Meet the Team

  • Owner and Therapist

    Hi, I’m Dr. Elma Hadzic, founder of Lighthouse Counseling. I opened this practice in 2018 with the vision of creating a welcoming, personalized space where people feel truly seen, supported, and empowered to grow and heal.

    With over 18 years of experience in the mental health field, I specialize in trauma recovery, mood disorders, addiction, and resilience. I utilize a range of evidence-based therapies, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), and the Gottman Method, and tailor each approach to fit your unique story, needs, and background.

    I’m a licensed mental health therapist in Iowa, a lifelong learner, and a committed researcher. My educational path includes a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology from Grand View University, a Master’s in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Drake University, and a Ph.D. in Psychology from Capella University. I’m also proud to be a small business owner. Leading Lighthouse Counseling has allowed me to build a practice rooted in integrity, compassion, and client-centered care.

    Outside the therapy room, I’m a mom, wife, sister, and friend who values movement, connection, and living with intention. I love traveling, running, Pilates, and spending quality time with my family and friends. These parts of my life help me stay grounded and bring my best self into my work with others.

    No matter where you are on your path—facing challenges or seeking personal growth, I’m here to support you every step of the way.

  • My name is Lindsey Hays, and I’m a licensed mental health therapist with over 15 years of experience supporting individuals in achieving emotional well-being and personal growth. Specializing in anxiety, depression, relationship issues, as well as stress management, I take a non-judgmental, client-centered approach, empowering you to create change. Grounded in evidence-based practices such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), mindfulness-based therapy, and person-centered therapy, I tailor treatment to meet each client’s unique needs and goals. I truly believe that healing and change occur in a safe, supportive environment where clients feel heard, empowered, and understood. My professional background includes work in college settings, community mental health centers, and private practice. I hold a master’s degree in Rehabilitation Counseling and Mental Health Counseling from Drake University, and I continually strive to learn and develop in my professional field. Whether you’re facing a specific challenge or looking to improve your overall mental health, I strive to provide a supportive, collaborative space to help you move forward with resilience and clarity.

  • Hello, I’m Lynn Burham, a licensed mental health counselor with a passion for helping individuals navigate life’s challenges and deepen their understanding of themselves. I have experience working with adults facing a range of concerns, including trauma, grief, anxiety, anger, depression and suicidal ideation.

    My approach is warm, collaborative, and grounded in curiosity and compassion. I strive to create a space where clients feel seen, heard, and respected. Whether processing past experiences or seeking to live more intentionally, I support clients in moving toward a more hopeful and empowered future.

    As a trauma-informed therapist, I help individuals heal from childhood trauma, shift unhelpful thought and behavior patterns, and reconnect with their values, identity, and relationships. Together, we explore how thoughts, emotions, and past experiences shape their current lives, and work to build healthier, more intentional ways of relating to themselves and others.

    I draw from evidence-based approaches, including Person-Centered Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and Psychodynamic Theory. Our work may also involve examining avoidance patterns, attachment styles, communication dynamics, and emotional responses to foster insight and lasting change.

    Whether facing a specific challenge or seeking greater self-understanding, I offer a supportive space where meaningful growth can take place.

  • Hi, I’m Jennifer Neal! With over 20 years of experience working with children and teens, I am passionate about fostering self-confidence and emotional well-being. I hold a Master's in Education and a Master's in School Counseling, along with my mental health licensure. Throughout my career as a teacher and school counselor, I have developed a deep understanding of the unique challenges faced by young people and families. I believe we are all a work-in-progress, and my role is to help clients overcome life stressors and setbacks. I support clients dealing with anxiety, wanting to improve confidence, overcoming trauma, and finding inner peace.

    I specialize in supporting children ages 5 and up, teens, and women, utilizing approaches such as hypnotherapy, cognitive behavior therapy, play therapy strategies, visualization, and compassionate listening.  I use a variety of approaches that best fit the needs of each client. I believe in embracing my clients' goals and visions, guiding them on their journey to strengthen their mind, body, and soul. Outside of the office, you can find me out in nature, enjoying movement, loving on my plants, or connecting with friends and family. 

    I strive to create a warm, welcoming environment where clients feel safe and empowered. Together, my clients and I explore challenges, celebrate strengths, and work towards a brighter, more confident future.