Ellyn Nitchals-Kellner, LMHC

Ellyn Nitchals-Kellner is a licensed mental health counselor and a certified EMDR therapist. Ellyn believes that all people are capable of healing and growth, and is honored to work with you towards your goals. Ellyn’s clinical areas of interest include working with survivors of trauma including intergenerational trauma, violence and interpersonal trauma, and racial/ethnic trauma, as well as the treatment of mood disorders, anxiety, adjustment disorders, and personality disorders. She is experienced in helping clients work through sexuality and relationship issues, identity exploration, and chronic shame. Ellyn's practice is grounded in an understanding of systemic oppression and is guided by a feminist and social-justice lens. Ellyn earned her Masters of Science in Counseling from South Dakota State University and her Bachelor's of Science in Psychology from Iowa State University. She is a certified Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapist. EMDR is an integrative psychotherapy approach proven effective in the treatment of posttraumatic stress disorder, depression, chronic pain, complicated grief, and other issues arising from adverse life experiences. Ellyn respects the uniqueness of each person, and utilizes client-centered, individualized approaches to help you reach your goals. Ellyn works with adults from all cultures, communities, and spiritual backgrounds, and has specialized experience with the LGBTQIA+ community, veterans and their families, immigrant and refugee populations, and college students. Ellyn maintains 1-2 slots per month for individuals 18 years of age or over seeking WPATH letters for gender affirming care (hormones or surgery). These slots are not for ongoing therapy, but for evaluation and letter writing only. This service is offered free of charge and spots are filled on a first-come basis. Please reach out for scheduling or more information. Professional Organization Memberships: Iowa Mental Health Counselor Association - Board Member (Legislative and Public Policy Chair 2022-2025; Member At Large 2021-2022) American Mental Health Counselor Association Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing International Association