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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Timothy Welch

Offering therapy in OH
License: LPCC,NCC,MAC
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
22 years of experience

Hello! It can be a scary process to start therapy and I will do my best to respect who you are and what goals you are seeking. I believe therapy should be a two way street where you and I work together to decide what is best for you. Your current emotional struggle does not have to define your future. Working together, my hope is to help empower, encourage and educate you in finding resolution to this struggle. I’ve been a clinical counselor for 20 years and currently work in a private practice. I specialize in alcohol and drug issues along with depression, anxiety, grief, trauma, bipolar, work issues, spirituality struggles, family & relationship issues, marriage and divorce struggles, ADHD management for adults and adolescents, teen issues, life transitions, self esteem, anger and stress management. I have extensive experience helping those who are struggling with alcohol or drugs recover, along with helping those heal who have experienced trauma or loss. My aim is to learn from each person’s story and keep an open mind so I can see what is needed to help. I will not presume to know or judge you because of what you’ve been through. I am nationally certified as a Master Addiction Counselor and National Certified Counselor through the National Board Of Certified Counselors and am a Licensed Professional Independent Counselor in Ohio. I received my bachelors degree In Psychology from John Carroll University in Ohio and my Masters Degree in Counseling and Human Development at Walsh University in Ohio. My experience includes: private practice, community mental health, crisis intervention and hospitalizations, alcohol and drug recovery rehab, EAP, DOT, domestic violence groups, anger management groups, alcohol/drug recovery groups, group home for troubled youth, case management, shelter for runaway street kids in New York, Harlem and California, hospice floor for AIDS patient, and terminally ill floor for kids. My goal is to utilize my education and experience to empower and help you navigate anything you feel is holding you back in life. I believe people have the ability to get through adversity, can change and that one approach does not fit all. I am the creator of actuallyiWILL.org which offers free online support through an app and website for those struggling with substance abuse issues. I currently work at a small private practice in Newark Ohio. I look forward to working with you!

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Nadine Porter

Offering therapy in OH
License: MSW,LCSW,LISW-S
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesParenting issuesDepressionCoping with life changes
13 years of experience

Hi there! I’m Nadine and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with ten years of experience. Are you stressed? Anxious? Sad? Do you have problems you feel can’t be resolved? Do you have relationship problems or problems with your children? Are you lonely? I can help with all of that and more! I’m a great listener, extremely compassionate, and most of all, I’m not pushy. I’m here to listen and walk through the tough parts of your life with you while you make the major decisions. I’m very open-minded and I never pass judgement on anyone. If you think we’d be a good fit, please schedule with me. You are not alone. I am here for you. Thank you for considering me as your therapist.

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Lareane Nuby

Offering therapy in OH
License: LISW-S
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesGriefAnger managementDepression
7 years of experience

Hello, my name is Lareane Nuby and I am a Licensed Independent Social Worker with a Supervisory endorsement. I earned a BSW degree from Youngstown State University in 2004 and then went on to pursue a Master of Social Work degree from Youngstown State University in 2007. I have over 17 years of social work experience working with many individuals from diverse backgrounds, populations and of all age groups. In addition, I have many years of work experience in the various settings; medical/psychiatric units in hospitals, elementary, middle and high school, nursing homes, group homes, palliative/hospice services and county children services board. I enjoy working with client's who have a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, loss and grief, anger, relationship issues, trauma, parenting problems, and self-esteem issues. I believe that everyone is a unique individual and deserve to be treated with dignity, respect and compassion. My therapeutic style includes the following; cognitive-behavioral therapy, strength -based perspective, social learning, task centered, solution focused and system theories. I realize that the journey of life can be very complicated and difficult to walk at times but if you are ready to take that step, I am willing to walk beside you and support you on your journey towards self-empowerment and change. Specialties Stress, Anxiety Grief Anger management Self-Esteem Depression Trauma Focus Care

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A. James (Jim) Evans

Offering therapy in OH
License: MS, LPCC-S,CCTP-I
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsRelationship issuesGriefSelf esteem
28 years of experience

I specialize in helping people struggling with tough decisions, difficult people, and challenging situations by helping them to develop realistic solutions. Experience a supportive, individual and engaging approach to treatment with humor, access to a knowledge base and authenticity. I help clients to navigate their world of relationships by learning to "do less" and "be more." This starts by modeling a new and different relationship that is without judgment or unwanted advice. I will work with you in discovering your barriers to fulfillment and increase your belief in your capacity to change. We will accomplish this goal by establishing a strong and trusting therapeutic relationship. I have practiced as a licensed counselor since 1989 providing mental health, and substance use disorder services with extensive training in many modalities. My approach is tailored to your particular needs with a empathetic and trauma focused approach. I have taught masters level mental health counseling for over 20 years and my scope of practice and certifications also includes certification as a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional (CCPT).

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Linda Levinson

Offering therapy in OH
License: MS,LPCC,LICDC
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsLGBTTrauma and abuseDepression
6 years of experience

After earning a dual degree in mental health and substance abuse treatment, I began to work with clients who were recovering from opioid abuse and co-occurring disorders. This gave me the unique capacity to help clients not only with addiction, but also trauma, stress, depression, low self-confidence, guilt & shame, anger, and anxiety among many other issues. In addition to general counseling services, I am seasoned in working with process addictions such as shopping, video gaming, Internet, exercise, gambling, and sex and love addictions. I have worked with many clients in the LGBTQIA community and value diversity for others and myself. I have the knowledge and skills to work with clients who struggle with sexual identity and help emotionally work through many issues that arise as a result of sexual trauma, grief or dysfunction. I also work with many clients who open and/or non-monogamous relationships. I believe that acceptance and empowerment is the foundation of this work. I use my accumulated skills to help you identify what is holding you back and how your past helps you identify your strengths to achieve the life you want. I can use a variety of approaches to fit your needs.

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Bethany Kelley

Offering therapy in OH
License: LCSW
Stress, AnxietyLGBTRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseDepression
20 years of experience

Hey there and welcome! I am a Clinical Social Worker with over 20 years of experience working in the Mental Health and Addiction fields. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, parenting problems, career/life change, military adjustment concerns, LGBTQ+ and relationship issues. I believe each person is unique and so I use a person centered approach with a very warm, non-judgemental and compassionate style. I believe in treating others with the highest level of respect and dignity. I will meet you where you are and move with you at your pace. I don't believe in stigmatizing labels--the world does enough of that. I acknowledge the courage it takes to seek out answers and create a more rewarding life! I also commend you for your choice in owning the goal to be a healthier YOU! I look forward to joining you on your journey to an improved, happier YOU!

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Mary (Peggy) Keating

Offering therapy in OH
License: MA, MSW, LISW-S
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsLGBTRelationship issuesDepression
40 years of experience

Experienced, empathetic therapist who will help you to work on the problems that are interfering with your living your best life. Includes understanding identity, LGBTQI, mood, relationships, anxiety, grief, aging, family, past/present trauma or other issues that interfere or keep you from living life to the fullest. While gentle & supportive in my approach, I also know that sometimes what is needed, is a therapist who can also call out BS and help you get unstuck. I am that therapist.

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Janice Sowell

Offering therapy in OH
License: M.Ed,LPCC
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefSelf esteemDepression
6 years of experience

Hello, my name is Janice Sowell. I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in Ohio and a License Professional Clinical Counselor in Kentucky. In 2023, I was approved to practice as a License Professional Counselor in Tennessee. I received a Master of Education with concentration on Professional Counseling and Human Development with specialization in Mental Health Counseling from Lindsey Wilson College, Columbia, Kentucky, in 2016. I work in a Trauma informed setting, providing therapy and crisis intervention. Much of my work has focused on treatment of various mental health issues such as trauma, depression, anxiety, domestic violence, conflict resolution, sexual abuse, and grief. Hence, I will work from a place of compassion, authenticity, and collaboration. My goal is to provide a supportive environment where your initial concerns are explored, goals developed, along with discovering your strengths and resources as we move towards what really matters to you. My approach is elective, meaning I will use the best therapeutic approach for each individual client. I am primarily a Cognitive Behavioral Therapist. I believe that our thoughts influence our emotions and behaviors. Therefore; I deem that the therapeutic relationship can be a vehicle for change. It takes willpower to seek a more gratifying and happier life that is necessary for a positive change to take place. I am here to support you as you make positive changes in your life, to achieve your goals. Thank you for the opportunity to serve. I look forward to collaborating with you!

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Charles Hankton

Offering therapy in OH
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseDepressionADHD
24 years of experience

I am licensed in Ohio with 23 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, family conflicts, trauma and abuse, & 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.

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Cecilia Wheeler

Offering therapy in OH
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseParenting issuesSelf esteemCoping with life changes
22 years of experience

I am licensed in Ohio with 22 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, 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. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

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How to find 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 43227 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

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