Columbia native Dean Young wrote the poem “Elegy on a Toy Piano,” a Pulitzer Prize finalist. If the poetry of life seems devoid of rhyme or reason, you can’t enjoy its verse. Your thoughts are senseless and disturbing. Your sadness and worry lead to hopelessness and self-pity.

Creating a better life seems like a lost cause. In fact, you can’t get through your current situations without making more problems for yourself. You don’t know how to order your thoughts or squelch your intense emotions. Talk to a counselor in the Columbia area to write a better life’s poem.

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Alexandra Brink

Offering therapy in PA
License: MA,LPC
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesParenting issues
10 years of experience

The most important thing I bring to the table is my hope for my clients. You may not be able to see the light at the end of the tunnel, but you've made a huge step by reaching out! Let's sit down and try to work this through, because I believe there is hope. My name is Alexandra (Alex) Brink. I have my Master's Degree in Clinical Mental Health Therapy from Regent University and received my License in Professional Counseling (LPC) in 2014. I have an academic focus in Marriage and Family Studies and have worked the first half of my career with children with mood, behavior, and/or developmental disorders, and the most recent half I've specialized in treating adults with anxiety, among many other issues or concerns. I have a strong grasp of Behavior Therapy when working on parenting skills and with the children themselves. During my time with adult individuals, my style tends to be more person-centered and yet solution-focused. I'm not afraid to pull from many different counseling modalities in order to best serve your needs. A strong therapeutic relationship is needed in order to progress through the therapeutic process. To me, that means that you are comfortable with me and I really understand where you are coming from. Something that might set me apart, is I am rather holistic in my approach. This means, I'm examining your whole experience (body, mind and soul). I've found that balancing physical and mental health, as well as any spiritual concerns can really make a difference in your success. A little about me: For now I work part-time and primarily stay at home with my three children. I've been married 11 years and currently live in the Pittsburgh, PA area. I have been getting into painting lately and it's been so fun to have something just for me. I have struggled regularly with chronic illness for 15 years now. I'm no stranger to how grief, illness, and major life changes can effect a person. Strong supports in my life have helped me get through and I hope that I can be the extra support that you need now. I look forward to meeting you.

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Kendrah Nason

Offering therapy in PA
License: LPC-MHSP
Stress, AnxietySelf esteemCareer difficultiesCoping with life changesCompassion fatigue
12 years of experience

I am a licensed counselor with 11 years experience in the mental health field working in a variety of settings including in-home, outpatient, crisis intervention, and community mental health. I have several years experience as a crisis counselor which has shaped my practice in utilizing evidenced based treatment modalities such as Cognitive - Behavioral Therapy, Solution Focused Brief Therapy techniques and psychoeducational strategies that are tailored to the client's goals. I work with those who have experienced depression, anxiety, family conflict, body image issues, self esteem, stress reduction, life transitions, grief/bereavement, parenting support, and career changes. I support the LGBTQ+ community. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion and in the importance of empowerment. I believe that humans are built to renew, rejuvenate, and heal themselves and I look forward to helping my clients in their journey to become their best true selves. It is a courageous step to start therapy; I am looking forward to working with you!

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Karly Pulcinella

Offering therapy in PA
License: M.S.Ed.,LPC
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesCareer difficultiesDepressionCoping with life changes
4 years of experience

I am a licensed professional counselor and certified school counselor with over 9 years of experience working in schools and providing professional development and coaching to young adults. As a therapist, I have over 4 years of experience working with child/adult populations with a wide range of challenges and diagnoses. I identify as a counselor, a coach and a consultant. My goal is to provide my clients with an approach that best fits their needs. Therapy is personal and individualized- there's no one size fits all approach. Therefore, you can expect a modality that seeks to match what you are looking for. My primary modality is acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT). I believe that self-awareness, self-compassion and ultimately, acceptance, are the catalysts for change. I believe in recognizing the daily "small wins" and working toward the "big" ones. Whether you are facing depression, anxiety, grief & loss, career issues, or simply struggling and don't even know what you need, I am here to partner with you in the process. We will work to identify and meet your goals through a strong therapeutic alliance, transparency and support. I look forward to collaborating with you!

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Justin Thiry

Offering therapy in PA
License: LCSW
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsSleeping disordersSelf esteemDepression
3 years of experience

I am a licensed clinical social worker licensed in Pennsylvania with over 5 years of experience working as a counselor/therapist. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including addiction, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, personality disorders, and ADHD. I also helped many people who have experienced physical trauma or emotional abuse. My therapy style is warm and interactive. I believe in treating anyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion, and I don't believe in stigmatizing labels. My approach combines cognitive-behavioral, dialectal, and motivational interviewing therapy. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. It takes courage to seek a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards change. If you are ready to take that step, I am here to support and empower you. I look forward to working with you!

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Lindsey Kosowicz

Offering therapy in PA
License: LPC, CAADC, CCTP, ATR
AddictionsTrauma and abuseGriefSelf esteemCoping with life changes
12 years of experience

Thank you for taking the time to stop in and find out a little about me and how I would like to help you. I understand how difficult it can be to acknowledge and accept that there is an issue, and to also seek out help. I am so proud that you are taking the first step to taking back control in your life and recognizing your true potential. My name is Lindsey and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with certifications in Addiction Counseling, Trauma, and Art Therapy. My adventure into becoming a Therapist began 12 years ago when I enrolled in Graduate School for Clinical Art Therapy. Prior to this, I had been a Teacher. Although I thoroughly enjoyed being a Teacher, I felt confined to curriculums and did not like having to place grades upon student's work. Every individual is unique and can not always be held to the same standards as the next. This became clear very quickly and that is when I knew it was time to move on to something that had more freedom and flexibility. I obtained my Master's Degree from Long Island University @ C.W. Post in 2012. From that point, I began working as a Mobile Therapist working with children and their families to help build more positive relationships and to understand how to better utilize community resources. Life happened, and I changed locations moving from NY to PA and began working as an Art Therapist at an Inpatient Psychiatric Hospital. I spent 5 years at that location, working with every age group and level of acuity. I was given the opportunity to also work at the Partial Program that was associated with the Hospital. I have a wide range of experience when it comes to serving different populations and needs. I moved on from the Inpatient setting and became the Clinical Supervisor for an Outpatient Facility for Addictions where I am presently working. Once obtaining my license, I knew I had the opportunity to reach further out to help those in need. I am an out of the box kind of thinker who is also very creative. I will meet you where you are at and help you develop a plan that is most suitable for you.

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Shauna Villar

Offering therapy in PA
License: LPC
Stress, AnxietyDepressionCoping with life changes
6 years of experience

I am a licensed counselor who provides services for people in any walk of life. I have trainings in anxiety, depression, trauma, family therapy, autism, intellectual disability and older adult mental health. My clinical approach is diverse and I like to include CBT, DBT, and a person centered approach. In my opinion, the client is steering the ship of their treatment while I assist them in reaching their destination. I look forward to talking with you and thank you for trusting me with your journey.

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Maria Phillips

Offering therapy in PA
License: MA,NCC,LPC
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseGrief
3 years of experience

Welcome! My name is Maria (she/her) and I am a licensed professional counselor in the state of Pennsylvania. I earned my master's degree in Art Therapy and Counseling from Drexel University. I have supported clients and their families in navigating a range of challenges including grief/ loss, self-esteem concerns, intimate partner violence, depression, anxiety, and specific neurodevelopmental needs. I strive to create a therapeutic experience that aligns with clients’ emotional needs, strengths, values, and cultural identity. My approach integrates evidence-based and trauma-informed approaches including eco-systemic structural family therapy, dialectic behavioral therapy, and acceptance and commitment therapy. Throughout the therapeutic process, I hope that clients experience growth in their ability to navigate difficult emotions and conflict while developing new skills to improve their relationship with themselves and develop healthy relationship patterns with others.

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Christina White

Offering therapy in PA
License: LCSW,MSW,MA
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsRelationship issuesSelf esteemDepression
16 years of experience

I am a licensed clinical social worker in Illinois with over 18 years of experience working as a counselor. I specialize in toxic relationships and narcissistic abuse recovery, relationship conflicts, communication issues, family problems, significant life changes, and finding a life purpose. I also have significant experience in other areas, as I have worked with clients with various concerns, including, substance abuse, depression, anxiety, dual diagnosis, self-esteem, ADHD, OCD, and vocational issues. I have helped many people who have experienced physical trauma or emotional abuse. I have worked in inpatient and outpatient treatment centers, juvenile justice programs, corrections, mental health, and crisis centers. I have worked with a wide range of individuals, from teenagers to seniors. I have a master’s degree in human services, with a concentration in substance abuse, and a master’s degree in social work with a concentration in mental health. I am currently working on my doctorate in psychoanalysis. My counseling style is friendly and relaxed. I believe in treating anyone with respect, understanding, and empathy. I have several approaches I use and believe every individual is unique. I tailor my approach to the individual and their needs. These approaches could be motivational interviewing, psychodynamic, strengths-based, Jungian reality therapy, rational-emotive therapy, or cognitive behavioral therapy. I will tailor our dialogue and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. I look forward to working with you!

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Kimberly Nelson-Thomas

Offering therapy in PA
Family conflictsTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
20 years of experience

I am licensed in Pennsylvania with 20 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with family conflicts, trauma and abuse, 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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Kenneth Young

Offering therapy in PA
Stress, AnxietySelf esteemCareer difficultiesDepression
10 years of experience

I provide coaching, therapy, and consultation for people facing challenges with depression, relationship issues, anxiety, personal development, goal-setting, and achievement, as well as other concerns. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. The therapeutic relationship is the foundation of successful change, therefore I come first from a person centered approach. I can also incorporate CBT, mindfulness, and other frames to help meet your specific aspirations. I am licensed in Pennsylvania and North Carolina, with over two decades of professional experience in behavioral health. I have experience working with people from diverse backgrounds. 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 Lancaster, or in the greater state of Pennsylvania.

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 Pennsylvania 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 Pennsylvania 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, Pennsylvania 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 PA, 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 17512 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, Pennsylvania 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:

17512

Popular cities near Columbia, PA

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