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.

 

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Kelli O'Neill

Clinical therapist offering therapy in GA
Counselor License Type(s): LPC,NCC
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesSelf esteemDepressionCoaching
10 years of experience as a mental health therapist

I am a licensed professional counselor in Georgia with over 5 years of experience working as a psychotherapist and empowerment coach. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, work life balance, career challenges, and existential issues. I have also helped people who have experienced childhood trauma or emotional abuse. My counseling style is based on the Client-Centered approach, in that I provide listening, support, and compassion while respecting you as an individual human being. I believe that we all have the answers we are seeking within us and it is my job as your therapist to ask the right questions that will allow you to tap into those answers. My approach combines cognitive-behavioral, humanistic, psychodynamic, reality therapy, and solution focused therapies. Each session will be tailored to your specific needs. Whatever difficulties you might be experiencing, you are not alone. It is my most heartfelt desire to work with people like you. People who are ready for change and want to improve their lives. The fact that you are here shows that this is you! I am here to support you and empower you on your journey. I look forward to working with you!

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Shirnel Alleyne-Grant

Clinical therapist offering therapy in GA
Counselor License Type(s): Masters
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesSelf esteemCareer difficultiesCoping with life changes
16 years of experience as a mental health therapist

Hello!! I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in the state of Georgia for the past 14 years. My professional experience began in mental health hospitals with children and young adults who were experiencing extreme trauma and eventually a Care Manager for managed care companies. I later opened a private practice called My Caring Counseling that allowed me to have a creative platform for my clients who needed a space to feel comfortable and safe to express themselves and heal. My experience is primarily with clients who are struggling with depression symptoms, life stressors, anxiety, coping with unexpected life changes, self esteem issues, interpersonal and relationship challenges and couples who are struggling with fertility issues. My theoretical orientation is an eclectic approach to healing and treatment. My techniques include motivational interviewing, a wholistic approach to include mindfulness techniques, movement-therapy to enhance the person’s cognitive, physical, mental and emotional wellbeing, solution-focus therapy and cognitive-behavioral therapy. My style is very warm, caring and open, being attentive and listening closely to your needs. I believe we all have the power to heal ourselves and make the changes we seek within our lives and I am here to help you navigate through this process. As a therapist from a culturally diverse background I am committed to include all culturally diverse groups of young adults, older adults and couples. I completed a Diversity, Equity and Inclusion training to ensure my therapeutic approach is tailored appropriately and includes everyone. It is important to remain aware and sensitive to the needs of my clients. I am excited to be your therapist and help you navigate your life's journey.

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Dr. Lynda Cokuslu

Clinical therapist offering therapy in GA
Counselor License Type(s): Counseling Psychology ,EdD
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsTrauma and abuseGriefDepression
8 years of experience as a mental health therapist

I am licensed in Georgia with background working in many areas of counseling as assisted living for substance abuse treatment for aging and family issues; community therapy for teens and families; adult inpatient groups and outpatient substance abuse treatment, certified grief counselor specialist (CGS), trauma specialist, Certified Anger Management Specialist (CAMSII), comorbidity, depression and anxiety disorder, and other therapy. My approach is integrated treatment as an adult play therapist, substance abuse counselor, licensed professional counselor, and training in marriage and family therapy. I received an EdD in counseling psychology from Argosy, MS in Counseling Studies from Capella, BAS in Healthcare Administration from Clayton State University, Marriage and Family Therapy Training, Addiction Counseling, Play therapy, and Trauma Training from Brighter Tomorrows LLC Institute. I am a Master Addiction Counselor (MAC) with NAADAC; a (CMAC) with GACA. I received my Grief Specialist and Anger Management Specialist training from High Impact Training Institute. My approach is integrated CBT, Solution Focused and other therapeutic approaches and activities to aid coping with symptoms and concerns. I worked with ages 5-68 in clinical settings and 35-105 in assisted living settings utilizing play therapy, music, art, and substance abuse counseling. My groups have been working with trauma, grief, and loss, substance abuse, and music therapy. I have a trauma specialist certification.Currently studying Pastoral counseling for Thanatology AIHCP (death education counseling); Rutgers Tobacco SpecialistTreatment; and EMDR with Center for Excellance.

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Dr. Michelle Mitchell

Clinical therapist offering therapy in GA
Counselor License Type(s): PhD
Relationship issuesFamily conflictsParenting issuesSelf esteemCoping with life changes
19 years of experience as a mental health therapist

I am a licensed psychologist in the state of Georgia who has 19 years of experience helping clients reach their growth potential. I primarily use an solution focused, narrative, cognitive behavioral and psychodynamic approaches. I believe that a great way to complete a journey is one step at a time. I collaboratively work with clients to engage in self discovery and achieve attainable goals. It takes courage to confront realities and make changes in life. If you would like to consider beginning this process with me, feel free to reach out.

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Dr. Zauditu McCants

Clinical therapist offering therapy in GA
Relationship issuesTrauma and abuseIntimacy-related issuesSleeping disordersDepression
20 years of experience as a mental health therapist

Greetings! I’m Dr. Z. E. McCants. I am licensed in Washington D.C., Georgia, Nevada, and Illinois. I have 20 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with relationship issues, trauma and abuse, intimacy related issues, Bipolar, Depression, Anxiety, couples therapy, Christian Counseling & sleeping disorders. 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 seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

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DeBrica Butler

Clinical therapist offering therapy in GA
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsDepressionCoaching
11 years of experience as a mental health therapist

I am licensed in Georgia with 10 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, lgbt-related issues, relationship issues, & family conflicts. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. I am here to support & empower you in that journey.

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Gemma Cairns

Clinical therapist offering therapy in GA
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsGriefSelf esteemDepression
6 years of experience as a mental health therapist

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in New York State with over 6 years of professional experience. My experience includes helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, coping with grief and loss, 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. My counseling style is fairly laid back and I have been described as supportive, caring, and compassionate. I use a person-centered and solution-focused approach to focus on identifying your strengths and helping you to maximize them to overcome your obstacles. I'm here to help you sort through the things that are difficult and to provide a safe place to allow for healing and growth.

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Joe Chapman

Clinical therapist offering therapy in GA
Anger managementDepression
5 years of experience as a mental health therapist

I am licensed in Georgia with 5 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with 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.

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April Dasher

Clinical therapist offering therapy in GA
LGBTRelationship issuesSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
11 years of experience as a mental health therapist

I am licensed in Georgia with 11 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with lgbtq+ related issues, relationship issues, 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. 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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Pamela Keith

Clinical therapist offering therapy in GA
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
16 years of experience as a mental health therapist

I am licensed in Georgia with 16 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & 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.

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 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 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 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 therapist may also provide a safe place and validation for clients experiencing emotional pain, or that simply want a psychological assessment. 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 Columbus 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 Muscogee, or in the greater state of Georgia.

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 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 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 sessions ranging from $65 to $100 per week (billed every four weeks). If you're looking for a therapist, Cincinnati offers a variety of professionals who can help with your mental health needs at a price you can afford.

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. 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 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 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 therapist, 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, depression, trauma, stress, marriage counseling, and more. 

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

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:

  • Cognitive behavioral therapy - This type of therapy is provided by therapists who are professional counselors, helping clients identify and change negative thought patterns through structured sessions.
  • Behavior therapy - Therapists use behavior therapy techniques 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 - Therapists engage clients in talk therapy to explore their feelings and develop strategies for dealing with various mental health issues, often guided by a professional counselor.
  • Depression - Therapists offer counseling to help individuals manage symptoms of depression and improve their mood and functioning, often working closely with a professional counselor.
  • Anxiety disorders - Therapists specialize in anxiety disorders, offering strategies to manage and reduce anxiety symptoms effectively, often through counseling sessions with a professional counselor.
  • Stress - Therapists provide tools and techniques to help clients cope with stress and improve their mental resilience, frequently under the supervision of a professional counselor.
  • Eating disorders - Therapists experienced in eating disorders offer specialized counseling to address unhealthy eating patterns and body image issues, with the support of a professional counselor.
  • Grief - Therapists provide support and guidance to clients experiencing grief, helping them navigate the stages of loss, often in collaboration with a counselor.
  • Attachment therapy - Therapists use attachment therapy 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 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 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 are trained to respond to various concerns, symptoms, and mental health conditions.

Columbus 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 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 31917 or the surrounding zip codes, consider others available through the BetterHelp site. 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 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 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 in Columbus.

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 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 from a therapist. 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 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 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 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 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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