Therapists in Columbus, MS

Our mission is to serve our communities by providing excellent clinical and wellness care that promotes health and wellbeing for the whole person - body, mind, and soul. Our excellent staff of clinicians provides counseling services for individuals of all ages as well as couples and families. We have therapists with expertise in trauma, depression, anxiety, play therapy, substance abuse, and much more.
Our mission is to serve our communities by providing excellent clinical and wellness care that promotes health and wellbeing for the whole person - body, mind, and soul. Our excellent staff of clinicians provides counseling services for individuals of all ages as well as couples and families. We have therapists with expertise in trauma, depression, anxiety, play therapy, substance abuse, and much more.

Want to live beyond your life? Sometimes in life we get stuck between what we imagined our life to be and what it really is. This gap can create a lot of struggles and distress that can lead to unhealthy ways of thinking, which in turn leads to unhealthy behaviors. It is time to tend the gap and start living the life you imagined free from a depressed mood and anxiety that may be the source of your gap.
Want to live beyond your life? Sometimes in life we get stuck between what we imagined our life to be and what it really is. This gap can create a lot of struggles and distress that can lead to unhealthy ways of thinking, which in turn leads to unhealthy behaviors. It is time to tend the gap and start living the life you imagined free from a depressed mood and anxiety that may be the source of your gap.

We all find ourselves at points in life when our capacity to cope is just not enough for the difficulties that face us. Problems fall on a continuum from a little to a lot, and when they begin to negatively impact our ability to function in important life areas, such as decision making, it helps to have an impartial, nonjudgemental person to confide in. To paraphrase Dante "In the middle of this journey we call life I found myself in the middle of a dark wood with no clear path." Sometimes it to helps to have a guide with a light.
We all find ourselves at points in life when our capacity to cope is just not enough for the difficulties that face us. Problems fall on a continuum from a little to a lot, and when they begin to negatively impact our ability to function in important life areas, such as decision making, it helps to have an impartial, nonjudgemental person to confide in. To paraphrase Dante "In the middle of this journey we call life I found myself in the middle of a dark wood with no clear path." Sometimes it to helps to have a guide with a light.

Claire Griese
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MA, NCC, BC-TMH
1 Endorsed
Columbus, MS 39705
Waitlist for new clients
I believe that counseling is a collaborative partnership between the counselor and client, and the foundation for this partnership is trust. I strive to create a safe and comfortable space in which my clients can untangle life’s struggles and any resulting patterns that are no longer serving them, as well as learn skills to empower them to take charge of their wellness. I frequently work with people facing anxiety, depression, and trauma. I am passionate about working with college students and young adults, as well as the military community, including servicemembers or their family members.
I believe that counseling is a collaborative partnership between the counselor and client, and the foundation for this partnership is trust. I strive to create a safe and comfortable space in which my clients can untangle life’s struggles and any resulting patterns that are no longer serving them, as well as learn skills to empower them to take charge of their wellness. I frequently work with people facing anxiety, depression, and trauma. I am passionate about working with college students and young adults, as well as the military community, including servicemembers or their family members.

My clients are suffering from depressive symptoms, anxiety, or trauma related symptoms, and they are looking for relief. Relief may look like increased motivation, less arguments or interpersonal conflict, or the ability to do anxiety-inducing activities, to name a few. Most clients benefit from a better understanding of why they feel, think, and act the way they do, because then they can make changes that benefit their lives moving forward.
My clients are suffering from depressive symptoms, anxiety, or trauma related symptoms, and they are looking for relief. Relief may look like increased motivation, less arguments or interpersonal conflict, or the ability to do anxiety-inducing activities, to name a few. Most clients benefit from a better understanding of why they feel, think, and act the way they do, because then they can make changes that benefit their lives moving forward.

If you're feeling stressed, overwhelmed, or in need of support, you're not alone. Whether you're facing life's challenges, navigating changes, or exploring aspects of your identity, I’m here to offer a safe and supportive space where you can openly express yourself and develop the tools you need to live a healthier, happier life. I’m Alicia, a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Mississippi, and I'm here to walk alongside you as you begin the process of positive change and healing.
If you're feeling stressed, overwhelmed, or in need of support, you're not alone. Whether you're facing life's challenges, navigating changes, or exploring aspects of your identity, I’m here to offer a safe and supportive space where you can openly express yourself and develop the tools you need to live a healthier, happier life. I’m Alicia, a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Mississippi, and I'm here to walk alongside you as you begin the process of positive change and healing.

I have been a mental health therapist for over 25 years and have worked in a variety of settings. The former director of a state recognized day treatment program for emotionally disturbed children, I have worked in the substance abuse field and treated adults with depression, anxiety, PTSD, bipolar disorder, trauma and sexual abuse, just to name a few.
I have been a mental health therapist for over 25 years and have worked in a variety of settings. The former director of a state recognized day treatment program for emotionally disturbed children, I have worked in the substance abuse field and treated adults with depression, anxiety, PTSD, bipolar disorder, trauma and sexual abuse, just to name a few.

Kimberly Shelton-Hudgins
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, LICSW
1 Endorsed
Columbus, MS 39701
Not accepting new clients
I firmly believe that therapy is a universal right, and I am committed to offering support as you navigate your diverse journey of self-discovery and well-being. You want to heal, evolve, and find meaning in your experiences. My goal is to create a safe space for you to share your narratives and foster an environment of trust, guidance and empathy. I look forward to collaborating with you, and getting a tailored therapeutic approach to suit your unique path. Your journey is marked by unique stories and challenges that deserve to be heard, as you grapple with depression, anxiety, relationship and perinatal complexities.
I firmly believe that therapy is a universal right, and I am committed to offering support as you navigate your diverse journey of self-discovery and well-being. You want to heal, evolve, and find meaning in your experiences. My goal is to create a safe space for you to share your narratives and foster an environment of trust, guidance and empathy. I look forward to collaborating with you, and getting a tailored therapeutic approach to suit your unique path. Your journey is marked by unique stories and challenges that deserve to be heard, as you grapple with depression, anxiety, relationship and perinatal complexities.

Hi there! I'm passionate about supporting children (ages 4+), teens, young adults, and their families as they navigate life’s challenges. Whether you're navigating ADHD, autism, or behavioral challenges; experiencing anxiety, depression, or trauma; or working through grief, self-esteem, or social struggles — I strive to meet each person with empathy, understanding, and care. I also love working alongside parents, offering guidance and support as they find the best ways to help their children grow and thrive.
Hi there! I'm passionate about supporting children (ages 4+), teens, young adults, and their families as they navigate life’s challenges. Whether you're navigating ADHD, autism, or behavioral challenges; experiencing anxiety, depression, or trauma; or working through grief, self-esteem, or social struggles — I strive to meet each person with empathy, understanding, and care. I also love working alongside parents, offering guidance and support as they find the best ways to help their children grow and thrive.

I am interested in you. I believe that every individual has the strength and endurance to make it through whatever unfolds in their life. Stages and seasons of life bring all kinds of difficulties and struggles. Whether you need to work through past trauma or present circumstances, I want to help you find the peace and quality of life you desire. I offer a safe space to explore and identify thoughts, learn to regulate emotions, and assist an individual or group in coping with the stress of everyday life.
I am interested in you. I believe that every individual has the strength and endurance to make it through whatever unfolds in their life. Stages and seasons of life bring all kinds of difficulties and struggles. Whether you need to work through past trauma or present circumstances, I want to help you find the peace and quality of life you desire. I offer a safe space to explore and identify thoughts, learn to regulate emotions, and assist an individual or group in coping with the stress of everyday life.

Welcome! I'm thrilled to embark on this counseling journey with you. As a dedicated and compassionate counselor, my goal is to provide you with a safe, affirming, and non-judgmental space where we can explore your unique experiences and work toward positive change. Drawing from evidence-based therapeutic approaches, I strive to tailor our sessions to your individual needs, empowering you to navigate life's challenges and discover your inner strengths. Together, we'll foster personal growth, cultivate resilience, and develop effective coping strategies.
Welcome! I'm thrilled to embark on this counseling journey with you. As a dedicated and compassionate counselor, my goal is to provide you with a safe, affirming, and non-judgmental space where we can explore your unique experiences and work toward positive change. Drawing from evidence-based therapeutic approaches, I strive to tailor our sessions to your individual needs, empowering you to navigate life's challenges and discover your inner strengths. Together, we'll foster personal growth, cultivate resilience, and develop effective coping strategies.

Willie S Sanders
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, NCC, BC-TMH, LPC-S
1 Endorsed
Columbus, MS 39701
Sanders Counseling Associates provides private professional counseling and behavioral health services to children, adolescents, adults and corporations. We offer couples, individual, group, and family counseling services to help clients overcome life stressors and develop the necessary coping skills to effectively manage challenges. I've had incredible success with individuals who have familial, relational, and substance abuse issues. I love helping people become the best version of themselves without criticism or judgment. Counseling is a gift that I have been blessed to offer through the knowledge and experience I've acquired.
Sanders Counseling Associates provides private professional counseling and behavioral health services to children, adolescents, adults and corporations. We offer couples, individual, group, and family counseling services to help clients overcome life stressors and develop the necessary coping skills to effectively manage challenges. I've had incredible success with individuals who have familial, relational, and substance abuse issues. I love helping people become the best version of themselves without criticism or judgment. Counseling is a gift that I have been blessed to offer through the knowledge and experience I've acquired.

Are you facing challenges in your life and want to make a change? You can do it. As long as there is breathe; there is Hope. It would be my pleasure to support you in reaching the goals that you want to obtain so that, you can live life to the fullest. I have a flexible schedule and will work to accommodate what works best for you. I look forward to meeting with you soon. You can contact my office at 663-352-9568 or email at http:/www.skysthelimitcounseling.com.
Are you facing challenges in your life and want to make a change? You can do it. As long as there is breathe; there is Hope. It would be my pleasure to support you in reaching the goals that you want to obtain so that, you can live life to the fullest. I have a flexible schedule and will work to accommodate what works best for you. I look forward to meeting with you soon. You can contact my office at 663-352-9568 or email at http:/www.skysthelimitcounseling.com.

Hi. I provide therapy and support to individuals and families in Mississippi, Alabama, and North Carolina, using a person-centered holistic approach to work through life's various challenges. With over 8 years in the helping profession, I have had the pleasure of working with individuals, couples, and families, from adolescents to middle-aged adults, who struggle with anxiety, depression, ADHD, PTSD, sexual abuse, OCD, perinatal loss, and mood and personality disorders, among other issues that cause distress.
Hi. I provide therapy and support to individuals and families in Mississippi, Alabama, and North Carolina, using a person-centered holistic approach to work through life's various challenges. With over 8 years in the helping profession, I have had the pleasure of working with individuals, couples, and families, from adolescents to middle-aged adults, who struggle with anxiety, depression, ADHD, PTSD, sexual abuse, OCD, perinatal loss, and mood and personality disorders, among other issues that cause distress.

Whitfield Counseling Services, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC-LA, LAC, LPC-MS
Online Only
Welcome, you are not reading my bio by coincidence. I am not only an Air Force veteran, but I have 15 years of clinical expertise. I have extensive experience working with people of all backgrounds. Much like the sunflower that is directed by the sun, my goal is to help you navigate through life’s obstacles, restore the broken pieces, and ultimately direct you towards your light within. It is my belief that everyone has the capacity to change and grow. I want you to live your best life!
Welcome, you are not reading my bio by coincidence. I am not only an Air Force veteran, but I have 15 years of clinical expertise. I have extensive experience working with people of all backgrounds. Much like the sunflower that is directed by the sun, my goal is to help you navigate through life’s obstacles, restore the broken pieces, and ultimately direct you towards your light within. It is my belief that everyone has the capacity to change and grow. I want you to live your best life!

I am a master's level clinician with a degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from The University of West Alabama. I currently hold the status of a Licensed Professional Counselor. I have been working in this profession for three years and believe that my skillset and tools equip me with the ability to help you on your journey. I am proud of your commitment to the process and look forward to walking through this next phase of life with you.
I am a master's level clinician with a degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from The University of West Alabama. I currently hold the status of a Licensed Professional Counselor. I have been working in this profession for three years and believe that my skillset and tools equip me with the ability to help you on your journey. I am proud of your commitment to the process and look forward to walking through this next phase of life with you.

Welcome! I have been a mental health therapist for 5 years, but I have worked with children and adults for 10+ years. I became a Licensed Master’s Social Worker in July 2018 and a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in November 2023. I find joy in aiding people in learning about themselves and their emotions, so they are able to function better in the world around them. I am a published author, so I enjoy incorporating writing into my practice, as needed, due to its cathartic nature. I approach therapy with the understanding that each client is different and requires a unique level of care.
Welcome! I have been a mental health therapist for 5 years, but I have worked with children and adults for 10+ years. I became a Licensed Master’s Social Worker in July 2018 and a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in November 2023. I find joy in aiding people in learning about themselves and their emotions, so they are able to function better in the world around them. I am a published author, so I enjoy incorporating writing into my practice, as needed, due to its cathartic nature. I approach therapy with the understanding that each client is different and requires a unique level of care.

Elizabeth Marquez-Hawkins
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC, BC-TMH
4 Endorsed
Columbus, MS 39701
With Monarch Counseling & Wellness, Elizabeth Marquez-Hawkins offers therapy to anyone over the age of 16 who may be ready to gain insight into their depression, anxiety, PTSD, substance use issues, grief/loss, or trauma. The ultimate goal is to learn how to live with any of these and to have a productive life.
With Monarch Counseling & Wellness, Elizabeth Marquez-Hawkins offers therapy to anyone over the age of 16 who may be ready to gain insight into their depression, anxiety, PTSD, substance use issues, grief/loss, or trauma. The ultimate goal is to learn how to live with any of these and to have a productive life.

I believe that growth and change are natural parts of life. However, these can be overwhelming and challenging to face alone. I strive to create a safe and accepting space for clients to face these challenges. My aim as a therapist is to balance gentle challenges and nurturing support to help clients find healing and be their most authentic selves.
I believe that growth and change are natural parts of life. However, these can be overwhelming and challenging to face alone. I strive to create a safe and accepting space for clients to face these challenges. My aim as a therapist is to balance gentle challenges and nurturing support to help clients find healing and be their most authentic selves.

Do you constantly second guess yourself or find there are thoughts you can’t seem to let go of? Do you experience lingering grief or need to improve your relationships? If you answered yes to any of these questions, then DLR Counseling Group is for you. It’s a fact. We all carry long-held beliefs that influence our lives. Oftentimes, they were seared into our minds and hearts when we were children. The positive ones cause us to move forward. The negative ones hinder us through fear, anger, self-doubt, hopelessness, or silence. They alter our thoughts about love, race, relationships, death, trauma, and much more.
Do you constantly second guess yourself or find there are thoughts you can’t seem to let go of? Do you experience lingering grief or need to improve your relationships? If you answered yes to any of these questions, then DLR Counseling Group is for you. It’s a fact. We all carry long-held beliefs that influence our lives. Oftentimes, they were seared into our minds and hearts when we were children. The positive ones cause us to move forward. The negative ones hinder us through fear, anger, self-doubt, hopelessness, or silence. They alter our thoughts about love, race, relationships, death, trauma, and much more.
See more therapy options for Columbus
How does your Therapist compare?
Number of Therapists in Columbus, MS
40+
Average cost per session
$150
Therapists in Columbus, MS who prioritize treating:
94% | Anxiety |
85% | Depression |
79% | Grief |
77% | Trauma and PTSD |
72% | Coping Skills |
70% | Self Esteem |
66% | Stress |
Average years in practice
14 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
78% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
61% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
54% | Optum |
How Therapists in Columbus, MS see their clients
79% | In Person and Online | |
21% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
77% | Female | |
23% | Male |
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling
How can I find a therapist in Columbus?
Search for nearby therapists or counselors by inputting your city, town, or suburb; or zip code; or a provider’s name into the search bar. From there, you can filter providers by the issues they treat, cost, insurance, gender, and other factors to find providers who are well-suited to your needs. To navigate between locations within the same country, enter a new city or zip code into the search bar.
Learn more about how to find a therapist
Learn more about how to find a therapist
Is everyone in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory a licensed therapist?
The Psychology Today directory lists providers who offer legitimate mental health services to the public, including psychologists, psychiatrists, social workers, and counselors.
Many have been licensed by the country or state where they practice; providers whose license or primary credential has been verified by Psychology Today are signified by a “Verified” symbol. Some clinicians or organizations provide services for which their state or country does not offer licenses, such as pastoral counseling. They may be selectively included without the “Verified” seal.
Many have been licensed by the country or state where they practice; providers whose license or primary credential has been verified by Psychology Today are signified by a “Verified” symbol. Some clinicians or organizations provide services for which their state or country does not offer licenses, such as pastoral counseling. They may be selectively included without the “Verified” seal.
What’s the difference between a psychologist, a therapist, and a counselor?
Therapists, psychologists, and counselors are all licensed mental health professionals. In the US, psychologists have earned a doctoral degree. The terms “therapist” and “counselor” are used somewhat interchangeably, but generally therapists offer longer-term, mental health care, while counselors offer shorter-term care that may focus on one domain, such as marriage, career, or academic challenges.
Clients should consider factors such as insurance coverage and their primary reason(s) for seeking therapy to determine the type of professional best suited to their needs. Someone struggling with mental health challenges such as depression or anxiety, for example, may wish to seek out a clinical psychologist or therapist, while someone navigating career obstacles or marital upheaval may benefit from seeing a counselor who can offer short-term, targeted support.
Clients should consider factors such as insurance coverage and their primary reason(s) for seeking therapy to determine the type of professional best suited to their needs. Someone struggling with mental health challenges such as depression or anxiety, for example, may wish to seek out a clinical psychologist or therapist, while someone navigating career obstacles or marital upheaval may benefit from seeing a counselor who can offer short-term, targeted support.
What type of therapy is right for me?
The type of therapy best suited to a particular individual depends on several factors, including their primary reason for seeking therapy, their preferred timeline (some therapy types last for a set number of sessions, while others are open-ended), and their personality and preferences—some may prefer a more structured approach. For many individuals, multiple types of therapy could provide a good fit.
How much does therapy cost?
The cost of therapy depends on a number of variables, including location and the therapist’s experience and training. On average, a therapy session in the United States could cost between $100 and $200 or more. If you have insurance, the expense of mental health care is typically lower, but it varies based on your insurance plan details and whether you choose an in-network or out-of-network mental healthcare provider.
What are more affordable or low cost therapy solutions?
Many therapists offer sliding scale payments, usually on a limited number of slots, which consists in an agreement between the therapist and a client to pay a reduced rate. Therapists who provide such arrangements often consider the client's income or ability to pay, but the extent of the discount is ultimately at the therapist's discretion. Furthermore, while group therapy may have different goals and benefits compared to individual therapy, it can be a more affordable solution to address certain types of issues.
Is online therapy cheaper than in-person therapy?
Many therapists charge the same amount for online therapy as they do for in-person therapy—though clients may still find this cost-effective if it cuts down on their transportation costs. Health insurance plans often offer equivalent coverage for online and in-person therapy; indeed, in many places, they are legally required to do so. Text-based or on-demand therapy apps may be cheaper than traditional one-on-one psychotherapy; however, the practice may be less effective and is not likely to be covered by insurance.
Is online therapy a good option?
Therapy conducted online can be just as effective as in-person therapy, as long as there is a strong alliance between the client and the therapist. To find a therapist who provides telehealth services to clients in your area, click “Online Therapy” on the directory homepage and search by your city or town or your zip code.
Are therapy sessions confidential?
Confidentiality is a crucial part of the therapeutic relationship. Therapists in the United States are bound by the regulations set out by the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996 (HIPAA), which aims to protect sensitive health information. With very few exceptions, a therapist will only discuss their client with others when the client has given their written permission. The instances in which a therapist would be required to disclose personal information are: if a client poses a danger to themselves or others, if the therapist suspects the abuse of a child or an elderly or otherwise dependent adult, or if they are legally forced to by court order. These exceptions to the confidentiality agreement are usually discussed with a client before their first session.