This is Dr. Patricia Brawley's avatar and link to their profile

Dr. Patricia Brawley

Clinical therapist offering therapy in MS, Columbia
Counselor License Type(s): PhD, LPC
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefDepressionCoping with life changes
34 years of experience

Things stacking up? Feeling overwhelmed? Whatever your situation or problem, you do not have to stay stuck. Even if it wakes you up in the middle of the night, it is likely you can learn something meaningful from it. There is hope. I am a licensed professional counselor and I help people find solutions to their problems. Finding the right solution is like a mystery investigation. There are clues and they fit together to form the picture of your life. I use creative arts, such as writing, movies and poetry to make our relationship personal and unique. This approach is not found in a one-size, fits-all clinic. My clients find, "and they all lived happily after" when they embrace this holistic, non-judgmental work toward having the life of their dreams. If you're looking for extra support and guidance through a challenging situation or you're ready to move in a new direction in your life, I look forward to working with you to achieve your goals. No problem is too small. If it bothers you, that's enough. I offer a holistic approach to treatment. This could include traditional talk therapy, assessments, journaling, dream analysis, writing, viewing movies, reading/writing poetry, learning mindfulness meditation and using other creative art forms.

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Joshua McElroy

Clinical therapist offering therapy in MS, Columbia
Counselor License Type(s): MS,LPC,NCC
Stress, AnxietyLGBTTrauma and abuseSelf esteemADHD
10 years of experience

***Currently unable to accept new clients as my caseload is full*** “I like flaws and feel more comfortable around people who have them. I myself am made entirely of flaws, stitched together with good intentions.” Hi there! I am Joshua, a nationally certified licensed professional counselor who adores meeting new people! I truly love my job, and hope that this reflects in our sessions. As a neurodivergent and queer human, I find my work to be special and unique, and I seek to provide informed services to fellow neurospicy humans :) Formerly from the Southern US (Mississippi), I now reside in Denver, Colorado. I have approximately 10 years of involvement with the counseling profession. I acquired my degrees from Mississippi State University in Psychology and Clinical Mental Health Counseling and have multiple national certifications. I have experience working in various settings, including acute/inpatient, university-based, outpatient addiction, and most recently as a children's therapist. I am a specialist in LGBTQ+ issues, and incorporate a lense of Neurodivergence (Autism, ADHD) and Trauma-informed approaches to my practice. Domestically, I'm licensed to practice in the states of Mississippi and Colorado. I would describe myself as a very accepting and warm therapist, operating from a drive of empathy, multicultural competency, and compassion. I also view myself as alternative and non-traditional in most of my approaches. I tend to sway more towards a psychodynamic approach to therapy but also incorporate cognitive-behavioral, reality, existential, feminist, relational, culture-centered, and narrative styles. I’ve also taught and lectured in various psychology courses, with my favorite being Human Sexual Behavior. I like to incorporate my academic knowledge into my therapy practices, as I find psycho-education to be a magnificent tool in sustaining mental wellness. My primary goal is to be adaptable, accepting, and embracing. I love the experience of interpersonal connection that is provided by my career, and the ability to help empower others. I also love humor, and utilize it often! Therapy can often be portrayed as serious and 'stuffy' so I try to bring some joy into the room. I love the bonus of meeting international clients, as it provides the opportunity to learn more about each other's cultures! I feel honored to have the opportunity to provide my services to whoever is in need, and am eager to explore the journey of life with you!

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Alayna Bryant

Clinical therapist offering therapy in MS, Columbia
Counselor License Type(s): MA, ,LPC-S
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsAnger managementSelf esteemDepression
15 years of experience

I am a licensed professional counselor (LPC-S) with 10 years of counseling and training experience, licensed in Mississippi. I have experience helping adults, couples, and families, from diverse backgrounds and with a wide variety of problems. However, the focus of my work is behavioral health and co-occurring mental health concerns and substance use problems. I am trained in a myriad of evidenced based techniques and adapt my approach to fit the needs of the individual with whom I am working. My passion is helping a person attain their personal goals and improve their quality of life. I tend to integrate person centered approaches, motivational enhancement, cognitive behavioral treatment, acceptance and commitment treatment, mindfulness practices, and meditation to achieve a tailored set of interventions for achieving significant and sustainable change. I am skilled in helping with mood problems, anxiety , relationship concerns, addictions, trauma and abuse, phase of life problems, vocational concerns, identity issues, and personality disorders. Together we may: 1) identify and challenge negative patterns of thinking, feeling, and behaving; 2) learn to let go of shame, guilt, & anger associated with trauma or complicated grief; 3) replace old patterns with new patterns through developing healthy self-care practices; 4) cultivate a personal sense of purpose and connection to self and others. I strive to provide a safe and affirming environment for a person to explore and process their concerns.

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LeToya McClay

Clinical therapist offering therapy in MS, Columbia
Counselor License Type(s): LPC,Ed.S,RPT
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseDepressionADHD
17 years of experience

Hello and Thank YOU for viewing my profile! I am Licensed Professional Counselor the state of Mississippi with over 15 years of experience. I am also a registered play therapist which is what I normally am doing during the day from August to late May! My summer hours vary some so please contact me if you are reading this during June or July so that we can discuss any changes in my schedule. You are also welcome to go to my schedule to check my availability. My counseling work has been with clients that exhibit several mental health concerns including anxiety, depression, oppositional behaviors, attention deficit/impulsivity concerns, as well as those with severe trauma histories. My counseling approach is eclectic, which integrates different styles based on the needs of the client. The theories typically used include Narrative Therapy, Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy, and Play Therapy. My role is to assist in helping you to reach your goals and to provide non-judgmental support during your time in therapy.

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John McRee

Clinical therapist offering therapy in MS, Columbia
Counselor License Type(s): LPC
Family conflictsTrauma and abuseGriefDepression
13 years of experience

My name is John Thomas McRee. I am 62 years old and have been counseling individuals and groups for most of my life. I became licensed professionally almost 20 years ago. I became Independently credentialed in mental health and telemental health to open my own private counseling business in Grenada, MS. I have enjoyed working with the world's most extensive online counseling service, BetterHelp, and plan on remaining with them for many more years. I believe online Telemental Health is perfect, and it is much easier for you to avoid traveling to a clinic or an office. My methodology is simple: Talk Therapy, where I collaborate with individuals over various concerns and needs presented to me. The basic form of therapy/Counseling I use is taken from evidence-based practices and proven techniques from the experts and founders of the therapies and theories in Counseling. CACREP, the Counsel for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs, carefully and thoroughly monitored the training I received. After obtaining a Masters Degree in Clinical Counseling, I was supervised for two years by the Mississippi Board of Examiners for Licensed Professional Counselors to get a professional license in Counseling. I have worked in Mental Health treatment clinics, Crisis Stabilization centers, and at a local Hospital to experience the many facets of Mental Health to get the experience and knowledge I bring and share with those who desire it. I am both eclectic and flexible, hoping to maintain a comfortable and practical atmosphere that is both pleasing and efficient

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This is Kimala Flowers's avatar and link to their profile

Kimala Flowers

Clinical therapist offering therapy in MS, Columbia
Counselor License Type(s): MS, CMHT, LPC
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseDepression
17 years of experience

I am a LPC and BC-TMH. I graduated from William Carey College with a Bachelors of General Studies in Business Administration and Psychology; and I received my MS in Rehabilitation Counseling from Jackson State University. I have over 16 years of experience working in the mental health field. I have experience working as an adult clinician, in outpatient community mental health. I focus on working with adults and families often with emotional and mental health problems, by providing mental health counseling. I have experience working with a variety of issues such as suicidal ideations, homicidal ideations, drug and alcohol abuse, depression, self-esteem, anxiety, coping skills, and trauma. I also have experience working in a residential treatment facility with youths and adolescents with behavioral and emotional problems. I enjoy helping others establish goals, meeting those goals, and developing coping skills to help them manage everyday life situations and issues. I have worked with all ages, providing individual therapy, family therapy, and group therapy. My approach to counseling is a cognitive-behavioral perspective; meaning my goal is to help clients change patterns of thinking and behavior by recognizing and changing negative thoughts, learning to manage negative emotions, and controlling unhealthy impulses. Other interventions and treatment approaches that I utilize are DBT and Trauma-Focused therapy.

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Anna Warren

Clinical therapist offering therapy in MS, Columbia
Stress, AnxietySelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
7 years of experience

I am licensed in Mississippi with 6 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & depression. I also have experience working with 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. 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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Tracey Mitchell

Clinical therapist offering therapy in MS, Columbia
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsLGBTRelationship issuesDepression
15 years of experience

I am licensed in Mississippi with 14 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, lgbtq+ related issues, & relationship issues. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

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This is Diana Heise's avatar and link to their profile

Diana Heise

Clinical therapist offering therapy in MS, Columbia
Stress, AnxietyParenting issuesSelf esteemDepressionADHD
20 years of experience

I am licensed in Mississippi with 20 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, parenting issues, motivation, self-esteem, confidence, & depression. I believe in the healing power of relationship and believe productive reflection comes in an environment of empathy, curiosity and empathy. It takes courage to change and I would like to help in that process.

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Karminee Love

Clinical therapist offering therapy in MS, Columbia
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseSelf esteemCoping with life changesCoaching
5 years of experience

I am licensed in Mississippi 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, & 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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How to find a therapist for counseling in Columbia

Finding the best therapist close by in Columbia 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 with therapists in Columbia that work best for you in order to begin your personal journey towards emotional healing with a therapist.

Understanding the type of therapy you'd like to search for is crucial before finding a therapist or psychologist in Columbia. Perhaps you're interested in narrowing your search for a psychotherapist that can offer psychodynamic, cognitive-behavioral (CBT), talk therapy, provide group therapy, marriage and family therapy for individuals or couples, or couples therapy. Each type of support of this kind with BetterHelp therapists can offer various benefits and address or treat different disorders. If you're still unsure or are new to counseling in Columbia, 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 for therapists. 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 able to treat individuals and couples counseling, and sometimes children, in any type of therapy in the Columbia region and in the state of Mississippi. Find a therapist under any of these distinctions and know that the sessions they offer can provide a safe place to heal.

A mental health counselor working through their own in-person therapy practice in Columbia or online may assist clients in improving healthy relationships, communication skills, working through life transitions, couples counseling, managing a mood disorder, improving coping skills, self help tips, offer life coaching, family therapy, or change in negative thinking patterns. A Columbia therapist may also provide a safe place and validation for clients experiencing emotional pain, or that simply want a psychological assessment. Verified providers and therapists 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 Columbia area offering:

  • CBT
  • DBT
  • Substance use therapy
  • Couples therapy

When you're ready to start your search keep in mind what support 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 Columbia, elsewhere in Marion, or in the greater state of Mississippi. Get matched with one of the therapists working on the BetterHelp platform today.

Frequently asked questions (FAQs) about therapists and mental health services

Some other commonly asked questions on therapy with a licensed counselor and BetterHelp serving the Columbia area can be found below:

How does the cost of in-person counseling with a therapist compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed Columbia therapist?

The average price of an in-person therapy session in the US with most therapists is $100 to $200 per hour. These prices may be higher in Columbia due to a higher cost of living, and a limited number of therapists taking new clients. 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 Columbia may not take health insurance, some in the state of Mississippi may work on a sliding scale, meaning they'll factor in your income and charge what you can afford per session. With a BetterHelp therapist throughout the state of Mississippi you can expect significantly more affordable options, with therapists sessions ranging from $65 to $100 per week (billed every four weeks). 

How is a licensed therapist on this Columbia online therapy platform verified?

Therapists in Columbia, Mississippi 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. Therapists 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, therapists here 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 Columbia psychiatrists to prescribe a drug or medication as treatment, or perform psychological assessments and other psychiatric services.

How does working with a professional counselor in BetterHelp online therapy sessions work?

BetterHelp clinicians and therapists treat clients online across the United States (individuals and couples) through life transitions, inner child exploration, long term depression or anxiety, post traumatic stress disorder, and more. An online mental health professional, including the therapists in Columbia 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 helping individuals on topics including managing life transitions, symptoms affecting sexual health, behavioral health, coping skills for anxiety, depression, trauma, stress, marriage counseling, and more. Get matched today.

What mental health issues can psychotherapy address with the help of psychologists?

BetterHelp's verified 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.

Our therapists specialties on BetterHelp include:

  • Cognitive behavioral therapy - This is provided by professional counselors, helping clients identify and change negative thought patterns through structured sessions.
  • Behavior therapy - Behavior therapy techniques are used to help clients modify harmful behaviors and develop healthier habits, often through the guidance of a professional counselor.
  • EMDR therapy - EMDR therapists assist clients in processing traumatic memories to alleviate emotional distress and improve overall well-being, utilizing the expertise of a professional counselor.
  • Talk therapy - Clients explore their feelings and develop strategies for dealing with various mental health issues, often guided by a professional counselor.
  • Depression - This counseling is designed to help individuals manage symptoms of depression and improve their mood and functioning, often working closely with a professional counselor.
  • Anxiety disorders - Sessions for anxiety disorders, offer strategies to manage and reduce anxiety symptoms effectively, often through counseling sessions with a professional counselor.
  • Stress - Tools and techniques to help clients cope with stress and improve their mental resilience, frequently under the supervision of a professional counselor.
  • Eating disorders - Professionals experienced in eating disorders offer specialized counseling to address unhealthy eating patterns and body image issues, with the support of a professional counselor.
  • Grief - Support and guidance are offered to clients experiencing grief, helping them navigate the stages of loss, often in collaboration with a counselor.
  • Attachment therapy - Therapists use this to help clients understand and improve their emotional bonds and relationships, often with the assistance of a counselor.
  • Relationships - Therapists work with clients to improve communication, resolve conflicts, and strengthen their connections with others, often using the skills of a counselor.
  • Children, adolescents, and teens - Therapists specializing in youth therapy address the unique mental health needs of children, adolescents, and teens, often involving a counselor in the process.
  • Addiction (substance abuse) - Therapists offer counseling for addiction, helping clients overcome substance abuse and maintain long-term recovery, often under the guidance of a counselor.
  • Divorce - Therapists support individuals through the emotional and practical challenges of ending a marriage, often working with a psychologist to provide comprehensive care.
  • Trauma or PTSD - Therapists specializing in trauma and PTSD help clients process traumatic experiences and reduce their symptoms, frequently collaborating with a psychologist.
  • Bipolar disorder - Therapists provide counseling to manage the mood swings and challenges associated with bipolar disorder, often in consultation with a psychologist.
  • Psychodynamic treatment - Therapists use psychodynamic treatment to explore unconscious processes and how they affect current behavior, often guided by psychologists.
  • Career counseling - Therapists assist clients in making informed decisions about their professional paths and resolving work-related issues, often with the help of psychologists.
  • Alcohol use disorders - Therapists offer specialized counseling to help clients manage and overcome alcohol use disorders, frequently under the supervision of psychologists.
  • OCD - Therapists provide strategies and support to manage obsessive-compulsive disorder symptoms, often via psychotherapy.
  • ADHD - Therapists offer counseling to help clients with ADHD improve focus, organization, and overall functioning, often via psychotherapy.
  • Mood disorders - Therapists work with clients to stabilize and improve mood through various therapeutic approaches, frequently in psychotherapy.
  • Sex addiction
  • Complex trauma
  • Life transitions

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 Columbia provider through BetterHelp's sister platform, ReGain, which is dedicated to couples and spouses worldwide with licensed therapists. 

How do I know if online counseling is right for my family in Columbia?

One of the potentially rewarding aspects of working with a Columbia 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 and therapists are trained to respond to various concerns, symptoms, and mental health conditions.

Therapists 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 Columbia 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 Columbia 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 psychotherapist.

With a lot of people in MS, therapists may be booked out with clients. Through the list of profiles or therapists 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 39429 or the surrounding zip codes, consider others available through the BetterHelp site where you can schedule a session based on your and the therapist's schedule. No matter if you are seeking help from therapists in your area or beyond, online therapy can be a great option.

How should I prepare for my first therapy session with a Columbia counselor?

Before seeing your Columbia therapist, prep for your session by reading to understand the 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, you can let our therapists know if you have any concerns or feel unsure about what to talk about. Columbia therapists here may help guide you with open-ended therapeutic questions while offering mental health services. 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 for therapy 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 it might entail. Although psychologists often support people with mental health conditions, you do not need a diagnosis or specific condition. You can discuss grief, relationship concerns, stress, or life changes and ask for general feedback. A Columbia 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 with a Columbia counselor 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 that a counselor can help with.

Is mental health care and therapy with a therapist worth it?

Therapy with a licensed counselor 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 therapist 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 Columbia, Mississippi 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.

Columbia has many clinicians who practice person or client-centered individual therapy in-person and through online sessions 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 during telehealth appointments?

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 for Columbia, Mississippi

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 Columbia 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 to customer service 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 Columbia.

Below are some of the zip codes served by BetterHelp therapists in Columbia:

39429

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