Meet our team.
Our team
Anne Peters, LMFT, PMH-C
Owner & Clinical Director | Therapist
Anne Peters is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) in Iowa with more than 13 years of experience in the mental health field. She specializes in supporting women during pregnancy and postpartum as they navigate depression, anxiety, panic, trauma, and the emotional and relational changes that can accompany pregnancy, birth, and early parenthood. Anne holds a Perinatal Mental Health Certification (PMH-C) and has extensive training in perinatal mental health.
In addition to her perinatal specialty, she works with women across the lifespan who are navigating anxiety, relationship changes, caregiving stress, burnout, emotional overwhelm, and major life transitions. Anne’s approach draws from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, trauma-informed care, attachment-based principles. She is also pursuing additional training in Polyvagal Theory to further support clients in understanding their nervous systems and patterns of emotional response.
Her therapeutic style blends genuine kindness, empathy, curiosity, and a little humor to create a space that feels safe, supportive, and authentic. Anne understands the courage it takes to seek support and considers it an honor to walk alongside clients through meaningful and difficult seasons of life.
Anne sees clients at our Spencer office and via telehealth.
Anne is a co-author of Building My Brave Mind, a children’s book designed to help children understand, express, and manage emotions that may arise when they or someone they love experiences a chronic or serious illness.
In addition to her clinical work, Anne is the co-owner and Clinical Director of Northwest Iowa Counseling. She helps guide the practice’s clinical vision and standards, leads and supports the clinical team, and provides supervision to beginning therapists and master’s-level interns. She is deeply invested in creating a practice culture where clients and clinicians feel supported, valued, and encouraged to grow.
Anne grew up in Spencer, Iowa, and finds it especially meaningful to now lead a mental health practice in the community that raised her. Her greatest joy is spending time with her daughter. Outside of work, she enjoys time with family, friends, and the beloved pets who share their home.
Amy Ondler, LISW
Owner & Director of Operations | Therapist
Amy Ondler is a Licensed Independent Social Worker with more than 14 years of experience in the mental health field. A native of Northwest Iowa, she earned her Master of Social Work from Simmons School of Social Work and her bachelor’s degree in psychology from Northwestern College. She works with individuals from a wide range of backgrounds and stages of life, including adults, parents, couples, families, and children. She supports clients experiencing anxiety, depression, trauma, grief and loss, relationship or marital concerns, low self-esteem, emotional regulation difficulties, and challenging behaviors.
Amy believes one of the most meaningful parts of therapy is meeting each client exactly where they are. She values the beginning of the therapeutic relationship as an opportunity to understand each person’s experiences, identify their goals, and create a plan for moving toward greater hope, healing, and connection. Her approach is compassionate, practical, and tailored to the individual needs of each client.
Amy is trained in Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART), an evidence-based approach that may help clients process trauma and other distressing experiences. Her additional training includes Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, trauma-informed care, Motivational Interviewing, Seeking Safety, and Dialectical Behavior Therapy. She also incorporates interventions focused on emotional regulation, identifying and communicating emotions, strengthening relationships, and addressing challenging behaviors. Amy has a particular passion for supporting individuals who have experienced significant loss and are navigating grief.
Amy sees clients in our Spencer office, via telehealth, and in the Spencer Schools at Lincoln Elementary and Spencer Middle School.
In addition to her clinical work, Amy is the co-owner and Director of Operations of Northwest Iowa Counseling. She oversees the practice’s financial and operational functions, including billing, payroll, administrative systems, day-to-day business operations, and the coordination and oversight of NWIAC’s school-based mental health services. She works closely with school partners, clinicians, and the leadership and administrative teams to support accessible, high-quality care and an organized, sustainable practice.
Outside of work, Amy enjoys spending time with family and friends, being with her pets, and cheering on the Iowa Hawkeyes.
Deb Estes, LISW
Therapist
Deb Estes, LISW is a Licensed Independent Social Worker in the state of Iowa with over 35 years of experience in the social work field. She earned her Master of Social Work from the University of Iowa School of Social Work and her Bachelor’s Degree in Social Work from the University of Northern Iowa.
Deb has practiced across a variety of settings throughout her career and most recently spent 22 years in the mental health field as a psychiatric social worker and therapist. Her clinical experience includes working with adults with severe and chronic mental illness, as well as individuals navigating depression, anxiety, trauma, and grief.
Deb considers it a true privilege to walk alongside those who seek her services. She believes that everyone holds both strengths and challenges- and that sometimes our greatest strengths can also become our greatest struggles. She is especially passionate about building strong therapeutic relationships and supporting clients in identifying their own unique paths toward meaningful change and personal goals. Deb finds deep joy in celebrating her clients’ growth and triumphs along the way.
Deb sees clients in our Spencer office.
Deb grew up on a family farm in Cherokee County and has since returned to Northwest Iowa. She and her husband enjoy life in their country home with two dogs, three cats (and a few outdoor felines, too!). She treasures time with their grown children, spouses, and young grandchildren. In her free time, Deb loves being outdoors- taking long walks, digging in the dirt, and absolutely not wearing a watch.
Kristen Triplett, LMHC
Quality and Compliance Director | Therapist
Kristen Triplett is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) in the state of Iowa who is passionate about supporting individuals of all ages as they navigate emotional and psychological challenges. She holds a bachelor’s degree from Iowa State University and a master’s degree from Buena Vista University.
Kristen has extensive training in Adlerian play therapy and brings a creative, developmentally informed approach to her work with children and adolescents. She also enjoys working with adults and is committed to providing compassionate, individualized care that meets each client where they are. She is trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), an evidence-based treatment for trauma and related concerns. She integrates EMDR with other therapeutic approaches to develop thoughtful, individualized treatment plans based on each client’s needs and goals.
Kristen is known for her warm, empathetic presence and strives to create a safe and supportive environment where clients feel comfortable exploring their thoughts, emotions, and experiences. She is dedicated to helping clients develop insight, strengthen resilience, and create meaningful change in their lives.
Kristen sees clients in our Spencer office and via telehealth.
In addition to her clinical work, Kristen serves as the Quality and Compliance Manager at Northwest Iowa Counseling. In this role, she supports the practice’s commitment to ethical, consistent, and high-quality care by overseeing clinical documentation standards, monitoring compliance processes and workflows, coordinating policy updates, and providing guidance and education to the clinical team. She works closely with practice owners and clinicians to strengthen systems that support both excellent client care and responsible clinical practice.
Kristen lives on a farm near Primghar, Iowa, with her husband and four children. Outside of work, she enjoys family adventures, spending time outdoors, cooking, and cheering on the Iowa State Cyclones.
Heather Howell, LMFT
Team Development Lead | Therapist
Heather Howell is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in the state of Iowa who is passionate about supporting couples and individuals in building healthy, connected relationships. She is dedicated to helping clients strengthen communication, navigate anxiety, and develop more secure and fulfilling relational patterns.
Heather takes a collaborative, strengths-based approach and brings particular expertise in working with adults, couples, and families. She also provides a safe, affirming space for individuals within the LGBTQ+ community. Her therapeutic style integrates Solution-Focused Brief Therapy and Narrative Therapy, allowing clients to explore new perspectives and create meaningful change in their lives. Heather believes deeply in each person’s inherent resilience and capacity for growth. She supports clients in becoming more mindful and present in their thoughts, emotions, and actions while encouraging them to trust their instincts and consider new possibilities when facing challenges. Above all, she recognizes the courage it takes to acknowledge the need for change and begin working toward it.
Heather is completing training in Internal Family Systems (IFS) in 2026 and looks forward to incorporating this transformative approach into her work with clients.
Heather sees clients in both our Spencer and Estherville offices and via telehealth.
In addition to her clinical work, Heather serves as the Team Development Lead at Northwest Iowa Counseling. In this role, she supports clinician and staff growth through mentoring, onboarding, guided professional development, and opportunities for team connection and collaboration. She works closely with practice owners to strengthen employee support, promote professional growth, and foster a positive and connected workplace culture.
Outside of the office, Heather enjoys spending time with her family and her cows, staying involved in her local community, and exploring new and trendy activities. She is a strong advocate for self-care and encourages others to make it a meaningful part of their daily lives.
Melissa Mugge, LMHC
Therapist
Melissa Mugge, LMHC is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in the states of Iowa and South Dakota with over 13 years of experience in outpatient therapy and emergency psychiatric settings. She brings a calm, grounded presence to her work and specializes in trauma (both developmental and adult-onset), neglect, stress and anxiety, family dynamics and parenting concerns, depression, and grief.
Melissa integrates EMDR and Internal Family Systems (IFS) with narrative therapy and somatic approaches to support clients in tolerating, processing, and working through difficult emotions. Her goal is to help clients become more intentional and active participants in their healing and personal growth.
Melissa enjoys working with individuals and families and offers services both in person in our Spencer office and through telehealth.
Tanner Carlson, tLMHC
Therapist
Tanner Carlson, tLMHC is a dedicated behavioral health provider with over 15 years of experience working in the mental health field. He has spent much of his career in residential treatment settings, where he developed a strong passion for supporting adolescents, teens, young adults, and families in finding their voice and working toward meaningful personal goals.
Tanner holds a Bachelor’s degree in Criminal Justice from the University of South Dakota and a Master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Buena Vista University. He is currently working toward full licensure as a Clinical Mental Health Counselor.
Tanner’s clinical approach is trauma-informed and strength-based, with a focus on understanding how past experiences shape current behaviors and emotional well-being. He works with clients to address problematic behaviors and build insight, resilience, and healthier coping strategies. His primary therapeutic modalities include Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT) and Choice Theory, which he integrates to support clients navigating depression, anxiety, anger, aggression, life transitions, and other mental health concerns.
Tanner sees clients in our Spencer office, via telehealth, within the Cherokee school district, and at the Spencer Middle School.
A native of Cherokee, Tanner lives just outside of town with his family. He is an active member of the community, volunteering as a youth sports coach and enjoying golf, outdoor adventures with his sons, and traveling. Tanner is also an enthusiastic fan of the Cherokee Braves, Iowa State Cyclones, and the Dallas Cowboys, and is well known for his competitive spirit.
Hannah Pheifer, tLMHC
Therapist
Hannah Pheifer is currently working toward full licensure in the state of Iowa as a Licensed Mental Health Counselor. She holds a bachelor’s degree from Iowa State University and a master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Buena Vista University.
Hannah is deeply committed to supporting individuals through life’s challenges and transitions and enjoys working with a diverse range of populations. She creates a welcoming, supportive space where clients feel truly seen, heard, and understood. She takes pride in building strong therapeutic relationships rooted in safety, trust, and authenticity.
Hannah takes a holistic, integrative approach to therapy, drawing from multiple therapeutic modalities to meet the unique needs of each client. Her work is grounded in the belief that everyone has the capacity for growth, healing, and meaningful change. She strives to foster a collaborative environment where clients can explore their goals and build upon their personal strengths.
While Hannah enjoys working with clients of all ages, she has found her greatest passion in working with young children. She has completed training in Synergetic Play Therapy, a connection-based and nervous-system-informed approach that uses play to support children in expressing emotions, building regulation skills, and working through challenging experiences.
She serves clients in the Spencer office, through telehealth, and within Spencer Schools at Johnson Elementary.
Outside of the therapy room, Hannah enjoys spending quality time with family and friends and with her mini Labradoodle, Louie. She loves traveling to new places and values self-care, connection, and laughter.
Ana Alonso, tLMHC
Therapist
Ana Alonso, tLMHC is currently working toward full licensure as a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in the state of Iowa. She is a dedicated clinician with a strong foundation in supporting individuals as they navigate life’s challenges, both big and small.
Ana takes a compassionate, person-centered approach and integrates evidence-based treatment modalities to meet each client’s unique needs. She is trained in Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), among other therapeutic approaches.
Ana has experience working in a variety of settings with diverse populations and is especially passionate about creating a safe, welcoming space where individuals from all walks of life feel understood, supported, and empowered. She looks forward to partnering with clients as they work toward greater emotional well-being and personal growth.
Ana is bilingual and fluent in both English and Spanish. She provides services in both the Spencer and Estherville offices, offers telehealth sessions, and also serves clients through school-based therapy at Spencer Middle School.
Kaity Pedley
Therapist
Kaity sees clients at our Spencer office, within the Hartley-Melvin-Sanborn School District, and within the Spencer School District at Fairview Elementary and Spencer High School.
Melissa Bendlin
Receptionist
Melissa brings years of experience working in office settings and truly thrives on the hustle and bustle of a busy workplace — the busier, the better! Her favorite part of her role is connecting with clients and getting to know the people she interacts with each day.
Born and raised in Spencer, Melissa is now raising her own family in the same community she calls home. Outside of the office, she enjoys spending time with her family boating, swimming, playing games, golfing, and traveling. As her children grow, she loves being present for all of their activities and events.
Melissa is often the first voice clients hear on the phone and the first face they see when they walk through our doors. She genuinely cares about every client and team member at Northwest Iowa Counseling, and her warmth and dedication are felt in everything she does.
Vickie Peters
Administrative Assistant
Vickie brings years of experience from the banking world, including many years working in the collections department of a local bank. She currently serves as our part-time administrative assistant and supports the team with a variety of essential tasks, including processing new client requests, scheduling, and helping keep our office running smoothly.
Vickie is known for her incredible sense of humor and her ability to bring levity and warmth into the workplace. Her friendly presence helps both clients and staff feel at ease from the moment they connect with our office.
Outside of work, Vickie enjoys spending time with her beloved granddaughter, caring for her pets, and baking — especially her famous homemade dog treats!
Jaime Lair
Billing and Credentialing Specialist
Jaime Lair is a Spencer native and a University of Northern Iowa alum with several years of experience in both medical and office management settings. She manages all aspects of credentialing for Northwest Iowa Counseling and plays a pivotal role in practice billing.
Jaime served as the Office Manager at Northwest Iowa Counseling from the time Anne and Amy assumed ownership in 2022 through 2024. She stepped away to focus on her growing flower farm and rejoined the team in 2026 in a part-time role as Billing and Credentialing Specialist.
Outside of the office, Jaime grows beautiful blooms at her farm, Double Feature Flower Farm. She is a devoted Iowa Hawkeyes and Kansas City Chiefs fan, and above all, finds her greatest joy in spending time with her family.