Mental Health Therapist
Abraham (Abe) Goetz received a master’s degree in social work with a clinical concentration from Aurora University in Illinois. He received his bachelor’s degree in international environment and development studies from the Norwegian University of Life Sciences in Aas, Norway.
Abe has several years of experience in the child welfare field including as a Court Appointed Special Advocate, Family Consultant, Social Work Case Manager, and a Child Protective Worker. Abe uses these experiences to better serve parents involved in DHS services. Abe also serves as the mental health therapist on the Polk County Recovery Court team, working with parents experiencing addiction. Outside of this experience, Abe has been on the board and executive committee of the Iowa chapter of the National Association of Social Workers, and the Chair of the Young Professionals Board of CASA Lake County.
Abe uses an eclectic approach in his therapy, utilizing aspects of Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, trauma informed care, Gestalt therapy, motivational interviewing, solution focused care, and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR). Abe has experience working with co-occurring (substance use and mental health) based issues.
Abe aims to meet his clients where they are at, taking a holistic approach to supporting all facets of the individual’s life. Abe is not afraid to be direct to address unhealthy behavior, while also providing an environment of nonjudgement and client-centered care.
While not in the office, Abe enjoys spending time with his wife and their two dogs, playing tennis and chess, reading, and bird watching.