Racquel Sparks, LGPC

As a trained mental health provider, I work with young adults (18-30 years old) in using behavioral, holistic, culturally sensitive and developmentally appropriate frameworks to create an environment, relationship and process for clients to explore how past experiences and relationships inform the present and set the stage for their future. Administer assessments, collaborate with clients in treatment planning and work ith them to implement strategies that aim to reduce symptoms for depression, anxiety, PTSD, ADHD, bipolar disorder or prevent the development of mental health disorders. We will work together to help you uncover your experiences, develop emotional language, attune to your emotions and develop resilience for internal coping, effective communication and effective relationships–with yourself and others. 

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To aid in identifying strategies to alleviate distress and manage mental health disorders, I work with my clients to identify skills that focus on mindfulness  (Acceptance and Commitment Therapy) distress tolerance and interpersonal effectiveness (Dialectical Behavioral therapy), correlations between thoughts, behaviors and emotions (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy)  and empathy and acceptance (Person-centered therapy). In therapy, I see my clients as the one most aware of their wants, needs and goals and my role is to remain curious and ask meaningful questions that get them into deeper self awareness and leads them to feel empowered to explore and implement new ways of being. While my default is to honor my clients, I often challenge them to shift out of their comfort zone.

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Through our collaborative work, my clients might be able to decrease, resolve or eliminate negative responses to memories and impact related to trauma. This is a process focused on instilling hope. Meaning, you'll learn some ways to deal with stress, distress, triggers and anxiety related to trauma and related anxiety, depression, dissociation and more. You'll also break cognitive (and negative) associations resulting from experiences or disorders and develop more meaningful thought patterns, behavioral responses and belief systems.

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I graduated from Coppin State University with a Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. I am certified by the Maryland Board of Professional Counselors and Therapists as a Licensed Graduate Professional Counselor able to provide mental health diagnosis, assessment, treatment planning and treatment under supervision.