A woman with blonde hair, blue eyes, wearing a plaid shirt and gold necklace, working on a laptop at a desk in a cozy, well-lit room with plants and warm lighting.

About Polly Primus, LISW

Experienced Therapist Serving Children, Teens and Adults Since 2011

Hi, I’m Polly Primus, a licensed independent social worker (LISW) based in Iowa. I’ve been practicing mental health counseling since 2011 and over the years, I’ve had the privilege of working with individuals from all walks of life. I provide a safe, non-judgmental space for people navigating anxiety, trauma, addiction, life transitions and relationship challenges. My work is deeply rooted in the belief that everyone matters and that healing begins when we feel truly seen and heard.

My passion for this work is personal. I grew up with a father who was a Vietnam veteran and lived with PTSD, which gave me a deep respect for the complexity of mental health and the importance of compassionate support. That experience helped shape who I am today, not just as a therapist, but as a person who values empathy, patience and a steady presence.

The name Three Trees comes from a parable that has resonated with me. In the story, each tree dreams of becoming something grand, but life takes them in unexpected directions. In the end, each one fulfills a deeper, more meaningful purpose than they imagined. That story reflects what I believe about healing—it rarely follows a straight line, but there is beauty, strength and purpose in the journey.

Clients often describe me as warm, down-to-earth and even a little humorous when the moment calls for it. I believe therapy can be both a place of deep reflection and a space where we bring our whole selves, imperfections and all.

When I’m not in the therapy room, you’ll likely find me with a book in hand, tickets to a concert or planning my next getaway to the beach or the mountains, depending on my mood. I’m a big fan of long walks with a good podcast or audiobook playing in my ears and I believe music is its own kind of therapy. At home, I recharge by spending time with my husband, our kids and our very opinionated cat. Whether it’s a cozy night in or a spontaneous road trip, I try to practice what I preach—finding joy in the chaos, laughing when I can and giving myself grace when I can’t.

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What You Can Expect in Therapy With Me

Therapy with me is a space where you can breathe, show up as you are and feel genuinely seen—no judgment, no pressure. I’ll meet you where you are and we’ll move at a pace that feels right for you.

I believe therapy works best when it’s a collaboration. You’re the expert on your life. I’m here to support, guide and offer tools that help you feel more grounded, empowered and connected outside of our sessions.

You can expect practical strategies, meaningful conversation and space to explore whatever is on your mind or heart. My goal is to create a relationship built on trust, respect and a shared commitment to your healing and growth.

My Background

  • Licensed Independent Social Worker (LISW) in Iowa

  • Certified in EMDR and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)

  • Trained in trauma-informed care, addiction counseling and evidence-based therapies

  • Experience working with kids and teens since 2011.

  • Committed to lifelong learning and staying current with best practices

I bring both clinical training and real-life experience to this work and I care deeply about walking alongside people through the hard, the uncertain and the transformative moments.

Contact me

Interested in working together? Fill out some info and I will be in touch. I can’t wait to hear from you!