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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Sarah Robb

Offering therapy in OH
License: MSW,LISW-S,LICDC
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepression
12 years of experience

Difficult roads often lead to beautiful destinations. Life poses many challenges. Learning to face, cope with, and resolve these challenges, when we are ready, can increase our resilience and our ability to relate well with others. We are all unique. Our individual life experiences shape who we are. Sarah is a firm believer that with willingness, hard work and the development and practice of new skills, anyone can improve their quality of life and increase their happiness. Sarah Robb is an LISW-S (Licensed Independent Social Worker Supervisor) and an LICDC (Licensed Independent Chemical Dependency Counselor). She is a married mother of 2 children and enjoys spending time with her kids and family as much as possible. She also enjoys crafts (cross stitch, crochet and cricut creations, among other things) and also loves her animals (dog, cat, fish and cockatiel) and loves to swim and go boating! While being considerate of trauma informed care practices, Sarah offers patient guidance and utilizes a person-centered approach to therapy. She employs cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) strategies, motivational interviewing techniques and family systems theory to assist individuals in obtaining their very best quality of life. Currently, I am offering TEXT/MESSAGE based counseling ONLY and do not offer live video or phone call sessions. This is purely due to my limited availability at this time. Sarah has experience supporting individuals and groups. She has worked as a mental health case manager, director of residential group homes for individuals with severe and persistent mental illness, and as a manager of two residential treatment facilities providing intensive treatment for addiction. Sarah has counseled adults with dual diagnosis seeking help for addiction and mental health treatment. AREAS OF FOCUS Addiction/Recovery and Co-Occurring Disorders (Addiction and Mental Health, SAMI; substance abuse mental illness) SPMI (Severe and Persistent Mental Illness) Anxiety, Depression, Trauma & Self-Esteem building Phase-of-Life Changes (such as Grief or Loss) CREDENTIALS Bachelor of Arts degree in Social Work, Bowling Green State University Master of Science degree in Social Work, The University of Akron (MSW) LISW-S (Licensed Independent Social Worker, Supervisor) LICDC (Licensed Independent Chemical Dependency Counselor)

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Ashley Pope

Offering therapy in OH
License: LPCC-S
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepression
10 years of experience

I am a family and individual counselor licensed in the state of Ohio and have been providing clinical service for 10 years and supervision for 7 years. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including but not limited to depression, anxiety, post traumatic stress disorder, family of origin issues, parenting concerns, boundary and communication issues as well as with those who have experience complex trauma. My therapeutic style is warm, nurturing and I focus on identifying and utilizing your strengths to help address the areas you desire to work on. I believe strongly in honoring your voice as a client and empowering you in your treatment process. In individual counseling my approach combines cognitive-behavioral and motivational interviewing with a trauma informed lens. Identifying areas of growth and taking the step towards change and healing is a brave decision, I am here to support and empower you in the process. I look forward to join together on your healing journey.

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Christopher Cuda

Offering therapy in OH
License: LISW
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseDepressionADHD
25 years of experience

I am a therapist licensed in Ohio with over 25 years of experience working as a counselor. I have worked with diverse range of clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, divorce, parenting problems, career challenges, autism, and ADHD. I also helped many people who have experienced separation from their families with a history of neglect, sexual abuse, physical trauma, and emotional abuse. My therapy style is warm and interactive and always with a touch of humor. I believe in treating anyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion, and I also believe directness to show respect for your intelligence and time. My approach combines cognitive-behavioral, experiential, psychodynamic and rational-emotive therapy, and reality 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 and to take the first steps towards finding meaningful change. If you are ready to take that step, I am here to support and empower you. I look forward to working with you!

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Julia Rose

Offering therapy in OH
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepression
7 years of experience

Human beings are very dynamic and have unlimited potential to heal and grow. When I began my journey as a therapist, my goal was to help people not feel so alone in their pain, break mental health stigmas, and find answers hidden within themselves. I bring empathy, humor, compassion and genuine curiosity that is free of assumptions to the healing space. My therapeutic approach is tailored to fit your unique needs and desires. I take pride in guiding you in your journey of gaining insight and self-love to help you live a joyful well-balanced life. I have extensive experience in working with adults who are struggling with symptoms of PTSD, depression, anxiety, panic disorder, bipolar disorder, BPD, etc. "We can learn something new anytime we believe we can" - Virginia Satir.

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Dr. Laura Mclaughlin

Offering therapy in OH
Stress, AnxietyGriefSelf esteemCareer difficultiesDepression
21 years of experience

I am licensed in Ohio with 21 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with grief and loss, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & career difficulties. 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.

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Andrea Connell

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

I am a licensed independent social worker in Ohio with 17 years of professional work experience. My areas of of interest and experience include maternal mental health and wellness, support during the postpartum and "new parent" period, and foster care and adoption issues. Additionally, I have experience in helping clients with trauma and abuse, coping with grief and loss, coping with stress and anxiety, coping with life changes, and many other areas. I work collaboratively with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment, and to create client-centered goals. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process, and I look forward to meeting with you!

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Maria Ponzi

Offering therapy in OH
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsRelationship issuesIntimacy-related issuesCoping with life changes
20 years of experience

I am licensed in Ohio with 20 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, relationship issues, & intimacy related issues. 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!

This is Paula Clay's avatar and link to their profile

Paula Clay

Offering therapy in OH
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefBipolar disorderDepression
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, coping with grief and loss, & bipolar disorder. 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. 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 am a former Board Member of the center for Vocational Alternatives as well as The St. Vincent Family Center. I have done panels and presentations for Ohio State University and Capital. University as well as community platforms.

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Patricia Tingler-Baker

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

I am licensed in Kentucky, Ohio and Tennessee with 20 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 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.

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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 43219 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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