Zachary Pachol, LMHC, NCC

Zachary Pachol, LMHC, NCC, is a dedicated and skilled clinical mental health professional with extensive experience in substance use disorder (SUD) treatment, trauma-informed care, and evidence-based therapy interventions. He brings a strong foundation in Cognitive Behavioral, Existential, and Psychodynamic approaches, combined with specialized training in EMDR therapy for both individuals and groups, addiction-focused interventions, and couples and family therapy. His work emphasizes client-centered care, helping individuals develop coping skills and resolve the underlying causes of psychological and emotional challenges.

Currently, Zachary serves as the Outpatient SUD Program Coordinator for VA Central Iowa, where he provides diagnostic assessments, individual and group therapy, and oversight of program operations. In this role, he ensures compliance with national VA standards and Joint Commission regulations, implements process improvements to optimize clinical workflows, and provides guidance and supervision to clinicians and trainees. His leadership and organizational skills have strengthened program efficiency and improved client care across the outpatient SUD services.

In addition to his work at the VA, Zachary owns and operates Living by Design Mental Health Counseling, providing individual, family, couples, EMDR, and telehealth therapy. He is responsible for both clinical and administrative systems within the practice, including EMR workflows, intake assessments, and policy development. Through his private practice, he serves a diverse population, tailoring interventions to meet the unique needs of each client and promoting long-term mental health and resilience.

Zachary’s prior experience includes roles as a mental health therapist at Mosaic Family Counseling Center, Choices Therapy Services, and the VA Central Iowa BHIP SUD program. Across these positions, he has developed expertise in evidence-based treatment, crisis intervention, co-occurring disorders, and program coordination. He is also experienced in providing clinical supervision for clinicians seeking licensure, mentoring new professionals to ensure high-quality patient care and professional growth.

Zachary holds a Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Northwestern University and a Bachelor of Science in Psychology from Iowa State University. He has earned national certification as a counselor (NCC) and completed advanced EMDR training, Gottman Level 1 certification for couples therapy, and VA Evidence-Based Practice certification. His combination of clinical expertise, leadership experience, and commitment to evidence-based, compassionate care makes him a respected professional in mental health and substance use treatment.

• Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL (2020)
• Bachelor of Science in Psychology, Iowa State University, Ames, IA (2015)

• National Certified Counselor (NCC)
• VA Evidence-Based Practice Certification
• Gottman Level 1 Certification for Couples Therapy
• EMDR Basic, DeTur, and RTEP/GREP Trainings