Welcome!
The Iowa Mental Health Counselors Association (IMHCA) is dedicated to meeting the professional needs of mental health counselors in Iowa in an intentionally inclusive manner.
We are a state chapter of the American Mental Health Counselors Association (AMHCA).
We understand what it is like to juggle your clients’ needs and administrative tasks, while also continuing your education—not to mention your own self-care. At times you may feel disconnected and overwhelmed. IMHCA is here to provide support through a network of mental health professionals. We offer support in multiple ways, including:
There are many different kinds of mental health providers. Each has a place at the table. In Iowa, licensed mental health counselors, designated by the letters “LMHC,” have obtained a defined skill-set to be mental health professionals. This license means that they meet national standards and have completed specific education requirements to enter the profession. They represent the wide variety of mental health specializations offered in the profession, including family and marriage counseling services. Mental health counselors use a practical and problem-solving approach to provide quality and cost-effective care. While the mental health counselors of Iowa offer their clients unique and attentive care tailored to each individual, we at IMHCA strive to provide these professionals with the support, opportunities, and advocacy they need to advance their knowledge and improve the care they offer their clients today.
While IMHCA benefits all counselors, members of the association receive enhanced benefits. To become a member or learn more about a membership, click here.
2013-2014 AMHCA State Chapter Development Grant $2500
This grant was offered to state chapters to enhance the development and functioning of a state board. Iowa was one of three states to receive this grant. IMHCA used this grant money to support changes involving the IMHCA website and to improve IMHCA’s involvement with the Iowa legislative process.
2014-2015 AMCHA Outstanding Membership Growth as a State Chapter: The Membership Award is presented to the state chapter that shows the greatest membership growth during the current year. IMHCA earned this award by being able to grow 20% in one year.
2015-2016 AMHCA Outstanding State Chapter Award: This is the most prestigious award AMHCA offers. It is to honor outstanding activities directed at building a stronger state chapter.
2015-2016 AMHCA Professional Service and Leadership to a State Chapter: Kacey Peterson
This award recognizes an AMHCA state chapter member whose dedication, energy, service, and leadership have strengthened the state chapter in areas such as membership growth, innovative program development, increased participation in sponsored events, and enhanced membership services.
2018-2019 AMHCA Professional Service and Leadership to a State Chapter: Courtney Ackerson
This award recognizes an AMHCA state chapter member whose dedication, energy, service, and leadership have strengthened the state chapter in areas such as membership growth, innovative program development, increased participation in sponsored events, and enhanced membership services.
Iowa Mental Health