I began my career as an ordained minister in the Wesleyan Church. I was passionate about helping others and gifted in serving and teaching. I soon realized that although I had this passion and gifting, I was not adequately prepared for the depth of need that people presented in dealing with different issues. Upon this recognition, I returned to school and received a Master’s of Science in Mental Health Counseling from Drake University. I continued my education at Oxford Graduate School, in Dayton, Tennessee, where I completed my Doctorate of Philosophy in Counseling Psychology and Religious Studies.

I had the privilege to counsel under the tutelage of Dr. Gary Rosberg, nationally known author, speaker, and founder of America’s Family Coaches. At this time, I began working with Mercy Hospital and Iowa Heart as a team facilitator and consultant doing management and communication training, personality testing and middle-management consulting. As my journey continued, I expanded my areas of expertise to include a broad area of individual, family and marriage counseling, business and organizational consulting, as well as professional and personal coaching.

In the fall of 2002, I had the opportunity to begin a New Life Clinic in Iowa, and New Life Counseling, Coaching, and Consulting was born. After 33,000+ hours of face-to-face counseling, I expanded my professional expertise by becoming certified through the John Maxwell Team. New Life is in the process of extending its reach through leadership training and professional growth in the spheres of both church and business. As a John Maxwell Certified Coach, Teacher, and Speaker, I am excited to offer you workshops, seminars, mastermind groups, lunch-n-learns, keynote speaking, and coaching, aiding your personal and professional growth through study and practical application of John’s proven leadership methods. Working together, I will move you, and/or your team or organization, in the desired direction to reach your goals.

I continue to rejoice in the gifts of my wonderful and loving wife, the blessings of our four children, their spouses, and our grandchildren. My wife and our children are excited to be a part of this community seeking God’s loving embrace and guidance as we journey with God in the Des Moines area.

*Dr. Don Gilbert is no longer taking new counseling clients, but he is available for trainings, coaching, and speaking. Please use the contact form for more information.