Mandy Semmens, LISW
EMDR Therapist in West Des Moines and Central IA & online throughout Iowa
Guiding you Toward Greater Balance & a Better Life
Life is hard right now.
You’re juggling so many things: Your career, your home life, your health. You are afraid that if you pause to take a breath it will all come crashing down. You’re looking for someone who is knowledgeable and can help you figure out what to do. You want to get your life back on track so that there is balance, flow and flexibility again.
You don’t want to feel alone or that it’s all on your shoulders.
Hi, I’m Mandy.
I am an experienced therapist that offers evidence-based EMDR therapy.
I can help you regain a sense of peace, purpose, & passion in your life.
With years of experience and extensive training, I provide evidence-based therapy that is effective and efficient. I enjoy working with adults who have been in therapy before, but still feel like something is missing. I use my wealth of mental health knowledge and lived experience to create a tailored approach specifically for you. In our work together, I will help you get to the root of your concerns so that you can see lasting change.
You’re looking to feel better and to live a more fulfilling life.
I can help you get there.
I work well with adults who…
Are dealing with anxiety, trauma, and painful experiences
Are not feeling satisfied in their relationships & career
Are facing chronic health conditions and chronic pain
Have done their fair share of therapy and have gained knowledge, but still feel like there is something deeper
Understand that our body, mind, and emotions all have a role to play in our overall health and wellbeing
I am an experienced clinician that provides effective and evidence-based therapy
My approach
It is often recognized that talk therapy has its limits. Many individuals find themselves acknowledging positive affirmations such as, "I am worthy," "It’s not my fault," or "I am a good person," yet struggle to internalize these beliefs on a deeper level. Persistent feelings of shame, guilt, and inadequacy may continue to overshadow these rational understandings.
If you are seeking a therapeutic approach that goes beyond traditional methods, let’s discuss how we can work together to address these deeper-seated issues and achieve meaningful change.
I provide evidence-based modalities that are brain-based and somatic-focused.
I create a tailored approach that is customized specifically to you. I primarily practice EMDR and integrate other frameworks like ego states, attachment theory, and a touch of humor.
I provide a safe, calming, and supportive environment. When our session starts, I show up ready, motivated, and prepared to help. In our work together we will get to the root of whatever is concerning you.
We are going to look at you as a whole person, keeping in mind that the physical, psychological, social and spiritual parts of us all impact the way you feel. I will help you explore those domains and look beyond your symptoms or medications.
The positive impacts of therapy should ripple out across all areas of your life, including your work, hobbies, relationships, physical health, and overall feeling of satisfaction. I’m here to help address your concerns and make sure that you are able to apply what you experience and learn in therapy to your real life.
Research, continuing education, and consultation are essential to my practice as a psychotherapist, allowing me to stay on the cutting edge and give my clients the best mental healthcare available.
What is EMDR?
Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) is a well-established, evidence-based therapeutic approach that integrates both cognitive and somatic processes. With over 30 years of research and clinical practice supporting its efficacy, EMDR is highly regarded in the field of psychotherapy.
This modality employs bilateral brain stimulation to facilitate the reprocessing of distressing memories and negative beliefs about yourself and the world. Beyond addressing trauma, EMDR is effective in treating a range of issues, including depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, and other psychological concerns.
EMDR operates by challenging and rewiring the neural networks associated with our negative beliefs and perspectives. It aims to address the underlying core issues to improve wellbeing, balance, and self-confidence.
The therapy involves eight structured phases, beginning with assessment and information gathering, similar to traditional therapeutic approaches. Subsequent phases focus on grounding the individual and desensitizing the problematic experiences or beliefs that have been affecting various aspects of their life, including relationships, career, trauma, childhood experiences, and self-perception.
By addressing the root causes of distress and transforming maladaptive beliefs, EMDR enables individuals to gain a more balanced perspective and develop healthier coping strategies. Beyond immediate symptom relief, EMDR fosters long-term psychological resilience and personal growth.
Clients often report increased emotional stability, improved self-esteem, and richer relationships. EMDR supports overall well-being and equips individuals to navigate future challenges with greater confidence and effectiveness.
My Values
Professionalism
I am committed to providing therapy with the utmost professionalism, abiding by my code of ethics, and practicing cultural competency.
Evidence-based Practice
I actively pursue ongoing education to provide therapy that is evidence-based and proven to be effective through academic research.
Dedication
I am dedicated to helping every client improve their lives with the therapy services that I offer.
Holistic Health
The BioPsychoSocial Model helps us to learn the ways that our body, nutrition, sleep, mental health, and spirituality all play a role in our health and wellbeing.
Relational Approach
I develop strong connections with clients and believe this is essential. Research shows that the therapist-client relationship is vital in order for therapy to be effective.
Authenticity
I value genuine, open, and honest communication. I work with integrity and keep my actions in alignment with my values.
Training & Education
Education & Licensure
Bachelor of Social Work from Northern Iowa 2007.
Masters of Clinical Social Work from Loyola University of Chicago 2009 with Advanced Standing.
EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing) trained 2017
Nationally Certified in EMDR with EMDRIA since 2017
Training & Experience
EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing) trained 2017
Ego state and preverbal trainings since 2017
EMDRIA-trained Consultant for EMDR clinicians - those needing required hours for basic training, consultation, and those wanting to become consultants
"In any given moment, we have two options:
to step forward into growth or step back into safety."
-Abraham Maslow
