Meet Our Team

We're here for you.

Vanessa Andersen, LISW

Licensed Mental Health Therapist - Grimes Location

Vanessa is the founder of Pink Couch Wellness and focuses on creating a warm, compassionate environment for patients. She wants you to know that at Pink Couch Wellness, you can expect to be heard, validated, and guided toward positive change.

A graduate of the University of Northern Iowa, Vanessa also serves as a therapist supervisor with the Iowa Board of Social Work. She has speciality training in adult and adolescent suicidal and self-injurious behaviors from the Beck Institute, and DBT and EMDR training. She is also trained to treat perinatal mood disorders from Postpartum Support International (PSI).

Vanessa's specialties include:

Managing anxiety
Navigating life transitions
Improving relationships
Healing from traumas
Postpartum support

Anna Armstrong, tLMHC

Licensed Mental Health Therapist - Ankeny Location

Anna provides individual counseling for patients ages 5 and up, with a focus on anxiety, ADHD, trauma, social skills development, and substance use. She uses an inclusive and compassionate approach to care, incorporating a variety of evidence-based treatment modalities like cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), mindfulness-based techniques, sand tray therapy and play therapy interventions. Her approach is always tailored to meet the unique needs of each patient.

Anna holds a Bachelor's degree in Psychology from Clarke University and a Master's degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Grand View University. She has prior experience working with children diagnosed with Autism and Down Syndrome.

Anna’s specialties include:

Anxiety and ADHD in children and teens
Trauma and emotional regulation
Social skill development
Substance use in adolescents

Blair Brashears, LMSW

Licensed Mental Health Therapist - Ankeny Location

Blair provides individual therapy for children (ages 7-12) and adult women. She offers a safe, judgment-free space that supports healing and personal growth. Blair integrates mindfulness-based therapy, art therapy, strengths-based techniques, and cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) to meet each client's needs.

Blair holds a Master's degree in social work with a specialization in trauma-informed care. She is certified in art therapy and has additional training in trauma-responsive yoga. As a 200-hour registered yoga teacher (RYT), Blair blends creative and body-centered techniques into traditional talk therapy. Her holistic background supports clients in reconnecting with their inner strengths, building resilience, and developing healthy coping skills.

Blair's specialities include:

Emotional regulation
Healing from trauma
Anxiety and depression
Art therapy for emotional expression
Navigating life transitions and family changes
Managing stress and overwhelm

Kelli Bredehoeft, LMSW

Licensed Mental Health Therapist - Grimes Location

Kelli specializes in individual counseling related to grief and loss, managing anxiety and depression, and provides a judgment-free environment with a patient-centered approach. She provides mental health and play therapy for patients age 5 and older, and wants you to know that her goal is always for you to feel heard, be validated, and experience growth and healing.

Kelli holds a Bachelor's degree in psychology from Buena Vista University and a Master's in Social Work from the University of Northern Iowa.

Kelli's specialties include:

Grief and loss
Coping with chronic and terminal illness
Navigating life transitions
Caregiver stress/burnout
Navigating family challenges

Jen Derby

Office Manager - Grimes Location

Jen is the Office Manager at Pink Couch Wellness and helps us keep everything organized. She’s the friendly face you’ll see when you come for a visit or when you see Pink Couch Wellness out in the community. One of Jen’s roles is to make sure our patients feel welcomed and comfortable – something we want for everyone!

In addition to her jobs in the office, Jen is our community outreach coordinator. She organizes our participation in community events, sponsorships, volunteerism, and giving back.

When you interact with Pink Couch Wellness, Jen can help you with:

Checking in
Scheduling appointments
Billing or insurance questions
Feeling welcome in a new place

Sarah Dowd, PA-C, CAQ-Psych

Mental Health Medication Provider - Ankeny Location

Sarah is available at Pink Couch Wellness to support medication management for a wide range of disorders for patients ages 16+. She is passionate about providing comprehensive and holistic care for patients.

Sarah holds a Physician Assistant degree from Des Moines University, a Psychiatry Fellowship from Broadlawns Medical Center (Des Moines), and additional certifications in Psychiatry and Perinatal Mental Health.

Sarah specializes in medication management for:

Depression and Anxiety
ADHD
Postpartum
Bipolar Disorder
OCD

Abigail Dykstra, BSW

Mental Health Therapy Intern - Ankeny Location

Abigail welcomes patients ages 12+ to Pink Couch Wellness for support with anxiety, depression, foster care-related challenges, and relationship issues. She incorporates cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), and solution-focused approaches to meet clients where they are and guide them forward. Abigail is passionate about partnering with clients in their mental health journey, helping them feel empowered, seen, and valued.

Abigail holds a Bachelor's degree in Social Work from the University of Northern Iowa with a minor in mental health and a certificate in substance abuse treatment (2024). She is currently pursuing a Master of Social Work with a clinical concentration at the University of Iowa.

Abigail's specialities include:

Anxiety
Depression
Foster care
Relationship challenges

Katherine Garrett, LISW

Licensed Mental Health Therapist - Grimes & Ankeny Locations

Katherine specializes in supporting adults (18+) navigating challenges such as anxiety, depression, grief and loss, caregiver stress and burnout, peer relationship difficulties, and self-esteem concerns. Katherine’s therapeutic approach is grounded in evidence-based practices, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), strengths-based strategies, and client-centered care.

She is dedicated to helping individuals navigate life’s challenges with compassion and respect. She believes therapy is not only about overcoming difficulties but also about discovering strengths, fostering growth, and building a more fulfilling life.

Katherine is a Licensed Independent Social Worker with a master’s degree in social work from the University of Iowa.

Katherine's specialities include:

Anxiety
Depression
Grief & Loss
Caregiver Stress/Burnout
Peer Relationships
Self-Esteem

Lindsey Hoodjer, LISW

Licensed Mental Health Therapist - Grimes Location

Lindsey provides mental health therapy for patients ages 15 and older. She wants patients to feel heard, validated, and supported as they navigate their journey. Lindsey uses a strengths-based and client-centered approach to support her patients.

Lindsey holds a Bachelor's degree in social work from Luther College, a Master's in Social Work from the University of Northern Iowa, and a Master's in Public Health from Creighton University.

Lindsey's specialties include:

Anxiety
Depression
Grief & Loss
Life Transitions
Caregiver stress/burnout
Blended family transitions
Parenting children with disabilities

Jenna Isely, LMSW

Licensed Mental Health Therapist - Grimes Location

Jenna Isely provides mental health therapy for children ages 2+, teens, young adults, and parents. She creates a safe, welcoming space where families feel accepted and supported, meeting them where they are and helping them build confidence, strengthen connections, and discover new ways to grow.

Jenna holds a Master of Social Work from the University of Iowa. She takes a trauma-informed, strengths-based approach, incorporating Play Therapy, DBT, Solution-Focused Therapy, Person-Centered Therapy, Theraplay, and Attachment-Based Therapy.

Jenna's specialties include:

Anxiety
Depression
Grief & Loss
Life Transitions
Peer Relationships
School Issues
Self-Esteem
Stress
Parent-Child Attachment
Trauma & PTSD

Amanda Johnson, PhD

Licensed Psychologist - Ankeny Location

Bio coming soon!

Nermina Kekic, IADC

Mental Health Therapy Intern - Grimes & Ankeny Locations

Nermina welcomes adult patients (18+) to Pink Couch Wellness for support with substance use, co-occurring disorders, and a range of mental health challenges. She uses a client-centered, trauma-informed approach utilizing motivational interviewing, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), and solution-focused brief therapy (SFBT). Nermina's goal is to help clients build resilience, increase self-awareness, and make meaningful, lasting changes in a supportive, nonjudgmental environment.

Nermina holds a Bachelor's Degree in Psychology from Grand View University and is currently pursuing a Master of Social Work from the University of Iowa. She also holds an International Alcohol and Drug Counselor (IADC) certification.

Nermina's specialties include:

Substance use and addiction counseling
Adult mental health
Co-occurring disorders
Life stressors and transitions

Hannah Long

Administrative Assistant - Ankeny Location

Hannah serves as the Administrative Assistant at Pink Couch Wellness, helping to keep our office organized and running efficiently. She's likely the first person you'll speak with when reaching out or stopping by our Ankeny office, and she works hard to make every visit feel easy and welcoming. Hannah is dedicated to making sure your Pink Couch Wellness experience is comfortable, right from the very start.

When you visit Pink Couch Wellness, Hannah can help you with:

The check-in process
Scheduling appointments
Feeling welcome in a new place

Elizabeth Miller, LISW

Licensed Mental Health Therapist - Grimes Location

Elizabeth specializes in providing couples and family counseling and focuses on creating a relaxed, non-judgmental environment. She wants you to know that she uses a patient-centered approach and evidence-based treatment modalities, such as CBT and Solution-Focused therapies, to provide clear, actionable insights for resolution.

A graduate of the University of Iowa, Elizabeth also has experience addressing sex and sexuality concerns and working with LGBTQ+ needs.

Elizabeth's specialties include:

Relationship issues
Navigating family challenges
LGBTQ+ needs
Substance abuse

Danielle Penton, PMHNP

Mental Health Medication Provider - Grimes Location

Danielle is available at Pink Couch Wellness to support medication management and mental health lifestyle modifications for patients ages 12+. She wants you to know that she provides inclusive services to improve mental health for everyone in our community.

Danielle earned her RN degree from Des Moines Area Community College, her BSN from Baker College, and her MSN from Allen College. She has experience working in outpatient and inpatient mental health facilities, with LGBTQ+ care, and providing medication-assisted treatment for substance abuse.

Danielle specializes in medication management for:

Depression and Anxiety
Substance Abuse
Postpartum
Bipolar Disorder
ADHD, OCD, and PTSD

Alison Pfleger, MA, PD, NCSP

Nationally Certified School Psychologist - Ankeny Location

Alison specializes in administering diagnostic assessments. At Pink Couch Wellness, she administers assessments to determine whether a child (age 6+) or adult has ADHD. Alison promotes a calm and sensitive environment during testing to ensure reliable results.

Alison holds a Bachelor's degree in Psychology from Capella University, a Master's degree in Educational Psychology, and a Professional Diploma in School Psychology from New Jersey City University. Alison has 5+ years of experience administering assessments.

Alison specializes in diagnostic assessments for:

ADHD in children ages 6+
ADHD in adults

Lauren Reimer, BS

Mental Health Therapy Intern - Grimes Location

Lauren is passionate about creating a supportive, judgment-free space where patients feel empowered to express themselves fully. With a background in social work, they bring experience working with a diverse range of individuals, both adolescents and adults. Lauren’s therapeutic approach is rooted in person-centered and existential therapies, while also drawing on evidence-based practices such as CBT and DBT. Lauren focuses on meeting each client where they are and helping them identify meaningful, manageable steps toward healing.

Lauren holds a Bachelor's degree in Psychology from Arizona State University and is currently pursuing a Master's degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Grand View University.

Lauren’s specialties include:

LGBTQ+
Depression
Anxiety
ADHD
Autism
Borderline Personality Disorder
Identity exploration
Life transitions

Sarah Rzewnicki, MS

Mental Health Therapy Intern - Grimes Location

Sarah welcomes patients ages 6+ to Pink Couch Wellness for treatment of
mental health conditions using solution-focused, CBT, strengths-based, and DBT therapies. Sarah uses a patient-centric approach to help patients build confidence and feel validated, safe, seen, and heard in a judgment-free environment.

Sarah has a Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology and Human Services from Buena Vista University and a Master's in Psychology specializing in Addictions from Kaplan University. She is currently completing a Master's in Social Work at Capella University.

Sarah's specialities include:

Blended family transitions
Substance abuse
Depression
Anxiety
Veterans issues

Jessica Schmitt, LISW

Licensed Mental Health Therapist - Grimes & Ankeny Locations

Jessica specializes in working with children and teens to build emotional competence and resilience. She provides therapy for patients age 5 and older, helping them navigate challenges such as trauma, anxiety, depression, ADHD, life changes, and difficult behaviors at school. Jessica creates a safe and judgment-free environment using a client-centered, strengths-based approach, along with Solution-Focused Brief Therapy and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). Her goal is to build a strong therapeutic relationship that empowers patients to grow and take meaningful steps toward change and acceptance.

Jessica holds a Bachelor’s degree in Social Work from the University of Northern Iowa and a Master’s in Social Work from St. Ambrose University. She also offers after-hours availability.

Jessica's specialties include:

Emotional regulation and coping skills
Trauma and anxiety
ADHD and challenging behaviors
Depression and mood management
Life transitions and adjustment

Sara Snitker, LISW

Licensed Mental Health Therapist - Grimes & Ankeny Locations

Sara is a clinical therapist with more than 20 years of experience in social work, supporting patients ages 12 and older as they navigate emotional challenges and life transitions.

Sara creates a safe, nurturing, and judgment-free environment where clients feel seen, heard, and valued. She takes a person-centered, trauma-informed, and compassionate approach to therapy, integrating CBT and ACT. Sara believes clients are the experts in their own lives, and her role is to walk alongside them, offering support, insight, and encouragement as they build resilience and work toward meaningful goals.

Sara holds a Bachelor's degree and a Master's degree in Social Work from the University of Northern Iowa. She is deeply committed to helping clients overcome challenges, build resilience, and find their strength.

Sara's specialties include:

Anxiety and depression
Life transitions, stress, and adjustment
Support for parents of kids with PANS/PANDAS

Stephanie Spence, LISW

Licensed Mental Health Therapist - Ankeny Location

Stephanie provides mental health therapy for adults ages 18 and older. She supports individuals through life’s most tender and complex moments, using a compassionate, strengths-based approach. Her style is collaborative and respectful, helping clients feel safe, heard, and empowered.

Stephanie helps patients build insight, develop effective coping strategies, and move toward a life that aligns with their values and goals.

She holds a Master of Social Work degree from Indiana University and offers flexible scheduling, including limited evening appointments, to support caregivers, professionals, and those managing busy lives.

Stephanie's specialties include:

Anxiety
Depression
Perinatal mood disorders
Grief and loss
Caregiver stress
Chronic illness
Aging
Major life transitions
Alopecia

Tiffany Sumrall, LMHC

Licensed Mental Health Therapist - Ankeny Location

Tiffany specializes in providing couples and family counseling and focuses on creating a judgment-free environment where all can share and work together toward healing and growth. She wants you to know that she uses a patient-centered approach and evidence-based treatment modalities like EMDR, CBT, and Solution-Focused therapies to provide clear and actionable insights for resolution.

A graduate of Walden University, Tiffany also has speciality training in Narcissistic/Antagonistic Relationship Abuse.

Tiffany's specialties include:

Women's issues
Relationship concerns
Navigating family challenges

Bethany Zeitz, LMHC, NCC, CCMHC

Licensed Mental Health Therapist - Ankeny Location

Bethany specializes in individual counseling for adults navigating trauma, anxiety, depression, and life transitions. She helps clients identify both short- and long-term goals and utilizes a range of evidence-based modalities, including EMDR, CBT, REBT, ACT, Narrative Therapy, and Somatic Therapy. Bethany works to help clients address challenges, build supportive connections, and work alongside them to live a life that feels authentic and aligned with their values.

Bethany holds Bachelor’s degrees in Psychology and the Study of Religion from the University of Northern Iowa and a Master’s degree in Mental Health Counseling from Capella University. She is currently a doctoral student in Counselor Education and Supervision at the University of the Cumberlands.

Bethany's specialties include:

Trauma
Anxiety
Depression
Life transitions