Advocating for Mental Health: Insight Therapy Group at the Capitol
Insight Therapy Group owner and practitioner, Jennifer Becker and practitioner J.D. Neubauer in front of the Iowa State Capitol
Earlier this month, two of our dedicated practitioners from Insight Therapy Group participated in the annual Day on the Hill hosted by the Iowa Mental Health Counselors Association. This important event, held on February 11 at the Iowa State Capitol, created an opportunity for mental health professionals from across Iowa to speak directly with legislators about issues affecting both counselors and the clients they serve.
At Insight Therapy Group, we believe that meaningful mental health care extends beyond the therapy room. It also includes advocacy—ensuring that the voices of clients, practitioners, and communities are represented in the policies that shape access to care. Participating in Day on the Hill allowed our team to take part in these essential conversations, helping inform decision-makers about the real-world impact of legislative choices on mental health services.
“Jennifer Becker and I went to Mental Health Day on the Hill. It was my first time going, so I didn't know what to expect,” says Insight practitioner J.D.Neubauer. “Jennifer and I are strong advocates for change in the mental health field, and this is why we both wanted to participate in this event. The highlight for me was meeting Art Staed, who is a very nice man and advocate for mental health.”
Throughout the day, our practitioners met with state legislators to discuss current bills and policy proposals related to mental health care. They shared professional insights on which measures they support, which they oppose, and most importantly, why these positions matter for individuals and families across the state. These conversations focused on strengthening access to quality care, supporting ethical and effective counseling practices, and addressing barriers that can prevent people from receiving the help they need.
Events like Day on the Hill are powerful reminders that advocacy and care are deeply connected. By engaging directly with lawmakers, mental health professionals help bridge the gap between policy and practice—ensuring that legislation reflects the lived experiences of clients and the realities of providing care in our communities.
Representative Art Staed, Insight Therapy Group practitioners Neubauer and Becker (photo credit: IMHCA)
Our participation also reflects Insight Therapy Group’s ongoing commitment to leadership and service. Just as we strive to support healing and growth within our practice, we are equally dedicated to advancing the mental health profession and promoting greater awareness, access, and understanding statewide. In fact, Insight Therapy Group owner, Jennifer Becker, is currently serving as president of the Iowa Mental Health Practitioner’s Association.
We are proud of our practitioners for representing our values at the Capitol and contributing their voices to conversations that shape the future of mental health care. Their involvement demonstrates our continued dedication not only to our clients here in Cedar Rapids, but to the well-being of communities throughout the state.
Advocacy is one of the many ways we work to strengthen the systems that support mental wellness. We remain committed to engaging in opportunities that promote positive change, expand access to care, and help build a healthier future for all Iowans.
— The Insight Therapy Group Team
