Columbia native Dean Young wrote the poem “Elegy on a Toy Piano,” a Pulitzer Prize finalist. If the poetry of life seems devoid of rhyme or reason, you can’t enjoy its verse. Your thoughts are senseless and disturbing. Your sadness and worry lead to hopelessness and self-pity.

Creating a better life seems like a lost cause. In fact, you can’t get through your current situations without making more problems for yourself. You don’t know how to order your thoughts or squelch your intense emotions. Talk to a counselor in the Columbia area to write a better life’s poem.

Psychologist Amy Hausman providing different types of therapy in Columbia

Amy Hausman

Clinician
License Type(s): MS,LPC
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyLGBTRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseDepression
3 years offering treatment

My name is Amy and I am a licensed professional counselor in the state of Pennsylvania. I have been in the mental health field for nearly 15 years in a variety of settings. This has given me the opportunity to assist a diverse group of people in addressing both acute and chronic mental health issues while also striving to achieve an improved satisfaction with life. While I am trained in a variety of therapeutic approaches, a person’s needs and preferences ultimately determine what will drive the collaboration. I am extensively trained in relationship issues, post traumatic stress disorder, and women’s health issues including pregnancy emotions, postpartum depression and perinatal loss. In addition to that, I also have a significant amount of experience with anxiety, depression, bipolar, grief /loss, and adjustment issues. It can be overwhelming to experience negative emotions. Some of us only experience them for a short amount of time after a specific event occurs, while others experience their interference in life satisfaction for many years. It is my hope that I can assist you in assessing and managing the negative thoughts and emotions you might be experiencing. I believe those that I have worked with in the past would describe me as easy to talk to, having a love for humor, and liking to keep things “real.” I value creating a warm and genuine environment that you can feel comfortable in discussing some of the most difficult topics. Making this initial decision to establish a relationship with a counselor can leave you feeling vulnerable when getting ready to talk with a complete stranger. It is my goal to immediately create a comfortable working relationship. I look forward to meeting you!

Psychologist Dr. Lucy Parker-Barnes providing different types of therapy in Columbia

Dr. Lucy Parker-Barnes

Clinician
License Type(s): PhD,MA,LPC
Mental Wellness Specialties: Trauma and abuseGriefParenting issuesSelf esteemCompassion fatigue
11 years offering treatment

Greetings! My name is Dr. Lucy Parker-Barnes. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in Pennsylvania and a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Illinois. I have provided clinical care for over 11 years. I find this career very personally and professionally meaningful! I am also very passionate to help my clients find meaning in their lives, healing in their struggles, and confidence in themselves! Specifically, I work from an Existential, Client-Centered Approach. One of the foundational concepts that guides my work includes that "the best counseling happens, not just in, but outside of sessions." In other words, I hope to help provide my clients with metaphorical tools and the confidence to believe in themselves to tackle their issues. I have worked with many clients including clients with depression, anxiety, legal issues, relationship problems, experiencing trauma and grief, and clients who identify in the LGBTQIA+ population. I specifically facilitated group counseling for two years for clients who identified as transgender and experienced oppression in the Chicagoland area. I have worked in telehealth counseling for about three years, as well. If you are in need of genuine support, clinical competence, and a passionate counselor, please know I am happy to help. Sincerely, Dr. Parker-Barnes

Psychologist Suzy Gold providing different types of therapy in Columbia

Suzy Gold

Clinician
License Type(s): MA,LPC,ATR-BC
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseSelf esteemCoping with life changesADHD
10 years offering treatment

Hello, I am a competent and compassionate psychotherapist who holds ATR-BC (Board Certified Registered Art Therapist) and LPC (Licensed Professional Counselor) credentials with extensive clinical experience since 2014 with children, adolescents, adults, and families at home, school, community settings, inpatient psychiatric hospital, outpatient community mental health center, and juvenile detention center. My therapy training and experience include followings; Creative art therapy, Behavioral therapy, Cognitive behavioral therapy, Trauma Focused-CBT, Motivational interviewing, Person-centered psychotherapy, Trauma focused therapy, Dialectical behavioral therapy, Structural Family Therapy, Narrative therapy, Emotion-focused therapy, Mindfulness-based therapy, Christian faith-based therapy & Brief psychotherapy.

Psychologist Darlene Maggiolo providing different types of therapy in Columbia

Darlene Maggiolo

Clinician
License Type(s): MSW,LCSW
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
17 years offering treatment

I am a seasoned Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 17 years of experience and hold a BS in Psychology from Rutgers University and a MSW from Simmons University. I am currently working towards a certification in perinatal mental health. My specialty is women's wellness and empowerment with a focus on life transitions and adjustment using a holistic mindfulness approach. Other areas of expertise include boundary setting, attachment, parenting and co-parenting, relationship building, self-discovery and esteem, ADHD management, and LGBTQIA+ wellness. I practice a holistic approach because I believe mental health IS health. I strive to meet individuals where they are most comfortable and focus on their self-identified needs and strengths. Every person is unique and deserves full consideration of their experiences. I am passionate about creating a genuine connection with people grounded in acceptance, mutual respect, and unconditional positive regard. A productive therapeutic relationship should provide validation and empowerment while guiding you on your healing path. I am here for you. Availability (Subject to Change): Weekdays: 10 am -4 pm Evenings /Weekends: Limited and by request

Psychologist Meredith Seltzer providing different types of therapy in Columbia

Meredith Seltzer

Clinician
Mental Wellness Specialties: Relationship issuesFamily conflictsParenting issuesSelf esteemCoping with life changes
11 years offering treatment

I am licensed in Pennsylvania with 15 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with relationship issues, family conflicts, parenting issues, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. 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. My aim is to assist my clients clarify and achieve their goals through listening, exploring, and conversation. I am dedicated to providing high quality counseling within a safe, caring, and nonjudgemental environment.

Psychologist Lynn Ackert providing different types of therapy in Columbia

Lynn Ackert

Clinician
Mental Wellness Specialties: Trauma and abuseGriefSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
13 years offering treatment

I am licensed therapist in Pennsylvania with 13 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with trauma, coping with grief and loss, motivation, self-esteem and confidence, anxiety and depression. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialogue and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and joyful life takes courage. I am here to support you on that journey.

Psychologist Margaret Packard-Motter providing different types of therapy in Columbia

Margaret Packard-Motter

Clinician
Mental Wellness Specialties: GriefSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changesCoaching
35 years offering treatment

My name is Meg and I am a licensed clinical social worker in both Pennsylvania and Maryland with 35 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with depression, motivation, self esteem, confidence, relationship and workplace issues, coping with life changes, aging, caregiver stress and coping with grief and loss. I've got lots to offer and I look forward to helping you discover all that you have to offer in working through your current challenges. We've got this!

Psychologist Katlyn Maurer providing different types of therapy in Columbia

Katlyn Maurer

Clinician
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyAnger managementSelf esteemCareer difficultiesCoping with life changes
6 years offering treatment

Hi, I’m Katy, and I'm a licensed professional counselor in Pennsylvania. I want to congratulate you for taking the brave step of seeking therapy. It’s not always easy to reach out for help, but I’m here to support you every step of the way. I earned my Master’s degree in Clinical Rehabilitation and Clinical Mental Health Counseling in 2019, and I’ve had the privilege of working in a variety of settings—residential treatment facilities, outpatient mental health clinics, and numerous state facilities. These experiences have deepened my understanding of the many challenges people face, and I’m committed to helping you through yours with compassion and care. I specialize in a variety of therapeutic approaches. These approaches allow me to work with you in ways that fit your unique needs, helping you build practical skills, gain deeper insights into yourself, and find new ways of thinking and coping that align with your goals. I focus on working with individuals between the ages of 18 and 40, because I believe I can offer the most effective and meaningful support to clients within this range, helping you navigate the complexities of life’s transitions, relationships, and personal growth. Above all, my priority is to create a warm, nonjudgmental space where you feel safe, heard, and valued. Whether you’re dealing with anxiety, depression, trauma, or simply looking to find more balance in your life, we’ll work together at your pace, helping you find the tools you need to move forward with confidence. I’m here to walk with you on this journey, and I would be honored to support you as you explore and grow. Please don’t hesitate to reach out with any questions or to schedule a session. I’m looking forward to connecting with you.

Psychologist Cassandra "Cassie" Davis providing different types of therapy in Columbia

Cassandra "Cassie" Davis

Clinician
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsSelf esteemCoping with life changes
10 years offering treatment

I am licensed in Pennsylvania with 10 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, motivation, self esteem, & confidence. I also have experience working with 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. 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.

Psychologist Antoine Jackson providing different types of therapy in Columbia

Antoine Jackson

Clinician
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyGriefAnger managementSelf esteemDepression
7 years offering treatment

I am licensed in Pennsylvania with 7 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, coping with grief, coping with loss, anger management, motivation, self esteem, & confidence. I also have experience working with depression. 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!

Find a therapist serving clients in Pennsylvania

What types of therapists are available to clients in Columbia?

Understanding the type of therapy you'd like to search for is crucial before finding a therapist or psychologist. Be sure to narrow your search for therapists in Columbia that can offer psychodynamic therapy, cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), therapeutic talk therapy, group therapy, marriage and family therapy for individuals or couples, or couples therapy depending on your needs.

Licensed therapists & mental health professionals available through BetterHelp's online platform

Mental health therapists in Columbia available through BetterHelp are accredited as psychologists to help individuals and couples. Columbia therapists' credentials can include licensed marriage and family therapist (LMFT), licensed clinical social worker (LCSW), and clinician or doctor of psychology (PsyD). Regardless of their licensure, Columbia therapists are trained in any type of therapy in the Columbia region and in the state of Pennsylvania.

How can a therapist help you destress, manage your emotions, and guide you towards the life you want?

Therapists in Columbia can help clients in improving healthy relationships, communication skills, working through life transitions, couples challenges, managing a mood disorder, improving coping skills, self help tips, offer life coaching, family life, or change in negative thinking patterns. A therapist in Columbia may also provide a safe place and validation for clients experiencing emotional pain, or that simply want a psychological assessment. 

Is it better to find a mental health counselor or therapist in Columbia offering online therapy or in person?

Studies show online therapy can be just as effective as in-person counseling. Online therapy with licensed counselors is often more affordable, with BetterHelp pricing ranging from $65-$100 weekly, while in person therapy can cost up to $200 per session.

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