Life can be like a mule pulling a cart. When life is going well, that mule is working as hard as it can to pull you to your destination. However, when you're dealing with anxiety, depression, or other life problems, that mule just won’t seem to move. 

In a situation like that, one person who can help is a counselor based in Columbia. Columbia, known as Mule Town, is a great little place to live, but when you're having problems, that mule pulling your cart won’t be able to help you. A counselor can get your mule back on its feet. 

This is Dr. Laurie Miles's avatar and link to their profile

Dr. Laurie Miles

Offering therapy in TN
License: DSW ,LCSW,CSAT
AddictionsRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseDepression
30 years of experience

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Tennessee and Kentucky and I have 30 years of experience working with individuals I understand that seeking help can be an anxiety-provoking situation and I am dedicated to treating each person with respect and compassion, so that you can reach your interpersonal goals quickly. I am also a Certified Sexual Addiction Therapist (CSAT) and use evidenced based assessment methods and treatment strategies to help individuals quickly establish sobriety and begin the recovery process. I am a directive therapist and I will utilize objective and concrete goals to help you achieve your goals. My intervention methods are trauma focused to address family of origin and attachments issues, as well as the trauma of partner betrayal. I also utilize the Internal Family Systems model to address trauma and foster Self-Leadership. My sessions are either live video or phone , so please check my schedule My availability for sessions is generally 10 am until 3pm (central time) and sessions are 45 minutes long. Please reach out to me so we can discuss how best to met your needs.

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Melissa Herb (she/her)

Offering therapy in TN
License: LCSW
Trauma and abuseGriefSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
20 years of experience

My education, 20 years of experience, and license is in clinical social work. As your therapist, I help you to practice the skills related to hope, compassion, and solution focused thinking. If you're feeling lost, and desire help finding the map back to you, then music, art, poetry, and writing can ignite feeling, motivation, and drive. Once the fuel is identified we will use it to help power your ability to heal. Utilizing your resources is key to feeling hopeful. It is very cool to realize your own potential and that what you needed to move forward, you already have. May therapy allow for the revealing of your grit and ability to endure. As you become aware of this energy that is yours, you can begin to use it for yourself right now. What if you use your own power to continue forward and perhaps even discover a new path for healing? All humans know loss. It feels amazing to find hope and to feel found. Your favorite music, art, pets, food, people make you feel alive and connected. Healing is finding that again. Healing is hoping, and having the courage to love and to forgive again. It starts with loving yourself. It can start with our first conversation. I want to help ignite your potential. Oh and of course love is never a mistake. How would it feel to start loving yourself more? Let's talk about reclaiming a future that you're excited about.

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Christopher White

Offering therapy in TN
License: LPC,MA
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsTrauma and abuseGriefDepression
18 years of experience

I am a counselor licensed in Pennsylvania with over 15 years of experience. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, addictions, trauma, grief and loss, and self-esteem. My counseling style is warm and interactive. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion, and I don't believe in stigmatizing labels. My approach combines cognitive-behavioral and reality/choice theory. 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 toward 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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Katherine Combs

Offering therapy in TN
Family conflictsTrauma and abuseParenting issuesDepressionCoping with life changes
10 years of experience

I am licensed to work with those in the state of Tennessee, USA, with 10 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with family conflicts, trauma and abuse, parenting issues, & depression. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths to overcome your challenges. Different situations can take place without our ability to feel prepared. You can take time for yourself and begin processing, in a safe and secure manner, through teletherapy services. Everyone has their own walk in life. At any point in our journey, we each have a different view through our own experience. What you are experiencing is your reality. Others may not understand or may even feel frustrated with hearing your concerns. There is a time when it might be helpful to seek outside help. Meeting with a counselor means your privacy and confidentiality comes first. A counselor works with you and allows you time to process and identify steps you feel you can take to meet your goals. I want to work with people to help them build insight into their life and feel more confident about their walk. People often struggle with feeling that their circumstance or themselves are “weird” or “crazy.” These terms are currently used more derogatory and self-depreciating. As humans, we each make mistakes, we each struggle at various points in life, we each have our abilities and strengths. We are able to press on and come through whatever challenge we may have. I want people to see their abilities regardless of the negative. I want to help those that have had horrible things happen to them, those that feel trapped in certain life situations, those that may just need some encouragement. I have been trained in various therapeutic techniques and have found most relation in the Solution Focused umbrella utilizing Narrative therapy. Solution Focused therapy helps people recognize how to work towards what they want- including how Narrative therapy sees each person’s storyline from their past, separating themselves from their problem (instead of living stuck), and recognizing how they want their story to continue. I am trained in Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT) as well as other areas of therapy work. Our reality includes the good, the bad, and the possible. Let me work with you on recognizing your abilities. I cannot say that I live a perfect life or will show you how to live the perfect life. I will work with you towards exploring what you have experienced in life and where you want to go. I believe each of us are successful, no matter what challenges we have been through. I believe in the power of humanity. There is a lot we do not have control of and a lot we can conquer together. I am available for sessions Mondays and Tuesdays 9-5 EST, Wednesdays 9-2 EST. I will check messages throughout the weekday and respond as able.

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Sarah Montgomery

Offering therapy in TN
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseDepressionCoping with life changesADHD
11 years of experience

I am licensed professional counselor in Tennessee with 11 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma, adverse experiences, depression, & 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 sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

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Jessica Hodges

Offering therapy in TN
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsSelf esteem
6 years of experience

I am licensed in Virginia with 3 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. 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!

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Tamara Thomasson

Offering therapy in TN
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
10 years of experience

Hi! My. name is Tamara and I am licensed in Tennessee with almost 20 years of professional work experience in the field. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, 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. 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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This is Kaylin Lauscher's avatar and link to their profile

Kaylin Lauscher

Offering therapy in TN
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefCareer difficultiesCoping with life changes
4 years of experience

The most important thing that you need to know about me is that as your therapist, I care about your authentic self! I want you to show up with all the things weighing you down as well as all the things that make you fly. Licensed in Tennessee as an LPC-MHSP, I use therapy methods that focus on how you see the world and how we can empower you to discover what helps get through life's tough moments, together. I'm a Narrative Therapist that uses Attachment Theory, Somatic practices, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Career Coaching, and Trauma-Focused techniques. Plus, I have a meditative/calming voice *wink*. Can't wait to meet you!

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Joyce Mink

Offering therapy in TN
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseGriefCoping with life changes
30 years of experience

I am licensed in Tennessee with 30 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, trauma and abuse, & coping with grief and loss. 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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This is Adrienne Fields's avatar and link to their profile

Adrienne Fields

Offering therapy in TN
Stress, AnxietyGriefSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
5 years of experience

I am licensed in Texas and Tennessee with over 5 years of professional work experience as a licensed professional counselor (LPC). Prior to that, I worked in public schools for 12 years as a teacher and a school counselor. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, depression, coping with grief and loss, motivation, self-esteem/self-confidence, anger management, ADHD, and Women's Issues. I believe you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. 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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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 Maury, or in the greater state of Tennessee.

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 Tennessee 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 Tennessee 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, Tennessee 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 TN, 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 38401 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, Tennessee 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:

38401, 38402

Popular cities near Columbia, TN

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