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Psychologist Leah Pavela-Mullins providing different types of therapy in Columbia

Leah Pavela-Mullins

Clinician
License Type(s): MN LICSW 29567, IL LCSW 149022843
Mental Wellness Specialties: Relationship issuesIntimacy-related issuesSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
15 years offering treatment

I am a licensed clinical social worker with over 15 years of experience in helping people find solutions to their problems. Over the years, I have been told by clients that they really feel that I am listening to them and trying to understand what is going on in their lives and how they feel. Clients have also told me that they do not feel any sense of judgment, but rather that I accept them for who they are and where they are in their life’s journey. My style is empathetic and solution focused. I will spend time asking you questions in order to get to know you and try to find out what is at the heart of your issue. Together, we will talk about possible avenues you may want to take, or changes you may want to consider. I may give you some “homework” assignments…things to write out or think about, worksheets to complete, or even techniques/exercises to practice in your own time so that some of what we discuss in our sessions is reinforced. Most of all, I will be an objective listener, helping you to gain insight into what is going on with you, so that you are able to make the choices and changes you want to, in your own time. I look forward to working with you!

Psychologist Debbie Jordan providing different types of therapy in Columbia

Debbie Jordan

Clinician
License Type(s): VA LPC 0701004862, FL LMHC MH15148
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseDepression
21 years offering treatment

I am a licensed counselor in Idaho, Virginia, and Florida with 21 years of experience. I have a strong background in trauma, secondary traumatization, depression, military members, PTSD/anxiety, TBI, different cultures, LGBTQ, and those who have experienced disaster. I use a cognitive-behavioral approach combined with other theories that will be tailored to your specific needs. I have worked with clients who just need a bit of guidance to those who have much more complicated needs. I consider it a privilege to work with people through difficult and/or painful issues that maybe they have never told anyone about. I specialize in being present with clients as we explore new methods for generating a healthier balanced life. I have experience working with clients in the medical field, military, law enforcement, and fire departments. I am outgoing and easy to talk to. I believe that everyone can benefit from counseling at some point in their life. I especially enjoy assisting people with creating a balance in their lives and balancing stress with relaxation and mindfulness. I look forward to meeting with you to explore the possibilities of creating a more balanced and less stressful life.

Psychologist Delores Smith providing different types of therapy in Columbia

Delores Smith

Clinician
License Type(s): VA LCSW 0904001262
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesGriefSelf esteemDepression
47 years offering treatment

I am a clinically trained social worker with more than 40 years of experience. My treatment specialties include depression, anxiety, and grief counseling. I assist with the resolution of work-related concerns. I am also a trained life coach, helping people make decisions related to changes they would like to have in their lives while achieving work/life balance. I also provide behavior modification, problem-solving, and motivation therapy. I work with couples of all kinds, knowing that being a couple or family cannot be defined only in the traditional sense. I take a broad view in this area. The basis for my efforts is insight therapy. I encourage those who work with me to consider how their decisions and actions enhance or impair the attainment of their goals. This type of understanding is critical for making meaningful life changes. My work is for and about you! We will go as far and as fast as you are able. Although I offer clarity in recognizing the issues that concern you, I will never take you where you do not want to go. Our work will be free of judgment, allowing you to speak and respond openly. I will always respect you and value what you share with me. You have made the right decision by embarking on a therapeutic relationship. I hope you choose me to help guide you on that journey.

Psychologist Lisa  McCarton providing different types of therapy in Columbia

Lisa McCarton

Clinician
License Type(s): VA LCSW 0904005382
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseAnger managementADHD
20 years offering treatment

Hello! Welcome to the BetterHelp community! My name is Lisa McCarton and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, practicing in Virginia for 20 years. I have specialized in psychotherapy and social work with children, adolescents and families. I have been providing psychotherapy for a wide variety of issues and populations, to include: behavioral problems; trauma issues; family relationships; mood disorders; school issues; and sexual abuse issues, among other areas. I graduated from Virginia Commonwealth University in 2000 with a Masters in Social Work. I began my post-masters clinical work in a residential treatment facility for emotionally and physically abused children. I provided therapy, as well as case management, for children and families. I would describe my approach as goal oriented, and client centered. I use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Problem-Solving Therapy and Strength-Based Approach. All of these modalities are hands-on, practical approaches to problem-solving. CBT treatment usually involves efforts to change thinking patterns and/or behaviors. The goals are to change patterns of maladaptive or unhealthy thinking in order to improve behavior and life situations. This helps people identify faulty or unhelpful ways of thinking and learn better ways of coping with life's full variety of stressors. Difficult and painful times are part of the human experience. I understand seeking help can be a vulnerable step to take. Exploring the healing process or enriching one’s personal growth, first and foremost, requires establishing a trusting and an emotional supportive relationship. Change is not easy, but it is possible.

Psychologist Victoria Naginsky providing different types of therapy in Columbia

Victoria Naginsky

Clinician
License Type(s): IN LMHC 39005644A, OH LPCC E.2606559
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyAddictionsSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
9 years offering treatment

Welcome ! Something in your life has initiated this search for support and you have come to the right place. I applaud you. My name is Victoria, and I am both a licensed professional therapist and a Nationally Certified Counselor in the state of Florida. I have worked with individuals experiencing a variety of issues including substance abuse, depression and anxiety, family conflict, trauma, stress-related issues, communication challenges, self-esteem, and many more. I have extensive experience working with Trauma and am trained in providing Eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) therapy. My choice to work in this field comes from the belief that everyone deserves to be understood, heard, and supported while working towards becoming their best selves. I would describe myself as being someone who is compassionate and open-minded. My belief is that everyone has needs that should be met in order to be their best. I also come from the view that our thoughts shape our way of being in the world and affect our patterns of behavior. It would be my privilege to become a partner in your journey while helping you figure out and achieve your mental health goals. I will provide not only support and understanding but a clear direction, and both solution-focused and CBT strategies to get you to the place you deserve and want to be. Whether you are seeking change for a healthier happier life, or just need a non-judgmental ear to listen, I am here to support and empower you. I look forward to working with you!

Psychologist Orlando Garcia providing different types of therapy in Columbia

Orlando Garcia

Clinician
License Type(s): VA LMFT 0717002583, FL LMFT MT1852
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsSelf esteemDepression
30 years offering treatment

I am a seasoned psychotherapist/family therapist with over 26 years of experience in alleviating and/or resolving a broad spectrum of psychological, behavioral, and emotional issues. Using scientifically proven treatment methods, I can help you to start improving your life today. I work with individuals, couples, families and groups and I work with people of all ages. I use a hybrid of cognitive-behavioral therapy/Rational Emotive Behavior Therapy combined with family systems therapy. I also incorporate Gestalt/experiential approaches, psychodrama approaches, client centered/Rogerian approaches and psychodynamic approaches into my therapeutic work. I can help you to effectively address your issues and concerns. I also can help you to become more aware of your strengths and potentials and to even identify and develop new strengths and potentials and to make significant changes in your self and in your life. Knowing yourself and being at peace with yourself will help you to have a more satisfying life and more satisfying relationships. Please do not judge your future by your present. Don't give the power to your negative thoughts to convince you that they have the final and unalterable say about you, about life and about reality in general. The future is full of beautiful possibilities and by choosing to work on addressing your problems you begin to make those possibilities come true. I can help you to do that. May you find peace and joy in your journey. Orlando

Psychologist Dr. Jovaria Baig providing different types of therapy in Columbia

Dr. Jovaria Baig

Clinician
License Type(s): TX LPC 76806, VA LPC 0701013507
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseIntimacy-related issuesDepression
9 years offering treatment

I am licensed in Texas with 9 years of professional work experience. I am also licensed in Virginia! I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, trauma and abuse, & intimacy related issues. Clients tell me I'm helpful, witty, intellectual, and caring. 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. Have you ever felt sad? Anxious? Nervous? lonely? Have you ever had severe racing thoughts? I have experience helping people who suffer from depression, anxiety, relationship issues, addiction related issues, grief/loss, and family/multicultural related issues.

Psychologist Nicole Deisher providing different types of therapy in Columbia

Nicole Deisher

Clinician
License Type(s): IN LCSW 34012641A, VA LCSW 0904019686
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepression
11 years offering treatment

I am licensed in Ohio with 12 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, trauma and abuse, & 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. 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.

Psychologist Reginald Bruno providing different types of therapy in Columbia

Reginald Bruno

Clinician
License Type(s): NY LCSW 098104, VA LCSW 0904018019
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyAddictionsGriefSelf esteemDepression
28 years offering treatment

I am licensed in Florida. Virginia, Washington DC, Oregon, and New York with over 20 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping adult clients cope with and manage stress and anxiety, and a range of many other co-occurring disorders. I have helped clients coping with addictions, grief and loss, improving motivation, self-esteem, and confidence. I have a good working and interactive experience with my clients to create an open and safe environment where their 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.

Psychologist LaDreamer Harrison providing different types of therapy in Columbia

LaDreamer Harrison

Clinician
License Type(s): VA LCSW 0904019014, FL LCSW SW25007
Mental Wellness Specialties: Relationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseGriefDepression
6 years offering treatment

I am licensed in Texas with 6 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with relationship issues, family conflicts, trauma, abuse, coping with grief, & coping with loss. I also have experience working with 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.

Psychologist robert cruz providing different types of therapy in Columbia

robert cruz

Clinician
License Type(s): VA LPC 0701016185
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyLGBTTrauma and abuseGriefDepression
6 years offering treatment

As a licensed therapist, I specialize in supporting individuals navigating complex emotional landscapes. My practice centers on helping clients address challenges like depression, anxiety, trauma, and life transitions with compassion and cultural sensitivity. Drawing from my background as a therapist of color, I offer a deeply understanding approach for LGBTQ+ individuals and those exploring identity, sexuality, and personal growth. My therapeutic work focuses on addressing social anxiety, panic disorders, attachment issues, and healing from past experiences of grief and shame. I believe in creating a safe, affirming space where clients can explore their inner world, develop resilience, and reconnect with their sense of purpose. My approach is collaborative, client-centered, and tailored to honor each person's unique journey and strengths.

Psychologist Tiara Brown providing different types of therapy in Columbia

Tiara Brown

Clinician
License Type(s): VA LCSW 0904013052
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
20 years offering treatment

I'm a therapist with extensive experience supporting individuals through life's most challenging moments. Throughout my career, I've worked with clients navigating depression, anxiety, stress, and the complexities of family relationships. I'm passionate about helping people build self-esteem, find their life purpose, and develop meaningful communication skills. My approach centers on fostering self-love and compassion as foundations for healing. I work with clients who are struggling with isolation, loneliness, and the weight of past hurts—including supporting them through forgiveness and major life transitions. I believe that meaningful change happens when we feel truly seen and understood. I'm committed to creating a welcoming, affirming space where you can show up authentically. I honor the full complexity of who you are and the experiences that have shaped you. My goal is to walk alongside you with genuine care and support as you move toward greater peace and purpose in your life. Taking that first step toward therapy takes courage, and I'm honored to be part of your journey.

Psychologist Bridget Richardson providing different types of therapy in Columbia

Bridget Richardson

Clinician
License Type(s): VA LPC 0701015375
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyGriefCareer difficultiesDepressionADHD
3 years offering treatment

I'm Bridget Richardson, a therapist dedicated to supporting individuals through life's challenging transitions. I work with clients navigating depression, anxiety, stress, grief, career transitions, and ADHD-related concerns. My approach is grounded in compassion and respect for your values and beliefs. I create a safe, non-judgmental space where you can explore your experiences at your own pace. I'm committed to understanding your unique perspective and honoring what matters most to you. I draw on evidence-based therapeutic practices to help you build insight, develop coping strategies, and move toward meaningful change. Whether you're processing loss, managing work-related stress, or working through personal challenges, I'm here to support your journey with authenticity and care. I believe therapy works best when there's genuine connection and mutual respect. My goal is to walk alongside you as you navigate what brought you here, offering steady guidance and a listening ear. I'm honored to be part of your healing process.

Psychologist Joy LaRue Kelvin providing different types of therapy in Columbia

Joy LaRue Kelvin

Clinician
License Type(s): VA LPC 0701007499
Mental Wellness Specialties: GriefCoping with life changesCompassion fatigue
8 years offering treatment

I'm Joy LaRue Kelvin, and I'm honored to support you through life's most challenging transitions. With extensive experience in grief work and navigating significant life changes, I understand how isolating and overwhelming these moments can feel. I'm passionate about helping you reconnect with yourself and find meaning during times of uncertainty. My approach centers on compassion and genuine care. I work with clients exploring self-love, communication challenges, isolation, life purpose, and the weight of guilt, shame, and forgiveness. I believe healing happens when we're met with warmth, understanding, and space to process at our own pace. As a Black therapist who integrates faith-centered perspectives into my practice, I'm committed to honoring your whole self—your values, your story, and your spiritual journey. I create a welcoming environment where you can show up authentically and begin moving toward greater peace and connection. Taking the step toward therapy takes courage, and I'm truly grateful you're here. I look forward to walking alongside you.

*BetterHelp insurance availability, coverage, and cost may vary by state, plan, provider network, therapist availability, and deductible status.

Find a therapist near you in Columbia, Virginia

Finding a therapist near you in Columbia, Virginia starts with matching to a licensed professional who fits your needs, schedule, and goals. Virginia is home to people with diverse mental health needs across urban, suburban, and rural communities, which can make it challenging to find care. BetterHelp connects you with a licensed therapist through tailored matching, so you can begin care from home or wherever works for you. 

The network includes over 30,000 licensed therapists globally, and over 4 million people have used BetterHelp to find support through online therapy. During matching, 93% of user preferences are met, which helps you connect with a therapist suited to what you are looking for. Whether you are searching for help with anxiety, trauma, affordable or insurance covered therapy, weekend or flexible scheduling, or virtual sessions, you can find a therapist and get started when you are ready.

Why work with a licensed therapist near you?

Working with a licensed therapist near you gives you access to professional mental health support from someone trained to help you understand and manage what you are going through. A licensed therapist can offer evidence-based approaches, a steady space to talk, and guidance tailored to your situation. In Virginia, online therapy can make that care more accessible, since sessions happen from home or wherever you are, without the need to travel to an office. This can help if your schedule is full, if travel is difficult, or if you simply prefer a more discreet setting. You can learn more about what a therapist does on the therapist role page.

Online therapy can be especially helpful for people living across Virginia, where access to in-person mental health care may vary by location.

What concerns can therapists help with?

Therapists can help with a wide range of concerns, including anxiety and stress, depression, trauma and PTSD, self-esteem and identity, people-pleasing and fear of rejection, insomnia and racing thoughts, workplace stress and burnout, substance use, parenting and co-parenting stress, grief and loss, and relationship and family challenges. Therapists on BetterHelp may draw on approaches such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), depending on your needs and goals. You can explore support for specific concerns on pages such as generalized anxiety disorder, major depressive disorder, posttraumatic stress disorder, attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder, and eating disorders.

Please note that therapists on BetterHelp do not provide psychiatric medication management or formal diagnoses.

Online therapy vs. in-person therapy in Virginia

Online therapy and in-person therapy both connect you with a licensed professional, and the main difference is how you meet. In Virginia, online therapy through BetterHelp lets you have sessions by phone, video, or in-app messaging, so you can meet from home or on a schedule that fits your life. In-person therapy takes place at an office and may involve travel and set appointment windows. Online therapy may be more accessible for people with busy schedules, limited transportation, or a preference for a more discreet setting. Both formats can support meaningful progress, so the right choice often comes down to what fits your life.

Finding a therapist that accepts insurance in Virginia

BetterHelp accepts insurance through many major insurance plans. Insurance availability and coverage may vary by state, plan, provider network, and therapist availability, and deductible status. Eligible members' average copay is $23 per session. 

You can check your in-network status on the BetterHelp site through the sign up flow. If you prefer to pay without insurance, BetterHelp subscriptions range from $70 to $100 per week, billed as an alternative way to access the same care, and you can use HSA and FSA funds toward the cost. For a full breakdown of how BetterHelp works with insurance plans, see BetterHelp insurance coverage.

How BetterHelp helps you find the right therapist in Virginia

BetterHelp helps you find the right therapist in Virginia through personalized matching that considers your needs, preferences, and goals. After you answer a few questions during the sign up flow, you can be matched with a licensed therapist from a network of over 30,000 professionals, and 93% of user preferences are met during matching. The search and location matching cover common near-me needs, including anxiety, trauma, affordable or sliding-scale support, weekend or flexible scheduling, and virtual sessions. If your first match is not the right fit, you can switch therapists at no extra cost. When you are ready, you can get started and begin the process.

Therapists near you in Virginia

Below, you’ll find licensed therapists authorized to provide online therapy to adults across Virginia, including residents in Columbia.

Each provider meets state licensing requirements and has experience supporting clients with a wide range of mental health concerns using evidence-based therapeutic approaches.

Please note: Therapists on BetterHelp in Virginia do not provide psychiatric medication management or formal diagnoses.

Frequently asked questions about finding a therapist near me

How much does therapy cost near me?

Therapy costs near you can vary by provider, format, and payment method. With BetterHelp, subscriptions range from $70 to $100 per week, and you can use HSA and FSA funds toward the cost. BetterHelp also accepts insurance through many major insurance plans, and eligible members' average copay is $23 per session. Insurance availability and coverage may vary by state, plan, provider network, and therapist availability, and deductible status.

Does BetterHelp accept insurance?

Yes. BetterHelp accepts insurance through many major insurance plans. Insurance availability and coverage may vary by state, plan, provider network, and therapist availability. Eligible members' average copay is $23 per session. Check your in-network status on the BetterHelp site through the sign up flow. For a full breakdown of how BetterHelp works with insurance plans, see BetterHelp insurance coverage.

Is online therapy effective?

Online therapy can be an effective way to receive licensed mental health care for many common concerns. Research suggests that online therapy may support progress in ways comparable to in-person care for concerns such as anxiety and depression. On BetterHelp, you connect with a licensed therapist who can use evidence-based approaches such as CBT and DBT, and you can meet by phone, video, or in-app messaging.

Do I need a diagnosis to see a therapist?

No, you do not need a diagnosis to see a therapist. Many people begin therapy to work through stress, life changes, relationships, or personal growth without any diagnosis. Please note that therapists on BetterHelp do not provide psychiatric medication management or formal diagnoses. If you are looking for a starting point, personalized matching can connect you with a licensed therapist suited to your goals.

How quickly can I start therapy?

You can often start therapy within 24 to 48 hours of signing up with BetterHelp. After you answer a few questions during the sign up flow, personalized matching connects you with a licensed therapist, and you can schedule your first session once you are matched. This process is designed to help you begin care at your own pace, without a long wait.

Can I switch therapists if it’s not the right fit?

Yes. If you feel your therapist is not the right match, you can request to be matched with another licensed provider at no additional cost. You are able to do so through the BetterHelp user portal and select switch therapists if needed.

Is online therapy discreet?

Online therapy with BetterHelp offers a discreet setting where you can connect with a licensed therapist from the comfort of your home. Sessions take place by phone, video, or in-app messaging, so you can meet without going into an office. Your account and sessions are protected with strong safeguards, and you choose how and where you attend. This can make therapy feel more comfortable for people who prefer a discreet way to get support.

Find a Therapist in Columbia, Virginia

Ready to begin? BetterHelp can match you with a licensed therapist serving Columbia and the surrounding VA area. When you are ready to take the next step, get started.

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