Liz Kist

LMHC • Licensed Mental Health Counselor

In-person only

About

In the vibrant landscape of mental health care, Liz Kist, LMHC, stands out as a beacon of hope for those grappling with life's challenges. At the heart of her practice lies a profound commitment to helping clients find balance in their thoughts and emotions, empowering them to take meaningful action towards what truly matters in their lives.

Liz specializes in guiding individuals through the complexities of anxiety, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), and relationship issues. Her therapeutic approach is rooted in Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), a powerful methodology that focuses on developing psychological flexibility. This innovative technique helps clients learn to experience all emotions—both distressing and pleasant—rather than trying to escape or suppress them. By changing perspectives on psychological suffering, increasing mindfulness, and identifying core values, Liz supports her clients in living more meaningful lives.

While ACT forms the foundation of her practice, Liz's expertise extends to other evidence-based approaches. She skillfully integrates techniques such as Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), and the Gottman Method to tailor treatment to each client's unique needs. This integrative approach allows her to address a wide range of concerns effectively, emphasizing both processing past experiences and focusing on the "here and now" through mindful practices and intentional goal-setting.

Liz's educational background includes a Master of Arts in Psychology with a counseling specialization from The Chicago School of Professional Psychology (2009) and a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from the University of Northern Iowa (2005). This solid academic foundation, combined with her diverse professional experiences across corporate, non-profit, residential, and private practice settings, informs her holistic approach to therapy.

Currently, Liz primarily works with teenagers and adults, drawing on her extensive experience with individuals aged five and up, couples, and families. Her practice, Kist Counseling, located in Des Moines, Iowa, serves as a sanctuary for those seeking growth and change. Here, clients find a non-judgmental space to clarify their values, learn vital skills for emotional regulation, rediscover their authentic selves, and embrace life more fully.

Beyond her professional life, Liz embodies the balance she encourages in her clients. She finds joy in spending time with family and friends, exploring the outdoors, engaging in puzzles, and continually learning new things. Her dedication to personal growth is evident in her yoga practice, reflecting her belief in the mind-body connection. In quieter moments, you might find her curled up with a cozy mystery novel, accompanied by a cat or two—a testament to her appreciation for life's simple pleasures.

Liz Kist's approach to therapy is a powerful blend of evidence-based techniques, compassionate understanding, and a genuine commitment to helping clients navigate life's challenges. Whether you're struggling with anxiety, OCD, relationship issues, or simply seeking to live more authentically, Liz offers a guiding hand on your journey towards a more balanced, purposeful, and fulfilling life.

Qualifications

Education

  • Master of Arts in Psychology, 2009
  • Bachelor of Arts in Psychology, 2005

State Licenses

  • Licensed Mental Health Counselor

Specialties & Expertise

Specializations

  • Anxiety
  • Marital and Premarital
  • Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD)

State Licenses

  • Iowa

Race, Gender & Sexual Sensitivities

  • LGBTQ+ Allied

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Locations

Kist Counseling - Des Moines
2708 Grand Ave
Des Moines, IA 50312

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