Mary Gesing
She/Her/Hers
Licensed Mental Health Counselor, LMHCAccepting new clients for both in-person and virtual appointments.
She/Her/Hers
Licensed Mental Health Counselor, LMHCAccepting new clients for both in-person and virtual appointments.
My name is Mary Gesing and I’m a Licensed Mental Health Counselor with over thirty years of experience helping individuals navigate the many adjustments that come with transitioning to college, entering the workforce or making other major life changes. I have a deep understanding of the unique challenges that come with these stages of life and am dedicated to helping you develop the skills and confidence you need to thrive.
My areas of expertise include anxiety, depression, life adjustments and transitions, trauma and managing stress. I use both Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) in my work, as well as EMDR. I focus on helping clients develop a heightened awareness of their thoughts, feelings, and sensations in the present moment, as well as to identify and change negative thought patterns and behaviors that are contributing to their distress.
I aim to create a non judgmental, open space where you can feel supported and challenged. The healing process can often be uncomfortable and I believe that by helping you see yourself and your experiences in a new light, you can gain a greater sense of clarity and learn to navigate difficult situations and emotions in a more effective and healthy way.
Anxiety - Coping with excessive worry, nervousness, or stress; intense discomfort in social settings (social anxiety); sudden and intense feelings of panic (panic disorder)
College & graduate student mental health - Specialized strategies for common issues of young adulthood, including school and career stressors, support around healthy relationships, existential concerns, drug or alcohol issues, eating disorders, and anxiety and/or depression.
Depression - Providing support and promoting healing of hopelessness, low motivation and energy, sadness, irritability, sleep disturbance, and loss of interest and pleasure in life
Life transitions - Coping with difficult or impactful life changes, such as moving to a new area, relationship transitions, child rearing, or career changes; learning self-care to better manage resulting stress
Loss, grief, and bereavement - Emotionally preparing for the anticipated passing of a loved one; managing feelings and reactions to a death or loss of significance; support during the process of healing and acceptance
Trauma - Coping and healing after threatening or scary events, such as witnessing accidents or experiencing sexual, verbal, emotional, or physical abuse
Years of Experience: 35 years
Kirkwood Community College, Counselor/Professor, 1988 - 2022
Medialle College, Post Masters Certification in Clinical Mental Health, 2017
University of Iowa, MA - Student Development and Counseling, 1988
Iowa: 079652
English