About

Meet The Owner: Jacarie Owens, LMHC

Currently NOT accepting new clients.

Education:

I attended Langston University as a student-athlete (forever a lady lion) for my undergraduate degree in Criminal Justice. I attended Walden University and earned my graduate degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. Throughout the years, I have grown a love for studying trauma and how trauma affects our brain, heart and body. I am currently an EMDRIA approved consultant and coach in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing therapy (EMDR). I provide consultation to therapist learning how to integrate EMDR into their practices. I also hold specialized training in Brainspotting & Child Parent Psychotherapy (CPP). I have extensive training in play therapy techniques, TF-CBT, FirstPlay techniques and sand tray techniques. I have worked with children, families, and caregivers of the Des Moines area from all different walks of life. I value building connects with my clients, meeting my clients where they are at, and finding an integrated approach that best fits my clients' needs.

Free Time:

When I am not in the office. I enjoy spending time with family and friends. Spending time with my children and watching them compete in activities GIVE ME LIFE! My favorite sport to watch is basketball (AGAIN forever a lady lion).

Professional Services

• Coaching Professionals
• Pre-License Supervision for New Therapists
• Consultation for EMDR Therapists
• Confidential Clinical work with Practitioners
• Business Consultation

Associations

• Certified Child Parent Psychotherapy
• Certified FirstPlay® Child Practitioner FirstPlay®,
• Iowa Mental Health Counselors Association
• EMDR International Association

If you'd like to book a professional consultation or supervision with me, please email me at jowens@cmciowa.com

Meet Emily Villarreal, (T)LMHC

Currently taking new clients

Education:

Hello! I'm currently a provisional mental health counselor. I attended Iowa State University for my undergraduate degree in Child, Adult & Family Services. I attended Grand View University for my graduate degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. Throughout my professional journey I have worked alongside children, teens, young adults, college students, parents, adults in a number of different settings including college readiness programing, admissions counseling, child welfare, and mental health.

Therapeutic Approach:

I value trauma-focused approaches, along with Cognitive Behavioral Therapy in addition to other mindfulness practices to address ADHD, anxiety disorders, depression, relationship and attachment issues, and childhood, immigration and complex trauma. I also work with individuals on stress, anger, self-esteem, life transitions, and substance abuse. I have training in play therapy techniques, TF-CBT, and EMDR.

You will be seen and heard, and together we will work alongside through self-awareness and self-exploration. My goal is to provide a space for personal growth through a safe, nonjudgmental and authentic approach to build a trusting relationship. You will feel empowered to advocate for yourself and live your best life, and with that, I'm so glad you're here, because you matter, and tomorrow needs you. I look forward to working together.

Free Time:

In my free time, I love jamming out to music in my car, and I appreciate all genres. I like to discover and collect different house plants. I also love spending time with family and friends, and being able to be outside or go for walks with my dogs.

To schedule an appointment with Emily, please email admin@cmciowa.com and put EMILY VILLARREAL in the subject line.

Meet Mallory Francis, LMSW

Currently accepting new clients.

Education:

I attended Iowa State University and graduated with a Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) in Psychology. I attended University of Kentucky and graduated with a Master of Social Work (MSW). Throughout my professional journey I have worked alongside children, teens, young adults, adults and parents in various settings including young parents programming, education, child welfare, and mental health.

Therapeutic Approach:

I take a person-centered and solutions-focused approach. I integrate Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), somatic, and mindfulness techniques. I am passionate about a holistic approach to healing by reconnecting the mind and body to promote self-awareness to address anxiety disorders, depression, and trauma. I work with individuals on relationship issues, life transitions, stress management, and self-esteem. I have training in Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction (MBSR), TF-CBT, and EMDR.

I strive to create a safe space where you are welcome to come as you are, in this present moment. A space where you can explore and make discoveries about yourself. I value authenticity in order to build a trusting relationship. My goal is to guide you through the process to feel empowered and confident to deal with life's challenges and navigate new beginnings.

Free Time:

In my free time, I enjoy spending time with family, walking my dog, and reading. I fill my cup by listening to music with the windows down or spending time in nature.

To schedule an appointment with Mallory, please email Mallory at mfrancis@cmciowa.com or email admin@cmciowa.com and put MALLORY FRANCIS in the subject line.

Meet Sharrell Soliveras, LMSW

Currently accepting new clients.

Education:

I recently graduated from the Advanced Graduate Program at The University of Iowa's School of Social Work. I graduated from The University of Iowa in 2019 with a Bachelor of Arts in Social Work. I am currently practicing as a LMSW at Courageous Minds Counseling under the supervision of JaCarie Owens, LMHC.

Therapeutic Approach:

I value Trauma-informed care and look forward to building my skills in Eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. I am determined to create an environment for my clientele that promotes their well-being and therapeutic growth.

Free Time:

In my free time, I enjoy family time, cooking, baking and road trips.

To schedule an appointment with Sharrell, please email Sharrell at ssoliveras@cmciowa.com or email admin@cmciowa.com and put SHARRELL SOLIVERAS in the subject line.

Meet Sonia Navarro, (T)LMHC

Currently accepting new clients.

Education:

Hello! I am currently a Provisional Licensed Mental Health Counselor. I attended Iowa State University for my undergraduate degree in Psychology and Grand View University for my master's in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. Throughout my journey, I have worked alongside teens, young adults, college students, and adults.

Therapeutic Approach:

Life can be profoundly challenging and at times, it can be overwhelmingly difficult and disheartening. At times we may feel like we hate ourselves, or life hates us and we may need help to face those challenges. You deserve happiness and love. We're all human and you don't have to do the hard stuff alone.

I welcome anyone from all backgrounds with open arms and offer a sense of love and belonging. I offer a laid-back approach where at times I believe laughter can help us cope. I value an authentic relationship between myself and you. I like to think we're filled with stories waiting to be written. Whether you're just starting that story or onto a new chapter, I will be on this journey with you.

I value Cognitive Behavioral Therapy in addition to other mindfulness practices to address anxiety disorders, depression, relationships, and childhood trauma. I also work with individuals on stress, self-esteem, and life transitions. I focus on multicultural viewpoints and am LGBTQIA+ friendly.

Free Time:

I'm a nerd. I am into anime, film and EDM. I love my two dogs and hanging out with my family when I can.

To schedule an appointment with Sonia, please email Sonia at snavarro@cmciowa.com or email admin@cmciowa.com and put SONIA NAVARRO in the subject line.

Meet Sydney Murray, (T)LMHC

Currently accepting new clients.

Education:

I am a provisional licensed mental health counselor. I attended undergrad at the University of Iowa where I obtained a B.S. in psychology with a minor in criminology and a certificate in disability studies. I also attended the University of Iowa for my M.A. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling.

Therapeutic Approach:

Thus far my clinical experience has consisted of providing individual therapy to adults and adolescents with a variety of presenting concerns including treatment-resistant depressive and anxiety disorders, post-traumatic stress disorder, childhood trauma, and self-image. I also have experience providing group therapy to adults with treatment-resistant depression and anxiety. I am passionate about helping others live the life they want to live, work through life's challenges, and improve their relationship with themselves.

I utilize a collaborative approach and place heavy importance on developing a safe and authentic relationship with every client. I strive to honor each individual's uniqueness and recognize that different approaches will work for different people. I utilize a trauma-informed and holistic lens. I gravitate towards cognitive-behavioral, gestalt, and narrative therapy modalities. We will work together to find the approach that best suits your needs and who you are as an individual.

Free Time:

I enjoy reading, cooking new recipes, walking with my dog, and being outside as much as possible.

To schedule an appointment with Sydney, please email Sydney at smurray@cmciowa.com or email admin@cmciowa.com and put SYDNEY MURRAY in the subject line.

Meet Kari Edge, (T)LMHC

Currently accepting new clients.

Education:

I am a student at Drake University in pursuit of a Masters in Counseling, with a focus on Mental Health Counseling. I graduated from Iowa State University with a B.L.S and a minor in African and African American Studies. Before that, I attended DMACC West. I am currently completing my graduate practicum at Courageous Minds Counseling under the supervision of JaCarie Owens, LMHC.

Therapeutic approach:

I follow a client-centered approach with a focus on strengths and empathetic listening. I believe the most important thing in counseling is the creation of a safe space where clients feel respected and listened to. I am especially interested in working with people in the LGBTQIA+ community.

Free time:

I enjoy playing video games and listening to music. I also like a variety of crafts. I collect rocks and fun trinkets.

To schedule an appointment with Kari, please email admin@cmciowa.com and put KARI EDGE in the subject line.

Meet Rachael Hanson, LMSW

Accepting new clients

I graduated with my Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Social Work and Psychology in 2023 from Loras College. I then went on to receive my Master of Social Work from Washington University in St. Louis in August 2024, with a focus on Children, Youth, and Families. I am currently pursuing my independent license in social work! Throughout my education, I have focused on supporting children and adolescents as they navigate familial divorce and separation, providing crisis services for women and children, and helping children, youth, and their families through various life transitions and challenges. My approach in the therapy room is client-centered, with the support of my trained facility dog, Davy. Davy, my co-therapist, has undergone significant training and completed testing to be certified as a professional facility dog. He helps clients feel safe and comfortable, and assists with grounding and interrupting behaviors when clients feel dysregulated. I believe the most important part of healing and growth is the therapeutic relationship, and I strive to bring my most authentic self to sessions to support clients in uncovering insight and empowering change. I incorporate a variety of approaches in therapy, including CPT and TF-CBT, somatic movement, creativity and art, and play-based interventions. I'm passionate about meeting clients where they are and tailoring each session to their unique needs and goals. My hope is to create a safe, welcoming space where clients feel comfortable showing up exactly as they are. I don't promise to have all the answers or give advice, and I do bring a lot of ideas, curiosity, and support to help you figure out what works for you. Outside of the office, I enjoy connecting with nature, listening to music, getting creative, training dogs, and (when in season) watching Formula One.

Meet Sydney Beasley, MHC Intern

Education/Experience

I received my bachelor's degree in psychology from Grand View University, where I also spent four years competing on the women's volleyball team. I am continuing my education at Grand View as I pursue a M.S. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling.

Through my previous experience working with children and adolescents in a mental health treatment setting, I had the opportunity to work alongside individuals navigating emotional, behavioral, and mental health challenges. That experience helped me grow both personally and professionally while strengthening my passion for creating supportive and genuine relationships with others. I value creating a space where clients feel comfortable being themselves, feel truly heard, and know they do not have to face difficult moments alone.

I am currently completing my graduate practicum at Courageous Minds Counseling under the supervision of JaCarie Owens, LMHC.

Free Time

In my free time I enjoy going on walks, playing card games or puzzles, listening to music, and trying new things!

Therapeutic Approach

I follow a client-centered approach to counseling and tend to incorporate Cognitive Behavioral Therapy techniques. I believe creating a sense of hope and empowerment can help people feel more supported and confident in handling life's challenges. My goal is to create a comfortable and supportive space where clients feel safe being themselves, openly expressing their thoughts and emotions, and feeling genuinely heard and understood without any judgment. I understand that reaching out for support can feel difficult, and I value building genuine connections based on empathy, trust, and compassion. I hope to help clients better understand themselves, build on their strengths, and feel more confident as they work through difficult moments and personal growth.