviewing the service agreement, informed consent, and other important information about your rights and confidentiality.

After that, we’ll begin a comprehensive assessment to better understand your needs, strengths, and goals. This process helps us clarify what’s been happening in your life and how I can best support you moving forward.

Although the assessment will have some structure, you are welcome to share at your own pace — there’s no rush. The goal of this first meeting is to start building a collaborative partnership focused on your healing and growth.

Does Kristen offer EMDR Therapy?

Yes. I offer EMDR Therapy - eye movement desensitization and reprocessing therapy - I provide integrative modalities with EMDR to meet your specific needs.

Ready to

Take the Next Step?

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Have questions?

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