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.

This is Rozanne Secrest's avatar and link to their profile

Rozanne Secrest

Offering therapy in OH
License: MS, LPCC
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesParenting issuesDepressionCoping with life changes
27 years of experience

Welcome. Well, as you might know, there are times when we encounter challenges to the difficulties or changes in our life circumstances. While we are able to resolve some of those challenges on our own or by talking about them with close friends and family members, there are other times when we need some professional help. You may have found yourself in such a situation, so, thank you for reaching out. I am here to help. I am licensed in both Ohio and Pennsylvania, and for over 24 years, I have been helping people of all ages as a professional clinical counselor. I offer a supportive atmosphere so as to help to reduce any feelings of depression, anger, stress or anxiety. I also help to develop more rational, confident ways of thinking. My treatment style is active, instructive, and informative. I use an integrative approach to therapy as I draw primarily upon cognitive-behavioral, family systems and psychodynamic theories as needed. Additionally, I offer strategies for parents who are finding that they are having behavior difficulties with their children. In our first session together, I will most likely be asking you a lot of questions to find out more about you and to more fully understand what you are hoping to accomplish or resolve during our time together. Since counseling has a direction and is goal-oriented, developing a general idea of goals in your therapy with me will set the tone and the focus for the next session, as well as the direction of the counseling process itself. So, if you are ready for some new ways to manage your feelings or behavior and, ultimately, your life, I look forward to working with you.

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Kristen Hicks

Offering therapy in OH
License: LISW,TRCC,CTRP-C
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseGriefParenting issues
13 years of experience

Everyone’s heart has been broken in one way or another. No one gets through this life entirely intact. We put the pieces back together over and over again, and the repaired cracks make us unique, beautiful, and stronger at the broken places. I'll hold space when you need a safe, quiet container, and I'll be compassionate and honest when you want a reflection. You are the expert when it comes to you, and I'll offer help to co-create a path to your goals. I'm not here to tell you what's "wrong" with you but instead, to explore what you've experienced and how you've survived. I'm an Independent Social Worker, licensed in the state of Ohio with certificates in trauma and resilience and trauma responsive care as well as a deep knowledge of how trauma impacts the physical body and brain. I've also completed a certificate in Eco-psychology, so if you find healing in nature we'll get along great! My background includes many years in direct care and case management for people with developmental disabilities, intensive family counseling, medical social work, and hospice/community bereavement counseling. My passions include experiential approaches such as Adventure Therapy and Eco-therapy. Positive psychology is embedded in my approach, shifting focus from problem to solution when you feel ready. I look forward to meeting you and to honoring the stories you share. :)

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Dr. Cynthia Yamokoski

Offering therapy in OH
License: PhD
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefDepressionCoping with life changes
15 years of experience

I am a licensed psychologist in Ohio with over 15 years experience. I have expertise in treating a variety of concerns and conditions, including post-traumatic stress disorder, depression, anxiety (including panic attacks and OCD), and prolonged grief. I have extensive training, and clinical and research experience in treating individuals who have survived traumatic events, including but not limited to first responders, combat, accidents, and sexual traumas (childhood and adult). I utilize time-limited approaches that are strongly backed by clinical research to address presenting concerns, including cognitive behavioral techniques (including specific protocols such as Cognitive Processing Therapy for PTSD, Prolonged Exposure Therapy for PTSD, Exposure and Relapse Prevention for OCD, CBT for depression). Prior to starting these time-limited treatments, I first assure that clients are informed about treatment options and engage in a process of shared decision-making. Through my clinical work, I have been honored to witness and walk along side countless strong and brave clients who have succeeded in moving forward and finding renewed purpose and meaning. I would be honored to join you in this journey.

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Erica Tyler

Offering therapy in OH
License: LISW,MSW
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsAnger managementSelf esteemDepression
15 years of experience

I am a Licensed Independent Social Worker with over 15 years experience working with children, adolescents and adults in a variety of settings. Over the course of my career, I have educated myself to provide the best possible care to those I have had the privilege of serving, assisting them in overcoming difficulties such as depression, anxiety, ADHD, and parenting issues. I always begin where you are, and together formulate a plan of care that will achieve your goals and aspirations. My therapeutic style is rooted in the strong belief that progress can only be made when the therapeutic alliance is based on trust, compassion and empathy. As I have grown as a therapist, I have also learned the value of humor as a tool for connection and growth. These core principles, along with cognitive-behavioral therapy, mindfulness therapy, and solution-focused therapy, are what guide my practice. Life can be overwhelming and difficult for all of us. It is my firm belief that in these moments, having the help of a trusted support person can be the thing that can return us, or perhaps even help us to find for the first time, peace, happiness and contentment. I would welcome the opportunity to accompany you on such a journey to find and maintain that fulfillment for yourself.

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Melissa Moore

Offering therapy in OH
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefParenting issuesSelf esteem
15 years of experience

I am licensed in Ohio with 11 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, coping with grief and loss, & parenting issues. 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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Lona Champagne

Offering therapy in OH
Relationship issuesFamily conflictsGriefSelf esteemCoping with life changes
14 years of experience

I am licensed in Louisiana, Ohio, and North Carolina, with 12 years of professional work experience. I have experience helping clients with relationship issues, family conflicts, coping with grief and loss, & motivation, self-esteem, and confidence. I believe that you are the expert on your story and have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. It takes courage to seek a more fulfilling and happier life and take the first steps towards a change. I am here to support & empower you in that journey.

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Yolanda Tingler

Offering therapy in OH
License: LCSW
Stress, AnxietySelf esteemBipolar disorderDepressionADHD
10 years of experience

Hello! My name is Yolonda, but I prefer to go by Rhonda, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the state of Florida. I specialize in individual, family, and group therapy for Deaf/Hard of Hearing, people with disabilities, and hearing individuals. I use several approaches depending on the client such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Psychotherapy, Motivational Interviewing, Solution Focused Therapy, Behavioral Focused Therapy, Client-Centered Therapy etc. I have been a Sign Language Interpreter for 25 years and decided to join the field of Social Work 9 years ago to be able to conduct therapy, advocate, and assist with policy changes for underserved populations. I have also worked in K-12 settings and college settings for 25 years and am knowledgeable regarding student issues and academic needs. I have provided group therapy, family therapy, and individual therapy in residential treatment programs, psychiatric hospitals, forensics, community mental-health agencies, school settings and private practice settings. I further specialize with ADHD/ADD, Depression, Anxiety, PTSD, Bipolar, Personality Disorders, OCD, Phobias, Military, etc. with a variety of techniques. My primary goal is to help you identify and cope more effectively with problems in your daily life, as well as help you to deal better with internal conflicts - such as anxiety, fear, trauma, and depression - so that you can achieve a happier and more peaceful life. I work to develop a strong bond with each client as I believe the therapeutic relationship is the primary tool for growth and change. You will find that I offer a wide range of office hours to include late evenings and weekends to benefit those who are in need of those times and keep engaged with my clients through all efforts.

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Sonia Estival Vila

Offering therapy in OH
AddictionsTrauma and abuseSleeping disordersDepressionCoaching
10 years of experience

I am licensed in California and Ohio with 10 years of professional work experience. I have experience helping clients cope with addictions, trauma and abuse, sleeping disorders, & depression. I have experience working with Veterans, immigrants and survivors of domestic violence. 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. Taking the first step in seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

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Abbey Sweitzer

Offering therapy in OH
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseEating disordersSelf esteemDepression
6 years of experience

I am licensed in Ohio with 5 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, eating disorders, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialogue 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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Torrey Thille

Offering therapy in OH
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseDepressionCoping with life changes
5 years of experience

I am licensed in Oregon with 5 years of experience providing Therapy and 13 years of Social Work professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, depression, grief and loss, relationship issues, trauma & life transitions . 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!

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 43230 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 PinterestLinkedInInstagramTwitter, and Facebook. For mental health tips, check out the BetterHelp YouTube channel.

Take some time today to learn more about the team of therapists at BetterHelp to understand the services available to you clearly. If you are new to therapy or have any questions about the services and terms, please reach out 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

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