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 Heather Tolle's avatar and link to their profile

Heather Tolle

Offering therapy in OH
License: LISW
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesDepressionCoping with life changes
5 years of experience

I am a Licensed Independent Social Worker in the state of Ohio with a Master of Social Work Degree from the University of Louisville and four-years post graduate professional experience. After graduating with my master's, I began working in community mental health as a level three treatment specialist and coordinating care between physicians and clients of various ages, genders, sexuality, ethnicities, issues, and level of functioning. For the past two and a half years, I have been working in a private practice setting where I gain more experience in providing psychotherapy to individuals on issues such as depression, anxiety, relationships issues, family issues, grief, adjustment and phase of life issues, and issues of faith and spirituality. I have over 30 hours of training in providing teletherapy and am a Certified Clinical Telemental Health Provider with experience using video and text therapy. My therapeutic style is person-centered and often solution focused while incorporating a cognitive behavioral approach. Past clients have described delivery of therapy as warm, empathic, and down-to-earth, which I believe nurtures a safe and relaxing environment for individuals to identify their thoughts and feelings, as well as gain insight into their issues and solutions to help them resolve issues. It is my belief that even though it is hard to do at times, I believe one of the best methods of healing is to talk and let it all out – all of the hurt, all of the sadness, all of the things that get buried within – and therapy is one of the safest places to do that. I strive to provide a safe, non-judgmental space for adults and couples to reveal, feel, and heal their thoughts and emotions and gain insight and support during difficult times.

Get started View profile
This is Amanda Hickey's avatar and link to their profile

Amanda Hickey

Offering therapy in OH
License: LISW,CTP
Stress, AnxietyLGBTTrauma and abuseDepressionCoping with life changes
6 years of experience

Hello! You have taken the first big step to taking care of yourself and seeking help. I believe this accomplishment should not go unnoticed and appreciate you taking the time to learn about me. When working together, I believe you are the expert of your experiences. By taking this client-centered approach, I will provide you with a non-judgmental, positive, and safe space to allow us to work together to overcome whatever struggle you are facing. One of my favorite sayings is that “Life isn’t about waiting for the storm to pass, it’s about learning to dance in the rain” by Vivian Greene. Throughout each person's life, there will be storms. During your storm you may feel the need to discover new ways to not only weather them, but embrace them as part of your growth process. I welcome the opportunity to walk beside you through your journey and appreciate all paths I've been privileged to accompany people on. Professionally, I am a Licensed Independent Social Worker for Ohio with over 5 years of experience in private practice and 16 years of work in the social work field. I graduated with my Bachelor’s Degree from Wright State University and began my career working with children and families in the foster care system. It was through this experience that I saw first-hand the impact of trauma on individuals and their families. I became a Certified Trauma Practitioner and utilize this trauma informed and resilient focused approach with most of my clients, as it is applicable. I completed my Master’s of Social Work Degree with the University of New England while continuing to work full time. It was after I earned my MSW that I began to work in private practice, under supervision, to become independently licensed. This provided me the opportunity to expand the populations I have worked with and learn a great deal from my clients and supervisors. I have also worked in the school system with children grades K-12 and their families. My most recent accomplishment was developing and implementing an intensive partial hospitalization program in a school setting from grades K-4, during the pandemic. Personally, I am a military spouse that recently has relocated to Florida with my wife and teenage son. I also have an adult daughter that did not make the move with us. I am in the process of obtaining my Florida Licensed Clinical Social Worker License and look forward to helping those in both my home state of Ohio and new state of Florida.

Get started View profile
This is Victoria Marion's avatar and link to their profile

Victoria Marion

Offering therapy in OH
License: MSSA, LISW-S , LICDC
AddictionsTrauma and abuseSelf esteemCoping with life changes
20 years of experience

Greetings; My name is Victoria M. Marion, MSSA, LISW-S. I am originally from Cleveland, Ohio where I received my bachelor's degree in social work at Ursuline College and then my master's degree in social work at Case Western Reserve. I also have a clinical license in Substance Use Disorder. I have over 20 years of experience with mental health and substance abuse. My invaluable mentors encouraged me to seek therapy so that I will be able to understand the feelings many clients feel when they are asked to share their life experiences with a stranger. I understand how much faith and courage it takes to seek help, which adds to my compassion and sincere willingness to help you. My experience has taught me to ask you what happened instead of what's wrong. My various therapy styles include: Cognitive Behavioral, Client Centered, Couples Therapy and Integrated Trauma Treatment. The past 10 years have afforded me the privilege of working with veterans who have suffered with chronic homelessness as a result of untreated substance use and/or mental health issues like PTSD. I understand how difficult it is to begin the process, so let me help you, support you, and get you back on the road of living and enjoying life.

Get started View profile
This is Danielle Younge's avatar and link to their profile

Danielle Younge

Offering therapy in OH
Relationship issuesTrauma and abuseIntimacy-related issuesSelf esteemDepression
8 years of experience

I am licensed in Florida with 8 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with relationship issues, trauma and abuse, intimacy related issues, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. 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!

Get started View profile
This is Katherine Simmons's avatar and link to their profile

Katherine Simmons

Offering therapy in OH
AddictionsTrauma and abuseParenting issuesAnger managementDepression
20 years of experience

I am a licensed Professional Clinical Counselor with a supervisory endorsement in Ohio with over 20 years of professional work experience. I have helped many clients cope with depression, anxiety, trauma and abuse, substance use disorders, and parenting issues. I generally take a holistic approach to treatment that strives to take the whole person into consideration. So, I help people change their thoughts, find motivation, change behavior, manage their feelings. As person-centered counselor, I treat every person non-judgmentally with dignity, and the respect everyone deserves because they exist. I also recognize individuality--your journey is not the same as another's; they cannot be treated the same way. I use techniques from Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Behavioral Therapy (BT), Motivational Interviewing (MI), Internal Family Systems (IFS) and Eye Movement Reprocessing and Desensitization (EMDR)--all evidence-based treatments. I believe that you are the expert of your story, that you have many strengths, that those strengths will assist you overcome things that challenge you. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy takes courage. I am encouraged for you that you have taken that step. I look forward to helping you overcome the challenges you choose to conquer.

Get started View profile
This is Latoya Caver Jackson Adams's avatar and link to their profile

Latoya Caver Jackson Adams

Offering therapy in OH
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
9 years of experience

I am licensed in Ohio with 9 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, motivation, 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. 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.

Get started View profile
This is Joy Banks's avatar and link to their profile

Joy Banks

Offering therapy in OH
Relationship issuesGriefSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
14 years of experience

I am licensed in Indiana and Ohio with 14 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with relationship issues, coping with grief and loss, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & 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 seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

Get started View profile
This is Anthony Watt's avatar and link to their profile

Anthony Watt

Offering therapy in OH
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
8 years of experience

I am licensed in Ohio with 8 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & 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! I look forward to assisting you in finding what those strengths may be.

Get started View profile
This is Melanie Kautzman's avatar and link to their profile

Melanie Kautzman

Offering therapy in OH
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsAnger managementCoping with life changesCompassion fatigue
15 years of experience

I am licensed in Ohio and Pennsylvania with 15 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, anger management, & 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.

Get started View profile
This is Dr. Peggy Proudfoot Harman's avatar and link to their profile

Dr. Peggy Proudfoot Harman

Offering therapy in OH
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseCoping with life changes
30 years of experience

I am licensed in Ohio and West Virginia with over 25 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, & trauma and abuse. 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!

Get started View profile

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 43214 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

Find the right therapist for your needs
Match with a qualified therapist