Home >> Recent posts >> Talk It Through with These 5 Skilled Psychotherapists in Columbus

Talk It Through with These 5 Skilled Psychotherapists in Columbus

skilled-psychotherapists-in-columbus
We extensively test and research all services we review. Here's why you can trust us.

Credentials and Licensure: We prioritized psychotherapists who are fully licensed in Ohio and hold recognized qualifications such as LPCC, LISW-S, or Psychologist.

Clinical Experience and Areas of Focus: We looked closely at each therapist’s years of experience and specialisms, such as trauma, anxiety, or mood disorders.

Fees and Overall Value: We compared standard session fees in Columbus and gave preference to practices that are transparent about pricing, accept insurance, or offer sliding-scale options.

Therapeutic Approach and Personalisation: We selected psychotherapists who tailor their methods to individual needs, whether through cognitive behavioral therapy or integrative approaches.

Accessibility and Practicality: We considered location, availability, and session format. We favored therapists who offer both in-person and online appointments.

We once noticed how easy it was to ignore our own feelings while staying busy. Smiling through stress became second nature. It’s an automatic response we perfected to keep things running smoothly, even when it no longer felt genuine or sustainable. 

Learning about a psychotherapist in Columbus showed us that deeper conversations can lead to real change, not just temporary relief. Understanding yourself takes courage, but it also brings clarity.

We compiled a list to support moments when self-reflection becomes a need for real guidance and lasting growth.

How much does a psychotherapist charge in Columbus?

Psychotherapists in Columbus typically charge between $100 and $200 per session. However, the total cost may still depend on the therapist’s qualifications, specialization, and whether sessions are in person or online.

1. The Care Center – Counseling & Therapy Columbus

the-care-center-counseling-therapy-columbus

Address: 4449 Easton Way, OH 43219

Contact Details: +16144546765

Business Hours: 

  • Monday to Friday: 9 AM – 6 PM
  • Saturday: 9 AM – 1 PM

Website

The Care Center – Counseling & Therapy is a private psychotherapy practice led by Pete Lobert, PCC-S, a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor–Supervisor. 

He holds Level 2 EMDR certification. It’s the highest level issued by the EMDR Institute, which places the practice among a smaller subset of trauma-specialised providers in Columbus.

The practice operates independently rather than as a group clinic, which directly shapes how care is delivered and coordinated.

Clinical services center on individual therapy, couples counseling, and trauma recovery, with EMDR positioned as a primary treatment modality. Couples counseling is structured around clearly defined concerns such as communication breakdowns and blended family challenges. 

The Care Center also operates under a “Reach, Connect, Grow” framework that emphasises timely intake scheduling, transparent therapist–client dialogue, and strategic treatment planning.

Sessions are offered both in person and via telehealth. Fees are fixed and upfront—$155 for individual sessions, $165 for couples sessions, and $155 for extended intake appointments.

Just note that the center is faith-based, meaning spiritual themes may be incorporated upon request. Clients seeking strictly secular therapy should clarify their preferences during intake.

Pros

  • Led by a PCC-S with over 10 years of diverse clinical experience
  • Level 2 EMDR-certified trauma therapy
  • Structured couples counseling
  • “Reach, Connect, Grow” goal-oriented therapy framework
  • In-person and telehealth session options
  • Transparent, fixed pricing structure

Cons

  • Faith-embracing approach may not suit everyone

Compassionate and understanding

“A difficult life event brought me in to see Pete and I’ve continued working with him over this last year. There are not enough words to explain how much he has helped me. He has a great way of being compassionate and understanding, while also challenging me to see other perspectives. I have experience with other counselors in the past, and they do not compare. Pete is one of the best in his field and I would highly recommend him to anyone. He will help change your life!”

Excellent at what he does

“So very thankful for my appointment times with Pete. He is excellent at what he does! I felt very relaxed and comfortable talking to him. He helps you understand yourself which really helped me work through some struggles I had been dealing with for quite a long time. He has an amazing gift that allows him to help you find ways to work through past and present issues that are holding you back. He has also seen my husband separately and I saw so much good come from that. That is what prompted me to make my  first appointment with Pete. I highly recommend him to anyone searching for help and support through counseling.”

2. LifeStance Therapists & Psychiatrists in Columbus

lifestance-therapists-psychiatrists-in-columbus

Address: 1670 Fishinger Rd, Suite 200, OH 43221

Contact Details: +16144562540

Business Hours: 

  • Monday to Sunday: 8:30 AM – 5 PM

Website

Instagram

LifeStance operates a large outpatient mental health clinic and is part of a nationwide network. The Columbus location integrates psychotherapy and psychiatry, changing how care is coordinated from the first appointment.

Treatment here spans psychotherapy and medication management. They are handled by licensed therapists, psychologists, and board-certified psychiatrists.

The clinical scope is deliberately broad but organised, covering anxiety and depression as core areas alongside ADHD and trauma-related concerns. 

Support also extends to postpartum mental health and later-life transitions, with additional conditions addressed as needed.

Therapeutic methods here are diagnosis-driven and standardised across the network. Cognitive behavioral therapy and dialectical behavior therapy are commonly used, while trauma-focused approaches and family counseling are introduced when clinically appropriate.

They also accept over 290 insurance plans nationwide, including major Medicaid, Medicare, and commercial plans such as Aetna and UnitedHealthcare.

However, some clients report administrative and billing delays, including difficulty accessing records or receiving unexpected statements.

Pros

  • Integrated psychotherapy and psychiatry under one clinic
  • Large multidisciplinary provider network in Columbus
  • Treats a wide range of complex conditions
  • Offers multiple evidence-based therapy modalities
  • Accepts 290+ insurance plans

Cons

  • Reports of administrative and billing issues

Found it very helpful

“This practice has been helping me since my father passed and I started with them in January of 2019. I’ve seen I think four or maybe even five therapist there and I’m currently seeing two. One is a group therapy and one has a one-on-one therapy. I find it very helpful and fairly easy to navigate their website to schedule and log on to video sessions which is how I do all of my sessions now. I would recommend Lifestance Health. All of my various professionals have been wonderful but for those that might be new to this process sometimes you do have to try a few of them out to find the best fit for you. Fortunately because this practice has many therapists and nurse practitioners and social workers and all kinds of different levels that you can find someone that works right with your personality and your things you’re dealing with.”

Compassionate and professional team

“This practice truly transformed my life. The compassionate and professional team, particularly through TMS treatment, helped me lift a weight I have been carrying for years. I am incredibly grateful for the support and the tangible progress I have made. I highly recommend this place to anyone struggling and seeking a fresh start :D”

3. Luis G. Cruz-Ortega, PhD & Associates

luis-g-cruz-ortega-phd-associates

Address: 4041 N High St #300a, OH 43214

Contact Details: +16148590499

Business Hours: 

  • Monday, Tuesday, and Thursday: 12 PM – 7 PM
  • Wednesday and Friday: 12 PM – 5 PM

Website

Luis G. Cruz-Ortega, PhD & Associates is a licensed counseling psychologist with more than 20 years of clinical and university counseling center experience.

Sessions here follow an integrative therapeutic model that blends psychodynamic, mindfulness-based, and existential–humanistic approaches.

Their clinical areas focus on adult concerns such as depression and anxiety. It also extends to career development and culturally related stress, with additional issues addressed as they arise.

Both English and Spanish are used in sessions, which noticeably broadens access for bilingual and culturally diverse adult clients.

In fact, their telehealth services are available across Ohio and select other states through PSYPACT authorization. They also hold additional telepsychology credentials in Florida.

Standard individual sessions average $185. Plus, multiple major insurance plans are accepted, and out-of-network receipts are provided. Consultations begin with a free 15-minute introductory meeting to set expectations before committing to therapy. 

One thing to consider is that the practice is limited to individual therapy for adults, excluding child, adolescent, or family treatment.

Pros

  • Led by a doctoral-level psychologist with 20+ years of experience
  • Integrative therapy
  • Bilingual psychotherapy in English and Spanish
  • PSYPACT-authorised interstate telehealth availability
  • Accepts multiple major insurance plans
  • Free 15-minute consultation before booking

Cons

  • Services are limited to adult individual therapy only

Insightful and compassionate

“Luis is an exceptional psychotherapist. He is insightful, compassionate, and incredibly skilled. Highly recommended for his dedication and professionalism.”

Friendly, knowledgeable, and humble

“I’ve been crazy long enough to work with a big handful of counselors. Luis is the best of them. He is friendly, knowledgeable, humble, and very, very skilled. Most I’ve ever looked forward to my appointments. If I still lived around Columbus, I’d go back.”

4. Counseling Now

counseling-now

Address: 1161 Bethel Rd, Suite 104 #6-8, OH 43220

Contact Details: +18555910092

Business Hours: 

  • Monday to Sunday: 8 AM – 8 PM

Website

Facebook

Counseling Now is immediately available to anyone who needs mental health care without rearranging their entire week. The strong telehealth setup made sessions feel accessible, especially when juggling work, family, and unpredictable schedules.

What stood out early was the sheer range of services available under one roof, from individual therapy to couples, family, child, and LGBTQ+ affirming care.

Having access to a large network of licensed clinicians made matching with a suitable therapist feel faster and less stressful. Another notable factor is how quickly things move compared to traditional clinics, as same-day appointments are often available. 

One point worth flagging is the lack of Better Business Bureau accreditation. The BBB evaluates business practices and complaint handling, and the absence of accreditation may concern clients who prioritise formal third-party oversight.

Nonetheless, most insurance plans are accepted here. This includes Medicare and major commercial providers, with cost-sharing dependent on individual policies.

The clinic’s case management support also plays a role. It helps with benefits navigation, community resources, and coordination beyond therapy sessions.

Pros

  • Strong statewide telehealth access via video or phone
  • Large network of licensed therapists
  • Broad services
  • Integrates psychiatry with medication management
  • Case management support for practical life needs
  • Accepts major insurance plans

Cons

  • Not accredited by the Better Business Bureau

Thoroughly explained everything

“My name is Jack Silverio and I am writing this review on behalf of my mother, Maria Sutton. Chelsea is an angel dropped from heaven! She spearheaded all of my family’s needs. She thoroughly explained everything that needs to happen and GENUINELY took care of my family.. She does her research and makes sure to pass down any information that can help us. She is even good in following up. Ma Chelsea deserves a promotion and a raise! My family and I are thankful from the bottom of our hearts.”

Great listener and knows what questions to ask

“He is an amazing counselor and has helped me so much. He has great insight and is a great listener and knows what questions to ask and always has an encouraging word.”

5. The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center (Department of Psychotherapy)

the-ohio-state-university-wexner-medical-center-department-of-psychotherapy-

Address: 1670 Upham Dr, OH 43210

Contact Details: +16142939600

Business Hours: 

  • Open 24/7

Website

Instagram

Facebook

Choosing The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center’s Department of Psychotherapy feels like stepping into a highly structured, academic-driven environment. 

Being part of Ohio State University’s Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Health gave the care an immediately clinical and research-backed tone.

Therapy here goes far beyond general counseling, with access to evidence-based modalities grounded in clinical research. These include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT) for trauma-related conditions.

Sessions typically run 45 to 60 minutes, often with homework and clear treatment timelines. This makes progress feel measurable rather than vague.

Care isn’t limited to standard outpatient therapy, as intensive outpatient and partial hospitalisation programmes are also available. 

The ability to move among outpatient care, group therapy, medication management, and interventional psychiatry provides a full continuum rarely found in smaller practices.

But at the same time, the demand here is high, and psychotherapy appointments can involve long wait times that may stretch for months.

Pros

  • Academic medical center with nationally recognised clinicians
  • Wide range of evidence-based therapies
  • Full continuum of care
  • Integrates research-informed treatments

Cons

  • Long wait times due to high patient demand

Appreciate the accommodations

“Of all the places I have been, this has been the best experience of them. Nurses care, psychiatrists look at medical solutions and natural solutions. And I really appreciate the accomodations to the best of their ability so I could work on my school work. They are on top of it. I had a tooth chip and the dentist was up that day. They are also proactive and make sure you have any other medications for other health conditions as well, which you would think would be common sense, but it doesn’t seem to be other places”

Felt safe and comfortable

“I was in here today and felt safe and comfortable. The staff took care of me and other patients.”