If you’re navigating challenges like difficult life transitions, family conflict, and unhealthy habits, talking to a therapist can help you live a more meaningful life. A therapist in Columbus, GA, can help.

If you’re interested in individual counseling, you have a few options. There are plenty of professionals in the mental health field in Columbus, whether you’re looking for a counseling center or an individual therapist. Counseling centers may see many clients, making it difficult to get an appointment, and therapy can be costly, regardless of the types of insurances accepted. An online therapy platform like BetterHelp can make finding an available counselor who fits your schedule easier. 

Whether you work with a therapist online or in person, a qualified mental health professional can help you manage symptoms of mental health conditions like anxiety disorders or panic attacks, but they can also help with things like coping with divorce, working through insomnia, or dealing with abusive family members. When you connect with a therapist, your first appointment may be dedicated to getting to know each other and developing a treatment plan that best suits your well-being. If you’re ready to get started, contact one of the therapists serving Columbus below.

 

This is Dr. Corlissa Wilson's avatar and link to their profile

Dr. Corlissa Wilson

Clinical therapist offering therapy in GA, Columbus
Counselor License Type(s): Ed.D.,LPC,NCC
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseGriefCoping with life changes
25 years of experience

Hello, I am Dr. Corlissa Wilson, please feel free to call me Dr. C. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Georgia. I am also a National Certified Counselor, National Certified School Counselor, and a Certified Trauma Specialist. I have been a school counselor for 28 years in both elementary and middle school settings. I have been in private practice and I taught classes for the University of Phoenix for 10 years. My approach to counseling is eclectic and I believe it is essential that we work together to promote change. I will work with you to help you identify issues and set goals. I use a variety of techniques and you will often have an assignment or an activity to complete between sessions. I love working with adults, adolescents, and children. I volunteer with several organizations and facilitate grief groups for adolescents and their parents. I received my Ed.D. in Counseling Psychology from Argosy University and my BBA in Marketing, M.Ed. in Community Counseling and Ed.S. in School Counseling are all from the University of West Georgia. I am married to my best friend from high school and together we have a blended family. His son was two when we married, and we have a daughter together. Every person and every situation is different and unique and I approach each client with that in mind. It takes courage to take the first step towards change, I would love to support and work with you on this journey.

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Dorian Ellis

Clinical therapist offering therapy in GA, Columbus
Counselor License Type(s): MS,LPC,CAMS
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesAnger managementSelf esteemDepression
15 years of experience

I have a master’s degree in counseling from Alabama State University and 15 years of counseling experience. To bolster my counseling skills, I got licensed as a Professional Counselor in Georgia and certified in Anger Management Treatment, Clinical Trauma, Professional Counselor Supervision, School Counseling (Georgia, K-12), and Telemental Health. Continuing education is a must so that I stay well-informed and practice counseling professionally, proficiently, and ethically. My life and professional experiences allowed me to build relationships with people from various backgrounds. I served over four years in the U.S. Army, honorably discharged, and then started working as a counselor for the Department of Juvenile Justice in Georgia. After six and a half years with the Department of Juvenile Justice, I have worked as a school counselor and started a counseling practice. I was born to be a counselor. I love listening and helping others to use their unique strength(s) or gift(s) to face life challenges and live productive lives. Active listening, unconditional positive regard, empathy, and genuineness are essentials in my work with clients. My preferred therapeutic approach is person/client-centered therapy. My goals are to place myself into the individuals’ world, be nonjudgmental, ethical, build rapport and create positive therapeutic relationships. I want my clients to feel comfortable, accepted, open, and free to talk about any experience without reservation. I believe in self-disclosure to humanize the counseling experiences and share common life events for client growth. We are in this together.

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Brandi Cameron

Clinical therapist offering therapy in GA, Columbus
Counselor License Type(s): LPC
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesSelf esteem
7 years of experience

I am a licensed professional counselor who holds multiple degrees in both counseling and psychology with over 5 years of experience working in the counseling field. My mission is to advocate, motivate, and support diverse populations on various concerns. Some of the concerns include anxiety, depression, relationship issues, confidence/self esteem, motivation, coping with transition, and stress management, etc. My therapy style integrates a variety of approaches to serve a diverse population. This includes cognitive behavioral therapy, mindfulness therapy, client centered therapy, motivational therapy, and solution focused therapy. I tailor my approaches to meet the need of each individual client which is why I use integrative approaches. My therapy is welcoming and interactive because I believe in creating a safe space while working with all individuals in efforts of reaching their therapeutic goals. I believe that counseling is essential component in life and I am passionate on providing services and resources needed to assist in the therapeutic process. I am glad that you made the first step in seeking help and I am ready to help you with your journey! I know personally that it is difficult to deal with things alone and I would love the opportunity to work with you on making life changing moves to make healthy changes that will help you to be a better you! I look forward to working with you!

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Dr. Kathy Farley-Cook

Clinical therapist offering therapy in GA, Columbus
Counselor License Type(s): LPC
Family conflictsAnger managementSelf esteemADHD
4 years of experience

I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) working with clients who have presented with grief/loss, anxiety, stress, low self-esteem, family conflicts, parenting challenges, and relationship concerns. My non-judgmental, therapeutic style embodies empathy, trust, sensitivity, care, and genuineness while delivering high-quality services. During the session(s), I often utilize Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Solution Focused Therapy. However, if theoretical approaches are not suitable for the client(s), I employ other approaches based on their need(s). I am of the belief that it takes a lot of courage to seek professional help and commend you for taking the first step. I look forward to us working together!

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Dr. Anthony Thomalla

Clinical therapist offering therapy in GA, Columbus
Counselor License Type(s): Ph.D, ,LP
Stress, AnxietyLGBTRelationship issuesDepressionCoaching
28 years of experience

My name is Alan Thomalla, I am a licensed psychologist in multiple states. I graduated from the University of Illinois with my doctorate in counseling psychology. I enjoy working with individuals, families, groups, and organizations to find real solutions to life's challenges for practical healthy living.

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Dr. Jerlinda Anderson

Clinical therapist offering therapy in GA, Columbus
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseParenting issuesDepression
10 years of experience

I am a registered yoga teacher, registered play therapist and a licensed clinical mental health counselor in North and South Carolina & Georgia with 10 years of professional work experience. In addition I am a trained Trauma Focused CBT therapist. I have experience in helping clients with family conflicts, trauma and abuse, & sleeping disorders. I also have experience working with parenting issues. 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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Candace Griffith

Clinical therapist offering therapy in GA, Columbus
Stress, AnxietyCoping with life changesADHD
20 years of experience

I am licensed in Georgia with 20 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with life changes, & concentration, memory and focus (ADHD). 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 sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

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Christine Penguino

Clinical therapist offering therapy in GA, Columbus
LGBTParenting issuesSelf esteemCoping with life changesADHD
7 years of experience

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Atlanta, Georgia with more than seven years of professional experience in working with clients that have included everything from play therapy with young children to grief counseling with grandparents. My most recent focus has been working with families in the LGTBQIA+ community as they process a variety of issues. My personal philosophy is to find humor in everything and live passionately. A little more about me? I’m a big nerd who loves sci fi and fantasy like Aasimov’s Foundation series (I have big opinion’s about Apple’s adaption). I go to regional Burning Man events and make art from thrift store Barbies. I love to garden, but am pretty terrible at it. I generally despise most holidays but enjoy being silly and posting memes about them. I like board games and puzzles and go to conventions. When I need to meditate and be calm I watch my tank of guppies and ghost shrimp. Back to therapy! If you’re looking for something specific; I am kink and BDSM lifestyle friendly, as well as supportive of those in ethically non-monogamous relationships such as polyamory. I also have experience dealing with intra cultural shifts such as transitioning out of conservative religious backgrounds and processing the changes in belief and subculture. I work well with folks who are working on self esteem and body positivity. I have a lot of experience working with non neurotypical folks with autism spectrum and adhd diagnoses. I also work well with issues of anxiety and depression. My approach to therapy is client goal directive, believing that you usually know where you want to go. I believe in pushing gently at the edge of my client’s comfort zone; therapy shouldn’t be painful, but it should help you move forward. To that end, I often help my clients design their own “homework” to try outside of sessions to see and measure their own progress. Didn’t do your homework? That tells us you weren’t ready, or that something was blocking you, or you weren’t motivated… therapy doesn’t have grades, just learning! If you’re still reading, I hope you’re ready to start our therapy journey together.

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Aleece Holliman

Clinical therapist offering therapy in GA, Columbus
Stress, AnxietyEating disordersSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
5 years of experience

Therapy! Yes, that word can be daunting, scary, confusing, and can make anyone a little apprehensive. I really get that and my goal for you, if you decide to work with me, would be to eliminate and decrease some of those feelings and set yourself on a path towards bettering yourself, healing from past hurt and trauma, and getting a better quality of life for yourself or someone you know. If you've ever struggled with body image, un-healthy eating patterns, relational issues, anxiety, or depression, I encourage you to reach out to me. I would love to support you along your journey and witness your change. I am licensed in Georgia with 5 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, eating disorders, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & depression. I specialize in working with older teens and adults. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our sessions 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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Paul Steele

Clinical therapist offering therapy in GA, Columbus
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
17 years of experience

I am licensed in Florida with 17 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, family conflicts, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & depression. 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!

How to find a therapist for 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 with therapists in Columbus that work best for you in order to begin your personal journey towards emotional healing with a therapist.

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 (CBT), talk therapy, provide group therapy, marriage and family therapy for individuals or couples, or couples therapy. Each type of support of this kind with BetterHelp therapists 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 for therapists. 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 able to treat individuals and couples counseling, and sometimes children, in any type of therapy in the Columbus region and in the state of Georgia. Find a therapist under any of these distinctions and know that the sessions they offer can provide a safe place to heal.

A mental health counselor 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, couples counseling, managing a mood disorder, improving coping skills, self help tips, offer life coaching, family therapy, or change in negative thinking patterns. A Columbus therapist may also provide a safe place and validation for clients experiencing emotional pain, or that simply want a psychological assessment. Verified providers and therapists 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 offering:

  • CBT
  • DBT
  • Substance use therapy
  • Couples therapy

When you're ready to start your search keep in mind what support 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 Muscogee, or in the greater state of Georgia. Get matched with one of the therapists working on the BetterHelp platform today.

Frequently asked questions (FAQs) about therapists and mental health services

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 with a therapist compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed Columbus therapist?

The average price of an in-person therapy session in the US with most therapists is $100 to $200 per hour. These prices may be higher in Columbus due to a higher cost of living, and a limited number of therapists taking new clients. 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 Georgia may work on a sliding scale, meaning they'll factor in your income and charge what you can afford per session. With a BetterHelp therapist throughout the state of Georgia you can expect significantly more affordable options, with therapists sessions ranging from $65 to $100 per week (billed every four weeks). 

How is a licensed therapist on this Columbus online therapy platform verified?

Therapists in Columbus, Georgia 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. Therapists 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, therapists here 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 Columbus psychiatrists to prescribe a drug or medication as treatment, or perform psychological assessments and other psychiatric services.

How does working with a professional counselor in BetterHelp online therapy sessions work?

BetterHelp clinicians and therapists treat clients online across the United States (individuals and couples) through life transitions, inner child exploration, long term depression or anxiety, post traumatic stress disorder, 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 helping individuals on topics including managing life transitions, symptoms affecting sexual health, behavioral health, coping skills for anxiety, depression, trauma, stress, marriage counseling, and more. Get matched today.

What mental health issues can psychotherapy address with the help of psychologists?

BetterHelp's verified 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.

Our therapists specialties on BetterHelp include:

  • Cognitive behavioral therapy - This is provided by professional counselors, helping clients identify and change negative thought patterns through structured sessions.
  • Behavior therapy - Behavior therapy techniques are used to help clients modify harmful behaviors and develop healthier habits, often through the guidance of a professional counselor.
  • EMDR therapy - EMDR therapists assist clients in processing traumatic memories to alleviate emotional distress and improve overall well-being, utilizing the expertise of a professional counselor.
  • Talk therapy - Clients explore their feelings and develop strategies for dealing with various mental health issues, often guided by a professional counselor.
  • Depression - This counseling is designed to help individuals manage symptoms of depression and improve their mood and functioning, often working closely with a professional counselor.
  • Anxiety disorders - Sessions for anxiety disorders, offer strategies to manage and reduce anxiety symptoms effectively, often through counseling sessions with a professional counselor.
  • Stress - Tools and techniques to help clients cope with stress and improve their mental resilience, frequently under the supervision of a professional counselor.
  • Eating disorders - Professionals experienced in eating disorders offer specialized counseling to address unhealthy eating patterns and body image issues, with the support of a professional counselor.
  • Grief - Support and guidance are offered to clients experiencing grief, helping them navigate the stages of loss, often in collaboration with a counselor.
  • Attachment therapy - Therapists use this to help clients understand and improve their emotional bonds and relationships, often with the assistance of a counselor.
  • Relationships - Therapists work with clients to improve communication, resolve conflicts, and strengthen their connections with others, often using the skills of a counselor.
  • Children, adolescents, and teens - Therapists specializing in youth therapy address the unique mental health needs of children, adolescents, and teens, often involving a counselor in the process.
  • Addiction (substance abuse) - Therapists offer counseling for addiction, helping clients overcome substance abuse and maintain long-term recovery, often under the guidance of a counselor.
  • Divorce - Therapists support individuals through the emotional and practical challenges of ending a marriage, often working with a psychologist to provide comprehensive care.
  • Trauma or PTSD - Therapists specializing in trauma and PTSD help clients process traumatic experiences and reduce their symptoms, frequently collaborating with a psychologist.
  • Bipolar disorder - Therapists provide counseling to manage the mood swings and challenges associated with bipolar disorder, often in consultation with a psychologist.
  • Psychodynamic treatment - Therapists use psychodynamic treatment to explore unconscious processes and how they affect current behavior, often guided by psychologists.
  • Career counseling - Therapists assist clients in making informed decisions about their professional paths and resolving work-related issues, often with the help of psychologists.
  • Alcohol use disorders - Therapists offer specialized counseling to help clients manage and overcome alcohol use disorders, frequently under the supervision of psychologists.
  • OCD - Therapists provide strategies and support to manage obsessive-compulsive disorder symptoms, often via psychotherapy.
  • ADHD - Therapists offer counseling to help clients with ADHD improve focus, organization, and overall functioning, often via psychotherapy.
  • Mood disorders - Therapists work with clients to stabilize and improve mood through various therapeutic approaches, frequently in psychotherapy.
  • Sex addiction
  • Complex trauma
  • Life transitions

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 provider through BetterHelp's sister platform, ReGain, which is dedicated to couples and spouses worldwide with licensed therapists. 

How do I know if online counseling is right for my family in Columbus?

One of the potentially rewarding aspects of working with a Columbus 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 and therapists are trained to respond to various concerns, symptoms, and mental health conditions.

Therapists 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 Columbus 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 psychotherapist.

With a lot of people in GA, therapists may be booked out with clients. Through the list of profiles or therapists 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 31908 or the surrounding zip codes, consider others available through the BetterHelp site where you can schedule a session based on your and the therapist's schedule. No matter if you are seeking help from therapists 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 Columbus therapist, prep for your session by reading to understand the 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, you can let our therapists know if you have any concerns or feel unsure about what to talk about. Columbus therapists here may help guide you with open-ended therapeutic questions while offering mental health services. 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 for therapy 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 it might entail. Although psychologists often support people with mental health conditions, you do not need a diagnosis or specific condition. You can discuss grief, relationship concerns, stress, or life changes and ask for general feedback. 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 with a Columbus counselor 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 that a counselor can help with.

Is mental health care and therapy with a therapist worth it?

Therapy with a licensed counselor 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 therapist 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, Georgia 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 sessions 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 during telehealth appointments?

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 for Columbus, Georgia

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 Columbus 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 to customer service 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:

31808, 31820, 31829, 31901, 31902, 31903, 31904, 31905, 31906, 31907, 31908, 31909, 31914, 31917, 31993, 31997, 31998, 31999

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