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 Jamie Johnson's avatar and link to their profile

Jamie Johnson

Offering therapy in OH
License: LPC,LPCCS,Life Coach Certification
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepression
12 years of experience

Welcome to BetterHelp! It is never easy to reach out for help, but I am glad you did! My name is Jamie Johnson, and I'm a Licensed Professional Counselor in the states of Ohio and South Carolina. I am only accepting clients in these two states *** I earned my Master Degree in Clinical Counseling, specializing in Trauma, from the Youngstown State University in 2011. Over the past 12 years as a clinician, my experience has taught me that the most important aspect of counseling is the connect and finding a counselor who truly understands you. I Would be honored to help you through your journey called life. Was your life making sense and now all of sudden you are confused on where to turn next? Whether you have experienced a trauma, major life changes, or dealing with anxiety or depression; I can provide you with SAFE, COLLABORATIVE, and EMPOWERING care you deserve. I have 9 years of experience in an array of settings, such as inpatient, outpatient, school systems, in-home, private and nonprofit settings. As a result, I have found that you can get lost in the intense pressure from work, school, and major life changes and my holistic approach will help you pave the way through your healing process. Do not hesitate to message me anytime through Better Help. I offer messaging, live chat and phone sessions

Get started View profile
This is Shannan Katz's avatar and link to their profile

Shannan Katz

Offering therapy in OH
License: LPCC
Stress, AnxietyLGBTRelationship issuesIntimacy-related issuesDepression
10 years of experience

I help you weather the storms of change in times of difficulty, stress, and loneliness. I am a listening ear and a sounding board for your thoughts and ideas. As a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, I will work with you to gain insight into your thoughts and feelings and help you to make progress toward your goals. You can feel free to be yourself and share what is on your mind and in your heart. I have experience working with clients struggling with depression, anxiety, grief and loss, parenting and relationship problems, and difficult life transitions. Clients who simply wish to improve their communication skills and mental wellness are welcome as well. I have a post-graduate certificate in sex therapy and I welcome clients from the LGBTQIA community, as well as any clients who wish to discuss their sexuality in counseling. I use a heart-centered approach in therapy and aim to provide a kind and supportive environment free from judgment and censorship. If you prefer a more direct approach, I am glad to give structured feedback as well. I will work with you to make the changes you want a reality.

Get started View profile
This is Angela Ellison's avatar and link to their profile

Angela Ellison

Offering therapy in OH
License: MSW,LCSW,LISW
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefDepressionCoping with life changes
4 years of experience

Hello. My name is Angie Ellison. I am a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker. If you are struggling with anxiety, depression, mood swings, insomnia, or grief, I would like to offer you a chance to work with me on finding ways you can feel better and have a healthier life. I can also help with many other issues including overeating and lifestyle changes to improve conditions like diabetes or COPD. I want clients to feel comfortable talking with me, so here is a little more information about who I am. I have been a social worker for 25 years. I have worked in several states and with a wide variety of clients. I have experience working in hospitals, nursing homes, dialysis clinics, outpatient therapy centers and more. I have worked with people of all ages. I hold a master’s in social work degree from the University of Kentucky and current clinical licensure in Ohio and Kentucky. I enjoy my work and like to interact with others. I have a strength-based approach to therapy. I can help you develop coping skills based on your own existing strengths. I believe that everyone is unique. We all have our own hopes, dreams, disappointments, and traumatic events in life. Therapy is way to explore your thoughts, feelings, and ideas. It allows each person to move forward and to develop a plan to reach and maintain the healthiest level of functioning possible. I take my commitment to each client seriously. We can communicate in the way that works best for your schedule. It can be by phone, messaging, or video chat. The choice is yours. I look forward to working with you.

Get started View profile
This is Brandy Jones's avatar and link to their profile

Brandy Jones

Offering therapy in OH
License: MSW, LISW-S, LICDC
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsRelationship issuesDepression
12 years of experience

Hi! Welcome to my site. I am so glad you stopped by to check out my page. My name is Brandy Jones and I am a Licensed Independent Social Worker (LISW-S) and Licensed Independent Chemical Dependency Counselor (LICDC) in the state of Ohio. I earned my master’s degree at Miami University in Social Work after obtaining my bachelor’s degree at Miami University in both social work and psychology. I am currently pursing my doctorate degree in Advanced Human Behavior at Capella University. I have a passion for seeing individuals and couples establish and restore healthy relationships and for helping people live their life to the fullest. I believe that change happens when people are given the guidance they need to draw on their own strengths and realize their potential to live fulfilling, happy lives. I provides an environment of compassion and support to help individuals and families overcome obstacles to move forward and thrive. Instead of adopting one methodology for all individuals and issues, I draw from a variety of methods to create a tailored approach for each individual or couple. I work to provide clients with tailored treatment plans that can be integrated into their daily lives. I utilize evidenced based interventions in therapy sessions such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Cognitive Restructuring and Re-framing, Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy, Solution Focused Brief Therapy, Brief Strategic Family Therapy, evidenced based family interventions and Trauma Informed Care to treat a variety of conditions. These conditions include depression and other mood disorders, bipolar disorder, grief/bereavement issues, ADHD, anxiety, dual diagnosis, anger management, stress management, obsessive compulsive disorder, trauma, and substance use. If you have any questions please feel free to reach out! I hope to work with you soon!

Get started View profile
This is Ann Stromberg's avatar and link to their profile

Ann Stromberg

Offering therapy in OH
License: LISW,MSW
Stress, AnxietyGriefSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
12 years of experience

I am an Ohio based Licensed Independent Social Worker with 12 years of experience. I have experience with clients of all ages, from school-aged to older adults and have worked in clinical, community and school settings. I have worked with clients experiencing depression, anxiety, life transitions, grief, anger and behavioral issues. In my practice I combine a strength based focus with cognitive behavioral and solution focused therapies. I approach therapy from a holistic perspective and will help a client evaluate all areas of their life to determine what is going well and what concerns they have. I am passionate about helping a client reach their goals in an efficient time frame and to build skills to allow clients to navigate life's challenges well beyond our time together. I rely on client feedback to determine what strategies are working and when new strategies may need to be implemented. I believe that no one knows you better than you do and I am committed to helping you find strategies that work and will not waste time on anything you don't believe is helpful. I want to partner with you in building a happy, positive and confident outlook in life and to move beyond any challenges you are facing.

Get started View profile
This is Natalie Alepin's avatar and link to their profile

Natalie Alepin

Offering therapy in OH
License: LPCC,LPC,MA
Stress, AnxietyGriefSelf esteemDepressionADHD
27 years of experience

I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in Ohio and California and a Licensed Professional Counselor in Missouri and Arizona with 28 years of experience working in crisis, outpatient and inpatient settings. I have worked with clients from 3 to the 90's with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, parenting problems, anger management, career challenges, existential crisis, and ADHD. I also helped many people with debilitating medical illnesses and chronic pain. I am flexible and available for reality therapy if requested. My therapy style is warm and interactive. I believe in treating everyone with unconditional positive regard. I am respectful, sensitive, and compassionate. My approach combines cognitive-behavioral, humanistic, psychodynamic, mindfulness and rational-emotive therapy. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. It takes courage to seek a more fulfilling and happier life. You are taking steps towards change and I am here to support and empower you. I look forward to working with you!

Get started View profile
This is Brandy Finfrock's avatar and link to their profile

Brandy Finfrock

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

I am licensed in Ohio with 7 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. 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 Dawn Adler's avatar and link to their profile

Dawn Adler

Offering therapy in OH
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepression
5 years of experience

Hello, I'm Dawn Adler, a dedicated therapist with dual Master's degrees in Social Work (MSW) and Public Policy and Management (MPPM) from The Ohio State University. I am the proud founder of Ohio Counseling & Consultation Services, a practice based in Columbus, Ohio. Additionally, I am licensed as an LISW in both Ohio and Florida. My practice is grounded in the belief that everyone, irrespective of their background, deserves compassionate mental health support. As a seasoned therapist, I specialize in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, guiding individuals through life's challenges with a strength-based approach. My mission is to provide a safe and affirming space for clients to explore their unique paths towards healing and personal growth. Rebuilding lives and demonstrating the transformative power of therapy is my passion. If you're navigating a challenging time, I offer understanding and practical strategies to help you move forward. Let's embark on a journey of self-discovery and empowerment together.

Get started View profile
This is Monica DuShane's avatar and link to their profile

Monica DuShane

Offering therapy in OH
Stress, AnxietyGriefCareer difficultiesCoping with life changesCompassion fatigue
7 years of experience

Greetings, my name is Monica. I am a Licensed Independent Social Worker-Supervisor in the state of Ohio; I also hold clinical licenses in the states of Florida, Illinois, Kentucky, Minnesota and Wisconsin. I have over sixteen years of experience as a social worker. I have experience in helping clients with: stress and anxiety; life changes; Isolation & Loneliness; compassion fatigue; motivation, self esteem, and confidence; Aging and Geriatric issues; Serious Illness; Hospice and End of Life Counseling: coping with grief and loss. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in your journey. 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 Marlea Mazyck's avatar and link to their profile

Marlea Mazyck

Offering therapy in OH
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsGriefDepressionCoping with life changes
3 years of experience

I am licensed in South Carolina with 3 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, coping with grief and loss, & 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. 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

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 43004 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