Kim Pontius (she/her)

LMHC

Through my training and experience, I have a realistic and optimistic world view. I value openness, curiosity and honesty in my approach.

Licensed Mental Health Counselor in Ames, IA

Services
  • Individual
  • Couples
  • Family
  • Adolescent/Teen

About My Clients

I serve people who struggle with eating disorders, body shame, anxiety or mood disorders aged 14+, as well as couples who want to connect on a deeper level. I welcome families who are dealing with anorexia in a teen family member. All humans who want to live a rich, full meaningful life are welcome.

My Background and Approach

I've found Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) as an approach that works for my clients. You will learn strategies to deal with unhelpful thoughts and feelings through accessing your values in order to live a life worth living. Mood disorders, trauma, and anxiety disorders create inflexible patterns of living and I will offer other possibilities that work for you. With those who deal with eating disorders, body shame and/or chronic dieting, I use Health At Every Size (HAES), Intuitive Eating (IE) and ACT to loosen up unhelpful, harmful beliefs about bodies. I often work collaboratively with dieticians and physicians in this process. I believe that the therapist/client relationship is essential for change and progress. In fact, your progress is so important to me that I'll recommend other therapists if you don't believe my approach is effective for you.

My Personal Beliefs and Interests

I'm a Christian who believes my highest calling is to love others as Jesus taught- with acceptance, humility and compassion. I won't challenge your religious/spiritual beliefs though I may respectfully challenge any unhelpful beliefs you have about yourself and others, those that interfere with the life you want to live. I believe that Black Lives Matter, love is love, that all humans deserve respect regardless of sex, gender, sexual orientation, age, ability, health status, ethnicity, body size. I am learning to be anti-racist and anti-diet. I acknowledge that I have white, cisgender, hetero, thin, healthy, neurological privilege. I want to use this privilege in a way that centers marginalized voices and I plan to continue learning and growing by reading, listening and receiving correction by others.

Insurance Plans Accepted
  • Aetna
  • Wellmark
I offer online counseling in the following states:
I have experience with the following
  • Christianity

At A Glance

  • Experience: 24 years of practice
  • Languages: English
  • Rate: $150 - 150/session

Info

515-337-1764 Email Kim
614 Billy Sunday Rd
Suite100
Ames, IA 50010

Reach out to Kim