Iowans feeling stress or anxiety don’t have to face it alone, as there is a new free counseling service for those who’ve been affected by the COVID-19 public health emergency.

COVID Recovery Iowa is available 24/7 to provide counseling via virtual sessions, chat or phone call. This program was made possible through the nearly $1 million allocated from the Federal Emergency Management Agency to the Iowa Department of Human Services. DHS Emergency Mental Health Specialist Karen Hyatt says the service doesn’t turn away anyone regardless of whether their stress is influenced by the pandemic, and counselors will provide resources or refer Iowans if needed, “I think the main thing though is listening and being there for somebody in their present day and time. So whatever that person’s presented conversation is, we want to be present for that and listen to each individual to find out what it is that might be helpful to them. And that’s going to vary across the board.”

COVID Recovery Iowa has contracted with five providers and multiple counselors throughout the state to provide counseling, virtual activities, and more, and this service is open to those at any age. The program is currently funded to last through June of 2021. For more information visit here.