Erik Gustafson has served as the clinical supervisor for Optimae Behavioral Health Services in central Iowa since 2024. After honorably retiring from the Air Force in 2008, he has been leading teams and providing services in both the human services and mental health fields. His experience includes skill work and therapy with several populations including people with intellectual disabilities, young children, adolescents, adults and families. His last role was as program director at NAMI Central Iowa, where he led a team of volunteers in a 14-county catchment. He also serves as team lead for Southern New Hampshire University adjunct instructors.
Regardless of the techniques being used, Erik’s approach will always be person-centered and strength-based. There is hope for everyone living with a brain health condition. His mantra is “Climb the mountain and soar.”
Erik holds a doctorate in general psychology with an emphasis in family therapy and did his dissertation on the effects of growing up in a home where a parent had post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) from combat. He is also a certified Wellness Recovery Action Plan (WRAP) facilitator.
