the shifter, on the colum is loose and not working properly. what do i do?

You will need to trace your shift linkage from the transmission to the selector (or visa-versa) Something became disconnected. Usually, it's a plastic or Nylon retainer that wore out. Your gear selector uses linkages - a rod popped out of a retainer most likely.

If you are a bit mechanically inclined, put your car on jacks or a lift, go under the car and check if all the linkage to the transmission is a solid connection. If any are very lose or are off, replace the bushings, washers and or nuts. Make sure if you tighten the linkage and, it will still shift without any binding. If the linkage was off, you can be in two gears at once, so go through the gears before starting the car. Once your satisfied it is free movement, put in the clutch, start it in neutral. Let out the clutch. Then put it in first gear and drive it slowly. Put it through all the gears carefully. If you have no issues, you fixed it.

It's an Automatic Transmission.

Than go back to # 1. Make sure the linkage is correctly attached and there are no obstructions in the column.