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- CBT techniques
- Play therapy
- Mindfulness practice
About Susan
LCSW in Illinois with 10 years of experience. Susan Sparks helps people with stress, anxiety, relationship concerns, trauma and abuse, grief, depression, family issues, intimacy-related challenges, eating and sleeping problems, parenting, anger, self-esteem, career questions, bipolar disorder, coping with life changes, compassion fatigue, and ADHD.
Susan earned a Master of Social Work from the University of Illinois in 2011 and became a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Illinois in 2013. She has a long history of community work and volunteering that informed her decision to focus on mental health. Her background includes many years of work with children across settings, and she brings that experience to sessions with clients of different ages.
Her approach draws on research-based methods. She uses techniques from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, play therapy, behavioral therapy, applied behavior analysis, mindfulness practice, and what she describes as holistic therapies. In sessions she introduces practical strategies and practices people can use between meetings.
Susan frames therapy as collaborative problem solving. She looks for strengths each person can use to manage symptoms and build routines. She also works on specific skills such as mood regulation, behavior plans, sleep and eating routines, and communication tools for relationships.
People who choose her can expect straightforward, skills-focused sessions that aim to reduce distress and increase daily functioning. For next steps, complete the matching questionnaire and schedule a first session to discuss goals and plan a path forward.
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How evidence-based techniques shape online sessions
CBT, or Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, focuses on identifying unhelpful thoughts and habits and replacing them with practical strategies. It is often used for anxiety, depression, and stress-related problems.Play therapy adapts activities and interaction for younger clients to express feelings and practice new behaviors. It can help with behavioral issues, emotional regulation, and communication for children and adolescents.
Mindfulness practice teaches simple attention and breathing exercises to reduce reactivity and improve concentration. It is useful for stress, anger management, and coping with change.
Choosing the right approach is a collaborative process. The therapist will work with the client to pick techniques that match goals, preferences, and daily routines. This can include mixing approaches and adjusting methods as progress is reviewed.
Confirm current session formats before booking. The practical benefits of working with a licensed professional remotely include fitting appointments into a busy schedule, shorter check-in options when time is limited, and the ability to continue work without travel. Discuss with the therapist how sessions can be scheduled to fit school, work, or caregiving responsibilities.
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Areas of expertise
Primary focus
Also works with
Experience
10+ years
Listed in
Illinois
Languages
English
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Frequently asked questions
What concerns does she address?
Susan works with stress, anxiety, relationship and intimacy-related issues, trauma and abuse, grief, depression, family concerns, eating and sleeping problems, parenting and anger, among other areas listed in her profile.
What is her therapeutic style?
She uses practical, research-based techniques and focuses on skills people can use between sessions.
How much clinical experience does she have?
She has 10 years of professional experience and has worked in community and child-focused settings for many years.
What are her credentials and where does she practice?
She is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in Illinois.
Which languages are supported?
Sessions are offered in English.
Can people outside the U.S. work with her?
She does not accept international clients at this time.
How are sessions scheduled and what does cost look like?
Cost varies with location; sessions use a subscription that can be canceled at any time. Confirm specific pricing during the signup flow.
How do I begin working with her?
Start by selecting the See online therapy options button, complete the short matching questionnaire, and schedule a first session.
Online talk therapy is not emergency care. If you are in danger, use the urgent help numbers.