UCS Healthcare

02/25/2026

What to Expect at Your First Appointment 💜

At your first visit with UCS Healthcare, walk-in assessments are offered on a first-come, first-served basis depending on counselor availability.

Plan for about 15–20 minutes to complete paperwork and review payment options, followed by about one hour with a counselor. You’ll have time to ask questions and learn more about programs that may be a good fit for you.

If you are seeking Medication-Assisted Treatment, our goal is to help you start medication the same day whenever possible. During your visit, we’ll complete an evaluation and review insurance and payment options to determine next steps and support timely access to care.

02/24/2026

🎉Help us celebrate Brendan on his 4-year anniversary with our team! Every day, he brings heart💙, humor😄, and a whole lot of determination to the work of supporting individuals and families on their recovery journey.

Brendan has a talent for lifting spirits, tackling tough moments with compassion, and reminding us all why this work matters. His energy makes our team stronger and our days brighter.🌟

Big congrats, Brendan - thanks for the impact you make and the positivity you spread. Here’s to many more years of doing incredible things together.🫶

02/23/2026

🎉Today we’re celebrating Sevlija and 5 years of bringing heart, humor, and steady guidance to our corrections‑involved clients.🎉

Whether she's helping someone rebuild confidence, navigate reentry, or rethink old patterns, Sevlija shows up with patience, positivity, and the kind of encouragement that makes tough days a little lighter. Her mix of structure and compassion helps clients take real steps toward recovery - and she manages to keep us smiling along the way.😊

Thank you, Sevlija, for the impact you make and the energy you bring. We’re so lucky to have you on our team.🫶

02/23/2026

Financial support and insurance options may be available. At UCS Healthcare, our team works with you to understand coverage, explore assistance options, and reduce added stress around cost whenever possible.

You do not have to navigate it alone.

02/20/2026

Winter can feel heavy.

Seasonal stress is common, and needing support does not mean you are weak. Winter can bring changes in mood, energy, and routine, and talking with someone can help.

Care and support are available during the winter months and beyond.❄️

02/19/2026

Caring for Iowans means working together.

This page on our website highlights our partners who help advance access to health services, education, and support for individuals and families across Iowa.

Explore the page here:

Check out UCS Healthcare's list of helpful links for further healthcare information and resources.

02/18/2026

We are hiring a Substance Use Disorder Counselor.

Join a team that puts people first and supports meaningful work. At UCS Healthcare, we provide integrated, nonprofit care that centers on dignity, collaboration, and whole-person health.

This role includes:
• Full-time position based in Ankeny with weekly time in West Des Moines
• A supportive, collaborative team environment
• Integrated care focused on the whole person
• Competitive pay, strong benefits, and opportunities for growth

Our team members share that they feel valued, supported, and proud of the work they do.
💙 UCSOnline.org | Careers with purpose.

02/17/2026

Continuing our highlight of the Decorah clinic as part of our focus on all 14 UCS Healthcare clinics across Iowa.

This short video shows how to find our Decorah location, serving the Decorah area and surrounding counties with compassionate, integrated care.

Learn more here:
https://www.ucsonline.org/who-we-are/locations/decorah

02/17/2026

🧧🐉 Happy Lunar New Year from UCS Healthcare! 🐉🧧

Wishing our community a joyful start to the Year of the Fire Horse. Fire Horse years are known for their spark, independence, and vibrant spirit - a reminder that each of us carries our own inner fire.

In the spirit of the Fire Horse, this year encourages:
✨Courage to take meaningful steps toward your well‑being
✨Confidence to chase new goals
✨Passion that fuels positive change
✨Strength to keep moving forward, even when the path gets tough

From all of us at UCS Healthcare, we’re honored to walk alongside you in the year ahead.

Gōng xǐ fā cái - wishing you prosperity and joy.

02/16/2026

Group therapy reminds people they are not alone. Sharing space with others who have similar experiences can reduce isolation, build understanding, and create a sense of belonging.

Through listening, learning, and supporting one another, group therapy helps strengthen connection and trust over time. Many people find comfort in knowing their story is heard and respected.

At UCS Healthcare, group therapy is one of the ways we support healing through community. Connection can be a powerful part of care.

02/14/2026

Happy Valentine’s Day 💜

Today is a reminder that love can look like checking in, listening, and taking care of the people who matter most.

This painting, displayed at our West Des Moines location, was created by a local artist and reflects an important truth: substance use can affect anyone. It does not discriminate, and neither does care.

If you or someone you love ever needs support, UCS Healthcare is here. Taking care of our loved ones is one of the most meaningful ways to show love.

02/13/2026

Small, realistic habits can support your wellbeing year-round. Wellness looks different for everyone, and it can change from day to day.

A few gentle reminders:
• Routines should fit your life, not the other way around
• Rest and recovery matter
• Checking in with yourself is part of care
• Asking for support is a strength