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 Jenny Leimann's avatar and link to their profile

Jenny Leimann

Offering therapy in OH
License: MAC,LPCC-S
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseParenting issuesADHD
10 years of experience

HI! I am glad you are here and hope that you find what you are looking for. I specialize in helping people like yourself get unstuck. Whether it's in your relationship, issues within your family or with your children, stress, anxiety, or unresolved trauma, I can help you find practical solutions to relieve your symptoms. I operate from a strength-based, trauma sensitive, solution focused perspective and will help you find individualized, specific strategies to address your immediate concerns. I am an licensed professional clinical counselor in Ohio with over 10 years experience providing individual counseling to children and adults. When I am not directly helping others, you will find me teaching at a University or supervising students clinical hours in their Masters in Counseling program. I am the mother of two very active teenage daughters, so I understand the demands of balancing work and life. It is not always easy to seek help and make changes in your life, however, deciding that now is the time to make these changes is always the hardest part and you are now past that. Let's get started so that you can start leading a more enjoyable, less stressful life. I am committed to your success! I look forward to working with you!

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Annabella Batiz-McCandlish

Offering therapy in OH
License: MSW,MBA,LISW-S
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefDepressionCoping with life changes
20 years of experience

I have over twenty five years of social work experience, most of my years of experience are in a clinical setting combined with both clinical and supervisory and administrative duties. I have successfully completed both a Bachelor in Social Work and a Master in Social Work from Rutgers University, specializing in direct practice with children and families and a MBA from Indiana Wesleyan University with a focus on healthcare. I serve individuals and couples ages from 12 into late adulthood. I have experience in work with veterans, woman issues, mood and anxiety disorders. My experience includes a plethora of clinical internships to post-graduate employment, whereas I have conducted individual, family and group counseling with veterans, and victims of domestic violence and individuals diagnosed with mental illness and chemical dependence, social research application and clinical case management. Some of my other employment skills and responsibilities include individual and family treatment planning, conducting psychosocial assessments, providing client advocacy, acting as a psychiatric consultant to several emergency departments, and coordinating and facilitating socialization and therapeutic activities for both children and adult clientele. I also have experience in long-term care working in the case management department at several hospitals. My approach to therapy starts with taking the time to build a therapeutic rapport. A treatment plan will be established and the goals of therapy will be defined by you . I provide the safe structured space. I like to use a strengths model and cognitive behavior framework to address your identified concerns. This collaborative approach will allow for the best outcomes-whatever those objective defined goals you have identified. We will periodically review your treatment plan to make sure we are on course and adjust/add/resolve goals as needed to stay focused. Lastly, it takes courage and strength to acknowledge you need more support in order to overcome or learn to cope with obstacles in your life. Please know I am here to hold space with you, help you over come barriers, learn coping skills and focus and build your existing and additional strengths. SPECIALTIES Stress, Anxiety Depression Coping with life changes Grief and Loss Issues Clinical approaches: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Motivational Interviewing Years of Experience: 25

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This is Christina Salameh's avatar and link to their profile

Christina Salameh

Offering therapy in OH
License: MA,LPCC
Self esteem
4 years of experience

I am licensed professional clinical counselor licensed in Ohio with over 4 years of experience. I have a master’s in clinical counseling from John Carroll University. I specialize in working with children, adolescents, and adults. Areas of treatment include but are not limited to, anxiety, depression, relationship difficulties, self-esteem issues, and career challenges. I also have experience in working with individuals who have experienced trauma. Throughout life, many of us will experience some sort of emotional issue. Some we can handle on our own, and others we may want to explore on a deeper level with a specialist. I look forward to working with those who are brave enough to face these issues head on, and to explore some of the underlying reasons why these issues have manifested. My counseling style is empathetic, warm, and client focused. You are the director of your life and your experiences. My role as a therapist is to help identify and work with you toward goals. My counseling approach consists of therapeutic approaches that best work for the needs of the individual. We will work together to develop a treatment plan that best fits your needs. Some styles include cognitive behavioral, strength based, motivational, and trauma focused work. I recognize that it takes strength and courage to reach out for help and take those first steps towards making the change you want to see in your life. It is my hope that I can be a support for you on your journey to empowerment, peace, and happiness. I look forward to getting to know you!

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Sierra Willis

Offering therapy in OH
License: MA,LPCC
Stress, AnxietySelf esteemDepression
4 years of experience

Let me be your mirror, by providing you with a reflection of who holds all the tools for solving your problems. I believe that we all have the answers within us. My job as a therapist is to support and provide different approaches to discovering those answers. I work to provide a safe and warm environment, where we can talk and work together at uncovering any questions you may have. I believe in taking a collaborative approach, utilizing the strengths and insights of each person, to help make positive change and provide hope for the future. My clients find me trustworthy, reliable and compassionate. We will work together to construct a plan that fits your own uniqueness. I consider myself to be an eclectic counselor. I’ve worked in the college, prison, school system and community setting.

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Josephine Shelton-Townes

Offering therapy in OH
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseGriefCoping with life changes
25 years of experience

I am licensed in Ohio with 25 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, family conflicts, trauma and abuse, & coping with grief and loss. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. I am a client centered therapist and will support and guide you as you steer the direction of the therapy. My style is warm, supportive and reflective. 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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Kara Mumford

Offering therapy in OH
LGBTTrauma and abuseParenting issues
7 years of experience

I am licensed in Ohio with 7 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with lgbt-related issues, trauma and abuse, & parenting issues. 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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Alicia Foley

Offering therapy in OH
Trauma and abuseAnger managementSelf esteemCoping with life changesADHD
4 years of experience

I have been a licensed social worker in Ohio since 2017 and I have dedicated my professional working career to working with children and families, specifically those who have experienced a traumatic event or who have had experience with child services. I have experience in helping clients with trauma and abuse, anger management, motivation, self esteem, ADHD symptoms, depression, anxiety, and coping with life changes. 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 sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

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This is Dr. Laura Obert's avatar and link to their profile

Dr. Laura Obert

Offering therapy in OH
LGBTParenting issues
10 years of experience

I am licensed in Ohio with 10 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with lgbtq+ related issues & parenting issues. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

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This is Amy Nicolazzo's avatar and link to their profile

Amy Nicolazzo

Offering therapy in OH
License: M Ed,LPCC
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
24 years of experience

I am licensed in Ohio with 27 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, motivation, trauma, self esteem, and confidence, & 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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This is Jessica Wiener's avatar and link to their profile

Jessica Wiener

Offering therapy in OH
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsDepressionCoping with life changes
9 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, relationship issues, family conflicts, & 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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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 43266 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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