Sabrina Vonderhaar, LMHC

Sabrina Vonderhaar is a licensed mental health counselor in Iowa who specializes in supporting people working through addiction and related struggles. With four years of clinical experience and a Master of Science in Forensic Mental Health Counseling from John Jay College of Criminal Justice earned in 2020, she brings focused, evidence-based care to individuals facing substance use challenges, process addictions, and co-occurring mood concerns. Sabrina emphasizes a nonjudgmental, compassionate stance that prioritizes each person’s lived experience and strengths.

Sabrina integrates practical tools and tailored strategies rather than relying on lecture-style guidance. She uses approaches such as cognitive behavioral techniques and mindfulness to help clients identify patterns, develop healthier coping skills, and practice new ways of responding to triggers. Motivational methods are woven into her work to support clients’ readiness for change and to build momentum toward recovery goals.

She holds the credential LMHC, which stands for Licensed Mental Health Counselor, and is also an International Alcohol and Drug Counselor (IADC) in Iowa. Those qualifications reflect specialized training in mental health and substance use treatment. Sabrina views therapy as a collaborative journey - she partners with clients to uncover inner resources, address underlying issues like shame or isolation, and create a realistic, personalized path toward lasting change and a more authentic life.

Therapeutic Approaches and Online Care

Sabrina often draws from cognitive behavioral therapy, which helps people notice and change unhelpful thoughts and behaviors that maintain anxiety, depression, or substance use. CBT provides practical exercises and skill-building to reduce symptoms and create new patterns of responding. Motivational interviewing is another central approach - it focuses on clarifying personal goals, resolving ambivalence about change, and strengthening motivation to move toward recovery. Mindfulness therapy may be used to increase present-moment awareness and support emotional regulation, which can be helpful for cravings, stress, and mood swings.

Finding the right approach is part of the therapeutic process, and Sabrina works collaboratively with each person to determine what methods fit their needs, goals, and preferences. She adapts techniques over time so the plan evolves as progress is made.

Online therapy options include video calls, phone sessions, live chat, and text-based messaging, offering flexibility for busy schedules and varying comfort levels. These formats make it easier to attend regular sessions, practice new skills between meetings, and maintain continuity of care even when life is unpredictable. Licensed professionals can deliver effective, supportive treatment through these channels while tailoring their approach to each client's situation.