Caring for the Whole Person
Our Approach to Mental Health Care
At Paula S. Gordy LISW, LLC, we believe that every individual deserves access to high-quality, evidence-based mental health care delivered in a warm, non-judgmental environment. Our licensed clinicians are committed to creating a safe therapeutic space where you can explore your thoughts, feelings, and experiences at a pace that feels right for you.
Whether you are navigating a difficult life transition, managing symptoms of anxiety or depression, processing trauma, or working to strengthen your relationships, our team is here to help. We take the time to understand your unique story, strengths, and goals so that we can develop a personalized treatment plan that supports your path to wellness.
We offer a range of outpatient services across our three locations in Centerville, Ottumwa, and Bloomfield, Iowa. Our services are designed to be accessible, flexible, and responsive to the diverse needs of the communities we serve. From in-office individual therapy to community-based Behavioral Health Intervention Services (BHIS), we are dedicated to meeting you where you are.
One-on-One Support
Individual Counseling
Individual counseling is a collaborative process between you and your therapist, focused on helping you better understand yourself, develop effective coping strategies, and work toward meaningful change in your life. In a confidential, one-on-one setting, you will have the opportunity to explore the thoughts, emotions, and behaviors that may be contributing to the challenges you face.
What to Expect in Sessions
Your first session will focus on getting to know you. Your therapist will ask about your background, current concerns, and what you hope to achieve through therapy. Together, you will develop a treatment plan with goals that reflect your priorities. Subsequent sessions typically involve exploring patterns, building new skills, processing difficult experiences, and tracking your progress over time. Sessions are typically 45 to 60 minutes in length and are most often scheduled on a weekly or biweekly basis, depending on your needs.
Common Issues Addressed
- Depression and persistent low mood
- Anxiety, worry, and panic
- Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
- Trauma and adverse childhood experiences
- Grief, loss, and bereavement
- Life transitions and adjustment difficulties
- Stress management and burnout
- Anger management
- Self-esteem and identity concerns
- Relationship and interpersonal difficulties
Evidence-Based Approaches We Use
- Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) — Identifies and restructures unhelpful thought patterns that drive difficult emotions and behaviors
- Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) Skills — Teaches practical skills for managing intense emotions, improving relationships, and building distress tolerance
- Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) — Helps the brain process and heal from traumatic memories and distressing experiences
- Trauma-Informed Care — Recognizes the widespread impact of trauma and integrates this understanding into all aspects of treatment
- Solution-Focused Brief Therapy — Focuses on your strengths and resources to develop practical solutions for current challenges
- Motivational Interviewing — A collaborative approach that supports your motivation and commitment to positive change
Strengthening Relationships
Couples Counseling
Relationships are a fundamental part of our well-being, and even the strongest partnerships can benefit from professional support during challenging times. Couples counseling provides a structured, neutral space for partners to improve communication, resolve conflict, and rebuild connection. Your therapist serves as a guide, helping both partners feel heard and understood while working toward shared goals.
Whether you are looking to address a specific issue or simply want to deepen your connection, couples counseling can provide the tools and perspective needed to build a healthier, more fulfilling relationship. Both partners are expected to attend sessions together.
Issues Commonly Addressed in Couples Therapy
- Communication breakdowns and misunderstandings
- Conflict resolution and managing disagreements constructively
- Intimacy and emotional connection concerns
- Trust, betrayal, and rebuilding after infidelity
- Navigating major life transitions together (parenthood, career changes, relocation)
- Premarital counseling and relationship preparation
- Blended family challenges
- Coping with external stressors as a team (financial, health, family)
Our Approach to Couples Work
Our therapists draw on established, research-supported methods for couples therapy. Sessions focus on helping each partner understand their own patterns and those of their partner, develop new ways of communicating, and practice skills that promote mutual respect and understanding. Treatment is tailored to the unique dynamics and goals of each couple.
Please note: Couples counseling requires that both partners participate in sessions. If you are interested in exploring relationship concerns on your own, individual counseling may be a helpful alternative.
Healing in Community
Group Therapy
Group therapy offers a unique and powerful form of support that individual therapy alone cannot provide. Sharing experiences with others who understand what you are going through can reduce feelings of isolation, provide new perspectives, and foster a sense of belonging and hope.
Benefits of Group Therapy
Peer Support
Connect with others who share similar experiences and challenges. Knowing you are not alone in your struggles can be profoundly comforting and motivating.
Skill Building
Learn and practice new coping skills in a supportive, structured setting. Group members often encourage and motivate each other as they develop healthier patterns.
New Perspectives
Gain insight from hearing how others approach similar challenges. Group therapy provides a mirror for self-reflection and an opportunity to give and receive feedback.
Types of Groups Offered
General Mental Health Support Groups
Process-oriented groups that provide a safe space for members to share experiences, explore emotions, and support one another through a variety of mental health challenges including depression, anxiety, and life stress.
DBT Skills Groups
Structured skills training groups based on Dialectical Behavior Therapy. Members learn and practice skills in four key areas: mindfulness, distress tolerance, emotion regulation, and interpersonal effectiveness.
Grief and Loss Support Groups
A compassionate space for individuals who are grieving the loss of a loved one. Members share their experiences, learn about the grief process, and find comfort in knowing they are not alone on this difficult journey.
Trauma Recovery Groups
Psychoeducational and support groups designed for individuals healing from trauma. These groups focus on understanding the impact of trauma, building safety, and developing healthy coping strategies in a supportive community.
Group availability varies by location and season. Not all group types are offered at every office at all times. Please contact us at (641) 856-2688 to learn about current group offerings at our Centerville, Ottumwa, or Bloomfield locations.
Community-Based Mental Health Support
Iowa Medicaid BHIS Services
Behavioral Health Intervention Services (BHIS) are a vital component of Iowa Medicaid's commitment to providing accessible, community-based mental health support for individuals and families who need it most.
What Are BHIS Services?
Behavioral Health Intervention Services (BHIS) are mental health services provided under the Iowa Medicaid program. Unlike traditional office-based therapy, BHIS services are delivered where the client lives, learns, and engages with their community. This means that a BHIS clinician or specialist may work with a client in their home, at school, in community settings, or at the clinic, depending on the individual's needs and treatment goals.
BHIS is designed to provide practical, hands-on support that helps individuals and families develop the skills they need to manage mental health symptoms, improve daily functioning, and achieve greater stability. The focus is on real-world application of coping strategies and behavioral skills in the environments where challenges actually occur.
Services Include
- Individual BHIS — One-on-one behavioral health intervention tailored to the individual's specific mental health needs and treatment plan goals
- Family BHIS — Interventions that involve the family unit, helping family members understand mental health conditions, improve communication, and develop strategies that support the individual's recovery
- Skills Training and Development — Structured instruction and practice in daily living skills, coping strategies, social skills, emotional regulation, and other areas identified in the treatment plan
Who Qualifies for BHIS?
BHIS services are available to individuals who meet the following criteria:
- Children, adolescents, and potentially adults with a qualifying mental health diagnosis
- Currently enrolled in Iowa Medicaid through one of the state's managed care organizations (MCOs)
- Have a treatment plan that identifies the need for behavioral health intervention services
- May have functional impairments in school, home, or community settings related to their mental health condition
A referral and assessment are required to determine eligibility and develop an appropriate treatment plan.
Iowa Medicaid MCOs Accepted
Wellpoint Iowa
Accepted for BHIS and outpatient mental health services across all locations.
Iowa Total Care
Accepted for BHIS and outpatient mental health services across all locations.
Molina Healthcare
Accepted for BHIS and outpatient mental health services across all locations.
How to Get Started with BHIS
Getting started with BHIS services involves a few key steps. Our team will guide you through the process to make it as straightforward as possible.
Referral
Contact our office at (641) 856-2688 or ask your primary care provider, school counselor, or current mental health provider to submit a referral. Self-referrals are also welcome.
Assessment
A licensed clinician will complete a comprehensive mental health assessment to determine eligibility and identify specific needs, strengths, and goals.
Treatment Planning
Together with the client (and family, when appropriate), the clinician will develop an individualized treatment plan outlining the type, frequency, and goals of BHIS services.
Begin Services
BHIS services begin in the agreed-upon settings. Your BHIS specialist will work with you consistently to build skills, reduce symptoms, and support progress toward your goals.
Benefits of BHIS Services
BHIS services offer several distinct advantages that complement traditional office-based therapy:
- Meets clients where they are — Services are provided in the home, school, or community, removing barriers to access such as transportation and scheduling
- Practical, real-world skill building — Skills are taught and practiced in the environments where they will actually be used, leading to better generalization and lasting change
- Family involvement — Family members are actively engaged in treatment, creating a more supportive home environment and improving outcomes
- Coordination of care — BHIS specialists work closely with schools, primary care providers, and other supports to ensure a collaborative, team-based approach
- Flexibility — Services can be scheduled to accommodate families and can be adjusted as needs change over time
- Covered by Iowa Medicaid — BHIS services are a benefit of Iowa Medicaid, reducing financial barriers to receiving mental health support
Convenient, Secure Access
Telehealth Services
We understand that getting to an office is not always possible due to distance, health concerns, weather, scheduling, or other circumstances. For this reason, telehealth options may be available for certain services, allowing you to meet with your therapist from the comfort and privacy of your own home.
How Telehealth Works
Telehealth sessions are conducted through a HIPAA-compliant video platform that protects your privacy and confidentiality. You will need a device with a camera and microphone (such as a smartphone, tablet, or computer) and a stable internet connection. Your therapist will provide instructions for connecting prior to your first telehealth appointment.
What You Should Know
- Telehealth sessions follow the same structure and quality as in-person appointments
- Not all services may be available via telehealth; your therapist will discuss whether telehealth is appropriate for your needs
- Iowa licensing requirements apply: clients must be physically located in the state of Iowa at the time of the session
- Most insurance plans cover telehealth services; contact our office or your insurance provider for specific coverage details
- A private, quiet space is recommended for the best therapeutic experience
Grounded in Evidence, Guided by Compassion
Our Therapeutic Approach
Client-Centered Care
You are the expert on your own life. Our role is to provide a supportive, empathetic environment where you feel genuinely heard and respected. Treatment is always driven by your goals, your pace, and your comfort level. We believe that a strong therapeutic relationship is the foundation of meaningful change.
Trauma-Informed Practice
We recognize that trauma is a common thread in many mental health challenges. Our clinicians are trained to understand the impact of trauma on the brain, body, and behavior. Every aspect of our practice, from the way we greet you to the way we structure sessions, is designed to promote safety, trust, and empowerment.
Evidence-Based Methods
Our therapists use treatment approaches that have been rigorously studied and shown to be effective. This includes Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, EMDR, DBT skills training, solution-focused therapy, and motivational interviewing, among others. We stay current with the latest research to ensure you receive the highest quality of care.
Cultural Sensitivity
We are committed to providing inclusive, culturally responsive care. We respect and honor the diverse backgrounds, identities, beliefs, and experiences of every client we serve. Our clinicians strive to create a welcoming environment where all individuals feel safe, valued, and understood regardless of their background.
Ready to Take the First Step?
Reaching out for help takes courage, and we are here to make the process as comfortable as possible. Whether you are seeking support for yourself, your relationship, or your child, we would be honored to walk alongside you on your journey toward healing.
Call us today to schedule an appointment or to learn more about which services may be right for you.