1. The Center for Cognitive and Behavioral Therapy
Credentials: Dr. Kevin Arnold and team of licensed therapists including Licensed Independent Social Workers (LISW) with master’s degrees from Ohio State University.
Specialization: Depression, anxiety, panic, stress, trauma. Addressing unhealthy behaviors and thoughts at the core of mental health concerns.
Therapy Approaches: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT). Evidence-based practices with staff consistently learning and evolving to incorporate latest science and techniques.
Populations Served: Adults, adolescents, and families seeking evidence-based treatment. Individuals seeking acceptance and compassionate therapy grounded in proven theory and science.
Background: Leadership including Dr. Kevin Arnold are sought-after experts in therapeutic psychology and mental health. Practice focus on addressing unhealthy behaviors and thoughts rather than general counseling approaches.
Insurance Accepted: Contact practice for insurance and fee information.
Session Format: In-person sessions at Columbus office locations. Online scheduling available for existing patients through patient portal.
Location: Columbus, OH (multiple office locations)
Contact: https://www.ccbtcolumbus.com
Initial Consultation: Schedule appointment online or fax referral to office location for behavioral health referrals.
2. Columbus OCD and Anxiety Clinic (COAC)
Credentials: Team of skilled psychotherapists specializing in evidence-based treatments for anxiety and OCD.
Specialization: Anxiety disorders, Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD), conditions that co-occur with anxiety including depression and trauma.
Therapy Approaches: Evidence-based treatments for anxiety and OCD with personalized treatment plans. Compassionate, empathetic approach prioritizing strong therapeutic relationship.
Populations Served: Adults, adolescents, and families throughout Columbus and all of Ohio. Education and support provided for loved ones recognizing their role in recovery process.
Background: Practice serves Columbus and all of Ohio with both in-person and virtual options. Therapists trained to address co-occurring conditions and provide family support.
Insurance Accepted: Contact practice for insurance and fee information.
Session Format: In-person sessions at Columbus location. Virtual therapy available throughout Ohio.
Location: Columbus, OH
Contact: https://www.columbusanxiety.com
Initial Consultation: Contact through website to discuss personalized treatment plan.
3. Blue Boat Counseling
Credentials: Team of licensed therapists with years of experience in the counseling field specializing in anxiety treatment.
Specialization: Anxiety disorders, depression, teen therapy, family and marriage counseling, PTSD.
Therapy Approaches: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), mindfulness, relaxation and stress management techniques. Positive coping strategies development.
Populations Served: Adults, teens, couples, and families in the Columbus area.
Background: Practice has helped many people overcome anxiety symptoms using CBT, mindfulness, and relaxation techniques. Waiting room and counseling offices designed with clients in mind for calm and comfortable environment.
Insurance Accepted: Contact practice for insurance and fee information. Practice acknowledges therapy is an investment.
Session Format: In-person therapy at Worthington office serving Columbus area. Online counseling available for anyone in Ohio via HIPAA-compliant telehealth platform.
Location: Worthington, OH (serving Columbus area)
Contact: https://blueboatcounseling.com
Initial Consultation: Visit Contact page to complete intake steps and schedule appointment.
4. Safe Harbour Counseling
Credentials: Team of licensed counselors providing mental health counseling and diagnosis services.
Specialization: Anxiety, depression, trauma, couples therapy, grief, existential crisis.
Therapy Approaches: Various counseling methods tailored to individual diagnoses and patient needs. Empowerment-focused approach teaching strategies and coping skills.
Populations Served: Adults, couples, and individuals going through difficult life events, mental health issues, life decisions, transitions, and self-discovery.
Background: Mental health private practice located in Columbus, Ohio. Heart of practice is giving people tools to empower their lives and take charge by learning strategies to overcome challenges.
Insurance Accepted: Contact practice for insurance and fee information.
Session Format: In-person counseling at Columbus office. Video sessions available for Ohio residents.
Location: Columbus, OH
Contact: https://safeharbourcounselingcolumbus.com
Initial Consultation: Contact by email, office line, or direct line to schedule appointment.
5. Directions Counseling and Coaching
Credentials: Team of licensed therapists offering CBT therapy and counseling services.
Specialization: Anxiety, depression, eating disorders, relationship issues, life transitions.
Therapy Approaches: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT). Practical, hands-on approach helping understand and change thoughts and behaviors.
Populations Served: Adults seeking to tackle problems by understanding thought and behavior patterns.
Background: Practice offers CBT therapy in Columbus to help clients learn and grow toward more fulfilling life. CBT treatment typically involves 5-10 months of sessions depending on unique challenges.
Insurance Accepted: CBT often covered by health insurance when deemed medically necessary. Coverage varies by provider. Website provides fee and insurance information.
Session Format: In-person sessions at Columbus location.
Location: Columbus, OH
Contact: https://www.directionscounseling.com
Initial Consultation: Contact practice to discuss challenges and treatment approach.
Mental Health Industry in Ohio
Average Therapy Session Costs
Individual therapy sessions in Columbus range from $100 to $200 per session depending on the provider’s credentials and experience. Licensed Professional Clinical Counselors (LPCC) and Licensed Independent Social Workers (LISW) typically charge $100 to $150 per session. Licensed Psychologists with doctoral degrees generally charge $150 to $250 per session. Psychiatrists may charge $200 to $350 for sessions including medication management. Ohio therapy costs are generally lower than coastal metropolitan areas.
State Licensing Requirements for Psychologists
To practice as a licensed psychologist in Ohio, professionals must complete a doctoral degree (PhD or PsyD) from an APA-accredited or ASPPB/National Register approved program. Candidates must accumulate 3,600 hours of supervised professional experience over two years, with 1,500-2,000 hours from predoctoral internship and remaining hours either pre or post-doctoral. Two examinations are required: the Examination for Professional Practice in Psychology (EPPP) with a minimum score of 500, and an oral jurisprudence examination covering core standards, rules, and ethics. The Ohio State Board of Psychology administers licensure. License renewal requires 23 hours of continuing education every two years.
Telehealth Regulations
Ohio permits licensed psychologists to provide telehealth services to clients located within the state. Ohio is a member of PSYPACT (Psychology Interjurisdictional Compact), allowing psychologists with E.Passport credentials to practice telepsychology across member states. Providers must use HIPAA-compliant platforms and obtain informed consent.
Mental Health Parity Laws
Ohio law requires health insurers to provide coverage for mental health conditions. The federal Mental Health Parity and Addiction Equity Act (MHPAEA) applies to group health plans. Ohio’s mental health parity provisions ensure coverage for biologically-based mental illnesses.
Professional Organizations
The Ohio Psychological Association (OPA) represents psychologists statewide, offering continuing education through OPA-MCE, advocacy, and professional resources. Established in 1949, OPA connects members to professional development programs.
Workforce Availability and Wait Times
Columbus has a substantial mental health workforce with multiple psychology programs at Ohio State University, including APA-accredited doctoral programs. Wait times for new patients typically range from one to four weeks depending on provider and specialty.
Common Mental Health Concerns
In Columbus, commonly treated conditions include anxiety disorders, depression, trauma/PTSD, relationship difficulties, life transitions, grief, and stress management. The city’s growing population and university presence bring diverse mental health needs.
State-Funded Mental Health Resources
Ohio Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services oversees community mental health programs. Franklin County ADAMH Board serves the Columbus area, funding crisis services and community mental health treatment.
Frequently Asked Questions
What credentials should I look for in a Columbus therapist?
Look for Licensed Psychologists (PhD or PsyD), Licensed Professional Clinical Counselors (LPCC), or Licensed Independent Social Workers (LISW). For anxiety and OCD treatment, seek providers with specific CBT or ERP training. Ohio requires all licensed providers to meet education, experience, and examination requirements.
How long does CBT treatment typically take?
At Directions Counseling in Columbus, CBT typically involves about 5-10 months of sessions depending on unique challenges. Treatment duration varies based on condition severity, with anxiety disorders often responding within 12-20 sessions of evidence-based treatment.
Is there a specialized OCD clinic in Columbus?
Yes, Columbus OCD and Anxiety Clinic (COAC) specializes in evidence-based treatments for OCD and anxiety. The Center for Cognitive and Behavioral Therapy also provides specialized CBT, DBT, and ACT treatments for OCD and related conditions.
What is the difference between CBT and DBT?
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) focuses on changing harmful thought patterns through cognitive restructuring and behavioral techniques. Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) includes CBT elements plus additional techniques like mindfulness and emotional regulation, often used for more intense behavioral issues. Many Columbus practices offer both modalities.
Does Ohio require continuing education for psychologists?
Yes, Ohio psychologists must earn 23 hours of continuing education every two years to retain their license. The Ohio Psychological Association provides CE tracking information and approved programming through OPA-MCE.