If you’re navigating challenges like difficult life transitions, family conflict, and unhealthy habits, talking to a therapist can help you live a more meaningful life. A therapist in Columbus, GA, can help.
If you’re interested in individual counseling, you have a few options. There are plenty of professionals in the mental health field in Columbus, whether you’re looking for a counseling center or an individual therapist. Counseling centers may see many clients, making it difficult to get an appointment, and therapy can be costly, regardless of the types of insurances accepted. An online therapy platform like BetterHelp can make finding an available counselor who fits your schedule easier.
Whether you work with a therapist online or in person, a qualified mental health professional can help you manage symptoms of mental health conditions like anxiety disorders or panic attacks, but they can also help with things like coping with divorce, working through insomnia, or dealing with abusive family members. When you connect with a therapist, your first appointment may be dedicated to getting to know each other and developing a treatment plan that best suits your well-being. If you’re ready to get started, contact one of the therapists serving Columbus below.
Candace Johnson
“Life is like a coin, you can spend it on anything you choose, however you can only spend it once, therefore make the most out of it.”- Candace M. Johnson Greetings, I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) with over 9 to 10 years’ experience within the mental health field. I hold a Bachelor’s of Arts degree in Psychology, acquired from North Carolina Agriculture and Technical State University. Upon the completion of my undergraduate studies, I obtained my Master of Arts Degree in Clinical Psychology from Argosy University, Atlanta (formerly known as the Georgia Professional School of Psychology). I've received rigorous training through my psychiatric practicum at Emory Decatur Hospital/Atlanta, GA. My training consists of completing psychiatric assessments with the medical and mental health population, crisis intervention within an emergency room setting, conducting psychoeducational groups, and the development of ethical and effective clinical skills. My professional experience includes counseling individuals within an acute inpatient psychiatric setting, in person and telephonic crisis intervention, coordination of behavioral health services and conducting extensive psychological assessments to determine an individual’s level of safety. I have worked/counseled the following populations: Children and Adolescents, Young Adults, General Adults. My main theory of choice is Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. However, I tailor my therapeutic techniques, based off the individual’s presenting signs and symptoms. I also believe in establishing a genuine professional/therapeutic relationship with the individual, because that is the most effective way to see change within the individual. Areas of Special Expertise: Stress Management Career Counseling Psychotic Disorders Care Giver Support
Evalee Smith
Hello, my name is Evalee and I am a licensed clinical social worker in Georgia and South Carolina with over 20 years of experience working in mental health and social services as a counselor. I graduated from Savannah State University with a Master's degree in Social Work with a clinical concentration. I have worked in a variety of settings with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, Bipolar disorder, relationship issues, parenting problems, life changes, OCD, ADHD, ODD, anger management skills, LGBTQ related issues, intellectual disabilities, women's issues, and caregiver stress. I also helped many people who have experienced trauma and abuse. My counseling style is warm and interactive. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion, and I don't believe in stigmatizing labels. My approach to therapy combines cognitive-behavioral, dialectical behavioral, mindfulness, solution focused, psycho-education, and psychodynamic counseling. I approach therapy from a person centered and strengths based perspective. Your treatment plan will be individualized to meet your unique and specific needs. It takes courage to seek improved mental health. It is brave to take this step, and I am here to support you in a safe and understanding environment to empower you. I am able to work with children, youth, teens, adults, older adults and couples. I look forward to working with you!
Kalene McSwain-Faulkner
Hello! You can call me Kalene (Kay-lean)! I have been a Licensed Clinical Social Worker since 2015 and a social worker since 2013. I am experienced and what I like to call seasoned, as life has taught me many things through times of sorrow, pain, grief, and, other times, so much joy. My knowledge also comes from higher education and practice of that knowledge throughout my career. Each year, I meet licensing requirements by yearly obtaining continuing educational credits. Additionally, I am a doctorate student who completed all coursework with a 4.0 and in the research phase. Further, I am well-rounded and have experience working with young and older clients. Serving ten years in the military taught me how to and the importance of working with an array of different people from various backgrounds, ethnicities, ages, religions, sexualities, and overall different socioeconomic and cultural backgrounds. My passion is in supporting others through multiple parts of their journeys utilizing practical, evidence-based approaches. Some therapy strategies may include cognitive behavioral therapy, motivational interviewing techniques, supportive therapy, narrative therapy, mindfulness, whole health, and a variety of other strategies or a mixture thereof. I want you to know that therapy is a process. The changes you want to see will only happen after some time, more than likely, but will result from various interactions we will have together, which will make a difference. I often refer to therapy as going to a chiropractor. You do not go to a chiropractor and say give me a spine. You have a spine, and all you need is an alignment. This means you are the true expert in your life, and you do have what you need. My plan in this current stage of your journey is to help you use what you have; sometimes, it just takes aligning things differently. I look forward to supporting you by first listening, clarifying what is heard, and advocating for your individuality, even in your partnership or marriage. Therapy strategies are not a one-size-fits-all. If you do not wish to have someone highly motivated, a positive and rational thinker who continually supports the use of your strengths and believes that YOU CAN every time, then I am not the one for you. I also incorporate many coaching and motivational principles as they are a part of my personality. Remember, you are unique, and for me to adjust what is needed, I will need your feedback and honesty regarding what is working or what you may need more. I look forward to supporting you during this part of your journey. Please participate and trust the process. Trust is a big word, but it will be well worth the journey!
Kendrah DeGruy
“You can’t go back and change the beginning, but you can start where you are and change the ending.” - C. S. Lewis Welcome! I’m Kendrah DeGruy, a Licensed Professional Counselor based in Georgia. I’m passionate about helping individuals and couples—whether engaged, newlywed, or seasoned—navigate the complexities of marriage. Whether you’re preparing for a lifelong commitment, adjusting to newlywed life, or working to rebuild your relationship, I provide a compassionate, non-judgmental space to explore challenges and deepen connection. Together, we focus on strengthening communication, establishing boundaries that build trust, and restoring intimacy. My counseling style is rooted in warmth, positivity, and authenticity. I take an integrative, strengths-based approach to guide clients through their healing and growth. Collaboration is at the heart of my work. By blending Solution-Focused strategies with Mindfulness interventions, I empower clients to uncover their strengths and create practical, lasting solutions. Investing in yourself and your relationships is one of the most meaningful commitments you can make—and I would be honored to walk alongside you on this journey.
Lisa Haughey
I am a mental health and substance dependency counselor licensed in both Georgia and Arizona with 33+ years of experience. I have worked in the fields of addiction, mental health and with life coaching issues. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, addiction, career choices, relationship issues, parenting problems, career challenges, LBGTQI focuses, couples, and many solution focused issues. I also have worked with those who have histories with the criminal justice system and understand the issues behind reentry and starting life again after release from prison. My counseling style is warm and interactive. I believe in treating anyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion, and I don't believe in stigmatizing labels. I also believe that it is important to be honest and help my clients work through their issues; I cannot solve it for you but I will help you gain the tools and the mindset to do so. With this, I am not afraid to be to the point when it is needed. As a counselor, I understand that all have their own paths of faith, spirituality and beliefs. Know I embrace this in both my personal and professional life and am comfortable working with people exploring and practicing their own path of spirituality It takes courage to get help, to ask for change and I applaud you for doing so. I look forward to working with you!
Judith (Judy) Hamilton
I am a graduate of the University of South Carolina College of Social Work. I believe in the Social Work Code of Ethics regarding treating clients as individuals with dignity and respect. I have 20+ years of experience specializing in PTSD, Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar I and II, Adjustment Disorder, Bereavement, and psychotic disorders. Former employment includes chief counselor for Specialized Mental Health Treatment Unit for Georgia Department of Corrections. for 7+ years, Hospice, and Correctional Mental Health for County Detention Centers. I am currently also employed with the Department of Veterans Affairs at a Community Based Outpatient Clinic. My counseling style is strengths-based, open, warm, and client centered. I believe in walking side-by-side with my clients vs leading them; you know how you learn and grow best and I'm here to help provide guidance towards your goals. Everyone deserves to be treated with fairness, equity, compassion, and care. You are the expert on you. My goal is to assist you in becoming the best you that you can be. Clinical approaches: Client-Centered Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Mindfulness Therapy, Whole Health, Motivational Interviewing, Solution-Focused Therapy, Trauma-Focused Therapy: CPT, and PE.
Marcel Payne
As a licensed therapist in Georgia, I specialize in supporting individuals navigating complex life challenges. My professional approach centers on addressing addiction, family dynamics, and personal growth. I bring expertise in helping clients work through communication barriers, manage guilt and shame, and develop healthier relationship patterns. My practice focuses on supporting individuals struggling with process addictions, substance use challenges, chronic health conditions, and interpersonal dynamics. I understand that healing is a deeply personal journey, and I'm committed to creating a compassionate, non-judgmental space where clients can explore their experiences and develop meaningful strategies for change. Drawing from evidence-based practices, I work collaboratively with clients to build self-awareness, enhance coping skills, and support sustainable personal transformation. My goal is to empower individuals to reconnect with their inherent strengths and create more fulfilling lives.
Phillippe Louis
I am licensed in Georgia with 9 years of professional work experience. 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!
Julie Allen
I am licensed in Georgia, USA with more than 20 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship conflicts, trauma/sexual assault, & mental illness, and recovery. 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 sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started! You deserve hope, healing, and growth. I am a person of Christian faith- and I am also comfortable with spiritual people or those with no faith nor religion at all. I also have specialized through work experience with LGBTQ individuals.
Jill Hendricks
I am licensed in Georgia with 33 years of professional work experience helping clients with stress, anxiety, professional & personal relationship issues, trauma, motivation, self esteem, and confidence. 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 so respect that and am here to support you in that process.
William Wheaton
I have been clinically licensed approaching seven years in Georgia and Florida. I have been in the Social Work profession for twenty-three years. Throughout that time I have worked with diverse as well as marginalized populations at various phases of life. I have clinical experience with Active Duty Military, Veterans, Healthcare Professionals, and the General Public. I am veteran, as well as former Law Enforcement Officer. I have used every opportunity to be a resource to my community. My approach is simple. Strength based, trauma informed, and goal oriented. I have been away from Telehealth for a few years working directly in my community. I look forward to the opportunity to now support you along this journey.
Angela Holcomb
As a licensed therapist in Georgia with over two decades of experience, I specialize in supporting individuals navigating life's complex challenges. My practice centers on helping clients develop self-love, improve communication, and find meaningful connection during difficult transitions. I have deep expertise in addressing family dynamics, parenting challenges, and personal growth. My approach is compassionate and holistic, focusing on empowering individuals to overcome isolation, workplace stress, and midlife transitions. I understand the unique pressures of caregiving and provide supportive guidance for those wrestling with guilt, shame, and self-esteem challenges. Drawing from a Christian perspective, I create a warm, understanding environment where clients can explore their life purpose and develop resilient coping strategies. My goal is to walk alongside you, offering thoughtful support as you move toward healing and personal transformation.
Jackie Reece-Holliday
I am licensed in Georgia with 29 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with grief and loss, anger management, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. 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.
Dr. Rosetta Parker-Austin
I am licensed in Georgia and South Carolina with 15 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, trauma, abuse, anger management, bipolar disorder, & executive coaching. I also have experience working with professional coaching. 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 sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!
Find a Therapist Near You in Columbus , Georgia
Finding a licensed therapist near you in Georgia can be an important step toward improving your mental health and overall well-being. Whether you’re dealing with anxiety, depression, relationship challenges, stress, or major life changes, working with a qualified mental health professional can offer meaningful support.
Georgia is home to people with diverse mental health needs across urban, suburban, and rural communities. Online therapy makes it easier to connect with a therapist near you without being limited to nearby offices. BetterHelp connects you with licensed therapists authorized to practice in Georgia, allowing you to attend sessions online from the comfort of your home.
Why work with a licensed therapist near you?
Working with a licensed therapist near you ensures that your provider meets state licensing requirements and professional standards in Georgia (GA). Licensed therapists use evidence-based approaches to help individuals manage emotional challenges, develop coping skills, and work toward personal goals.
People seek therapy for many reasons. Some are navigating ongoing mental health concerns, while others want guidance during stressful periods or major life transitions. You do not need a mental health diagnosis to work with a therapist. Many individuals seek therapy to improve communication, strengthen relationships, manage stress, or gain greater self-awareness.
Online therapy can be especially helpful for people living across Georgia, where access to in-person mental health care may vary by location.
What concerns can therapists help with?
Therapists on BetterHelp support adults across Georgia with a wide range of mental health concerns and life challenges, including:
- Anxiety and stress
- Depression and mood-related concerns
- Trauma and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
- Grief and loss
- Relationship and family challenges
- Life transitions and adjustment concerns
- Self-esteem and confidence
- Job stress and burnout
- ADHD-related challenges
- Sleep concerns
- Parenting stress
- Eating disorder support
Therapists use approaches such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), and other evidence-based methods tailored to individual needs.
Online therapy vs. in-person therapy in Georgia
When searching for a therapist near me in Georgia, many people compare online therapy with traditional in-person care. Online therapy offers several potential advantages:
- Greater accessibility: Attend sessions from anywhere with an internet connection
- Reduced wait times: Many people are matched in as little as 24-48 hours, faster than typical in-person availability
- Flexible scheduling: Sessions that fit around work, family, or school commitments
- Expanded provider options: Access licensed therapists across Georgia, not just nearby offices
Research shows that online therapy can be effective for many mental health concerns. Online therapy may also reduce barriers such as transportation challenges, long commutes, or limited local availability, especially in larger or more rural counties across Georgia.
Finding a therapist near me that accepts insurance
Many people looking for a therapist near me in Georgia want to know whether insurance is an option.
Many providers on BetterHelp now accept major insurance carriers in select states. In many states, certain therapists on BetterHelp may be in-network with specific insurance plans. Coverage depends on your plan, provider, and therapist availability.
When sessions are covered, insured members typically pay an average copay of about $19 per session. Coverage varies by state and provider availability, so it’s important to check your in-network status directly on the BetterHelp site.
If insurance coverage is not available, BetterHelp’s flexible subscription model remains an option, with online therapy typically costing $70 to $100 per week, billed weekly or monthly. Additional discounts or financial aid may also be available for a lower price.
How BetterHelp helps you find the right therapist in Georgia
BetterHelp simplifies the process of finding a therapist near you in Georgia without requiring you to search through tons of profiles on your own.
Here’s how it works:
- Complete a brief questionnaire about your needs, preferences, and goals
- Get matched with a licensed therapist authorized to practice in Georgia (GA)
- Begin online therapy sessions through video, phone, or live chat
BetterHelp works with one of the world’s largest networks of licensed therapists, with over 30,000 qualified providers globally. Many members are matched in as little as 24 to 48 hours, and 93% of user preferences are met during the matching process.
You can request a new therapist at no additional cost if your needs or preferences change.
Therapists near you in Georgia
Below, you’ll find licensed therapists authorized to provide online therapy to adults across Georgia, including residents in Columbus.
Each provider meets state licensing requirements and has experience supporting clients with a wide range of mental health concerns using evidence-based therapeutic approaches.
Please note: Therapists on BetterHelp in Georgia do not provide psychiatric medication management or formal diagnoses.
Frequently asked questions about finding a therapist near me
How much does therapy cost near me?
Therapy costs vary depending on provider and location. In-person therapy sessions may cost $100 to $200 or more per session. BetterHelp offers online therapy subscriptions that typically range from $70 to $100 per week, billed weekly or monthly, depending on factors such as location, source, preferences, and therapist availability. Additional discounts or financial aid may also be available for a lower price. BetterHelp now accepts major insurance plans in select states and members pay an average copay of $19 per session. Coverage varies by plan, provider, and therapist availability. You can check coverage on the BetterHelp site.
Does BetterHelp accept insurance?
Yes. Many providers on BetterHelp now accept major insurance carriers in select states. In many states, certain therapists on BetterHelp may be in-network with specific insurance plans. When sessions are covered, insured members typically pay an average copay of about $19 per session. Coverage varies by plan, provider, and therapist availability. You can check coverage on the BetterHelp site.
Is online therapy effective?
Yes. Research shows that online therapy can be effective for many mental health concerns, including anxiety, depression, stress, and relationship challenges. Online therapy allows you to connect with a licensed therapist without commuting to an office.
Do I need a diagnosis to see a therapist?
No. You do not need a mental health diagnosis to seek therapy. Many people work with a therapist for stress management, relationship concerns, grief, life transitions, or personal growth.
How quickly can I start therapy?
Many people are matched with a licensed therapist in as little as 24 to 48 hours after completing the initial questionnaire. Match times may vary based on preferences and therapist availability.
Can I switch therapists if it’s not the right fit?
Yes. If you feel your therapist is not the right match, you can request to be matched with another licensed provider at no additional cost. You are able to do so through the BetterHelp user portal and select switch therapists if needed.
Is online therapy private and secure?
Online therapy through BetterHelp allows you to communicate with your therapist in a discreet setting through video, phone, or messaging tools.