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.

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MeLisa Andrews

Offering therapy in OH
License: MS/LPCC-S
Stress, AnxietyLGBTRelationship issuesSelf esteemDepression
9 years of experience

My name is MeLisa Andrews. I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor with Supervisory Designation (LPCC-S) in the state of Ohio. I enjoy working with children, families, teens, and adults. I specialize in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy Techniques, Narrative Therapy Techniques, Solution Focused Techniques, , Assertiveness training, and teaching Communication skills . I use my skills to help clients develop and learn coping skills through their natural language and meet them where they are to help them get to where they want to be. I also consider myself a multicultural counselor and take pride in my love and acceptance of differences. I strive to provide unconditional positive regard, genuineness, and empathy to all I encounter.

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David Spann

Offering therapy in OH
License: LCSW,LISW,LCAS
AddictionsFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseGriefCoaching
29 years of experience

Welcome to the process! Mr. Spann has a unique blend of education and experience providing opportunities for those he serves to experience emotional and spiritual growth and change, and freedom from obstacles to growth due to trauma, mental health, anxiety, persistent mental illness or chemical dependency disorders. He obtained his undergraduate degree from the University of Virginia in Psychology and his Master's degree from Florida Gulf Coast University. His clinical experience in outpatient, residential and hospital setting, including Naval Hospital with Active Duty Marines, helps clients understand the relationship between the stressors on the family system due to trauma, mental illness and addiction and the impact on quality of life. Mr. Spann also has significant experience in management, marketing, leadership development, personal coaching, and an understanding of relational dynamics in corporate and agency settings. Specialties: Process for developing greater relationship intimacy, Maximizing individual and relational potential, Clinical experience with clients and families who struggle with the effects of trauma, addiction, and mental illness. (Dual Diagnosis Co-Occurring Disorders). Interventions include Trauma Focused CBT, Cognitive Processing Therapy , Family Systems, Motivational Interviewing and mindfulness. A strength based solution focused holistic philosophy is a basis for the therapeutic process. * Cognitive Processing Therapy, Trauma Focused CBT * Mindfulness * DBT Dialectical Behavior Therapy * Motivation Interviewing * Family Systems Therapy * In addition, for the last 24 years, personal experience includes crisis intervention training CIT) for law enforcement, State trainer for teachers in NAMI Family to Family Program, leadership training, program development, small group leadership and seminar presentations on Grieving the Losses of Life, Relational Enrichment, Communication, Anger Management, Boundaries, Spiritual Awakening, public speaking and advocacy. * Session availability Tuesday- Friday 6:30 am to 17:30 EST and other hours as agreed

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Holly Mundon

Offering therapy in OH
License: MSW,LISW-S,CDCA
AddictionsTrauma and abuseGriefCoping with life changesCompassion fatigue
10 years of experience

I have been a Social Worker/Therapist focused on Mental Health treatment of persons with persistent and pervasive mental health conditions for 10 years. I have my license in Social Work and Chemical Dependency in the state of Ohio. I also have a certification as a Certified Trauma Specialist. I have worked in various environments inclusive of hospital inpatient units and emergency rooms, outpatient clinics, community agencies and private practice. I have provided individual and group therapy. I work with clients who suffer from grief and bereavement, trauma, secondary trauma related to health professionals and first responders as well as general therapy for adults. I have worked extensively with hospice patients at the end of their lives as well as their family coping with impending death. . I work with clients with dual diagnoses of mental health and substance use disorders. My experience is working with those with Depression, Anxiety, relationship and job stressors. I try to incorporate the importance of diet and its impact on mental health, while working with my clients on the mind, body and spirit connection. I utilized health coaching, talk therapy, short term Solution Focused therapy as well as Dialectical Behavior Theory (DBT) and Cognitive Behavior Theory (CBT). But know I will assess and find the therapy that will best fit your needs. I meet a person where they are and work with them to identify their goals so they can move to a state of satisfaction in emotional , physical healing and total well-being. During your growth there can be growing pains. Please let me walk the journey with you supporting you in a safe environment so you can achieve empowerment and gain the skills you need. Thank you for seeking information and beginning your journey to healing. I applaud you for taking the first step.

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Noreen Loftus-Spilman

Offering therapy in OH
License: LISW-S,MSW
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsTrauma and abuseGriefDepression
13 years of experience

I am licensed in Ohio with 13 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, trauma and abuse, & coping with grief and loss. 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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Crishna Wilburn

Offering therapy in OH
Stress, AnxietyLGBTRelationship issuesFamily conflictsDepression
9 years of experience

I am licensed in Ohio with 8 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, depression and anxiety, lgbtqia+ related issues, relationship issues, trauma & family conflicts. 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.

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Helen Magers

Offering therapy in OH
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsGriefAnger managementDepression
27 years of experience

I am licensed in Ohio with 27 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, coping with grief and loss, & anger management. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

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Marshall Myers

Offering therapy in OH
AddictionsTrauma and abuseAnger managementCoping with life changes
4 years of experience

I am licensed in Ohio with 4 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with coping with addictions, trauma and abuse, & anger management. I also have experience working with 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 seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

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Michael Canton

Offering therapy in OH
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesCareer difficultiesDepressionCompassion fatigue
6 years of experience

I am licensed in Ohio with 6+ years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, career difficulties, & 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. I help people live a more mindful, embodied, and spiritual life in support of their mental health. I love working with individuals passionate about personal growth, holistic health, and spiritual development. I guide clients from states of fear and sadness to stillness, acceptance, and aliveness. I also assist clients in identifying and releasing stuck emotions, and developing healthy habits. I’m really excited to share with you what I’ve learned over six years as a mental health professional and over 20 years as a student of life on my own healing & spiritual journey. My goal is to inspire you, help you align with who you truly are, and encourage you to fully express that in the ways you choose. If this sounds interesting to you, get in touch with me and let’s discuss how I can be of service.

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Stacy Mandato

Offering therapy in OH
Stress, AnxietyGriefParenting issuesSelf esteemDepression
13 years of experience

I am licensed in Ohio with 13 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with grief and loss, parenting 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!

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Ashley Roberts

Offering therapy in OH
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefDepressionCoping with life changes
5 years of experience

My name is Ashley and I am so happy that you are here! I have been involved in the mental health field since 2016. After earning a Bachelor's of Science in Psychology from Morehead State University, I went on to earn a Master's of Education in Human Development & Counseling from Lindsey Wilson College. I am licensed in the state of Kentucky as a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor and I am also a Life Coach. My primary goal is to create a warm, nonjudgmental environment so you feel safe to explore personal issues that may be preventing you from living your best life. Each of us are unique, so what may work for others may not work for you. I am trained in a variety of counseling/coaching interventions to help clients depending on individual needs. I take time to understand your perspective and discuss your goals because it truly is a pleasure to witness the progress and success of each client. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy/coaching can be the most difficult and I am proud of you for getting started!

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 43054 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 PinterestLinkedInInstagramTwitter, 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

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