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 Dr. Nicole Jones's avatar and link to their profile

Dr. Nicole Jones

Offering therapy in OH
License: LPC,CCMHC,NCC
Stress, AnxietyDepressionCoping with life changesADHD
20 years of experience

Hello, I am a Clinical Mental Health Counselor with multiple state licenses. I am a member of the America Psychological Association and the American Counseling Association. These organizations keep me abreast of the current trends and research to better support my clients. I have over 18 years of experience utilizing an array of skills and theoretical orientations, such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Reality Therapy. I have worked extensively with clients who experience anxiety, depression, ADD, parenting and relationship issues as well as career counseling. My therapeutic style is attentive, supportive and empathetic. I do not ascribe to "labels" that may further alienate or stigmatize clients. I am an advocate for physical and mental health awareness and well being. I have many community resources to support your journey into a positive direction for your betterment specifically tailored to your individual and unique needs. I am glad that you are seeking support and I will work with you to empower you in learning new and effective ways to process life's challenges. I look forward to working with you. N. A. Jones, PhD

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Darcel Elliott

Offering therapy in OH
License: MA,LPCC,LSW
AddictionsLGBTTrauma and abuseDepression
15 years of experience

I have been employed as a Counselor since 2007. Since this time, I have supported many individuals and families obtain identified goals. Prior to entering the field of counseling, I worked as a Social Worker. As a Social Worker, I had the opportunity to nurture professional qualities that have aided in my transition to counseling. Developing trusting relationships is the foundation of a positive counseling experience. I recognize and embrace the uniqueness in each of my clients. Although I practice from a theoretical background that includes person-centered and cognitive-behavioral models, I tailor my approach to address individual client needs. My counseling style is warm, accepting and encouraging. Each of us has the capacity for personal growth. As we move through our lives, there are often moments when we feel lost, alone or uncertain about our future. Therapy is a wonderful opportunity to receive guidance and support. I have been successful in assisting children, adolescents and adults in this journey.

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Judi Fischer

Offering therapy in OH
License: PCC-S
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesGriefCoping with life changesCompassion fatigue
20 years of experience

Hello and welcome! You are taking an important step for help and I look forward to getting to know you! I also want you to know a little about me, to be certain I am the counselor best suited for your needs. I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor with Supervisory Designation and licensed by the State of Ohio. I have experience working in the mental health field for over 20 years, helping clients achieve their goals using cognitive/behavioral, solution-focused and relational strategies. I will listen to you and help you define and reach your goals. My work experiences include: school teacher, bereavement specialist, business owner, ballroom dance instructor and mental health therapist. I have worked extensively in the following areas: stress, depression, anxiety, relationship and family conflicts, work/life balance, adjustment to change, grief, self esteem, blended families, compassion fatigue, life transitions, career difficulties, time management, parenting and spiritual concerns. I am committed to helping people make the changes they desire, to live a happier and healthier life! Life can be an amazing journey, even with the trials and challenges we face. I look forward to walking this journey with you!

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Jacob Meddles

Offering therapy in OH
License: MA,LPCC
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsSelf esteemDepression
5 years of experience

My name is Jacob Meddles. I am a licensed professional clinical counselor (LPCC) in the state of Ohio. I received my master degree in mental health counseling from the University of Cincinnati in 2016. I have 3 years experience working with clients mostly with depression, anxiety, and/or addiction issues. My style of therapy is client centered. You have to live your life not me, so I want to help you make your own decisions not tell you what to do. I will help you set your own goals and try to give you the best tools to help you meet those goals. I will treat you with the respect and dignity that all people deserve no matter your situation. Starting counseling is a big choice and most people can benefit from counseling from time to time. I would love to help you grow and meet your goals.

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Cindy Quick

Offering therapy in OH
License: LPCC
Stress, Anxiety
9 years of experience

Thank you for choosing Betterhelp! My experiences include working with people needing help with anxiety and depression, adjustment difficulties, and addition and co-occurring needs. I use an eclectic approach that is person centered with interpersonal communication.

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Samantha Alvarez

Offering therapy in OH
Stress, AnxietyLGBTRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseDepression
16 years of experience

I am a licensed independent social worker with 16 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, lgbt-related issues, relationship issues, & 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. 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.

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Tatiana Mitchell

Offering therapy in OH
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
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, trauma and abuse, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & depression. 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. 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.

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Natalie Frankito

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

I am licensed in Ohio with 9 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. 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.

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Michelle Fernandez

Offering therapy in OH
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsGriefDepressionCoping with life changes
20 years of experience

I am licensed in Ohio with 20 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, coping with grief and loss, & depression. 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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Cassandra Golden Kruse

Offering therapy in OH
Relationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseDepressionCoping with life changes
30 years of experience

"Ode to Peace and Joy"... Sometimes life just stinks, and then it hurts, and we feel stuck…I am a fully licensed, seasoned professional with a flexibly-cohesive holistic approach, not subscribing to a “one-size-fits-all” perspective, for those patients with whom I am privileged to work. Consider then joining hands for a season: Learn how to pinpoint your own belief system and unique strengths, while crystalizing your valued "short list" of priorities, and forge a unique sojourn designed to capture a life truly worthy of your precious time, effort, and resources. Time is a wonderful gift; what we do with that time can make all the difference. Be here now... I love discovering with you not only your dreams and strengths, but any stumbling block that keeps getting in the way, and more importantly, how to surmount every one of them along the way, learning to savor each step as an opportunity . We will learn to identify your areas of vulnerability and develop ongoing ways to supplant gaps in any needed skill sets or where in life you may lack needed support in creating a more fulfilling, transformative life. Transformative...I do consider it an honor to sojourn along with you and discover what works best for your life. I believe this life of ours is a fascinating gift that can be an adventure, and I continue to consider it a joy to work with each one who enters into the realm of my influence. While I believe we are fundamentally relational by design and thereby interconnected in powerful ways, we nevertheless remain wonderfully unique, each one having inherent dignity deserving of respect, and each one retaining the right to precious self-determination in how life is lived. I believe that together, by making our own lives better, we can leave our place in the world a bit better than we found it. I look forward to the potential opportunity of exploring that journey with you.

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 43211 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 PinterestLinkedInInstagramTwitter, 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

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