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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Tamara Blau

Offering therapy in OH
License: MSSA,LCSW,LISW
Stress, AnxietyAnger managementSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
10 years of experience

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in the State of Virginia and a Licensed Independent Social Worker (LISW-S) in the State of Ohio. I earned my Master’s of Science in Social Administration from Case Western Reserve University in 1996. I spent over 15 years in a public social service setting working with adolescents and their families. Most recently I have been in a school setting working with middle school aged youth. I have worked with a variety of issues such as depression, anxiety, behavior problems, and the stress of parenting. My nonjudgmental, supportive and compassionate nature allows me to build and maintain therapeutic relationships. I have a client centered approach and would enjoy working with you to set both short term and long term goals in therapy. I could help you develop the skills and strategies you’ll need to overcome current and future challenges you may face

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Kelly Joyce

Offering therapy in OH
License: LISW-S
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseEating disordersCoping with life changes
8 years of experience

Hello! My name is Kelly and I am a Licensed Independent Social Worker in the state of Ohio with over six years of experience providing therapy services. I received both my undergraduate degree in Psychology and my Masters of Social Work degree from Youngstown State University. I have worked in a wide range of therapeutic settings including: inpatient psychiatric hospitalization, residential treatment, partial hospitalization and outpatient care. I specialize in treating individuals struggling with eating disorders, depression, anxiety, self-harm, substance abuse disorders, complex trauma, relationship issues and more. I am a trauma informed therapist trained in EMDR therapy. I take a client centered approach to therapy, believing fully that clients are the experts of their own lives and determine the direction of therapy. I practice from a strengths-based and solution-focused framework, drawing from several different modalities, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT). Outside of my work as a therapist, I enjoy spending time with my family, watching true crime documentaries, snuggling with my cats (Leif Erikson & Snickers) and traveling to new places.

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Jill Miller

Offering therapy in OH
License: LISW-S,LICDC,SAP
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsAnger managementBipolar disorderDepression
15 years of experience

ABOUT ME: Hello, my name is Jill Miller and I am a Licensed Independent Social Worker, Licensed Independent Chemical Dependency Counselor and a Substance Abuse Professional in the State of Ohio and also a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker in Massachusetts and a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the State of Arizona. I believe that in order to have a successful relationship and outcome with my clients that there needs to be mutual trust, understanding and good rapport. I use one of several therapeutic modalities, depending on what issue one is having in their life. The modalities may include, but are not limited to, Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Client-Centered Therapy, Mindfulness-Based Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Motivational Interviewing Skills and learning new coping skills. My areas of expertise include mental health and substance abuse and I have worked my entire career in those fields. I believe in meeting people where they are and not forcing an agenda on to another person. I have experience working with adults 18+ and I feel that you will find my demeanor calming and non-judgmental. I am available mainly in the evening and on weekends and I hope to be able to assist you on your search for a more pleasant, happy future. SPECIALTIES: · Anxiety and Stress · Depression · Bipolar disorder · Coping with life changes · Career Difficulties · Self-esteem · Anger Management Also experienced in: Panic and Panic Attacks, Codependency, Family Conflicts and Coping with life changes Clinical Approaches: Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), Client-Centered Therapy, Mindfulness-Based Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Motivational Interviewing Skills and learning new coping skills. Years of Experience: 15 years Services Offered: Messaging, live chat, phone and video Licensing: LISW-S: I.0800419 .SUPV (expires 2025), LICDC: 131071 (expires 2025) LICSW Massachusetts - 126464 (expires 5/1/2026) LCSW Arizona - 21635 (expires 5/31/2025)

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Christi Tilley

Offering therapy in OH
License: BSW,MSW
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseDepression
10 years of experience

Hi my name is Christi Tilley and I am an Independent Licensed Social Worker in the state of Ohio with over 10 years experience working as a psychotherapist. I have worked with clients, couples and families dealing with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, parenting problems, OCD,ADHD, development disabilities and personality disorders. I have also help many people who have been a victim of physical, emotional or sexual abuse. My therapy style is very relaxed and easy to have a conversation with, I have been told that I have great communication skills and I am very supportive. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity and compassion. I don't agree with judging other or placing labels, we have all been through many different situations and all I want to do is empower my clients to be the best version of themselves for their own piece of mind. It takes courage to seek a happier life and to take the first steps to change. When you are ready I am here to empower and support you on your journey. Let's start making better tomorrows today.

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John Haynes

Offering therapy in OH
Anger managementSelf esteemCareer difficultiesCoachingADHD
6 years of experience

I am an independently licensed Therapist who has worked with people of all ages and backgrounds. I have spent time working with adults, children and families over the past five years. I have worked with children who have severe trauma that effects their daily routine and have also worked with adults who have experienced a mental health crisis due to past trauma. My goal is to help people achieve all they want in life by helping them evaluate their needs and organize their thoughts and emotions. I want my clients to have successful relationships in all aspects of their life. It's my goal to help my clients identify stressors in their life and navigate these to improve their current situation. My strength is in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Person Centered Therapy and Motivational Interviewing. Through talk therapy i believe my clients can get all of their thoughts out and use my guidance to help organize them, prioritize them and formulate a plan to move forward. I find great joy in helping people improve their circumstances through action. I look forward to helping you!

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Jessica Edmundson

Offering therapy in OH
AddictionsTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
11 years of experience

I am licensed therapist in the state of Ohio with 11 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients cope with addiction use disorders both in an in-patient and out-patient setting, work through trauma and abuse, increase motivation, self esteem and confidence, and gain skills needed to cope with depression and anxiety. 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. I offer a solutions focused environment. I understand that when people come to me for help, they are looking to improve their lives in some way and I am here to help them do that. I believe that in order to have a successful therapist/client relationship the client must be met with empathy, compassion and the safety that it takes to open up and work through things together. A little bit about myself: I am a wife and a mother of two. I have two dogs as well so I guess you could say that I am a mother of four. We enjoy being outside; walking, camping, adventuring. In my spare times I enjoy sitting outside by myself and drinking my coffee. I developed a passion for helping others while starting college and going through my own challenges of anxiety and depression. It can be difficult to accept sometimes that life does not always go as planned. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started! Please note that I build my schedule around the needs of my clients to the best of my ability. Do not get discouraged if my schedule does not look like it will work for you. Please reach out and I will do my best to adjust my schedule. I open evening sessions on an as needed basis.

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Amber Berry

Offering therapy in OH
LGBTParenting issuesSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
15 years of experience

I am licensed in Arkansas and Ohio with 15 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with lgbtq+ related issues, parenting issues, 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. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage and I am here to support you in that process.

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Amy Nicolazzo

Offering therapy in OH
License: M Ed,LPCC
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
24 years of experience

I am licensed in Ohio with 27 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, motivation, trauma, 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 sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

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Marikay Vander Ven

Offering therapy in OH
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseDepression
21 years of experience

I am licensed in Ohio with 21 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, & trauma and abuse. 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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Amber Asher

Offering therapy in OH
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsAnger managementCoping with life changesCoaching
7 years of experience

I am licensed in Ohio with 7 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, anger management, & coping with life changes. 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 to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process. I come to BetterHelp with years of experience in program development and clinical services for many populations including adults, children, and adolescents in services for mental health and substance abuse. I have worked in various levels of care, including inpatient, outpatient, IOP and residential, acting as clinical director and therapist. I obtained my master’s degree in Social Work from Northern Kentucky University. I continue to pursue my goal of creating teams to educate, advocate and empower the clients they serve and the communities in which they reside. I furthered my education by obtaining credentials as a Licensed Independent Social Worker (LISW). I have attended clinical training in Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) and Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT) and have been an active member of local committees in the tri-state which focus on SUD, Mental Health Impacts, and Homelessness. I believe and advocate for person centered, trauma informed, inclusive, culturally responsive, and empathetic care.

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 43212 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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