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 Tabitha Evans's avatar and link to their profile

Tabitha Evans

Offering therapy in OH
License: LISW-S
Stress, AnxietyAnger managementBipolar disorderDepressionCoping with life changes
12 years of experience

Hello! My name is Tabitha Evans, and I am a Independent licensed social worker in Ohio with 12 years of experience. I received my BA in Psychology and my Masters in Social work from The Ohio State University. I have worked mostly with young adult to older adults, for a variety of issues, including; depression, anxiety, anger management, sexual orientation, trauma/sexual abuse, and overall adjustment issues. My style is flexible, but I tend to mostly focus on CBT interventions. I also use solution focused, motivational interviewing, and other various styles as needed to best suit the client. I believe in providing empathy and understanding, while assisting to build insight during sessions. I have found this style to be overall successful with most clients. I tend to think of a counselor as a guide while you do good work on yourself! I keep an open communication path, to ensure your needs are being met.

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Alisha Dennis-Brinson

Offering therapy in OH
License: LPCC-S
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsRelationship issuesDepressionCoping with life changes
11 years of experience

I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in Ohio with over 11 years of experience. I have worked with clients from diverse backgrounds and a wide variety of concerns such as depression, anxiety, trauma, relationship issues, adjustments to new life circumstances, and substance abuse. My counseling style is client centered and empathetic. I believe in using tools that will best help the client become aware of their inner strength as they work on their journey to wellness. My goal is to provide a safe and affirming space for my clients to explore their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. I work with my clients to develop an individualized treatment plan with healthy, client directed goals. It takes so much courage to ask for help. I look forward to working with you.

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Kirk Sheppard

Offering therapy in OH
License: LPCC-S,LICDC
Stress, AnxietyGriefSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
19 years of experience

I believe your story is important. The pain, the victories, the traumas, and the triumphs - all of those elements come together in a way that can either devastate us, hold us back, or motivate us to move forward. I want to cheer you on as you move farther forward than you imagined was possible. I have a compassionate, empathetic, and kind heart. Because we talk about some hard things, my unique sense of humor is a purposeful tool used to disarm and relax you as we find the best strategies to help move you towards your goals. I believe that all clients who want to get better can get better. As your provider, I will extend hope - even if you may currently not be able to. My positive attitude, combined with a realistic perspective and honest feedback, can help you improve your life. If you are primarily interested in asynchronous messaging, I'm thrilled to work with you, as this is one of my specialties. I also offer 30-minute counseling sessions via messaging, phone, and video - your choice. We have relationships with other people, of course, but we also are in relationships with places and things and concepts - and with ourselves. We need to fully understand those relationships and how they impact our wellness and happiness. I want to hear your stories. I want to understand your point of view. And I want to help you better understand all of your relationships. When it comes to my style, my approach is heavily influenced by the work of Jean Baker Miller and Relational-Cultural Theory, but I also utilize a variety of tools from other theories like Cognitive-Behavioral, Reality Therapy, Adlerian, and Gestalt. Because I have an eclectic toolbox, I’m able to choose tools, interventions, and approaches that will work for just about anyone’s personality. I love to look at the root causes for your problems and can discuss these issues in both philosophical ways and practical ones, too. I'll work hard to provide you with what you need - but if at any time you don't think we're a good fit, you can change providers at any time. I'll also be honest with you if I think you'd do better working with someone else. I respond to messages within 24 hours (except for weekends) and often much sooner. Also, I regularly send check-in messages, some encouraging words, housekeeping items, and writing prompts to make sure we're connecting and engaging together. I look forward to working with you!

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Carla Darnell

Offering therapy in OH
License: LPCC,MS,MEd
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefSelf esteemDepression
30 years of experience

I have always been fascinated by how people work. As a child I loved learning about how the body works. As I got older my focus shifted to how minds work and how people function in this world. My education centered around mental health how to help people with their problems. I have an MS in Life Span Development and an Med in Counselor Education, both from Purdue University and am now a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC) in Ohio. My 30+ year career has found me working with people with anxiety and depression issues, as well as the incredible stresses due to life circumstances. I have been able to help clients who have found themselves with personality or impulse control issues. I enjoy gardening, traveling and learning new things. I am an optimist. My general way of relating to people is one of listing intently enough to be able to see things from their point of view, and to show respect, warmth, and humor. I believe that establishing a strong, supportive relationship is of utmost importance in therapy. Respect and honesty are essential for effective therapy. Together we can solve problems and improve bad situations. I tend to favor Cognitive Behavioral approaches in therapy, but am quite capable of adjusting my therapeutic process to the method best suited for the problems at hand.

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Christopher “Chris” Mendiguren

Offering therapy in OH
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseDepression
7 years of experience

I am licensed in Ohio with 7 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, & trauma and abuse. 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 can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

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Taylor Shear

Offering therapy in OH
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseDepression
7 years of experience

I am licensed in Ohio with 7+ years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with trauma and abuse. 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. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process. I look forward in connecting with you.

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Andrea Connell

Offering therapy in OH
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefDepressionCoping with life changes
17 years of experience

I am a licensed independent social worker in Ohio with 17 years of professional work experience. My areas of of interest and experience include maternal mental health and wellness, support during the postpartum and "new parent" period, and foster care and adoption issues. Additionally, I have experience in helping clients with trauma and abuse, coping with grief and loss, coping with stress and anxiety, coping with life changes, and many other areas. I work collaboratively with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment, and to create client-centered goals. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process, and I look forward to meeting with you!

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This is Carolyn Cates's avatar and link to their profile

Carolyn Cates

Offering therapy in OH
Stress, AnxietyGriefSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
19 years of experience

I am licensed in Ohio with 19 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with grief and loss, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & depression. 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 can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

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This is Genevieve Sofranec's avatar and link to their profile

Genevieve Sofranec

Offering therapy in OH
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefSelf esteemCoping with life changes
4 years of experience

I am a therapist known for my warmth and compassion, who works to see the world from the perspective of each client, and support and empower without judgement. After a career change in 2013, I have over four years of therapy experience sharing my love of life while building hope, confidence, and long-lasting positive change. I am a relationship builder who adapts around each client's specific needs. I have experience working with stress and anxiety, depression, trauma and abuse, coping with grief and loss, and increasing motivation and self-esteem. I feel I have many gifts that strengthen my practice: a passion for connection and collaboration, expertise in evaluation and problem-solving, and a diverse life experience. Guided by the client's desires and needs, I utilize interventions from Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, and Trauma-Responsive Care among other evidence-based practices. I am here to support and empower you in your journey toward positive change.

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This is Timothy Stipek's avatar and link to their profile

Timothy Stipek

Offering therapy in OH
Stress, AnxietyLGBTEating disordersCoachingCompassion fatigue
40 years of experience

I am licensed in Ohio with 40+ years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, lgbtq+ related issues, eating disorders, & executive and professional coaching. 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. 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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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 43226 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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