When looking for a therapist, Columbus, Ohio may be a better place than most in the Midwest with its large population, but counseling services aren’t always easy to find even in a big city. There are a number of different types evidence-based therapy available in the mental health field, and what kind you need may depend on what your goals are. A therapist who specializes in family conflict may not be what you need to manage obsessive compulsive disorder, and vice-versa. Not to mention that you want to work with a therapist you trust and have a good rapport with, which isn’t always easy to find. 

Online therapy through a platform like BetterHelp offers a variety of licensed professional clinical counselors. Whether working on your bachelor’s degree, or heading toward retirement, if you’re looking for someone to help guide you through life issues, simply fill out an online questionnaire to be matched with one of BetterHelp’s over 30,000 mental health counseling professionals. From adjustment disorders to mood disorders, they can find the right therapist for you. And if at any point you feel that your counselor is not the perfect match, you can switch for no extra cost. 

Therapy takes courage, and it can be helpful if the first step is made easier. With BetterHelp, you can take out a lot of the research and guesswork of finding the right therapist to meet your needs, as well as make scheduling and attending simple and convenient. As you take that first step on the path forward toward better mental health, you may find that living in a bustling city doesn’t have to be overwhelming, and that you can find balance in your work or school life.

This is Matthew McKinley's avatar and link to their profile

Matthew McKinley

Offering therapy in OH
License: MA,LPCC
Stress, AnxietySelf esteemCoping with life changesCompassion fatigue
5 years of experience

Hello and welcome! My name is Matthew and I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in the state of Ohio with over 4-years of experience working in the mental health field. I consider psychology, mental health, and the inner-experience as a life-long passion of mine and strive to keep improving in my knowledge and therapeutic application. I am founded in and pay respect to the natural healing that comes from genuine human connection. My aim is to create a non-judgmental and secure atmosphere in counseling that is driven by mutual respect and a shared curiosity between myself and clients. My treatment outlook is mainly existential and spiritual in nature, focusing on our ability to develop our own consciousness to manage difficult emotions and strengthen positive ones. I am a firm believer in the rich experience of the inner-world and respect the role our intuition plays in daily life to help us take those practical steps that lead to change. I have considerable experience using mindfulness and meditation in a therapeutic setting, and can accommodate either a clinical or traditional Buddhist presentation. A genuine connection in therapy can truly be the catalyst for meaningful and lasting positive growth, and I would be honored to be a part of that with you.

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Dr. Andra Johnson

Offering therapy in OH
License: DSW ,LCSW,LCAC
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsRelationship issuesFamily conflictsDepression
37 years of experience

I provide virtual (telehealth) therapy services in Indiana, Ohio, and Wisconsin that you will find perfect for your schedule. I have over 30 yrs clinical experience working with clients who experience life difficulties. If you are looking to reduce stress, create a balanced life, build healthy boundaries, increase your self-understanding, self-worth, and self-care options, please contact me! If you are ready to take that step, I am here to support and empower you. I look forward to working with you!

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Erica Tyler

Offering therapy in OH
License: LISW,MSW
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsAnger managementSelf esteemDepression
15 years of experience

I am a Licensed Independent Social Worker with over 15 years experience working with children, adolescents and adults in a variety of settings. Over the course of my career, I have educated myself to provide the best possible care to those I have had the privilege of serving, assisting them in overcoming difficulties such as depression, anxiety, ADHD, and parenting issues. I always begin where you are, and together formulate a plan of care that will achieve your goals and aspirations. My therapeutic style is rooted in the strong belief that progress can only be made when the therapeutic alliance is based on trust, compassion and empathy. As I have grown as a therapist, I have also learned the value of humor as a tool for connection and growth. These core principles, along with cognitive-behavioral therapy, mindfulness therapy, and solution-focused therapy, are what guide my practice. Life can be overwhelming and difficult for all of us. It is my firm belief that in these moments, having the help of a trusted support person can be the thing that can return us, or perhaps even help us to find for the first time, peace, happiness and contentment. I would welcome the opportunity to accompany you on such a journey to find and maintain that fulfillment for yourself.

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Deborah Devlin

Offering therapy in OH
License: LSW, LPCC, LCDC III
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseDepression
25 years of experience

Hello ,I have worked in outpatient settings, in hospitals, on disaster teams, in home-based programs, and overseas for military members and their families. Deborah’s client-centered perspective utilizes tools of motivational interviewing, systems theory, developmental theory, cognitive behavioral therapy, and trauma focused, cognitive behavioral therapy. I holds a bachelor’s degree in social work from the University of Akron and obtained my master’s degree in community counseling from Malone University. Also, I earned a master’s degree in philosophy and am completing her doctorate at Walden University. Recently completed her dissertation research on post-traumatic growth and military members. I work with youth, families, individuals, and groups with mental health disorders and addiction disorders. My hope and goal is to help you move forward in your life in a meaningful and healthy way. I enjoy working with all ages across the life span. It is a strong and positive step to seek help. I look forward to meeting and working with you.

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Kezia Carpenter

Offering therapy in OH
GriefSelf esteemCareer difficultiesCoping with life changesCoaching
6 years of experience

I am a licensed professional clinical counselor in Ohio with 6 years of individual and community mental health counseling experience and over a decade of experience as a professional coach within an educational context (e.g., leadership, teaching, learning). In addition to my graduate training, I have recently completed trainings in cognitive behavioral therapy with the Beck Institute, narrative therapy with the Narrative Therapy Initiative and The Dulwich Center, and ambiguous loss theory and applications with its founder Pauline Boss. During my years in community mental health, I worked with individuals living with a variety of mental health issues and life situations. I work in partnership with my clients using a collaborative, person-centered and strengths-based approach. I also believe in taking a multicultural and social justice perspective. I have worked and lived internationally, primarily in Latin America, but also briefly in Europe. I have experience supporting individuals through cultural and life/career transitions, including migration-based transitions and binational living (e.g., family separation, transnational stress). I have supported individuals in identifying and finding ways to address grief and loss, anxiety, depression, feelings of isolation, life and work stressors, gender-related issues, culture shock and adaptation, and issues related to self-identity, self-esteem, and relationships. I believe that you are the expert and the author of your own story. We will work collaboratively to address your current challenges and figure out what version of your story will serve you best moving forward. It would be a privilege to work with you. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

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This is Daniel Button's avatar and link to their profile

Daniel Button

Offering therapy in OH
Relationship issuesSleeping disordersParenting issuesCoping with life changes
3 years of experience

I am a licensed therapist in Ohio with 3 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with relationship issues, sleeping disorders, & parenting issues. I also help people coping with life changes. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy takes courage and you can be proud of yourself for getting started!

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This is Mariah Dern's avatar and link to their profile

Mariah Dern

Offering therapy in OH
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesCareer difficultiesDepressionCoping with life changes
8 years of experience

I have been working as a counselor in Ohio for 8 years with experience in community mental health, private practice settings, and college counseling centers. Recently I have focused my expertise in short-term, solution based counseling within a wellness model. I believe that together we can work towards reducing the symptoms that are no longer serving you, and increase the resilience you desire to have in your life. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

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This is Diane Robinson's avatar and link to their profile

Diane Robinson

Offering therapy in OH
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesGriefAnger managementDepression
18 years of experience

I am licensed in Colorado with 18 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with depression, stress and anxiety, relationship issues, coping with grief and loss, & anger management. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. Signing up for therapy takes courage and I celebrate with you for taking this first step!

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This is Ranel Heard's avatar and link to their profile

Ranel Heard

Offering therapy in OH
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepression
5 years of experience

I am licensed in Ohio with 5 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, trauma and abuse, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

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This is Ashley Weingard's avatar and link to their profile

Ashley Weingard

Offering therapy in OH
Stress, AnxietyLGBTRelationship issuesSelf esteemCareer difficulties
5 years of experience

I am an independently licensed mental health counselor in Ohio with 5 years of professional work experience. I take a collaborative, client-centered approach so my sessions will be tailored to your unique needs. I view therapy as a collaborative process where we work together to move towards solutions. Since I do not primarily work on the Betterhelp platform I currently am only offering weeknight appointments. I have experience with a diverse range of clients and topic areas. These include: life transitions, trauma, anxiety, panic attacks, depression, healthy relationships, stress, career counseling, and psychosis. Whether you are attempting to manage an ongoing stressor, trying to make an improvement, or just need someone to listen, I am here to help. Taking the first step towards a more fulfilling life takes courage and isn’t always easy. I am here to support you in that process and look forward to working together if you think I’m a good fit for your needs. Regardless, I believe in you!

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How to find counseling in Columbus

Finding the best therapist close by in Columbus can feel challenging, but know that once you narrow your search for a counselor serving your area, you can find a therapist in your city that is accepting new clients and fits your goals. Whether you're struggling with depression, anxiety, marriage, family issues, or other emotional challenges, feel proud that you have begun your search to find the mental health care services that work best for you in order to begin your personal journey towards emotional healing.

Understanding the type of therapy you'd like to search for is crucial before finding a therapist or psychologist in Columbus. Perhaps you're interested in narrowing your search for a psychotherapist that can offer psychodynamic, cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), talk therapy, provide group therapy, marriage and family therapy for individuals or couples, or couples therapy. Each type of therapy can offer various benefits and address or treat different disorders. If you're still unsure or are new to counseling in Columbus, feel free to contact the provider via email to find out which methods they practice.

It is also important to understand that mental health professionals in the United States are accredited to provide care, helping individuals and couples, with a variety of licenses. These include licensed marriage and family therapist (LMFT), licensed clinical social worker (LCSW), and clinical psychologist or doctor of psychology (PsyD). Regardless of their licensure, they are trained to treat individuals and couples counseling, and sometimes children, in any type of therapy. Find a therapist under any of these distinctions and know that the sessions they offer can provide a safe place to heal.

Mental health professionals working through their own in- person therapy practice in Columbus or online may assist clients in improving healthy relationships, communication skills, working through life transitions, managing a mood disorder, improving coping skills, or change in negative thinking patterns. They may also provide a safe place and validation for clients experiencing emotional pain. Verified providers can provide licensed marriage and couples therapy, tailor to individual needs, and create a therapeutic relationship as a National Certified Counselor.

There are all kinds of therapists working with clients today across the United States and in the greater Columbus area in different types of therapy, including:

  • CBT
  • DBT
  • Substance use therapy
  • Couples therapy

When you're ready to start your search and find therapists, have in mind what type of therapy you'd like your provider to be most experienced with and choose an experienced provider with a practice located near you in the city of Columbus, elsewhere in Franklin, or in the greater state of Ohio.

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

Some other commonly asked questions on therapy with a licensed counselor and BetterHelp serving the Columbus area can be found below:

How does the cost of in-person counseling compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed Columbus therapist?

The average price of an in-person therapy session in the US is $100 to $200 per hour. These prices may be higher in Columbus due to a higher cost of living. The price also depends on the type of provider you are looking for. See the following average prices for various mental health providers without insurance:

  • Counseling with a psychiatrist: $150-$500
  • Counseling with therapists: $100-300
  • Therapy with a psychologist: $100

While many psychologists in Columbus may not take health insurance, some in the state of Ohio may work on a sliding scale, meaning they'll factor in your income and charge what you can afford per session. With BetterHelp or clinicians throughout the state of Ohio you can expect significantly more affordable options, with sessions ranging from $65 to $100 per week (billed every four weeks).

How is a licensed therapist on this online therapy platform verified?

Therapists in Columbus, Ohio working on BetterHelp are licensed, trained, experienced, and accredited as a doctor of psychology (PhD / PsyD), licensed marriage and family therapists (LMFT), licensed clinical social worker (LCSW / LICSW), or licensed professional counselors (LPC). All of these psychology clinicians have a Masters Degree or a Doctorate Degree in their field of psychology sciences, and follow the APA Code of Ethics. They have been qualified and certified by their state's professional board after successfully completing the necessary education, exams, training and practice with a patient, and extensive experience in a healthcare clinic or treatment centers, in order to become a mental health provider. While their lived experience, expertise, careers, and background vary, they all possess at least 3 years and 1,000 hours of hands-on experience with adult and sometimes teen patients, and have the necessary therapist credentials to provide a safe space for long lasting emotional healing in therapy. 

Please note BetterHelp does not offer or provide care from psychiatrists to prescribe a drug as treatment, or perform psychological assessments.

How does working with a counselor in BetterHelp online therapy sessions work?

BetterHelp clinicians treat clients online across the United States (individuals and couples) through life transitions, inner child exploration, long term depression or anxiety, and more. An online mental health professional, including the therapists in Columbus above, can work with young adults, children, adolescents, and adults virtually as an accredited licensed clinical social worker (LCSW) or licensed marriage and family therapist (LMFT). You do not have to commute to a an office as a psychotherapy client.

Through BetterHelp therapy, you can partake in video, phone, or live chat therapy sessions with your licensed therapist. You can work through various symptoms, use the in app journaling feature, and receive worksheets. You'll also find support groups or group therapy lead by a therapist in Columbus helping individuals on topics including managing life transitions, symptoms affecting sexual health, behavioral health, coping skills for anxiety or depression, trauma, stress, marriage counseling, and more. 

What mental health issues can psychotherapy address?

BetterHelp's verified Columbus therapists specialize and have clinical experience in a wide range of mental health issues and modalities, helping clients to feel better and improve their lives every day. See below for examples.

Specialties on BetterHelp include:

You may also be struggling with relationship problems that could be addressed in couples therapy or with a sex therapist. In that case, you may choose to work with one of BetterHelp's experienced cognitive-behavioral therapists or licensed marriage family therapists (LMFT) who work with clients in relationships. You can also try a Columbus therapy provider through BetterHelp's sister platform, ReGain, which is dedicated to couples and spouses worldwide. 

How do I know if online counseling is right for my family?

One of the potentially rewarding aspects of working with a therapist is the validation and active listening they can provide. Your friends and loved ones may also be available to listen, but you may feel that they may lack the skills to provide objective guidance. Counselors are trained to respond to various concerns, symptoms, and mental health conditions.

A psychologist in your city can support you toward a healthier emotional state, regardless of your mental health, life concerns, or healing needs. While supporting individuals in developing healthier habits, another good benefit of therapy is having an understanding, safe space with a non-judgmental party who can support you through challenging experiences.

Many people have sensitive topics that they may feel ashamed to discuss with their friends or partner. A Columbus therapist can help you confront these concerns and open up through unique methods of support. There are also many types of therapy, such as art therapy, where you may find you can express yourself through creativity instead of words.

With a lot of people in OH, providers may be booked out with clients. Through the list of profiles above and others within BetterHelp's team, you may be able to find a psychologist within 24 to 48 hours. If you're searching to find a a nearby psychotherapist close to 43119 or the surrounding zip codes, consider others available through the BetterHelp site. No matter if you are seeking help in your area or beyond, online therapy can be a great option.

How should I prepare for my first therapy session with a Columbus counselor?

Before seeing your therapist, prep for your session by reading to understand the therapy process. You might write a list of questions you want to ask your psychotherapist, any emotional pain you may feel, and the ways in which you hope to improve. When you attend your session, let them know if you have any concerns about therapy or feel unsure about what to talk about. They may help guide you with open-ended therapeutic questions. The first session will often serve as an intake to get to know you as a person and learn why you're attending therapy.

Should I find a therapist or psychologist if I feel fine? 

Some simply don't feel the need to see a psychologist. However, some people may avoid attending therapy due to stigma or preconceived notions of what therapy entails. Although psychologists often support people with mental health conditions, you do not need a diagnosis or condition to attend therapy. You can discuss grief, relationship concerns, stress, or life changes and ask for general feedback and advice. A Columbus licensed clinical social worker may help you gain power over your life and emotions while you navigate day-to-day experiences.

Gaining a new perspective on yourself through various therapies might allow you to improve your self-esteem, work through relationships, and gain a better sense of your mental health goals. The success you may find through therapy can be dependent on your process.

People may also attend therapy for specific motives, such as bullying, an autism diagnosis, a desire to learn mindfulness meditation, personality concerns, trouble with office workers, specific phobias, and many other principles.

Is mental health care and therapy worth it? 

Therapy is effective and has the power to change individuals' lives. Each client is at a different stage of their emotional healing journey in life, as each human can be unique in their personality, expression, skills, and goals. A psychologist can target various symptoms, experiences, and personalities to help you feel your best and put you on the path to healing. Unlike advice from a friend, family, or non-professional, a mental health professional has an understanding of various disorders like ADHD and depression with many hours of experience in treating adults in their practice. For this reason, seeing an evidence based psychologist in Columbus, Ohio can be worth it. Over 41 million adults in the US attend therapy services each year, showing it's a popular option and is proven to be effective.

Columbus has many clinicians who practice person or client-centered individual therapy in-person and through online therapy to assist clients in their healing journey. If you opt into online therapy, you might also be able to meet with providers all over the United States and change therapists easily at any time. Many people struggling with anxiety and depression, substance abuse, body image issues, and more find therapists that are a good fit for them, feel supported, and gain further insight into their lives through internet-based therapy.

Do therapists judge you in therapy sessions?

The boundaries between you and a therapist are in place to help you and them regarding ethical concerns. Mental health professionals are held by ethical standards through the American Psychological Association (APA) and are not allowed to judge or harm their clients. If you are concerned about sharing details about yourself, feel free to withhold personal information. Their job in the therapeutic relationship is to create a safe place, help you gain a deeper understanding of your mental health, and support you. You might consider changing counselors if you don't feel safe or respected.

Stay up to date with the leading online counseling platform

To stay up to date with BetterHelp's initiatives through their social channels, you can follow them on Pinterest, LinkedIn, Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook. For mental health tips, check out the BetterHelp YouTube channel.

Take some time today to learn more about the team of therapists at BetterHelp to understand the services available to you clearly. If you are new to therapy or have any questions about the services and terms, please reach out through the contact page or send an email to contact@betterhelp.com.

If you’re ready to sign up for online therapy, consider signing up with a platform like BetterHelp and get matched within 24 to 48 hours.

If you are experiencing a crisis or emergency, don't use this site's online services. If you are in life-threatening danger, call 911. If you require support for a crisis, reach out to the hotlines below:

A woman meets with a therapist online in her home city of Columbus.

Below are some of the zip codes served by BetterHelp therapists in Columbus:

43002, 43004, 43016, 43017, 43026, 43054, 43068, 43081, 43085, 43109, 43110, 43119, 43137, 43201, 43202, 43203, 43204, 43205, 43206, 43207, 43209, 43210, 43211, 43212, 43213, 43214, 43215, 43216, 43217, 43218, 43219, 43220, 43221, 43222, 43223, 43224, 43226, 43227, 43228, 43229, 43230, 43231, 43232, 43234, 43235, 43236, 43240, 43251, 43260, 43266, 43268, 43270, 43271, 43272, 43279, 43287, 43291

Popular cities near Columbus, OH

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