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.

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Elisabeth Davis

Offering therapy in OH
License: LPCC, NCC,BC-TMH
Stress, AnxietyLGBTTrauma and abuseGriefDepression
22 years of experience

I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor. I have been licensed in Kentucky since 1997. I am also licensed in Ohio. I am a Board Certified -TeleMental Health Provider. My professional experience is eclectic and wide ranging. I have worked with a diverse range of populations and issues and I have expertise in areas ranging from anxiety and depression to post traumatic stress disorder. I have worked extensively with trauma from physical and sexual abuse, family and relationship issues, parenting problems and LGBTQ issues. I have significant experience working with the military. I have done education and career counseling. My counseling style is based on unconditional positive regard, which means that I always come from a strength- based perspective. My clients will be treated with respect and genuine care, compassion and concern. We will work together to create goals and find solutions. I also consider myself to be a holistic counselor, which means I try to focus on the whole person (mind, body and spirit.) "The part can never be well unless the whole is well." - Plato. My favorite quote from Maya Angelou says "My mission in life is not merely to survive, but to thrive; and to do so with some passion, some compassion, some humor, and some style." MY mission is to help you find the best way to overcome and thrive in YOUR life. Together we can make that a reality.

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Ashleigh Beechy

Offering therapy in OH
License: MS,PCC
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesGriefIntimacy-related issuesDepression
18 years of experience

Hi! My name is Ashleigh. I am a Licensed Professional Mental Health Counselor. I hold licenses in the states of Ohio, Idaho, Nebraska, and Washington. I have several non-US state clients as well. I have over 18 years experience working with adults, adolescents, couples, and families. I have worked in private practice, crisis center, hospital and school settings. I have the most counseling experience in the areas of: depression, anxiety, couples therapy, LGBTQIA+, grief/loss, eating disorders/dysmorphia, family therapy and stress management. My style of counseling is diverse. I realize therapy is not "one size fits all" so I like to partner with my clients to use methods grounded in cognitive-behavioral, client centered, and solution-focused theories. I believe in providing a safe environment as a way to encourage open communication. I will use techniques and support to empower my clients to help themselves feel better, find hope, and reach goals.  Here is some personal information about me: I have been married for 18 years and  we have 2 children. I was born and raised in small town Ohio, but our family recently moved to SW Florida for my husband's career. I wanted to become a counselor after the positive experience I had in counseling during my college career. My counselor helped me overcome my anxiety and improve my health and refocus.  Today I cope with stress through exercise, going to the beach, long showers, and talking openly with my spouse and closest friends. Even before Covid-19, I left my in-person practice and decided to enter the world of online counseling. I think it is a great option for those with busy schedules, lack of transportation, a transient life-style, no babysitting, or those who feel more comfortable emailing, texting, or chatting virtually. I would be honored to help you establish and reach your goals to create a healthier you!  Contact me today so we can get started!

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Monica Davis

Offering therapy in OH
License: MSW,LISW
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepression
4 years of experience

“Rarely, if ever, are any of us healed in isolation. Healing is an act of communion.” -bell hooks I am a licensed clinical social worker in Ohio, bringing over 4 years of experience from community health centers to urban schools in Columbus. My journey has connected me with people facing a spectrum of life challenges, from anxiety and depression to relationship issues and much more. I believe in walking alongside you on your path to healing and personal growth. My approach is a blend of healing- & person-centered, anti-oppressive & liberation-focused, culturally-responsive and trauma-sensitive frameworks among others, tailored to meet the unique needs of each individual. I am committed to providing identity-affirmative care that honors the diverse identities, values, and experiences of all individuals, especially for those who hold marginalized identities. In an inclusive, supportive, and empowering environment, we'll work together to explore, heal, and grow. If you are seeking support for coping and healing from trauma, I offer specific therapies aimed at trauma-focused treatment goals. Our collaboration will involve building trust, setting goals that resonate with you, and exploring your life stories as well as the many aspects of your mind in a way that feels right for you. Together, we'll honor the complexity of your experiences and the different 'parts' that make up your whole being. We’ll delve into attachment patterns, exploring somatic and energy-based therapies, and, if appropriate, blending your cultural and ancestral traditions & healing practices to enrich our work. Empowerment and mutual respect are at the heart of my practice. We'll engage in open conversations, experiential activities, and mindfulness practices that foster self-awareness and emotional balance. I am dedicated to continuous learning, ensuring our work together benefits from evolving insights and techniques that cater to your unique journey. I am passionate about supporting you in developing insights, resilience, and skills that contribute to your personal growth. I’m excited to join you on this transformative journey towards self-discovery, healing, and a richer sense of well-being. Looking forward to working with you! For more information on my online practice policies, expectations and additional therapy-related resources, please visit my independent contractor Google Site here: https://sites.google.com/liberation-pathways.com/monicalisw-betterhelp-ohio/home

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Debra Martin

Offering therapy in OH
License: MSW,LISW
Stress, AnxietyParenting issuesAnger managementSelf esteemADHD
9 years of experience

I have nearly10 years experience as a Licensed Independent Social Worker working collaboratively with individuals of all ages seeking to improve their mental health, interpersonal relationships, and social and emotional functioning. Psychotherapy is a powerful tool to assist in locating within yourself the solution to whatever is causing you distress. It is a team approached based on mutual respect, trust and openness in which we work together to explore concerns, develop goals and explore treatment options. Utilizing an integrative approach selecting from a variety of evidence-based treatment approaches, we work together to develop a personalized outcome best suited to you. This does not mean the work is easy and the first step can be the hardest. If you are ready to take this challenge, I look forward to hearing from you to set a time to begin this journey.

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Janice Ricks

Offering therapy in OH
Stress, AnxietyLGBTRelationship issuesGriefCoping with life changes
10 years of experience

Hello! My name is Jan Ricks and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Florida and a Licensed Independent Social Worker in Ohio. I recently moved back to Florida from Northern Kentucky where I lived, while I taught for 15 years in the School of Social Work at the University of Cincinnati. I retired as an Emeritus Professor and am now focused on providing therapy. I have been a Professional Social Worker for over 30 years, and I also have over 10 years of professional therapy work experience. I have experience working with many different populations including individuals and families, the elderly, and the LGBTQ+ community including Transgender, Intersex, and other gender variant people. I have worked with people experiencing life changes, grief and loss, women's issues, and many other life challenges. I have traveled to many places in the State of Ohio, conducting workshops for the employees of the State who required recertification. I also conducted workshops and classes for private agencies providing education about Transgender, Gay, Lesbian and Intersex communities. I recently taught at the University of Central Florida as an Online instructor in the School of Social Work as well as teaching in the classroom setting. After leaving the University of Central Florida I began working as a therapist at BetterHelp. I truly enjoy my work and have found online therapy is very effective offering many opportunities that are not available in an office setting. I believe in the resilience of the human spirit and the power of change, and I also believe that people have many strengths that will help in overcoming things that are challenging. I utilize Cognitive-Behavior therapy as well as other therapeutic models to help create change in peoples' lives. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage and I admire that. I am here to support you in that process, and I look forward to working with you!

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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.

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Adriane Peck

Offering therapy in OH
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepression
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, 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 sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

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John Wheeler

Offering therapy in OH
LGBTRelationship issuesSelf esteemCoping with life changesCoaching
5 years of experience

I am licensed in Ohio with 5 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with lgbtq+ related issues, relationship issues, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & coping with life changes. 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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Danielle Baker

Offering therapy in OH
Stress, AnxietyLGBTFamily conflictsDepressionCoping with life changes
10 years of experience

I am licensed in Ohio with 10 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, lgbtq+ related issues, family conflicts, & 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 sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

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Molly Bochenek

Offering therapy in OH
Stress, AnxietySelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changesADHD
22 years of experience

I am licensed in Ohio with 22 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, depression, & 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 can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

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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 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

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