Sabrina Vonderhaar , LMHC

Sabrina Vonderhaar is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) based in Iowa with four years of clinical experience focused on addiction and related concerns. She earned a Master of Science in Forensic Mental Health Counseling from John Jay College of Criminal Justice in 2020 and holds an International Alcohol and Drug Counselor (IADC) credential, reflecting specialized training in substance use treatment.

Sabrina emphasizes a nonjudgmental, collaborative stance that centers each person’s unique story. She integrates evidence-based approaches to offer practical, skills-focused work rather than didactic instruction. Sessions typically explore the roots of problematic use, identify patterns that maintain unhealthy coping, and build personalized strategies to reduce harm and support recovery.

Her practice is tailored to help clients develop healthier coping mechanisms, strengthen relationships, and reconnect with values that support a meaningful life. Whether addressing cravings and process addictions or working through grief, relationship challenges, or mood concerns, Sabrina guides clients toward clearer self-understanding and sustainable change. She believes in the capacity for growth and works alongside clients to uncover internal resources and create a path toward a more authentic, fulfilling life.

Evidence-based approaches and online care for recovery

Sabrina commonly integrates client-centered therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), and mindfulness-based techniques in her work. Client-centered therapy focuses on empathic listening and meeting clients where they are - it helps people feel heard and supports exploration of personal values and goals. CBT offers practical tools to identify and change unhelpful thoughts and behaviors, making it useful for anxiety, depression, and patterns that contribute to substance use. Mindfulness therapy teaches present-moment awareness and grounding skills to reduce reactivity and support coping with cravings, stress, and emotional overwhelm.

Finding the right approach is part of the therapeutic process, and Sabrina works collaboratively with clients to determine what fits best. Goals, preferences, and life circumstances guide the selection and combination of techniques, so treatment feels personalized and pragmatic rather than one-size-fits-all.

Online therapy formats - including video calls, phone sessions, live chat, and text-based messaging - make it easier to access consistent care without the constraints of travel or rigid scheduling. These options provide flexibility for people balancing work, family, or other responsibilities, and allow licensed professionals to deliver focused, structured support across a range of concerns related to addiction, mood, relationships, and life transitions.