Erik Oostenink

I'm Erik Oostenink and I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor. I've worked with adolescents, adults, and couples in the Des Moines area since 2001. Originally from Michigan, I lived in NW Iowa where I met my wife, prior to moving to the metro. With nearly 30 years of marriage and having raised two young adult daughters, I have real personal experiences that I bring to our counseling relationship. After working with five different organizations over the nearly 30 years, I started my own counseling practice in the fall of 2023. From a work experience perspective, I have worked in a group practice for over 5 years, an insurance company, as well as not-for-profit organizations serving children and youth. In today's world, it can be challenging to find a professional fit just by reading through profiles. In my experience working with adolescents, men, women, and couples, people enjoy working with me because I'm real, have a sense of humor, can be direct, am a good listener, and am knowledgeable about a number of different topics including sports, current events, pop culture, etc that makes it easy to relate with me. My clients value my compassion, relatability, and non-judgmental approach. I'm a Christian counselor, which means that's who I am and I'm comfortable talking about one's faith and spiritual issues. I'm not a religious expert by any means, but I know Biblical principles. I have worked with people that are atheists, agnostic, and from other faiths. Regardless, I strive to not judge people, as we all have our struggles. I am eclectic in my therapeutic style, which means practically that I draw on various trainings and theories to best meet you where you are at. I tend to use more cognitive behavioral and solution focused therapy in my approach. I am also completing my EMDR training. I am accepting new clients. To make an appointment use the portal on this website or text/email me. For questions, text or email me, I do not take phone calls during sessions, so texts or emails are preferred.