About Us
Compassionate mental health care for southern Iowa, built on trust, empathy, and evidence-based practice.
Our Story
Dedicated to Your Mental Health & Well-Being
Paula S. Gordy LISW, LLC is a dedicated outpatient mental health practice proudly serving the communities of southern Iowa. Founded with a clear mission to provide accessible, compassionate, and quality mental health services, our practice supports individuals and families on their path to healing and growth.
As a Licensed Independent Social Worker (LISW) practice, we bring professional expertise, genuine care, and a deep understanding of the unique challenges facing our communities. With three convenient locations in Centerville, Ottumwa, and Bloomfield, we are committed to meeting you where you are and making mental health care accessible to all.
Our team is grounded in evidence-based, trauma-informed care. We believe that every person deserves a safe, supportive space where they can explore their thoughts and feelings without judgment. Whether you are navigating anxiety, depression, grief, family conflict, or any of life's challenges, we are here to walk alongside you.
- Licensed Independent Social Worker (LISW) practice
- Serving Centerville, Ottumwa, Bloomfield, and surrounding areas
- Evidence-based, trauma-informed care
- Dedicated to accessible mental health services for all
What Guides Us
Our Mission & Values
To provide compassionate, accessible, and effective mental health services that empower individuals and families to lead healthier, more fulfilling lives.
Compassion
We meet every client with empathy and understanding. Your feelings are valid, and our team is here to listen without judgment, offering genuine support at every step of your journey.
Accessibility
With three locations serving southern Iowa and acceptance of most major insurance plans and Iowa Medicaid, we work to remove barriers and make quality mental health care available to everyone who needs it.
Evidence-Based Care
We use proven therapeutic approaches grounded in current research and best practices. Our commitment to ongoing professional development ensures you receive the most effective, up-to-date treatment available.
Client-Centered
Your goals guide our work together. We honor your individual experiences and collaborate with you to develop a personalized treatment plan that reflects your unique needs, strengths, and aspirations.
Integrity & Confidentiality
We uphold the highest standards of ethical practice and are fully HIPAA-compliant. Your privacy and trust are sacred to us, and we are committed to maintaining a safe, confidential therapeutic environment.
The People Behind Our Practice
Meet Our Team
Our team of dedicated professionals is committed to providing the highest quality mental health care to our community.
Paula S. Gordy, LISW
Owner & Clinical Director
Paula is the founder and clinical director of the practice, bringing years of dedicated experience in clinical social work to southern Iowa. She is passionate about providing compassionate, client-centered care to individuals and families navigating life's challenges.
Areas of Focus:
- Trauma and PTSD
- Anxiety and Depression
- Family and Relationship Issues
- Grief and Loss
Our Therapists
Allison Brown
Therapist
Allison provides compassionate, client-centered counseling to help individuals navigate life's challenges and work toward meaningful personal growth.
Jacoby Campbell
Therapist
Jacoby is dedicated to creating a safe, supportive therapeutic environment where clients can explore their concerns and develop effective coping strategies.
Carla Schippers
Therapist
Carla brings warmth and expertise to her therapeutic work, helping clients build resilience and find their path toward healing and well-being.
Cassidy Stewart
Therapist
Cassidy is committed to empowering clients through evidence-based therapeutic approaches tailored to each individual's unique needs and goals.
Sydney Thomas
Therapist
Sydney works collaboratively with clients to address mental health challenges, fostering growth and positive change in a welcoming therapeutic setting.
Jalyn Day, LMSW
Therapist
Jalyn brings a compassionate, strengths-based approach to therapy, supporting clients as they work through challenges and build toward meaningful, lasting change.
BHIS Providers
Our Behavioral Health Intervention Services (BHIS) team provides community-based support to Iowa Medicaid members, meeting clients where they are — at home, school, or in the community.
Morgan Boney
BHIS Provider
Morgan provides individualized behavioral health intervention services, helping clients develop practical skills and strategies in their everyday environments.
Chelsea Chandler
BHIS Provider
Chelsea is passionate about supporting individuals and families through community-based behavioral health services and skill-building interventions.
Jodi Collier
BHIS Provider
Jodi brings dedication and compassion to her BHIS work, helping clients strengthen coping skills and build healthier patterns in their daily lives.
Hannah Haggard
BHIS Provider
Hannah works closely with clients in community settings to provide behavioral health support, focusing on practical strategies for positive change.
Emma Henderson
BHIS Provider
Emma is dedicated to helping clients achieve their behavioral health goals through individualized, community-based intervention services.
Crystal Shondel
BHIS Provider
Crystal provides compassionate behavioral health intervention services, empowering clients and families with the tools they need to thrive.
Lisa Collier, MS
BHIS Provider
Lisa brings extensive knowledge and a caring approach to community-based behavioral health services, helping clients develop skills for lasting positive change.
Angelia Scott, BS
BHIS Provider
Angelia is dedicated to empowering clients through individualized behavioral health interventions, fostering resilience and well-being in everyday settings.
Mekaayla Chamberlain, BA
BHIS Provider
Mekaayla provides supportive, community-based behavioral health services, working alongside clients to build practical skills and achieve their personal goals.
Administrative Team
Our administrative team ensures your experience is seamless from the moment you contact us, handling scheduling, insurance verification, and day-to-day operations so our clinical team can focus on your care.
Barbara Alexander
Office Manager
Barbara oversees the daily operations of our practice, ensuring everything runs smoothly across all three locations. She is the organizational backbone of Paula S. Gordy LISW, LLC.
Billie Simmer
Medical Receptionist
Billie is often the first friendly voice you hear when you call our office. She assists with scheduling appointments, answering questions, and helping new clients get started.
Our team is growing! We are always looking for compassionate, dedicated professionals to join our practice. If you are interested in becoming part of our team, please contact us for more information.
How We Help
Our Approach to Care
At Paula S. Gordy LISW, LLC, we believe that meaningful change begins within a safe, supportive therapeutic relationship. Our approach is built on a foundation of respect, collaboration, and proven methods that have helped countless individuals and families find their way forward.
- Client-Centered Care: We place you at the center of everything we do, tailoring each session to your unique needs and goals.
- Trauma-Informed Approach: We understand the impact of trauma and create an environment that promotes safety, trust, and healing.
- Evidence-Based Modalities: Our therapists utilize proven therapeutic methods backed by current clinical research and best practices.
- Culturally Sensitive Practice: We honor and respect the diverse backgrounds, experiences, and identities of every client we serve.
- Collaborative Relationship: Therapy is a partnership. We work together with you, honoring your perspective and fostering a strong therapeutic alliance.
- Empowerment & Skill-Building: We focus on helping you develop the tools and skills you need to navigate challenges and thrive beyond the therapy room.
Rooted in Southern Iowa
Our Commitment to the Community
We understand the unique needs of rural communities and are dedicated to bringing quality mental health care closer to home.
Three Convenient Locations
Our offices in Centerville, Ottumwa, and Bloomfield are strategically located to serve the widest range of southern Iowa communities, reducing travel time and making it easier to attend appointments.
Insurance & Medicaid Accepted
We accept Iowa Medicaid and most major insurance plans, because cost should never be a barrier to receiving the care you need. Our team can help verify your coverage before your first appointment.
BHIS Services
Our Behavioral Health Intervention Services (BHIS) allow us to meet clients where they are, whether at home, school, or in the community, removing barriers and bringing support directly to those who need it most.
Having a therapist who understands our small-town community and truly cares about our family has made all the difference. We are so grateful for the compassionate care we receive.
— A grateful client family
Ready to Get Started?
Taking the first step toward better mental health takes courage. We are here to make it as easy and welcoming as possible. Reach out today to learn more about our services or to schedule an appointment.