Welcoming new clients!
New Leaf Counseling
Counseling and therapy services for children, adults, and couples
Since 2011
Annika Ross, LISW
Britte Garrett, LMHC
Ashley Mills, LISW
Welcome to New Leaf Counseling!
What is Therapy?
People come to therapy (or counseling) when their typical ways of solving problems and coping with stress are not working. A therapist is trained to help you work through problems in a non-judgmental, supportive way. Since your counselor isn't involved in your family, social network, or professional circle, he or she can provide a helpful, non-biased perspective on the issues concerning you.
Therapists at this office work with children ages 5 and up, adults of all ages, and couples. Appointments are typically an hour long. Mental health counseling is often covered by health insurance. You should check the benefits of your insurance plan to be sure.
What to expect
At the first appointment, you'll meet with a therapist for about an hour. You'll share about the problems you are struggling with and how they are affecting you. Soon into the therapy process, your therapist will help you set goals. Appointments, which can be scheduled anywhere from weekly to as-needed, will involve collaborative work between you and your therapist on those goals. Goals might include developing coping skills, improving family relationships, healing emotionally from a painful experience, etc.
Our Office
New Leaf Counseling opened as a solo practice in downtown Iowa City in 2011. Since then, we've moved locations and grown. We now have three full-time therapists on staff, as well as two office administrators. We are proud to have served hundreds of satisfied clients over the years. Clients have shared that they appreciate the warm, friendly office environment we maintain.
Our office is located just off Highway 6 (AKA 2nd Street) in Coralville. We are not far from Coral Ridge Mall.
Therapist Backgrounds
Annika Ross, LISW
Annika opened New Leaf Counseling in 2011 after working in community mental health, where she was a school-based therapist and provided outpatient therapy to adults. Prior to becoming a therapist, she worked as a teacher.
She uses the principles of cognitive-behavioral therapy and mindfulness in her work. Annika is also trained in EMDR, a therapy that helps people overcome the negative effects of difficult life experiences. She is currently working toward becoming an EMDR-certified therapist. She sees clients of various ages with a wide variety of concerns, but particularly enjoys working with women with anxiety and/or trauma histories.
Annika is scheduling new clients for July 2019 and beyond. Annika works with kids ages 10 and up, adults of all ages, and couples.
Britte Garrett, LMHC
Britte joined us in Fall 2018 and we're so glad to have her with us. Britte comes to us from RVAP in Iowa City, where she worked as a therapist.
While she has a background in trauma-informed care, Britte works with clients with a wide variety of concerns. She uses cognitive behavioral therapy and mindfulness techniques, and has received special training in trauma work, including EMDR. She has received training in working with LGBTQIA clients and has training in assisting clients in crisis. She has training in working with older adults who have been through trauma.
Britte has earned the title of Certified Clinical Trauma Professional with the International Association of Trauma Professionals.
Britte is scheduling new clients for late May 2019 and beyond. She works with clients ages 15 and up. Britte also sees couples.
Ashley Mills, LISW
New Leaf is very pleased to welcome Ashley to our practice. Ashley comes to us from Meadowlark Psychiatric and Grant Wood Area Education Agency, where she worked as a therapist and social worker.
Ashley has 15 years of experience as a professional social worker. She has worked with children through Grant Wood AEA and Four Oaks. At Meadowlark Psychiatric Services, Ashley worked with adults and children experiencing a variety of concerns.
Ashley uses the principles of cognitive-behavioral therapy, solution-focused therapy, and play therapy in her work with clients, and believes that a trusting relationship between the therapist and client is at the foundation of successful therapy. While she considers herself a generalist, Ashley has a special interest in working with children ages 5-12 and teenagers who are experiencing intense emotional issues or crises.
Ashley has openings within 1 week for new clients. She works with clients ages 5-35.
Client Testimonials
Client Reviews
Satisfied clients have offered their feedback on the services they have received at New Leaf Counseling. Reviews are posted anonymously to protect confidentiality.
I like the atmosphere. Ashley's office is welcoming. She asked me questions to get to know me, and had good strategies to encourage me. Ashley has been very helpful.
Britte has been extremely encouraging when she feels I am doing well, which greatly improves my self confidence. She doesn't mind talking for enjoyment, which I really appreciate. This helps me to feel less constrained and more relaxed, which I think helps me talk about personal issues and concerns.
I am so glad I began visiting Annika. I feel heard and understood. Her "safe" environment has allowed me to feel able to share things I've not told anyone else. I never feel judged. Just totally supported and able to accept her kind, knowledgeable guidance.
Everyone is friendly and respectful, and it is clear that you put a lot of care into what you do.
I have been pleased with the counseling services. Billing has been easy. Location is convenient. The place is always clean. Hospitality and service are excellent.
You make clients feel cared for from the second they walk in the door to the second they leave.
You guys are doing wonderful things. Thank you for empowering me to make continually positive choices in my life.
Insurance and Payment
How do I pay for therapy?
Many insurance plans cover counseling, but you should call your insurance provider to get information about your unique plan. New Leaf Counseling can file claims for many insurance plans, or you can pay for services out-of-pocket. Typically, couples therapy is not covered by insurance.
We offer some reduced-fee and payment plan services on a case-by-case basis.
New Leaf accepts cash, check, or credit cards.
How do I know if my insurance will pay?
Every insurance plan is different. If you want to know what your health insurance benefits are for counseling, call the customer service number on your insurance card and ask the following:
- If Annika Ross, Britte Garrett or Ashley Mills (depending on whom you'd like to see) is in-network for your plan
- Whether pre-certification is required
- Whether you have a deductible
- If you have to pay a co-payment or co-insurance, and if so, what that amount is
- If there is a limit to sessions allowed
Employment Openings
No current opportunities
We have no current vacancies for interns or employees. Please check back another time.