In life, it can be difficult to find shelter from your troubles. Whether they're troubles at work, or your own mental battles, finding the solution is not easy. No one seems to listen. If you're fighting a mental battle, your own mind won’t seem to listen. Who can you turn to? A counselor based in Columbia can help you. 

When Columbia was first founded, the hope was that people could find refuge under the city’s wing. In life, finding refuge is important. A counselor can be the person who gives you shelter and allows you to come out a stronger person who is ready to take on the world. 

 

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Monique Willett

Offering therapy in SC
License: BC-TMHC, LCAS, LCMHC-S
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseAnger managementSelf esteemDepression
13 years of experience

I am a National Certified Counselor (NCC), a Professional Counselor in the states of North Carolina and South Carolina. I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor Supervisor in North Carolina as well as a Licensed Clinical Addictions Counselor Associate, (LCAS-a) and Board Certified, Telemental Health counselor (BC-TMH). I have experience working with adults, adolescents, and children both in individual and group settings. I also have experience working with couples, families and in various settings such as schools. Some clinical issues I have the most experience in include depression, anxiety, and stress management. A focus in my treatment is establishing a therapeutic relationship with the person first and foremost as I believe having a good connection helps facilitate effective counseling and provides the best outcomes. In therapy, I am supportive, compassionate, and am present with individuals both in times of struggle as well as times of achievement and progress. I make sure to meet each individual where they are at and actively listen to and respect where they would like to see themselves in the future with the help of therapy and skill development. Working collaboratively with individuals on their treatment goals is a priority throughout treatment and I encourage open communication regarding what therapeutic techniques and approaches work best for the person, to ensure the best therapeutic experience. My counseling style combines strength-based, cognitive-behavioral, and solution-focused approaches to help individuals achieve their therapeutic goals. Identifying one's strengths and coping skills that can be used to help work through various issues is an important part of my therapy approach. I truly value each individual therapeutic relationship and fully empathize with the different emotions a client may experience throughout treatment. I believe that each individual has the ability to overcome struggles but that sometimes-having additional support in the form of therapy can help one to better identify and recognize the coping skills and strengths they already possess. You have taken the first step in creating a healthier, happier you and I would be honored to help you in that journey!

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Kendra O'Berry

Offering therapy in SC
License: LCSW
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsGriefSelf esteem
3 years of experience

My name is Kendra O'Berry and I am a LCSW. I have 3 years of experience working with clients with a range of concerns from stress and anxiety to aging and terminal illnesses. I received my Bachelors in English and my Masters in Social Work from Valdosta State University. My therapeutic approaches are not one size fits all. I have experience with using CBT, motivational interviewing, mindfulness/relaxation techniques, existential therapy, solution focus therapy, and a humanistic/person centered approach. However, the methods and techniques I use in session depend entirely on the client's needs. I like to think of myself as a guide on the journey to healing, and the client is the person driving the boat. I enjoy helping clients formulate their own goals and helping them reach those goals in a way that is conducive for long term change/healing and fits the client's life the way they see best. I would be able to help clients not only find their individual voices, but teach them skills on how to use them to help them live the life they want to live.

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Ruth Dombrowski

Offering therapy in SC
License: LISW/DCSW/LCSW,CACII,AASECT
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsLGBTIntimacy-related issuesDepression
26 years of experience

Times are tough. People aren’t. The stress and frustration of our modern times can take their toll. Our world and culture is changing, leaving us confused and worried. Families are under stress, couples are on edge, and health problems arise. Unhealthy release valves, whether it’s food, substance use disorders or process addictions can take hold of your life. Anger escalates. Before you know it you’re caught in a downward spiral, but seeking help can offer an alternative path. I can help you change old patterns of thinking, find pathways to healing and forgiveness, and learn how to live in the moment using methods of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Emotionally Focused Therapy, Mindfulness and other strategies to meet you needs. You don’t have to wait until you life is spiraling out of control. Accessible counseling is available today.

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Mary Keller

Offering therapy in SC
License: LPC,Ed.S,MA
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsGriefSelf esteem
10 years of experience

Hi ! I am Mary (Liz) Keller and elated that you have come to our site. I am an LPC with national licenses issued by the states of South Carolina and Georgia. I have a Bachelor of Science Degree in Psychology and Human Services from Clayton State University and a Master of Art Degree in Professional Counseling from Liberty University. I have practiced twelve plus years, and varied counseling experiences. My professional scope is inclusive of private practice, community, churches, courts, death row, detention centers, and schools (e.g... public, private, charter). Although a former educator and conference speaker, as a psychotherapist/change agent, I have been most effective and believe my life purpose is to help individuals through difficult periods by re-establishing life possibilities, realizing destiny, and improving well-being and overall life satisfaction. While my overall style and approach is Integrative/Holistic, to address the needs of the whole person—mind, body and spirit, I utilize various modalities and techniques (e.g., , Cognitive Behavioral, Solution Focused, Grief, Family Systems, Person-Centered, Gottman Couples and Interpersonal Therapies, Motivational Interviewing, Spiritual Counseling, Life Coaching, Behavioral Modification, etc.). Specialty Areas : Couples (Pre-marital & Marriage) Family Dynamics Divorcees/Singles Life Changes Grief (i.e. death, divorce, employment, betrayal, other losses) Anger Management Women Issues Adolescent Behaviors Court-ordered Attendees

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Lee Hilton

Offering therapy in SC
License: MS,LPC
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseParenting issues
12 years of experience

Hi! I am experienced working with children, adults, families, and couples. I have been working in the mental health field for over 10 years and am licensed in the state of South Carolina. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including anxiety and depression, relationship issues, parenting problems, trauma/ abuse and general life conflicts. My counseling style is supportive and interactive. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I mainly utilize cognitive-behavioral therapy and motivational interviewing approaches. I have been trained in multiple approaches based on the presenting issues at hand and what has been shown to be most effective. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. It takes courage to seek out help and guidance but doing so can help you live a more fulfilled and happier life. Reaching out can be the first step towards a positive change. If you are ready to take that step I am here to support and empower you. I look forward to working with you!

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Ebony Wright

Offering therapy in SC
License: LCSW,LISW-CP
Stress, AnxietyGriefSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
8 years of experience

Hello! I am a License Clinical Social Worker licensed in North Carolina, South Carolina, and Pennsylvania with 8 years of experience. I received my Bachelor of Psychology at Emory and Henry College and Masters in Social from Savannah State University in Savannah, GA. I have had the pleasure of treating clients aging from 4-93 years old in multiple settings such as military, school, community mental health center, in-home, hospital, and nursing, assistant, and independent living facilities. Through my work in multiple setting, I have address concerns and/or issues with depression, anxiety, grief, adjustment issues, physical and emotional abuse, family conflict, relationship issues, and communication. My counseling style is interactive, motivational, solution-focused, and empathic. I believe that you are the expert of your own life, and I would like to be your guide in assisting and/or processing current issues and/or concerns that may occur. It is important to be treated with respect and dignity to find the appropriate interventions and treatment that will provide the outcome you strive for when addressing your needs. You have taken the first step of towards a happy and satisfying life and I will be honored with assisting you in your journey. I look forward to collaborating with you!

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Kevin Phillips

Offering therapy in SC
License: MA, LPC
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseDepression
12 years of experience

Hi, my name is Kevin Phillips. I became a Licensed Professional Counselor in South Carolina in 2013 because I wanted to help people improve their mental health and achieve happiness. I have worked with clients with a wide range of challenges including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, parenting problems, career challenges, OCD, and ADHD. I have also helped many people who have experienced physical, emotional and sexual trauma and abuse. I am also an accomplished crime victim counselor and have worked with sheriff and police departments in criminal domestic violence situations. I have also worked with victim advocates in a team approach with victims of other types of crimes such as armed robbery, sexual assault and sex trafficking. I have worked extensively with the legal systems in helping teenagers and adults who are facing legal problems because of their mental health challenges and the resulting behaviors. I have several thousand hours of experience assisting those with addiction problems. For those wanting counseling based on a Biblical world view, I am accomplished at providing biblically based mental health counseling. I am also effective at counseling pastors and other spiritual workers who face burnout and/or have failed in their ministries. I feel very comfortable helping those with end of life issues, bipolar issues and challenges, anger management challenges, and family conflict problems. I am confident that I can help those who are facing separation and/or divorce situations. I am adept at helping people with relaxation techniques and with peace and harmony restoration. I can assist you if you need help with exploring and creating goals and hopefulness in your life. I can help in communication improvement, in positive relationship development and in managing stress. I can help you achieve motivation and improve your impulse control issues. I feel very confident that I can help you improve your self-esteem and your feelings of worth and value. I utilize cognitive behavior therapy, humanistic/existential/Rogerian treatment orientations, mindfulness techniques, motivational interviewing and solution focused brief therapy. I like to spend more time on discovering solutions and what we can do together as a team to actually improve your life rather than spending too much time on finding out what the problem is. Understanding the source or sources of our problems is beneficial and indeed informs our treatment plan but the real work is in the "what are we going to do about it?" I offer encouragement, an upbeat positive personality and a can-do spirit who will come along side of you to help you get better. My therapy style is warm and interactive. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion, and I don't believe in stigmatizing labels. 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!

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Marisa Katzman

Offering therapy in SC
AddictionsSelf esteemCoping with life changes
10 years of experience

Hello! My name is Marisa and I am a Licensed Clinical Social worker (LCSW) in the state of California and Licensed Independent Social Worker in the state of South Carolina (LISW). I have ten years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with overcoming/coping with addictions, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & coping with life changes. 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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David Moore

Offering therapy in SC
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsTrauma and abuseAnger managementDepression
5 years of experience

I am David Moore, a licensed therapist in the state of South Carolina (LPC #8775). ​I have ​recently ​started my journey ​in​to private practice. ​In 2018 ​I started working in a state psychiatric hospital working with individuals with severe mental illness. At the same time, I was also working with a community mental health crisis center. For the past 3 years, I have worked with ​people suffering with ​addictions, emotional dysregulation, anxiety, depression, batterer interventions treatment, men's mental health and recovery. I have focused a lot of my work on trauma and redefining the narratives of our lives through mindfulness practice and exposure therapy. I utilize cognitive behavioral therap​ies​, dialectical behavior therapy, narrative, and feedback informed methods to help my clients reclaim their life and live a life they desire.

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Coleman Connolly

Offering therapy in SC
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesIntimacy-related issuesSelf esteemCoping with life changes
20 years of experience

I am licensed in South Carolina with 20 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, intimacy related issues, & 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 am here to support you in that process.

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How to find counseling in Columbia

Finding the best therapist close by in Columbia can feel challenging, but know that once you narrow your search for a counselor serving your area, you can find a therapist in your city that is accepting new clients and fits your goals. Whether you're struggling with depression, anxiety, marriage, family issues, or other emotional challenges, feel proud that you have begun your search to find the mental health care services that work best for you in order to begin your personal journey towards emotional healing.

Understanding the type of therapy you'd like to search for is crucial before finding a therapist or psychologist in Columbia. 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 Columbia, feel free to contact the provider via email to find out which methods they practice.

It is also important to understand that mental health professionals in the United States are accredited to provide care, helping individuals and couples, with a variety of licenses. These include licensed marriage and family therapist (LMFT), licensed clinical social worker (LCSW), and clinical psychologist or doctor of psychology (PsyD). Regardless of their licensure, they are trained to treat individuals and couples counseling, and sometimes children, in any type of therapy. Find a therapist under any of these distinctions and know that the sessions they offer can provide a safe place to heal.

Mental health professionals working through their own in- person therapy practice in Columbia or online may assist clients in improving healthy relationships, communication skills, working through life transitions, managing a mood disorder, improving coping skills, or change in negative thinking patterns. They may also provide a safe place and validation for clients experiencing emotional pain. Verified providers can provide licensed marriage and couples therapy, tailor to individual needs, and create a therapeutic relationship as a National Certified Counselor.

There are all kinds of therapists working with clients today across the United States and in the greater Columbia area in different types of therapy, including:

  • CBT
  • DBT
  • Substance use therapy
  • Couples therapy

When you're ready to start your search and find therapists, have in mind what type of therapy you'd like your provider to be most experienced with and choose an experienced provider with a practice located near you in the city of Columbia, elsewhere in Richland, or in the greater state of South Carolina.

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

Some other commonly asked questions on therapy with a licensed counselor and BetterHelp serving the Columbia area can be found below:

How does the cost of in-person counseling compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed Columbia 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 Columbia 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 Columbia may not take health insurance, some in the state of South Carolina may work on a sliding scale, meaning they'll factor in your income and charge what you can afford per session. With BetterHelp or clinicians throughout the state of South Carolina you can expect significantly more affordable options, with sessions ranging from $65 to $100 per week (billed every four weeks).

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

Therapists in Columbia, South Carolina working on BetterHelp are licensed, trained, experienced, and accredited as a doctor of psychology (PhD / PsyD), licensed marriage and family therapists (LMFT), licensed clinical social worker (LCSW / LICSW), or licensed professional counselors (LPC). All of these psychology clinicians have a Masters Degree or a Doctorate Degree in their field of psychology sciences, and follow the APA Code of Ethics. They have been qualified and certified by their state's professional board after successfully completing the necessary education, exams, training and practice with a patient, and extensive experience in a healthcare clinic or treatment centers, in order to become a mental health provider. While their lived experience, expertise, careers, and background vary, they all possess at least 3 years and 1,000 hours of hands-on experience with adult and sometimes teen patients, and have the necessary therapist credentials to provide a safe space for long lasting emotional healing in therapy. 

Please note BetterHelp does not offer or provide care from psychiatrists to prescribe a drug as treatment, or perform psychological assessments.

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

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

What mental health issues can psychotherapy address?

BetterHelp's verified Columbia therapists specialize and have clinical experience in a wide range of mental health issues and modalities, helping clients to feel better and improve their lives every day. See below for examples.

Specialties on BetterHelp include:

You may also be struggling with relationship problems that could be addressed in couples therapy or with a sex therapist. In that case, you may choose to work with one of BetterHelp's experienced cognitive-behavioral therapists or licensed marriage family therapists (LMFT) who work with clients in relationships. You can also try a Columbia therapy provider through BetterHelp's sister platform, ReGain, which is dedicated to couples and spouses worldwide. 

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

One of the potentially rewarding aspects of working with a therapist is the validation and active listening they can provide. Your friends and loved ones may also be available to listen, but you may feel that they may lack the skills to provide objective guidance. Counselors are trained to respond to various concerns, symptoms, and mental health conditions.

A psychologist in your city can support you toward a healthier emotional state, regardless of your mental health, life concerns, or healing needs. While supporting individuals in developing healthier habits, another good benefit of therapy is having an understanding, safe space with a non-judgmental party who can support you through challenging experiences.

Many people have sensitive topics that they may feel ashamed to discuss with their friends or partner. A Columbia therapist can help you confront these concerns and open up through unique methods of support. There are also many types of therapy, such as art therapy, where you may find you can express yourself through creativity instead of words.

With a lot of people in SC, providers may be booked out with clients. Through the list of profiles above and others within BetterHelp's team, you may be able to find a psychologist within 24 to 48 hours. If you're searching to find a a nearby psychotherapist close to 29208 or the surrounding zip codes, consider others available through the BetterHelp site. No matter if you are seeking help in your area or beyond, online therapy can be a great option.

How should I prepare for my first therapy session with a Columbia counselor?

Before seeing your therapist, prep for your session by reading to understand the therapy process. You might write a list of questions you want to ask your psychotherapist, any emotional pain you may feel, and the ways in which you hope to improve. When you attend your session, let them know if you have any concerns about therapy or feel unsure about what to talk about. They may help guide you with open-ended therapeutic questions. The first session will often serve as an intake to get to know you as a person and learn why you're attending therapy.

Should I find a therapist or psychologist if I feel fine? 

Some simply don't feel the need to see a psychologist. However, some people may avoid attending therapy due to stigma or preconceived notions of what therapy entails. Although psychologists often support people with mental health conditions, you do not need a diagnosis or condition to attend therapy. You can discuss grief, relationship concerns, stress, or life changes and ask for general feedback and advice. A Columbia licensed clinical social worker may help you gain power over your life and emotions while you navigate day-to-day experiences.

Gaining a new perspective on yourself through various therapies might allow you to improve your self-esteem, work through relationships, and gain a better sense of your mental health goals. The success you may find through therapy can be dependent on your process.

People may also attend therapy for specific motives, such as bullying, an autism diagnosis, a desire to learn mindfulness meditation, personality concerns, trouble with office workers, specific phobias, and many other principles.

Is mental health care and therapy worth it? 

Therapy is effective and has the power to change individuals' lives. Each client is at a different stage of their emotional healing journey in life, as each human can be unique in their personality, expression, skills, and goals. A psychologist can target various symptoms, experiences, and personalities to help you feel your best and put you on the path to healing. Unlike advice from a friend, family, or non-professional, a mental health professional has an understanding of various disorders like ADHD and depression with many hours of experience in treating adults in their practice. For this reason, seeing an evidence based psychologist in Columbia, South Carolina 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.

Columbia has many clinicians who practice person or client-centered individual therapy in-person and through online therapy to assist clients in their healing journey. If you opt into online therapy, you might also be able to meet with providers all over the United States and change therapists easily at any time. Many people struggling with anxiety and depression, substance abuse, body image issues, and more find therapists that are a good fit for them, feel supported, and gain further insight into their lives through internet-based therapy.

Do therapists judge you in therapy sessions?

The boundaries between you and a therapist are in place to help you and them regarding ethical concerns. Mental health professionals are held by ethical standards through the American Psychological Association (APA) and are not allowed to judge or harm their clients. If you are concerned about sharing details about yourself, feel free to withhold personal information. Their job in the therapeutic relationship is to create a safe place, help you gain a deeper understanding of your mental health, and support you. You might consider changing counselors if you don't feel safe or respected.

Stay up to date with the leading online counseling platform

To stay up to date with BetterHelp's initiatives through their social channels, you can follow them on Pinterest, LinkedIn, Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook. For mental health tips, check out the BetterHelp YouTube channel.

Take some time today to learn more about the team of therapists at BetterHelp to understand the services available to you clearly. If you are new to therapy or have any questions about the services and terms, please reach out through the contact page or send an email to contact@betterhelp.com.

If you’re ready to sign up for online therapy, consider signing up with a platform like BetterHelp and get matched within 24 to 48 hours.

If you are experiencing a crisis or emergency, don't use this site's online services. If you are in life-threatening danger, call 911. If you require support for a crisis, reach out to the hotlines below:

A woman meets with a therapist online in her home city of Columbia.

Below are some of the zip codes served by BetterHelp therapists in Columbia:

29147, 29201, 29202, 29203, 29204, 29205, 29206, 29207, 29208, 29209, 29210, 29211, 29212, 29214, 29215, 29216, 29217, 29218, 29219, 29220, 29221, 29222, 29224, 29225, 29226, 29227, 29228, 29229, 29230, 29240, 29250, 29260, 29290, 29292

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