Welcome—I’m glad you’re here.

About Square One Counseling, Inc.

Taking the first step toward counseling isn’t always easy, and just being here means you’re already moving in the direction of growth, healing, and wellness. My goal is to make that first step feel a little more comfortable by offering a space where you can feel truly heard, respected, and supported.

Hi, My name is James Bustamante!

I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in Iowa with over 25 years of experience working with individuals and couples. I provide services in both English and Spanish (Se Habla Español), and I’m passionate about making counseling accessible, meaningful, and helpful for people from all walks of life.

Throughout my career, I’ve had the privilege of helping people navigate a wide range of challenges, including anxiety, OCD, depression, relationship and marriage concerns, and LGBTQ+ issues. Whether you’re feeling overwhelmed, stuck in patterns that aren’t working, or simply looking for clarity and direction, we can work through it—together.

My approach to therapy is warm, collaborative, and personalized. I truly believe that therapy is not one-size-fits-all. You bring your own experiences, strengths, and goals—and our work will be tailored to fit you. I use evidence-based approaches such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), along with practical tools and meaningful conversations to help you better understand your thoughts, emotions, and behaviors.

Get Help For Various Concerns

We support individuals through a wide range of concerns, including:

Our work together is tailored to your unique situation, using evidence-based approaches like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to help you understand how your thoughts, emotions, and behaviors are connected—and how to shift them in a healthier direction.

Our Services

If you’re ready to take that first step—or even just thinking about it—we’re here to walk alongside you.

Here To Help You With

Anxiety
Depression
Trauma
Couples Counseling
LGBTQIA+
Social Anxiety
Relationship Issues
Parenting
Stress
Family Conflict
Transgender Issues
Life Transitions
Codependency
Divorce
Work Stress
Emotional Disturbance
Gender Identity
Grief
Marital and Premarital
Men's Issues
Mood Disorders
Multicultural Concerns
Peer Relationships
Prejudice/Discrimination
School Issues

Using Trusted Approaches

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
Dialectical (DBT)
Family/Marital Therapy
Gottman Method
Group Therapy
Motivational Interviewing
Multicultural
Person-Centered
Psychotherapy
Strength-Based
Trauma Focused

We are here to help

At Square One, we believe your wellbeing is defined by you. Whether you’re navigating stress, working through past experiences, or wanting to strengthen your relationships, you don’t have to do it alone. Life can be challenging, and having the right support can make all the difference.