Positive Psychology Therapists in Columbus, OH
Marriage challenges.
Spiritual questions.
Life challenges.
Marriage challenges.
Spiritual questions.
Life challenges.
Are you struggling with what is happening in your brain and in the world? Do you want to be able to show up with more of a sense of yourself? I support people in working through the psychological gunk that gets in the way of living. Sometimes this is getting and understanding a diagnosis. Sometimes it's understanding the wider contexts of family, community and the world. Usually, it includes understanding yourself. Managing mental illness, trauma, and the difficulty of being human in this moment is possible. It can get better. I use a neuro affirming, queer, fat positive lense.
Are you struggling with what is happening in your brain and in the world? Do you want to be able to show up with more of a sense of yourself? I support people in working through the psychological gunk that gets in the way of living. Sometimes this is getting and understanding a diagnosis. Sometimes it's understanding the wider contexts of family, community and the world. Usually, it includes understanding yourself. Managing mental illness, trauma, and the difficulty of being human in this moment is possible. It can get better. I use a neuro affirming, queer, fat positive lense.
My passion is walking with people through life transitions and career decisions in both career coaching and therapy. I have significant experience assisting women with all phases of their careers, including those new to clinical roles, experienced leaders, and people considering or making the transition from clinical to administrative careers. Ideal clients include those who are balancing careers and parenting, as well as neurodivergent individuals in the workforce, and parents of neurodivergent children. I am also here for people who are questioning their education or career decisions, and those seeking to recover from burnout.
My passion is walking with people through life transitions and career decisions in both career coaching and therapy. I have significant experience assisting women with all phases of their careers, including those new to clinical roles, experienced leaders, and people considering or making the transition from clinical to administrative careers. Ideal clients include those who are balancing careers and parenting, as well as neurodivergent individuals in the workforce, and parents of neurodivergent children. I am also here for people who are questioning their education or career decisions, and those seeking to recover from burnout.
I work with individuals who are autistic, ADHD, and/or navigating the lasting effects of trauma. Many of my clients come to therapy feeling misunderstood, overwhelmed, or exhausted from trying to fit into systems that weren’t designed with their nervous systems in mind. They may have spent years masking, pushing through burnout, or questioning their own needs in order to get by.
My goal is to offer a space where you can show up as you are—without having to mask, perform, or explain yourself to be taken seriously. I strive to create an environment that feels safe, respectful, and affirming, where your experiences are validated.
I work with individuals who are autistic, ADHD, and/or navigating the lasting effects of trauma. Many of my clients come to therapy feeling misunderstood, overwhelmed, or exhausted from trying to fit into systems that weren’t designed with their nervous systems in mind. They may have spent years masking, pushing through burnout, or questioning their own needs in order to get by.
My goal is to offer a space where you can show up as you are—without having to mask, perform, or explain yourself to be taken seriously. I strive to create an environment that feels safe, respectful, and affirming, where your experiences are validated.
I am Lauren A. Carsten, an Independently Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor (PCC). I earned my MA in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from John Carroll University. Before returning to my native Ohio, I completed BAs in both Psychology and Behavioral Science—an interdisciplinary degree exploring human behavior through sociology, anthropology, and psychology—at San Jose State University in California. I am skilled in treating mental health issues such as anxiety, depression, and grief, and I have specialized training in trauma-informed practices.
I am Lauren A. Carsten, an Independently Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor (PCC). I earned my MA in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from John Carroll University. Before returning to my native Ohio, I completed BAs in both Psychology and Behavioral Science—an interdisciplinary degree exploring human behavior through sociology, anthropology, and psychology—at San Jose State University in California. I am skilled in treating mental health issues such as anxiety, depression, and grief, and I have specialized training in trauma-informed practices.
I am passionate about helping people tap into and cultivate their innate resilience and strengths. My approach focuses on you as a whole person and the mind-body connection, rather than problems or symptoms, in order to achieve healing and wellness. I believe all people are capable of change and growth with the right tools, and I am honored to be invited on your journey to learning and developing those tools. Through a collaborative relationship, I strive to help you better understand yourself and your world, and to create and maintain balance and peace in your life and in your relationships.
I am passionate about helping people tap into and cultivate their innate resilience and strengths. My approach focuses on you as a whole person and the mind-body connection, rather than problems or symptoms, in order to achieve healing and wellness. I believe all people are capable of change and growth with the right tools, and I am honored to be invited on your journey to learning and developing those tools. Through a collaborative relationship, I strive to help you better understand yourself and your world, and to create and maintain balance and peace in your life and in your relationships.
Allie Fridstein - Capybara Counseling, LLC
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MA, LPCC
3 Endorsed
Columbus, OH 43220
Waitlist for new clients
They say the only constant in life is change. But change is hard! We as humans tend to feel comfort in predictability and routine, and change (especially when sudden, unexpected, and/or tragic) inherently challenges us to sit with discomfort. Even deliberate and "happy" changes like starting a new career, getting married, journeying through gender transition, or beginning a sober lifestyle can still cause a myriad of complicated emotions as you adjust to your new life. Finding meaning in those changes while learning skills to manage the added stress is an empowering, healing, and worthwhile endeavor.
They say the only constant in life is change. But change is hard! We as humans tend to feel comfort in predictability and routine, and change (especially when sudden, unexpected, and/or tragic) inherently challenges us to sit with discomfort. Even deliberate and "happy" changes like starting a new career, getting married, journeying through gender transition, or beginning a sober lifestyle can still cause a myriad of complicated emotions as you adjust to your new life. Finding meaning in those changes while learning skills to manage the added stress is an empowering, healing, and worthwhile endeavor.
Hi, I'm Courtney, a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC) and Licensed Independent Chemical Dependency Counselor (LICDC). I am passionate about helping people find a sense of happiness, authenticity and confidence. Are you having difficulty deciding what comes next in your life, maybe going through some big life transitions? Are you exploring who you are and on a journey of self-discovery? Do you feel anxious, struggle with over control or OCD? I would love to help you find your inner strength and build the skills you need to feel confident and self-assured.
Hi, I'm Courtney, a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC) and Licensed Independent Chemical Dependency Counselor (LICDC). I am passionate about helping people find a sense of happiness, authenticity and confidence. Are you having difficulty deciding what comes next in your life, maybe going through some big life transitions? Are you exploring who you are and on a journey of self-discovery? Do you feel anxious, struggle with over control or OCD? I would love to help you find your inner strength and build the skills you need to feel confident and self-assured.
My clients are people who have had an emotional injury of some sort. They come with psychological pain seeking relief from the stress, anxiety, and depression it brings. They want the emotional pain to stop. Some common issues are grief, forced change, conflict, spiritual trauma, individuation, transitions, or seeing that you are not the person you want to be and desire to become your best self. These are some of the struggles I have successfully helped others navigate to find a more fulfilling life. We work together. I see you with a holistic lens and I am present. You are welcome to a consultation at no cost for an opinion.
My clients are people who have had an emotional injury of some sort. They come with psychological pain seeking relief from the stress, anxiety, and depression it brings. They want the emotional pain to stop. Some common issues are grief, forced change, conflict, spiritual trauma, individuation, transitions, or seeing that you are not the person you want to be and desire to become your best self. These are some of the struggles I have successfully helped others navigate to find a more fulfilling life. We work together. I see you with a holistic lens and I am present. You are welcome to a consultation at no cost for an opinion.
"Between stimulus and response there is a space. In that space is our power to choose our response. In our response lies our growth and our freedom," Viktor Frankl. Everything that life throws at us can be overwhelming. Having a person to talk to in a safe, non judgmental space is important for maintaining overall wellness. Making the decision to seek help is a huge step and very empowering, congratulations!
"Between stimulus and response there is a space. In that space is our power to choose our response. In our response lies our growth and our freedom," Viktor Frankl. Everything that life throws at us can be overwhelming. Having a person to talk to in a safe, non judgmental space is important for maintaining overall wellness. Making the decision to seek help is a huge step and very empowering, congratulations!
Hi, my name is Dr. Amanda Smith and I’m a clinical psychologist licensed in Ohio, Texas, New Jersey, Arizona, and New York. I have nearly two decades of experience working with various populations and age groups. I joined WellQor in May 2019 as a lead psychologist, and I’m now a Clinical Director overseeing a large team of mental health professionals. My team is responsible for the evaluation, care planning, and treatment of adults with mental health issues ranging from mild depression and anxiety to more serious diagnoses.
Hi, my name is Dr. Amanda Smith and I’m a clinical psychologist licensed in Ohio, Texas, New Jersey, Arizona, and New York. I have nearly two decades of experience working with various populations and age groups. I joined WellQor in May 2019 as a lead psychologist, and I’m now a Clinical Director overseeing a large team of mental health professionals. My team is responsible for the evaluation, care planning, and treatment of adults with mental health issues ranging from mild depression and anxiety to more serious diagnoses.
Clients often tell me, they were told: there is nothing more that can be done...for their poor gait, pain levels, anxiety and depression even mood swings. Somatic education and therapy is another option. Judy will guide you to greater self awareness so you can notice your unconscious holding patterns and let them go. Once helpful, these old patterns may be holding you back. The use of gentle movement and touch is freeing and releases the deep seated and often unconscious patterns of pain and trauma. Judy will help you find a way around it...with gentleness and fun.
Clients often tell me, they were told: there is nothing more that can be done...for their poor gait, pain levels, anxiety and depression even mood swings. Somatic education and therapy is another option. Judy will guide you to greater self awareness so you can notice your unconscious holding patterns and let them go. Once helpful, these old patterns may be holding you back. The use of gentle movement and touch is freeing and releases the deep seated and often unconscious patterns of pain and trauma. Judy will help you find a way around it...with gentleness and fun.
People seeking improvement or understanding in their lives can almost always benefit from talking things through. Whether you want to explore childhood issues, heal from trauma, deal with work stress, address anxiety and depression symptoms, or something else, I can help you accomplish your goals. Do you feel un-help-able? Having spent ten years in community mental health, I have worked with people from all walks of life, with all different needs, and feel comfortable talking with most people about most things.
People seeking improvement or understanding in their lives can almost always benefit from talking things through. Whether you want to explore childhood issues, heal from trauma, deal with work stress, address anxiety and depression symptoms, or something else, I can help you accomplish your goals. Do you feel un-help-able? Having spent ten years in community mental health, I have worked with people from all walks of life, with all different needs, and feel comfortable talking with most people about most things.
PriceIsR.Y.T.E Counseling and Consultation, LLC is a psychological private practice offering therapeutic and consultative services to those in need of “Realizing Your True Essence.” While there is no right way to be or live, there is a best way to live for you. I take a holistic approach to therapy that will meet you at whatever place you are in your journey and aid you in becoming your best self. I support clients across backgrounds and identities in their desire to find meaning, clarity, and hope by means of supportive and reflective therapeutic practice and training.
PriceIsR.Y.T.E Counseling and Consultation, LLC is a psychological private practice offering therapeutic and consultative services to those in need of “Realizing Your True Essence.” While there is no right way to be or live, there is a best way to live for you. I take a holistic approach to therapy that will meet you at whatever place you are in your journey and aid you in becoming your best self. I support clients across backgrounds and identities in their desire to find meaning, clarity, and hope by means of supportive and reflective therapeutic practice and training.
With over 20 years of experience, I provide individualized therapy for children, adolescents, adults, couples, and families. I meet clients where they are—without judgment—and believe that trust is the foundation of effective therapy. My goal is to create a safe, supportive space where you feel heard, empowered, and equipped to work toward meaningful change.
With over 20 years of experience, I provide individualized therapy for children, adolescents, adults, couples, and families. I meet clients where they are—without judgment—and believe that trust is the foundation of effective therapy. My goal is to create a safe, supportive space where you feel heard, empowered, and equipped to work toward meaningful change.
Ms. Sara Bates is a Licensed Independent Social Worker with Supervision Designation. she is trained in Trauma-Informed Care for All, Family Therapy, Perinatal Therapy, Sex-Positive Therapy, Pleasure Education and Intimacy Coaching, Couples Counseling, CBT, DBT, and IFS; treating both adolescents and adult populations. Reiki Master/Teacher certified, for stress relief practices and coping strategies.
Ms. Sara Bates is a Licensed Independent Social Worker with Supervision Designation. she is trained in Trauma-Informed Care for All, Family Therapy, Perinatal Therapy, Sex-Positive Therapy, Pleasure Education and Intimacy Coaching, Couples Counseling, CBT, DBT, and IFS; treating both adolescents and adult populations. Reiki Master/Teacher certified, for stress relief practices and coping strategies.
Sara A. Klusas, LISW-S is a licensed social worker who provides services for individuals, couples and families to help enhance positive communication, build or maintain more fulfilling relationships, and aid in the skillful management of life stresses. She has expertise in the areas of self-esteem, substance abuse, career counseling, stress management, anxiety, depression, sports counseling and social difficulties. Mrs. Klusas possesses a strong belief in empowering individuals and families to make positive changes; she ensures each individual and family receives unique assistance according to their specific needs and goals.
Sara A. Klusas, LISW-S is a licensed social worker who provides services for individuals, couples and families to help enhance positive communication, build or maintain more fulfilling relationships, and aid in the skillful management of life stresses. She has expertise in the areas of self-esteem, substance abuse, career counseling, stress management, anxiety, depression, sports counseling and social difficulties. Mrs. Klusas possesses a strong belief in empowering individuals and families to make positive changes; she ensures each individual and family receives unique assistance according to their specific needs and goals.
I am licensed in Ohio with 30 years of professional experience. I have worked with clients navigating stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, grief and loss, and depression. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I tailor our dialogue and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. It takes courage to seek a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps toward change. I am here to support and empower you on that journey. I hold a Master of Social Work from The Ohio State University.
I am licensed in Ohio with 30 years of professional experience. I have worked with clients navigating stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, grief and loss, and depression. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I tailor our dialogue and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. It takes courage to seek a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps toward change. I am here to support and empower you on that journey. I hold a Master of Social Work from The Ohio State University.
○ Welcome! I specialize in providing therapy for children, teens, and families facing emotional challenges or life transitions, with a focus on suicide prevention. I offer compassionate, culturally sensitive therapy for anxiety, depression, and family stress. Together, we’ll build resilience, improve coping skills, and foster stronger connections. ● ¡Bienvenidos! Ofrezco servicios de terapia para niños, adolescentes y familias que enfrentan ansiedad, depresión o estrés familiar, con un enfoque en la prevención del suicidio. Juntos trabajaremos para fortalecer tu bienestar emocional y construir conexiones más saludables.
○ Welcome! I specialize in providing therapy for children, teens, and families facing emotional challenges or life transitions, with a focus on suicide prevention. I offer compassionate, culturally sensitive therapy for anxiety, depression, and family stress. Together, we’ll build resilience, improve coping skills, and foster stronger connections. ● ¡Bienvenidos! Ofrezco servicios de terapia para niños, adolescentes y familias que enfrentan ansiedad, depresión o estrés familiar, con un enfoque en la prevención del suicidio. Juntos trabajaremos para fortalecer tu bienestar emocional y construir conexiones más saludables.
Women carry more than most people ever see. We show up, hold it together, and push through while quietly managing stress layered over old pain. We are overfunctioning, doing too much, while appearing composed on the outside, yet privately navigating anxiety, depression, trauma, loss, shame, and the pressure to be everything for everyone. Somehow caught in our minds between not being enough and also being too much, stuck in our pain. Our therapy work together can be a space where you do not have to perform strength or minimize your pain, and where your experience is deeply and compassionately centered.
Women carry more than most people ever see. We show up, hold it together, and push through while quietly managing stress layered over old pain. We are overfunctioning, doing too much, while appearing composed on the outside, yet privately navigating anxiety, depression, trauma, loss, shame, and the pressure to be everything for everyone. Somehow caught in our minds between not being enough and also being too much, stuck in our pain. Our therapy work together can be a space where you do not have to perform strength or minimize your pain, and where your experience is deeply and compassionately centered.
See more therapy options for Columbus
Nearby Positive Psychology Therapists Searches for Columbus
- Bexley
- Blacklick
- Dublin
- Gahanna
- Grandview
- Grove City
- Hilliard
- New Albany
- Reynoldsburg
- Upper Arlington
- Westerville
- Worthington
Positive Psychology Therapists
How does positive psychology therapy work?
Positive psychology therapy derives from the work of Martin Seligman of the University of Pennsylvania. He and others developed the field of positive psychology building on humanistic theory. Positive psychology therapy is similar to acceptance and commitment therapy, and it essentially quiets emotional distress through positivity, contentment, and well-being. This therapy does not reduce the individual to symptoms and conditions.
When do I know if I need treatment using positive psychology?
If an individual is overwhelmed by emotional distress and general negativity, they may feel trapped. A positive psychology therapist can help them view their emotions and behaviors differently, and approach life with a better understanding of their positive strengths. This therapy can provide an individual with the coping skills needed for a healthier and more constructive life.
What should I expect from positive psychology therapy?
The patient may be asked to explore their signature strengths. The therapist will also ask the individual to talk about their goals, which should be specific, measurable, achievable, realistic, and timely. Discussing negative experiences and symptoms is important, but so is the exploration of positive experiences. The objective is to identify and lessen negative thoughts and behaviors and move toward optimal health and productivity. The individual will see life in a more positive and fulfilling way. This therapy is proactive and may use forgiveness, gratitude, hope, and compassion to help reframe negativity.
Is positive psychology effective in therapy?
Positive psychology therapy is evidence-based and effective. One study found that people with eating disorders benefit from this type of intervention. This therapy encourages the person to reframe their distressed thoughts and move into healthier patterns of functioning. This therapy also aims to move an individual toward what works well in their life. Positive psychology therapy can elicit lifelong change, with higher levels of satisfaction, less stress, as well as positive emotional and behavioral habits.