When looking for a therapist, Columbus, Ohio may be a better place than most in the Midwest with its large population, but counseling services aren’t always easy to find even in a big city. There are a number of different types evidence-based therapy available in the mental health field, and what kind you need may depend on what your goals are. A therapist who specializes in family conflict may not be what you need to manage obsessive compulsive disorder, and vice-versa. Not to mention that you want to work with a therapist you trust and have a good rapport with, which isn’t always easy to find. 

Online therapy through a platform like BetterHelp offers a variety of licensed professional clinical counselors. Whether working on your bachelor’s degree, or heading toward retirement, if you’re looking for someone to help guide you through life issues, simply fill out an online questionnaire to be matched with one of BetterHelp’s over 30,000 mental health counseling professionals. From adjustment disorders to mood disorders, they can find the right therapist for you. And if at any point you feel that your counselor is not the perfect match, you can switch for no extra cost. 

Therapy takes courage, and it can be helpful if the first step is made easier. With BetterHelp, you can take out a lot of the research and guesswork of finding the right therapist to meet your needs, as well as make scheduling and attending simple and convenient. As you take that first step on the path forward toward better mental health, you may find that living in a bustling city doesn’t have to be overwhelming, and that you can find balance in your work or school life.

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Heath Ridenbaugh

Offering therapy in OH
License: LPCC
AddictionsFamily conflictsAnger managementDepression
3 years of experience

Hey there! My name is Heath I appreciate your courage to seek out help. I have enjoyed working in the mental health field for 9 years now and I'm licensed in the State of Ohio. I have experience with children, adolescents, and adults from all backgrounds. I have experience working with an array of issues including depression, anxiety, anger control, and co-occurring disorders (mental health and substance use). I also have some experience working with trauma and grief and loss. My approach is very person centered, cognitive behavioral, and solution focused. I have a genuine personality, a nonjudgmental attitude, and a friendly demeanor. I believe the most important factor is the client-counselor relationship. It is within this relationship that a person can begin to heal, find hope, and be encouraged through the change process. If you are ready to receive help I am happy to be supportive and empower you through the process.

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Stanley Fireman

Offering therapy in OH
License: M. Ed,LISW-S
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseAnger managementDepression
40 years of experience

I have experience in clinical counseling for over 40 years in private practice and in hospitals. During the last 20 years, I worked in multiple hospital outpatient clinics all part of the Cleveland Clinic Foundation where I treated patients with Pain Management issues, anger management, depression, anxiety, abuse, domestic violence, opiate dependence/addiction, alcohol dependency, family systems, and stressors that affect life changes and other situations that cause disequilibrium. I specialized in Pain Management and emotions, working with individuals experiencing chronic pain and how it affects their lives and the lives of their families. This includes possible role changes in the family system. I was also the Behavioral Medicine faculty for the Family Medicine Residency Program where I taught physicians how to identify and treat psychological issues. I focused on teaching them how to take sexual histories and identify abuse with the appropriate referrals for safe space when needed. I facilitated groups of physicians, nurses, social workers, and other care givers who met periodically to discuss difficult patients and families and how to increase communication while focusing on the caretaking of the identified patient. Another goal of this group was to identify and manage professional burnout. My approach is Functional, working with the client/patient in the present, helping to identify, explore possible sources of the conflict(s), and learn techniques to manage the felt difficulties. I also use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Mindfulness. I provide a comfortable environment, an appropriate sense of humor with empathy and an opportunity for the client to express feelings/concerns in a safe and confidential setting. My success in providing treatment has been affording patients/clients the opportunity to be confronted respectfully with painful issues in order to allow them to work through the distress with the goal of empowerment to reach healthy functioning.

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Christine Barnes

Offering therapy in OH
License: LCSW-S,LISW-S
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsTrauma and abuseAnger managementDepression
16 years of experience

I am a seasoned, clinical social worker with ten years of experience with the Department of Veterans Affairs, where I treated veterans with PTSD, depression, anxiety, and substance use disorders. Prior to my work at the VA, I worked in nursing homes and community mental health centers where I provided psychotherapy and crisis intervention to individuals of all different ages and backgrounds. First and foremost, I consider myself to be a trauma therapist, and I subscribe to the notion that most diagnoses are rooted in adverse experiences from the past. I've been described as "blunt" and "caring" by my clients due to my no-nonsense - yet compassionate - approach to therapy. I consider the greatest compliment that I've ever received to be "You are the person that tells me the truth that I don't want to hear." If you appreciate being called out when you're not being completely honest with yourself, then I just might be the right therapist for you. I look forward to working with you!

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Lauren Turner

Offering therapy in OH
License: LISW
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesSelf esteemCoping with life changesADHD
8 years of experience

I am a Licensed Independent Social Worker in Ohio with 4+ years of experience working as a therapist. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including addictions, depression, anxiety, relationship issues, parenting problems, career challenges, OCD, ADHD. I also helped many people who have experienced physical trauma and/or emotional abuse. My therapy style interactive, validating, and welcoming. I believe in treating anyone with kindness, respect, sensitivity, compassion, and I don't believe in stigmatizing labels. My approach combines cognitive behavioral therapy and motivational interviewing. I tend to be non-directive in my approach and solution focused. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. I understand that it takes a lot of courage and strength to make 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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Sarah Touvell

Offering therapy in OH
License: LISW-S
Stress, AnxietyLGBTTrauma and abuseDepressionCoping with life changes
3 years of experience

Hello, I am Sarah Touvell, LISW-S. I received my Bachelors and Master in Social work at Ohio State University and currently live in Columbus, OH. I have been a social worker for 8 years and doing individual therapy for 3 years. I am use the following interventions in my practice CBT, EMDR, DBT, ACT, CPT, Motivational Interviewing , Narrative Therapy and Strengths Based Therapy. I use an eclectic style of therapy which helps each meet each individual's needs and goals. I have experience working with a variety of people that present with a wide range of concerns. My primary focus for individual therapy for the past 3 years has been working with people in the LGBTQ community; including working with people with the following needs letters for gender affirming surgery, processing HIV diagnosis, gender identity, and non-monogamy. I also specialize in working with those that have a history of abusive partnerships and/or childhood trauma. Your mental health is an integral part of overall your health and everyone has a right to quality health care services. Therapy can be hard work, and I would love to help you in this journey to healing.

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Benjamin (Ben) Shores

Offering therapy in OH
Stress, AnxietySelf esteemCareer difficultiesDepressionADHD
19 years of experience

Hi, my name is Ben Shores. I am an independently licensed social worker who has been in the field since 2003. I enjoy working with adults on a variety of therapeutic topics, including but not limited to depression, anxiety, self-esteem, relationship difficulties, and family issues. I offer a client-centered approach in a warm, non-judgmental manner. Congratulations on taking this step to challenge yourself and seek positive change for yourself, I would love to work with you as your therapist!

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Kate Dove

Offering therapy in OH
Relationship issuesFamily conflictsParenting issuesCareer difficultiesCoping with life changes
13 years of experience

I am a Licensed Independent Social Worker in Ohio with over 20 years of professional and clinical practice. My experience includes helping adults cope with the challenges of life transitions that often include relationship issues, family conflict, parenting issues, and career difficulties. Within my practice, I have advanced training to support clients faced with new diagnoses or chronic illnesses, end of life issues, and stressors that come with being a caregiver. I believe that unresolved issues in any part of your life, regardless of its origin, can cause increased feelings of pain or discontent as you struggle to adapt and grow. It is the struggle that then presents as anxiety, depression, or other unwanted behaviors that prevent you from having the life you want. Identifying these sources will allow us to collaboratively work through them to heal, move forward, and create the life you envision. I work to always provide my clients with a safe, non-judgmental space and unbiased listening. I use a psychoeducational approach to help you recognize what your mind and body are going through and discover real solutions for lasting change. We will use your strengths and new perspectives to create paths for lifelong transformation. I am direct, flexible, and like to use humor when needed! Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling life takes courage and I am here to support you in that process.

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Samantha Kost

Offering therapy in OH
Stress, AnxietyGriefSelf esteemDepressionADHD
10 years of experience

I am a licensed independent social worker with 10 years experience working as a mental health therapist. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, grief and loss, relationship issues, and ADHD. I have also helped people who have experienced trauma and abuse. My therapy style is warm and collaborative. I believe in treating anyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I do not believe in stigmatizing labels. My approach combines cognitive-behavorial, mindfulness, and a solution-focused approach. I will collaborate with every client to help the treatment plan meet their 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!

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Michelle Pinnell

Offering therapy in OH
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseSelf esteemCoping with life changes
40 years of experience

I am licensed in Ohio with 44 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, trauma and abuse, & 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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Jawana Richardson

Offering therapy in OH
Stress, AnxietyGriefSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
20 years of experience

I am licensed in Ohio with 20 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with grief and loss, 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.

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How to find 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 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 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. 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 Columbus 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 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 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 Franklin, or in the greater state of Ohio.

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

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 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 Ohio 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 Ohio 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 Columbus, Ohio 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 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 or depression, trauma, stress, marriage counseling, and more. 

What mental health issues can psychotherapy address?

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:

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?

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 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 lot of people in OH, 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 43224 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 Columbus 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 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 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 Columbus, Ohio 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?

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 Columbus.

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

43002, 43004, 43016, 43017, 43026, 43054, 43068, 43081, 43085, 43109, 43110, 43119, 43137, 43201, 43202, 43203, 43204, 43205, 43206, 43207, 43209, 43210, 43211, 43212, 43213, 43214, 43215, 43216, 43217, 43218, 43219, 43220, 43221, 43222, 43223, 43224, 43226, 43227, 43228, 43229, 43230, 43231, 43232, 43234, 43235, 43236, 43240, 43251, 43260, 43266, 43268, 43270, 43271, 43272, 43279, 43287, 43291

Popular cities near Columbus, OH

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