Care without the wait

34 licensed therapists & providers in Ohio—15 in Columbus. Available as soon as today, in person and online

Therapy for every life stage

Our providers work with individuals, couples, families, & teens for anxiety, depression, grief, & more

#1 for in-network coverage

We accept UnitedHealthcare, Cigna, BCBS Plans, Humana, Aetna, & many more. Self-pay options available, no membership fees

Patients who get better

94% of patients feel truly understood by their provider. 3 out of 4 see improvement in depression & anxiety symptoms within 3 months

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1,186 people sought child therapy help at Columbus in the last year

Discover how starting child therapy can support your own journey toward a happier, more fulfilling life.

Meet with a child/teen therapist as soon as this week

I am a solution-focused, client-centered therapist with experience treating anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, OCD, and trauma...

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As a provider and receiver of therapy, I recognize that asking for help is the hardest and bravest thing many of us will ever do i...

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Lauren A. Carsten is an independently licensed clinical mental health counselor (PCC) and earned her MA in Clinical Mental Health ...

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I am a present-focused, client centered therapist with experience treating anxiety, trauma, substance use disorders, anxiety, depr...

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As a woman of color, I am a culturally attuned counselor who values your unique experiences, providing support and empowerment tai...

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As a clinician that has worked with children, teens and adults, in the midst of extreme stress and crises, I have the experience t...

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As a social worker of color, I don't just treat symptoms; I witness strength, survival, and the courage it takes for our communiti...

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Therapy is weird, uncomfortable, unfamiliar, AND it is an investment in your emotions and your time. I get it, and I am here to he...

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As an African American cis-gender female who used to be a silent sufferer, I understand the difficulty, fear, and stigma of trusti...

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We all go through times in life when we struggle with our mental health- You are not alone and I am here to help you reach your me...

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The key to health and happiness is balance: mentally, emotionally, physically, spiritually; trauma makes it hard to know what bala...

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Life can take some unexpected turns and cause some hurt; it is good to talk with someone when feeling ready to heal and finding th...

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While I don't claim to have all the answers, I want to walk beside you on your journey, whether that journey is through the past, ...

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Cory Capitini is a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in the state of Ohio as well as a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in ...

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I enjoy helping people find the best medication regimen to optimize their well-being....

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Matthew S Harmon

Hear from Matthew S Harmon, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor of Mental Health (LPCC)

View Matthew S Harmon's profile

What is your go-to approach for child therapy?

A usual go-to approach for helping kids in child therapy is to first work on building trust and rapport with the child. Many child therapists prefer play therapy because it allows space for a child to process thoughts and emotions through play, learn skills in a more engaging approach, and continue building rapport with the therapist.

What tools do you teach in child therapy?

Typical tools taught in child therapy include communication skills, emotional regulation tools, tools for recognizing and responding to intense emotions, and problem-solving skills.

How do you know when a client is making meaningful progress in child therapy?

Signs that a client is making meaningful progress in child therapy are when the child better regulates their emotions and can more frequently respond calmly to experiences that previously elicited intense emotions. It can also be when the child can correct their own negative thoughts.

What can clients do in their personal time to supplement child therapy?

Clients, or parents, can supplement their time in child therapy by practicing skills learned in therapy and with parents further growing in their skills to respond to a child's emotions or behaviors.

What should someone do to prepare for starting child therapy?

To prepare for their first child therapy session, a parent can talk to their child about what therapy is for and what to expect. Parents can also prepare by identifying concerns as well as giving positive praise to their child when speaking to the child therapist.

Child therapy FAQs

What is child therapy?

Child therapy, also known as counseling for kids, helps young individuals better understand and manage the challenges that affect their mental health. Common challenges amongst kids include behavioral issues, trauma, bullying, depression, and anxiety. All ages of children can attend and benefit from child therapy at Thriveworks Columbus.

How does child therapy work?

Child therapy works by using multiple techniques tailored to fit the child’s needs based on their age group, their challenges, and the severity of their challenges. It might involve play therapy for younger kids or cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy, art therapy, and others for varying ages. In any case, Thriveworks child therapists in Columbus, OH have the expertise and experience to help kids at their level.

Play therapy vs. child therapy

Child therapy is a type of therapy meant for clients within a specific age group, while play therapy is an approach to therapy that helps children with self-expression and stress relief, among others. Play therapy is a technique that is often used in child therapy to help children express what’s running through their minds when they do not have the words to express their thoughts and emotions. It can get children to express what’s wrong, what might be causing unwanted behaviors, or what they might need in a way that is accessible to them so that therapists can then work to treat the issue.

How to tell if my child needs counseling

It’s not always obvious when a child should see a therapist for their behavior, though in the midst of challenges like divorce, loss, bullying, and other mental health conditions, it’s often a good idea to seek it out. Common behaviors that can indicate a need for child therapy include separation anxiety, bedwetting (at inappropriate ages), and agitation/excessive irritability — especially if it reaches a point of physical violence.

What type of therapy is best for children?

Cognitive behavioral therapy at Thriveworks in Columbus, OH is one of the best types of therapy for children. However, it can be administered in child therapy sessions in a variety of ways that are more accessible to young minds, such as play therapy.

Is child therapy conducted in person or online?

Child therapy at Thriveworks is conducted both in person and online by video. We encourage you to choose the option that works best for you.

How long does child therapy last?

The length of child therapy depends on your child’s needs as well as the goals that you and their therapist might have for them. Generally, child therapy sessions will last for several months.

How much does child therapy cost?

At Thriveworks, we accept most major insurance plans, allowing many clients to pay as little as $0–$50 per session with their co-pay. We also offer self-pay options for those out-of-network or without insurance. Self-pay rates for talk therapy range from $160 to $240 for intake sessions and $135 to $195 for follow-ups, depending on your state. For psychiatry services, self-pay intake sessions are $255–$375, with follow-ups ranging from $175–$300, also varying by state. More information on current self-pay costs is available on our pricing page.

Need more help deciding?

Child Therapy in Columbus, OH—Therapists and Counselors

Childhood is meant to be a time of joy and carefree fun, but many children experience mental, emotional, or behavioral difficulties that disrupt this precious time. Thriveworks Columbus understands the challenges families face when a child is struggling. Our goal is to support children and their families, helping them navigate these difficulties and work towards a brighter, happier future.

Call our office in Colombus, OH at (614) 739-8926 to get started today.

What Is Child Therapy?

Child therapy at Thriveworks Columbus is designed to help children understand, process, and manage a variety of issues, from mental illness and trauma to behavioral challenges. Each session is tailored to the unique needs of the child, recognizing that every child is different.

Children’s brains are highly adaptable, and early intervention can lead to better long-term outcomes. Our experienced counselors use a range of therapeutic techniques suited to children’s developmental stages, ensuring they receive the support they need.

Common reasons to seek child therapy include:

  • Changes in appetite
  • Significant weight loss or gain
  • Difficulty sleeping
  • Unwarranted aggression
  • Persistent anxiety and nerves
  • Failing or worsening grades
  • Social isolation
  • Self-harm
  • Expression of suicidal thoughts
  • Recent changes in family (move, loss of a family member, etc.)
  • Traumatic experiences

What Does Child Therapy Look Like?

Children often lack the vocabulary and insight to articulate their emotions and experiences. Traditional talk therapy may not always be effective, so we utilize a variety of child-specific therapies, including:

  • Art therapy
  • Music therapy
  • Play therapy
  • Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT)
  • Developing coping methods
  • Practicing relaxation techniques
  • Behavioral therapy

Our counselors are skilled in these techniques and more, providing a comprehensive approach to meet each child’s needs.

Scheduling a Session at Thriveworks Columbus

At Thriveworks Columbus, we understand that deciding to seek therapy for your child is a significant step. We are here to support you throughout the decision-making process, offering tools and recommendations to help you make the best choice for your child.

If you think your child could benefit from working with a therapist, reach out to Thriveworks Columbus today. Our therapists are ready and eager to help them live better and set them up for greater success. Contact us to schedule an appointment, and give your child the support they deserve at (614) 739-8926

Pricing & insurance

Our therapists accept most major insurance and we offer self-pay options too.
Learn more about pricing for therapy and counseling at Thriveworks.

Our therapists and counselors in Columbus accept 29 insurance plans

  • Aetna

  • Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield of Ohio | BCBS Medicare Advantage (HMO | PPO)

  • Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield Ohio | BCBS

  • Blue Cross Blue Shield | Anthem (Blue Card)

  • Carelon

  • Cigna | Evernorth

  • Compsych

  • Devoted Health | Medicare Advantage

  • Firefly Health Plan | Cigna PPO Network

  • First Health Network

  • HealthSmart Accel

  • HealthSmart PPO

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Self-pay costs at Columbus
Talk therapy

Talk therapy

Includes individual, couples, child/ teen, & family therapy

First session

$1

Ongoing sessions

$1

Talk therapy

Psychiatry

Includes reducing symptoms with medication & management

First session

$1

Ongoing sessions

$1

Hear from our clients

4.8 Learn about verified reviews
★★★★★
I really appreciate how Melissa listens to me and how she helps me to understand how my brain and my emotions work.
Wren Mar 2026
Thriveworks.com verified review
★★★★★
I appreciate Nan & her commitment to helping and doing it in a way that makes sense for me. I never feel judgement from her. I am able to talk and laugh and be myself. I could truly come to her with anything. The way to get on by clicking a zoom link was also very easy as well as the visit being telehealth. I have 2 small children and would not be able to make weekly appointments in an office right now. This layout is making it possible for me to have therapy.
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Natalya Mar 2026
Thriveworks.com verified review
★★★★
I appreciated my clinician paying attention to details and understanding.
Isabell Mar 2026
Thriveworks.com verified review
★★★★★
I love how Emilie listens to my struggles and gives me practical advice to deal with my realities as well as helps me work through very difficult situations and circumstances. She is an encourager and a challenger in all the very best ways and I truly feel like she wants to help me succeed.
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Julianna Dec 2025
Thriveworks.com verified review
★★★★★
My provider always makes me feel seen and heard. Sometimes just having a space to vent is rare these days, but having someone spell out something that I didn't have words for is a wonderful feeling. I always feel better after a session.
Leonardo Dec 2025
Thriveworks.com verified review
★★☆☆☆
Melissa is an amazing therapist. She helps me to understand what it means to have ADHD, and she helps me learn how to live with it and to recover from trauma, PTSD, and anxiety. My life is better because of being in therapy with her.
Elizabeth Dec 2025
Thriveworks.com verified review
★★★★
I appreciate my provider for being willing to help me with my LOA during the hardest time of my life. I would be homeless and without income without his care and support. I worry he is overworked as a few times I’ve had to remind him of things I needed.
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Eaiston Dec 2025
Thriveworks.com verified review
★★★★★
I like the availability and ease of making appointments. Debora is always responsive to my emails and always kind. She has become a good friend and confidant in my life. I value her professional skills and insight and wouldn't be where I'm at today without her!
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Jordan Sep 2025
Thriveworks.com verified review
8 of 56 reviews

Where to find us

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Address

1890 Northwest Blvd Suite 140
Columbus, OH 43212

Getting here

Thriveworks Counseling & Child Therapy Columbus is located near Northwest Blvd and North Star Rd, off Lane Ave. It is just around the corner from Pelotonia Research Center and a short distance from Upper Arlington High School.

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Phone number

(614) 739-8926
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Languages spoken by OH providers

  • English
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Hours

Saturday 8:00am - 9:30pm
Sunday 8:00am - 9:30pm
Monday 8:00am - 9:30pm
Tuesday 8:00am - 9:30pm
Wednesday 8:00am - 9:30pm
Thursday 8:00am - 9:30pm
Friday 8:00am - 9:30pm

Shown in ET

Saturday 8:00am - 6:00pm
Sunday 8:00am - 6:00pm
Monday 8:00am - 11:00pm
Tuesday 8:00am - 11:00pm
Wednesday 8:00am - 11:00pm
Thursday 8:00am - 11:00pm
Friday 8:00am - 11:00pm

Shown in ET

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