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 Heath Ridenbaugh's avatar and link to their profile

Heath Ridenbaugh

Offering therapy in OH
License: LPCC
AddictionsFamily conflictsAnger managementDepression
3 years of experience

Hey there! My name is Heath I appreciate your courage to seek out help. I have enjoyed working in the mental health field for 9 years now and I'm licensed in the State of Ohio. I have experience with children, adolescents, and adults from all backgrounds. I have experience working with an array of issues including depression, anxiety, anger control, and co-occurring disorders (mental health and substance use). I also have some experience working with trauma and grief and loss. My approach is very person centered, cognitive behavioral, and solution focused. I have a genuine personality, a nonjudgmental attitude, and a friendly demeanor. I believe the most important factor is the client-counselor relationship. It is within this relationship that a person can begin to heal, find hope, and be encouraged through the change process. If you are ready to receive help I am happy to be supportive and empower you through the process.

Get started View profile
This is Katherine Lympany's avatar and link to their profile

Katherine Lympany

Offering therapy in OH
License: Ma. Ed.,LPCC
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
5 years of experience

Hello! I am a Licenced Profession Clinical Counselor who has been in the helping profession for three years and although I have not been long in the field I have found helping people through their journey has been the most rewarding experience both personally and professionally. In my time in the field I have been able to work with a wide diversity of individuals struggling with a wide variety of issues, and I have been lucky enough to be a part of each individuals journey. I have had experience across the lifespan from childhood through older adults. I am an eclectic counselor as I believe that therapy should match the individual rather than a "one size fits all" approach. I understand the amount of effort, strength and courage it takes to reach out, which is both scary and one of the hardest tasks I can imagine. I always respect the effort it takes to begin and continue counseling, and am here to listen without judgement. I am always open to feedback and like to view the counseling relationship as a partnership in which you, the expert on yourself, and I work together to help you meet your goals. The connection between counselor and individual is incredibly important and I understand the difficulty and pain involved at times in finding a counselor who you can connect with and the relief in finding a counselor with whom you can feel comfortable. When you are ready, I am here to listen and to begin the journey of your healing process!

Get started View profile
This is Rachelle Cooksey's avatar and link to their profile

Rachelle Cooksey

Offering therapy in OH
License: LISW,LICDC
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsAnger managementSelf esteemDepression
7 years of experience

Hello! My experience is diverse in working with individuals, families, and adolescents seeking strategies for change. My passion to work in this field comes from the belief that everyone deserves to be understood, heard, and supported. My work as a clinical therapist includes helping people with depression, anxiety, mood disorders, substance use disorders, trauma, and beyond. I received my Bachelor of Arts in Psychology and Criminology from Capital University in 2011. I immediately continued my education, receiving my Master of Social Work through The Ohio State University in 2014. My concentration being in mental health and substance use disorders. My counseling style is warm, engaging, and non-judgmental. I want to meet my clients where they are at. I am here to be an agent of change for your unique and specific needs. I am committed to providing you with counseling that meets your expectations and helps you work on the goals that you have identified as the most important. My approach combines Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Solution Focused Therapy (SFT), and mindfulness techniques. I know it can be difficult to find a therapist you feel a connection with and I would be honored to work with you during this season of your life.

Get started View profile
This is Tanya Morrow's avatar and link to their profile

Tanya Morrow

Offering therapy in OH
License: MSSA,LISW-S
Stress, AnxietyLGBTTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepression
39 years of experience

Hello perspective! If you are reading this, you are probably searching for a mental health professional to team up with for yourself or someone you love. Maybe I can help! I have been a practicing Social Worker since 1982 when I graduated earning a Bachelor’s Degree from Ohio Wesleyan University. Then, earned a Master of Science in Social Administration (MSSA) from Case Western Reserve University’s MSASS program. Much of my career focus has been on children and their families in the community mental health sector with the longest tenure being 24 years at Beech Brook. Now, in private practice since 2017, my service is to individuals 12 to 112 years of age. Although I certainly welcome males both cis and trans to my practice, I must admit a special passion to impact the self growth and empowerment of those who identify as female/women and those who identify as minority or disenfranchised in any form. My clinical expertise include treatment for trauma, anxiety, depression, mood instability, self improvement, self empowerment, self esteem, life transitions, coping skill , life stage adjustments, adolescence, women’s issues, and LGBTQI+ focused concerns. Treatment modes include CBT, TF-CBT, Solution Focused Therapy, EMDR, PCIT, The Serenity Prayer Concepts and good old fashioned reality/facts therapy. pronouns: she/her

Get started View profile
This is Jodi Jankowski's avatar and link to their profile

Jodi Jankowski

Offering therapy in OH
License: LISW-S
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseDepression
24 years of experience

I am licensed in Ohio with 24 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, family conflicts, & 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.

Get started View profile
This is John Balash's avatar and link to their profile

John Balash

Offering therapy in OH
License: LPCC-S,LCDC-III
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepression
25 years of experience

Hello! I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in Ohio who has been practicing for over 25 years. I have experience working with First Responders who have experienced accumulative trauma and stress. I utilize Cognitive Behavioral Therapy to process thoughts, feelings, and behaviors which are resulting in stress, anxiety and depression. I have experience working with individuals who are having difficulty coping with life stressors which could include career, relationships, loss, and addictions. The goal of my treatment approach is client driven, positive focused on areas of your life which are causing you distress. It is present and future focused, to explore changes in your life which would result in positive outcomes.

Get started View profile
This is Ashley Doren's avatar and link to their profile

Ashley Doren

Offering therapy in OH
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsDepressionCoping with life changes
13 years of experience

I am licensed in Ohio with 13 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety & depression among many other reasons to attend therapy. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion and from all walks of life. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. I am here to support & empower you in that journey. I have worked with children, teens, adults, couples, and families. I look forward to getting to know you and work with you on your goals.

Get started View profile
This is Elizabeth Reigner's avatar and link to their profile

Elizabeth Reigner

Offering therapy in OH
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsGriefSelf esteemDepression
33 years of experience

I am licensed in Ohio with 33 years of professional work experience. I assist clients with learning new ways to handle stress, depression, anxiety, relationship issues including divorce and separation of partners, family issues, grief and loss, motivation, self compassion, and trauma. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I tailor the session to meet unique and specific needs. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling, happier life and take the first steps towards change. I am here to support & empower a client in that journey.

Get started View profile
This is Natalie Grier's avatar and link to their profile

Natalie Grier

Offering therapy in OH
License: MSW, LISW-S
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefSelf esteemCompassion fatigue
17 years of experience

I am licensed in Ohio with over 10 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, coping with grief and loss, & 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.

Get started View profile
This is Anthony Nathal's avatar and link to their profile

Anthony Nathal

Offering therapy in OH
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsLGBTSelf 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, lgbtq+ related issues, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. 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!

Get started View profile

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 43016 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

Find the right therapist for your needs
Match with a qualified therapist