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.
Dr. Magna Porterfield
I am a psychologist who is licensed in both the states of Alabama and Georgia and I have had the opportunity to work in the field of psychology for several years. I have worked in the both university settings (as a teacher and counselor) as well as in private practice. I have also had the opportunity to travel and share my knowledge through lectures and workshops. I have the most experience in helping people who struggle with unipolar (but NOT bipolar) depression and anxiety. I also have a considerable amount of experience in working with individuals who have problems with managing stress and managing their emotions. I do not work with issues such as eating disorders, addictions, relationship problems or sexuality concerns. My counseling style is warm, but also straightforward and honest. I consider myself to be a kind person. and I truly desire to help those who are hurting. In my work with people, I do not spend much time processing the past (i.e., childhood experiences, past trauma, etc.). I believe that true healing comes when individuals take active steps in the therapy process and focus on what they can do in their "present" situation to address their challenges. In my work with clients, I focus on helping them understand how their thoughts impact their emotions and their behavior - principles from the field of cognitive behavior therapy. I also look at the impact of lifestyle habits - diet, rest, exercise, etc. - on mental/emotional health. In addition, I sometimes utilize concepts and strategies from the area of positive psychology, which helps people identify and enhance their strengths (as opposed to merely focusing on people's weaknesses "abnormalities," so to speak). Do you need a helping hand? I would love to be that "hand" and help you make those changes. Working with me will take commitment and will require you to not be just a "passive participant," so to speak, in your healing and recovery. If you are willing to do your part, I am here for you and would love to work with you. All it takes is that first step and you can make that step today!
Latrice Scott
My name is Latrice Scott and I’m a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in Florida with 13+ years of experience in the Counseling field. I obtained two Master’s degrees in Mental Health Counseling and School Counseling from Webster University in 2012. I have experience working with children, teenagers, and families in the areas of stress, anxiety, grief and loss, PTSD, anger management, depression, and adjustment to life changes. I have worked in various settings such as residential, outpatient, in-home, and substance abuse treatment. I believe that it’s important to meet each individual where they are. Therefore, there is no exact science to healing through therapy. My goal is to guide you in attaining clarity regarding your personal situations. My counseling approach is person-centered. I also utilize techniques such as Cognitive Behavioral, Dialectical Behavioral, and Solution-focused. I look forward to beginning this journey of growth and positive change with you!
Junetta watson
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with the State of Georgia. I have been in the Mental Health and Substance Abuse field for over 19 yrs. My objective is to maintain an ongoing career in Psychological Counseling/Crisis Management, utilizing skills from multiple theoretical approaches in order to counsel individuals with co-occurring /chronic/situational disorders. I have been helping individuals with mental health disorders, dual diagnosis disorders since 2002. I have worked in MH since 2007 on an outpatient basis as a therapist/case manager, with a strong emphasis on helping individuals of all ages who suffer from depression, anxiety, grief, anger and conflict type issues. My approach is solutions oriented, reality goal directed, motivational with strong evidenced based approach. I have experienced and carried certification through the Beck Institute in CBT and Trauma Focused Therapy.
Dr. Chantell Scott
I am a therapist licensed in Georgia with over 10 years of experience working in the field of Mental Health. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, parenting problems, career challenges, OCD, and ADHD. I also helped many people who have experienced physical trauma or emotional abuse. My therapy style is warm and interactive. I believe in treating anyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion, and I don't believe in stigmatizing labels. My approach combines cognitive-behavioral, humanistic, psychodynamic and rational-emotive 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 change. If you are ready to take that step, I am here to support and empower you. I look forward to working with you! SPECIALTIES: Stress, Anxiety Family conflicts Parenting issues Anger management Depression Also experienced in: Addictions , Relationship issues , Trauma and abuse , Grief , Coping with life changes , Compassion fatigue , ADHD , Abandonment , Adoption and Foster Care , Antisocial Personality , Attachment Issues , Avoidant Personality , Caregiver Issues and Stress , Codependency , Commitment Issues , Communication Problems , Emptiness , Family Problems , Forgiveness , Guilt and Shame , Impulsivity , Infidelity , Isolation/Loneliness , Jealousy , Life Purpose , Mood Disorders, Panic Disorder and Panic Attacks , Postpartum Depression , Posttraumatic Stress , Self-Love , Young Adult Issues Clinical approaches: Client-Centered Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Mindfulness Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Solution-Focused Therapy
Lisa Spears
HI! My name is Lisa. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in Georgia. I have been working in this field for over 18 years. I have extensive experience working with individuals, couples, and families through various life challenges. I specialize in working with individuals who struggle with painful life experiences such as divorce, grief and loss, as well as depression, anxiety and other mental health challenges. Because every person is unique, my therapeutic style is based on identifying individuals needs and concerns and building on the therapeutic relationship to create a safe and trusting space for clients to begin working through life's difficulties. I am skilled in Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, TF-CBT, CTR, Person-centered and Solution Focused , along with many other treatment modalities. Whatever brings you to this place, I hope you find the courage to keep going. Even if you are afraid, do it anyway. It will be worth it!
Dr. Debra Brown
I am a licensed clinician with over 27 years of behavioral health experience. I have worked closely with individuals, families, couples, military personnel, veterans, the LGBTQ community, celebrities, people suffering from acute health illnesses, addictive disorders, psychiatric issues, ex-offenders and prison populations. I’m skilled in providing support to clients that are coping with grief and loss, navigating life changes, presenting with relationship issues and experiencing immigration and acculturation challenges. I am committed to creating an open and safe environment for my clients where thoughts and feelings can be shared without the fear of judgment. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards change. I am here to support you on your journey.
Janelle Clarke-Evers
I have been licensed in Georgia for 8 years and am experienced in helping clients with stress, anxiety, relationship issues, motivation, self esteem, 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. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy requires courage and I am proud of you for getting started!
Adia Roberts
As a licensed therapist, I specialize in supporting individuals through life's complex challenges with compassion and expertise. My practice centers on empowering clients to navigate stress, anxiety, relationship dynamics, self-esteem concerns, personal growth, and more. I bring a deep commitment to understanding diverse experiences, particularly focusing on women's issues, multicultural concerns, and workplace challenges. My approach honors each person's unique journey, creating a supportive space for healing and self-discovery. With experience addressing anxiety, communication difficulties, and emotional well-being, I help clients develop resilient strategies for managing life's transitions. Whether you're struggling with isolation, seeking purpose, or working through interpersonal dynamics, I'm dedicated to walking alongside you with understanding and professional guidance.
Thelizia McElroy
I am here to support you in that process. I am licensed in Georgia. I have 20 years of professional work experience in the helping profession. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, & trauma and abuse. I teach psychoeducational skills to assist you with managing your mental health. I also have experience working with coping with life changes. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage.
Anitra Brooks
I am licensed in Georgia with 8 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, anger management, & 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.
Jill Hendricks
I am licensed in Georgia with 33 years of professional work experience helping clients with stress, anxiety, professional & personal relationship issues, trauma, motivation, self esteem, and confidence. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I so respect that and am here to support you in that process.
Cynthia (Cindy) Rozier
I'm licensed in Georgia with 14+ years as a professional social worker. I have experience in helping clients of all ages with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, coping with grief and loss, trauma history, parenting and other behavioral issues. I strive to treat everyone with acceptance, respect, and sensitivity. I will tailor your time with me to meet your unique and specific needs as you prioritize them. Taking the initiative to sign up for therapy can take courage and I'm proud of you for getting started- I look forward to working with you!
Dr. Thomas Helton
As a therapist and social psychologist who works primarily with the LGBQT+ community and individuals in non-traditional marriages/relationships, I approach my work with a deep commitment to non-judgment and openness, creating a space where you can freely discuss anything holding you back from living your best life. My therapeutic approach is a blend of Reality Therapy, Carl Rogers' person-centered counseling, Adlerian Therapy, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), allowing me to tailor my methods to meet the diverse needs of my clients. I take Virginia Satir's wisdom to heart: "The most basic human need is the need to understand and be understood. The best way to understand people is to listen to them." This philosophy guides my practice, ensuring I listen with empathy and genuine understanding. By doing so, I strive to offer support that is not only effective but also deeply compassionate. My LGBTQ novel, LOUD MESSY PERFECT was released this summer. Specialties Life Transition Erik Erikson’s stages of psychosocial development describe how people grow and change throughout their lives. Each stage involves a challenge or conflict that must be resolved to develop a healthy personality. For example, babies learn to trust or mistrust their caregivers in infancy while they explore their identity in adolescence. As people age, they face other challenges, like establishing meaningful relationships and reflecting on their lives. Successfully managing these challenges leads to accomplishment and well-being, while failure can result in difficulties later. LGBTQ+ Vivienne Cass' Gay Identity Module is a framework designed to help understand individuals' stages in recognizing and accepting their sexual orientation. It outlines a process that starts with a person becoming aware of their same-sex attraction and struggling with it, then moving through a phase of accepting and integrating their identity, and finally reaching a stage of positive self-identity and pride in their sexuality. The model emphasizes that this journey is unique for each person and can involve various emotional and social challenges. Peer Relationships Social Identity Theory, developed by Henri Tajfel and John Turner, explains how people form their self-concept and attitudes based on their membership in social groups. According to this theory, individuals categorize themselves and others into groups, such as race, religion, or profession. This categorization influences how they perceive themselves and interact with others. People tend to favor their group, the ingroup, and view members of other groups, or outgroups, less favorably. This favoritism helps boost self-esteem and fosters a sense of belonging and identity. Social Identity Theory highlights how group membership shapes personal identity and social dynamics.
Raymond Dean
As a licensed therapist in Georgia, I specialize in supporting individuals navigating complex emotional landscapes. My professional approach centers on helping clients address stress, anxiety, relationship challenges, grief, and anger management with compassionate, faith-informed guidance. As well as being retired military I fully understand and sympathize with the multiple issues individuals and families may face while serving or having served in military service for our nation. I understand the unique struggles many face—from social anxiety and panic disorders to life transitions like divorce and separation. My therapeutic work focuses on empowering clients to explore deeper personal meaning, heal from past traumas, and develop healthier communication strategies. Drawing from evidence-based practices, I create a supportive environment where individuals can confront challenging emotions like guilt and shame, work through control issues, and rediscover their inner strength. My practice is particularly attentive to clients seeking a Christian-centered perspective and those in later stages of life. My commitment is to walk alongside you, offering understanding and practical tools to help you move toward greater emotional wellness and personal growth.
Find a Therapist Near You in Columbus , Georgia
Finding a licensed therapist near you in Georgia can be an important step toward improving your mental health and overall well-being. Whether you’re dealing with anxiety, depression, relationship challenges, stress, or major life changes, working with a qualified mental health professional can offer meaningful support.
Georgia is home to people with diverse mental health needs across urban, suburban, and rural communities. Online therapy makes it easier to connect with a therapist near you without being limited to nearby offices. BetterHelp connects you with licensed therapists authorized to practice in Georgia, allowing you to attend sessions online from the comfort of your home.
Why work with a licensed therapist near you?
Working with a licensed therapist near you ensures that your provider meets state licensing requirements and professional standards in Georgia (GA). Licensed therapists use evidence-based approaches to help individuals manage emotional challenges, develop coping skills, and work toward personal goals.
People seek therapy for many reasons. Some are navigating ongoing mental health concerns, while others want guidance during stressful periods or major life transitions. You do not need a mental health diagnosis to work with a therapist. Many individuals seek therapy to improve communication, strengthen relationships, manage stress, or gain greater self-awareness.
Online therapy can be especially helpful for people living across Georgia, where access to in-person mental health care may vary by location.
What concerns can therapists help with?
Therapists on BetterHelp support adults across Georgia with a wide range of mental health concerns and life challenges, including:
- Anxiety and stress
- Depression and mood-related concerns
- Trauma and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
- Grief and loss
- Relationship and family challenges
- Life transitions and adjustment concerns
- Self-esteem and confidence
- Job stress and burnout
- ADHD-related challenges
- Sleep concerns
- Parenting stress
- Eating disorder support
Therapists use approaches such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), and other evidence-based methods tailored to individual needs.
Online therapy vs. in-person therapy in Georgia
When searching for a therapist near me in Georgia, many people compare online therapy with traditional in-person care. Online therapy offers several potential advantages:
- Greater accessibility: Attend sessions from anywhere with an internet connection
- Reduced wait times: Many people are matched in as little as 24-48 hours, faster than typical in-person availability
- Flexible scheduling: Sessions that fit around work, family, or school commitments
- Expanded provider options: Access licensed therapists across Georgia, not just nearby offices
Research shows that online therapy can be effective for many mental health concerns. Online therapy may also reduce barriers such as transportation challenges, long commutes, or limited local availability, especially in larger or more rural counties across Georgia.
Finding a therapist near me that accepts insurance
Many people looking for a therapist near me in Georgia want to know whether insurance is an option.
Many providers on BetterHelp now accept major insurance carriers in select states. In many states, certain therapists on BetterHelp may be in-network with specific insurance plans. Coverage depends on your plan, provider, and therapist availability.
When sessions are covered, insured members typically pay an average copay of about $19 per session. Coverage varies by state and provider availability, so it’s important to check your in-network status directly on the BetterHelp site.
If insurance coverage is not available, BetterHelp’s flexible subscription model remains an option, with online therapy typically costing $70 to $100 per week, billed weekly or monthly. Additional discounts or financial aid may also be available for a lower price.
How BetterHelp helps you find the right therapist in Georgia
BetterHelp simplifies the process of finding a therapist near you in Georgia without requiring you to search through tons of profiles on your own.
Here’s how it works:
- Complete a brief questionnaire about your needs, preferences, and goals
- Get matched with a licensed therapist authorized to practice in Georgia (GA)
- Begin online therapy sessions through video, phone, or live chat
BetterHelp works with one of the world’s largest networks of licensed therapists, with over 30,000 qualified providers globally. Many members are matched in as little as 24 to 48 hours, and 93% of user preferences are met during the matching process.
You can request a new therapist at no additional cost if your needs or preferences change.
Therapists near you in Georgia
Below, you’ll find licensed therapists authorized to provide online therapy to adults across Georgia, including residents in Columbus.
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 Georgia 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 vary depending on provider and location. In-person therapy sessions may cost $100 to $200 or more per session. BetterHelp offers online therapy subscriptions that typically range from $70 to $100 per week, billed weekly or monthly, depending on factors such as location, source, preferences, and therapist availability. Additional discounts or financial aid may also be available for a lower price. BetterHelp now accepts major insurance plans in select states and members pay an average copay of $19 per session. Coverage varies by plan, provider, and therapist availability. You can check coverage on the BetterHelp site.
Does BetterHelp accept insurance?
Yes. Many providers on BetterHelp now accept major insurance carriers in select states. In many states, certain therapists on BetterHelp may be in-network with specific insurance plans. When sessions are covered, insured members typically pay an average copay of about $19 per session. Coverage varies by plan, provider, and therapist availability. You can check coverage on the BetterHelp site.
Is online therapy effective?
Yes. Research shows that online therapy can be effective for many mental health concerns, including anxiety, depression, stress, and relationship challenges. Online therapy allows you to connect with a licensed therapist without commuting to an office.
Do I need a diagnosis to see a therapist?
No. You do not need a mental health diagnosis to seek therapy. Many people work with a therapist for stress management, relationship concerns, grief, life transitions, or personal growth.
How quickly can I start therapy?
Many people are matched with a licensed therapist in as little as 24 to 48 hours after completing the initial questionnaire. Match times may vary based on preferences and therapist availability.
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 private and secure?
Online therapy through BetterHelp allows you to communicate with your therapist in a discreet setting through video, phone, or messaging tools.