April McElroy
Hello! My name is April McElroy. I am a Licensed Marital and Family Therapy practicing in Tulsa, OK. I received my Undergraduate degree in Psychology in the year 2000 from Southern Connecticut State University. I obtained my Master's of Arts Degree in Marital and Family Therapy in 2015 from Southern Nazarene University. I have experience working with severely mentally ill individuals in the residential setting. I also have experience working in the Inpatient setting with individuals struggling with mental illness and substance abuse issues. As a Marital and Family Therapist, my credentials are grounded in a systemic framework which takes into account how your relationships with people, places, and things in your life play a part in what brings you into therapy. Today there are so many things that may contribute toward feelings of depression, anxiety, anger, and can cause issues of conflict. Individuals struggling with issues such as finances, physical and emotional disabilities may find themselves in a state of feeling stuck and feeling hopeless. I want to extend my help and hope to you. I will utilize a culturally sensitive and trauma sensitive approach in your treatment so that I can address your specific needs. I also adopt the belief that we are all human and we all experience pain. By not being alone and in isolation, we can work through that pain so that you can begin healing and living the life that you want. My approach is grounded in Rogerian or Person Centered Therapy which utilizes a sense of Unconditional Positive Regard. By adopting a "come as you are" approach, I have an acceptance of all the facets that make up who you are today. Part of my role as a Rogerian therapist is to be present and empathic, and humble so that we can relate to one another on a human level. My education and experience are only a part of the experience..the rest is empowering you to believe in yourself that you can trust yourself to make decisions about your life. I also borrow concepts from Therapies such as Reality Therapy, Narrative Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Inner Child Therapy. I will formulate goals with you that reflect what you are doing right and what you feel you need improvement on. The premise behind acknowledging what you are doing is that. all is not hopeless upon entering therapy..you have an abundance of support surrounding you, it's. just that negative self worth keeps you from enjoying the environment that is surrounding you. Together we will move forward by addressing specific areas of your life so that you can free up the toxic beliefs and thoughts about the part of you that holds you back and replace those thoughts and beliefs with more present centered positive ones so that you can appreciate your life better. I want to remind you that you have choices. If you choose me to work with you, I will honor and appreciate that choice and my work with you will reflect what your goals are and how you want to live a more fulfilling life.
Andrea VanGorder
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and a Marital and Family Therapist in Oklahoma. I have worked with individuals, couples and families with a variety of lifestyles including military, civilians, students, and more. My clients have given me the opportunity to work with them on issues including anxiety, chronic pain, stress, life changes, PTSD, family conflict, relationship issues, grief, parenting and ADHD. My approach is to collaborate with you. I believe that if I understand you, then I can more helpful to you. I prefer not to judge what is right or wrong. Instead, I prefer to focus on what is helpful or not helpful. I am looking forward to learning about your strengths. I have trained in Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Emotion-Focused Therapy, CBT for Chronic Pain, EMDR, Yoga, Trauma Focused Yoga, relaxation techniques, mindfulness, and more. My goal to work with you to find the approaches that will suit your needs. Therapy takes courage. You have already taken the first step to reach out for help. The first step is always the most difficult. If you are motivated to continue the journey, I would love the opportunity to empower and support you in your journey.
Diana Lively
Diana Lively earned her Master’s Degree from Northeastern State University in Criminal Justice in 2001. Diana earned her Master Degree in Alcohol and Drug Abuse Counseling in 2013 and is Dual Licensed as a Licensed Professional Counselor Supervisor (LPC-S) and a Licensed Alcohol and Drug Counselor/ Mental Health Supervisor (LADC/MH-S) in the state of Oklahoma working with co-occurring disorders. Diana is a member with the International Certification and Reciprocity Consortium (ICRC) as an Internationally Certified Advanced Alcohol and Drug Counselor. Diana is passionate about helping clients gain insight and make positive steps toward a healthier self and motivates change in relapse prevention services as well as aiding the family with understanding of dysfunction. Diana has worked for two years at a community mental health agency after earning her Master’s while working towards licensure. While working in community mental health, she was afforded the opportunity to work with a wide variety of co-occurring diagnoses and apply psycho-education techniques with her clients. Diana has worked with the court system promoting alternative to sentencing and rehabilitation services. Diana has been working in the Mental Health field for over eleven-years in this area and is a ADSAC Facilitator and facilitates recovery and prevention groups. Diana enjoys providing educational outpatient groups in Co-occurring therapy. Diana’s approach to therapy focuses on utilizing Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and use of the Matrix model in recovery along with other appropriate theoretical approaches and interventions to address the individual client’s and their family needs. Diana is certified to administer Drug and Alcohol Assessments. Diana is CAM certified in crisis work and suicide prevention. Diana utilizes a holistic and wellness model approach to recovery and is very eclectic in philosophical healing earning an honorary degree with a Doctorate in Divinity. Diana’s passion in recovery and relapse prevention utilizes a mindfulness approach and wellness from a background in human behavior. Family focused therapy entails the following: Family counseling developing insight to interpersonal relationships to regain a healthy connection within relationships. Therapist use techniques of psycho education with the goal of teaching clients and their families about the nature of the dysfunction. Family-focused therapy involves members of the family to assist members to understand their role in the healing process of identify dysfunction and focus on solutions. The therapy seeks solutions to resolve family dysfunction with each member role and support within the concept of family. Goals are to heal within members and be active in decision making processes to support one another with more positive communication skills and develop a healthy family unit. This therapy technique supports the family system with interaction, function of each member and how to develop healthy roles within the family unit to enable the family to be homeostatic. The therapy approach is with positive encouragement and acknowledges grief, stressors, anger, and conflict within the dysfunctional unit to provide a satisfying marriage relationship, empowering the family as a unity, communication and acceptance with appreciation of each member to respect boundaries, development of quality time within the unit with the goal of long term values, beliefs and strengths discounting negative characteristics within the family unity as a whole. Examine faith based approaches and examine blended as well as traditional beliefs systems. Diana has experience in working with clients utilizing a healthier manner to conflict resolution by increasing an understanding of the other person, building trust, and strengthening relationships. Diana has experience with multidimensional construct that combines, needs, interests, and personality characteristics that reflect the stimulus, direction, and persistence of career-related behaviors for personal and professional development.
Dustie Morgan-Scott
I am a licensed professional counselor and supervisor in Oklahoma with 7 years of experience working as a counselor. I also have over 15 years of experience in the field of social service, providing support to individuals and children with severe trauma. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, parenting problems, PTSD, domestic violence, emotional and sexual abuse. My therapy style is warm, yet forward. I believe in treating anyone with respect, dignity, and compassion. I see my clients as the experts of their own lives and do not rely on labels or diagnoses to provide the best treatment possible. My approach combines cognitive-behavioral, client-centered, and solution-focused therapy. I also provide trauma-focused therapy when warranted. Together we will create a dialogue and treatment plan that is true to you and your unique needs. Choosing to engage in therapeutic services is a brave step forward in your healing process. If you are ready to take that step, I will be here to give support and encouragement every step of the way! I look forward to joining you in creating your best life!
Shannon Sartori
My name is Shannon and I am an LCSW in Norman, OK. I have worked in a therapeutic setting for over 18 years and still feel it is my calling. I have worked in youth and family centers, been a coordinator for in-school therapy, a manager for Victims of Crime Act, worked with the court and prison systems, completed assessment and referral for SMI individuals, and have been in private practice. My therapy style is relaxed, warm and my approach is CBT, Psychodynamic and the empowerment approach. I believe we all have strengths and once we begin to recognize them we will begin to use them and will continue to build. I look forward to working with you.
Shalom Palacio-Hollmon
I am licensed in Oklahoma with 20 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, and depression. I also have experience working with coping with life changes. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!
Jane Mata
I am licensed in Oklahoma with 20 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, eating disorders, & bipolar disorder. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. I am here to support & empower you in that journey.
Tracy Ford
I am licensed in Oklahoma with 3 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & depression. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!
Brooke Brunken
I am licensed in Oklahoma with 13 years of professional work experience. I use a laid-back, solution-focused approach to therapy. I like to help my clients find small things they can do that will make a big impact in their lives. I also like to help my clients explore how their lifestyles and habits impact their lives in both negative and positive ways.
David Peters
I am licensed in Oklahoma with 35 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, coping with life changes, & executive and professional coaching. I believe as a therapist it is important to be very interactive with my clients and offer an environment that is safe and conducive to sharing information openly. I regularly practice mindfulness meditation and encourage my clients to engage in said practice as part of our work together when possible. I have found it to be personally significant in my life and the practice has much to offer for all ages. I have been to Thailand many times and practiced my meditation skills in a variety of settings such as Buddhist monastery's and various workshop opportunities. In October 2024 I am moving to Thailand to further develop these skills and be able to help my clients even more. I will continue my work with BetterHelp from there as well.
How to find a therapist for counseling in Sparks
Finding the best therapist close by in Sparks can feel challenging, but know that once you narrow your search for a counselor serving your area, you can find a therapist in your city that is accepting new clients and fits your goals. Whether you're struggling with depression, anxiety, marriage, family issues, or other emotional challenges, feel proud that you have begun your search to find the mental health care services with therapists in Sparks that work best for you in order to begin your personal journey towards emotional healing with a therapist.
Understanding the type of therapy you'd like to search for is crucial before finding a therapist or psychologist in Sparks. Perhaps you're interested in narrowing your search for a psychotherapist that can offer psychodynamic, cognitive-behavioral (CBT), talk therapy, provide group therapy, marriage and family therapy for individuals or couples, or couples therapy. Each type of support of this kind with BetterHelp therapists can offer various benefits and address or treat different disorders. If you're still unsure or are new to counseling in Sparks, feel free to contact the provider via email to find out which methods they practice.
It is also important to understand that mental health professionals in the United States are accredited to provide care, helping individuals and couples, with a variety of licenses for therapists. These include licensed marriage and family therapist (LMFT), licensed clinical social worker (LCSW), and clinical psychologist or doctor of psychology (PsyD). Regardless of their licensure, they are trained able to treat individuals and couples counseling, and sometimes children, in any type of therapy in the Sparks region and in the state of Oklahoma. Find a therapist under any of these distinctions and know that the sessions they offer can provide a safe place to heal.
A mental health counselor working through their own in-person therapy practice in Sparks or online may assist clients in improving healthy relationships, communication skills, working through life transitions, couples counseling, managing a mood disorder, improving coping skills, self help tips, offer life coaching, family therapy, or change in negative thinking patterns. A Sparks therapist may also provide a safe place and validation for clients experiencing emotional pain, or that simply want a psychological assessment. Verified providers and therapists can provide licensed marriage and couples therapy, tailor to individual needs, and create a therapeutic relationship as a National Certified Counselor.
There are all kinds of therapists working with clients today across the United States and in the greater Sparks area offering:
- CBT
- DBT
- Substance use therapy
- Couples therapy
When you're ready to start your search keep in mind what support you'd like your provider to be most experienced with and choose an experienced provider with a practice located near you in the city of Sparks, elsewhere in Lincoln, or in the greater state of Oklahoma. Get matched with one of the therapists working on the BetterHelp platform today.
Frequently asked questions (FAQs) about therapists and mental health services
Some other commonly asked questions on therapy with a licensed counselor and BetterHelp serving the Sparks area can be found below:
How does the cost of in-person counseling with a therapist compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed Sparks therapist?
The average price of an in-person therapy session in the US with most therapists is $100 to $200 per hour. These prices may be higher in Sparks due to a higher cost of living, and a limited number of therapists taking new clients. The price also depends on the type of provider you are looking for. See the following average prices for various mental health providers without insurance:
- Counseling with a psychiatrist: $150-$500
- Counseling with therapists: $100-300
- Therapy with a psychologist: $100
While many psychologists in Sparks may not take health insurance, some in the state of Oklahoma may work on a sliding scale, meaning they'll factor in your income and charge what you can afford per session. With a BetterHelp therapist throughout the state of Oklahoma you can expect significantly more affordable options, with therapists sessions ranging from $65 to $100 per week (billed every four weeks).
How is a licensed therapist on this Sparks online therapy platform verified?
Therapists in Sparks, Oklahoma working on BetterHelp are licensed, trained, experienced, and accredited as a doctor of psychology (PhD / PsyD), licensed marriage and family therapists (LMFT), licensed clinical social worker (LCSW / LICSW), or licensed professional counselors (LPC). All of these psychology clinicians have a Masters Degree or a Doctorate Degree in their field of psychology sciences, and follow the APA Code of Ethics. Therapists have been qualified and certified by their state's professional board after successfully completing the necessary education, exams, training and practice with a patient, and extensive experience in a healthcare clinic or treatment centers, in order to become a mental health provider. While their lived experience, expertise, careers, and background vary, therapists here all possess at least 3 years and 1,000 hours of hands-on experience with adult and sometimes teen patients, and have the necessary therapist credentials to provide a safe space for long lasting emotional healing in therapy.
Please note BetterHelp does not offer or provide care from Sparks psychiatrists to prescribe a drug or medication as treatment, or perform psychological assessments and other psychiatric services.
How does working with a professional counselor in BetterHelp online therapy sessions work?
BetterHelp clinicians and therapists treat clients online across the United States (individuals and couples) through life transitions, inner child exploration, long term depression or anxiety, post traumatic stress disorder, and more. An online mental health professional, including the therapists in Sparks above, can work with young adults, children, adolescents, and adults virtually as an accredited licensed clinical social worker (LCSW) or licensed marriage and family therapist (LMFT). You do not have to commute to a an office as a psychotherapy client.
Through BetterHelp therapy, you can partake in video, phone, or live chat therapy sessions with your licensed therapist. You can work through various symptoms, use the in app journaling feature, and receive worksheets. You'll also find support groups or group therapy helping individuals on topics including managing life transitions, symptoms affecting sexual health, behavioral health, coping skills for anxiety, depression, trauma, stress, marriage counseling, and more. Get matched today.
What mental health issues can psychotherapy address with the help of psychologists?
BetterHelp's verified therapists specialize and have clinical experience in a wide range of mental health issues and modalities, helping clients to feel better and improve their lives every day. See below for examples.
Our therapists specialties on BetterHelp include:
- Cognitive behavioral therapy - This is provided by professional counselors, helping clients identify and change negative thought patterns through structured sessions.
- Behavior therapy - Behavior therapy techniques are used to help clients modify harmful behaviors and develop healthier habits, often through the guidance of a professional counselor.
- EMDR therapy - EMDR therapists assist clients in processing traumatic memories to alleviate emotional distress and improve overall well-being, utilizing the expertise of a professional counselor.
- Talk therapy - Clients explore their feelings and develop strategies for dealing with various mental health issues, often guided by a professional counselor.
- Depression - This counseling is designed to help individuals manage symptoms of depression and improve their mood and functioning, often working closely with a professional counselor.
- Anxiety disorders - Sessions for anxiety disorders, offer strategies to manage and reduce anxiety symptoms effectively, often through counseling sessions with a professional counselor.
- Stress - Tools and techniques to help clients cope with stress and improve their mental resilience, frequently under the supervision of a professional counselor.
- Eating disorders - Professionals experienced in eating disorders offer specialized counseling to address unhealthy eating patterns and body image issues, with the support of a professional counselor.
- Grief - Support and guidance are offered to clients experiencing grief, helping them navigate the stages of loss, often in collaboration with a counselor.
- Attachment therapy - Therapists use this to help clients understand and improve their emotional bonds and relationships, often with the assistance of a counselor.
- Relationships - Therapists work with clients to improve communication, resolve conflicts, and strengthen their connections with others, often using the skills of a counselor.
- Children, adolescents, and teens - Therapists specializing in youth therapy address the unique mental health needs of children, adolescents, and teens, often involving a counselor in the process.
- Addiction (substance abuse) - Therapists offer counseling for addiction, helping clients overcome substance abuse and maintain long-term recovery, often under the guidance of a counselor.
- Divorce - Therapists support individuals through the emotional and practical challenges of ending a marriage, often working with a psychologist to provide comprehensive care.
- Trauma or PTSD - Therapists specializing in trauma and PTSD help clients process traumatic experiences and reduce their symptoms, frequently collaborating with a psychologist.
- Bipolar disorder - Therapists provide counseling to manage the mood swings and challenges associated with bipolar disorder, often in consultation with a psychologist.
- Psychodynamic treatment - Therapists use psychodynamic treatment to explore unconscious processes and how they affect current behavior, often guided by psychologists.
- Career counseling - Therapists assist clients in making informed decisions about their professional paths and resolving work-related issues, often with the help of psychologists.
- Alcohol use disorders - Therapists offer specialized counseling to help clients manage and overcome alcohol use disorders, frequently under the supervision of psychologists.
- OCD - Therapists provide strategies and support to manage obsessive-compulsive disorder symptoms, often via psychotherapy.
- ADHD - Therapists offer counseling to help clients with ADHD improve focus, organization, and overall functioning, often via psychotherapy.
- Mood disorders - Therapists work with clients to stabilize and improve mood through various therapeutic approaches, frequently in psychotherapy.
- Sex addiction
- Complex trauma
- Life transitions
You may also be struggling with relationship problems that could be addressed in couples therapy or with a sex therapist. In that case, you may choose to work with one of BetterHelp's experienced cognitive-behavioral therapists or licensed marriage family therapists (LMFT) who work with clients in relationships. You can also try a Sparks provider through BetterHelp's sister platform, ReGain, which is dedicated to couples and spouses worldwide with licensed therapists.
How do I know if online counseling is right for my family in Sparks?
One of the potentially rewarding aspects of working with a Sparks therapist is the validation and active listening they can provide. Your friends and loved ones may also be available to listen, but you may feel that they may lack the skills to provide objective guidance. Counselors and therapists are trained to respond to various concerns, symptoms, and mental health conditions.
Therapists in your city can support you toward a healthier emotional state, regardless of your mental health, life concerns, or healing needs. While supporting individuals in developing healthier habits, another good benefit of Sparks therapy is having an understanding, safe space with a non-judgmental party who can support you through challenging experiences.
Many people have sensitive topics that they may feel ashamed to discuss with their friends or partner. A Sparks therapist can help you confront these concerns and open up through unique methods of support. There are also many types of therapy, such as art therapy, where you may find you can express yourself through creativity instead of words with a psychotherapist.
With a lot of people in OK, therapists may be booked out with clients. Through the list of profiles or therapists above and others within BetterHelp's team, you may be able to find a psychologist within 24 to 48 hours. If you're searching to find a a nearby psychotherapist close to 74869 or the surrounding zip codes, consider others available through the BetterHelp site where you can schedule a session based on your and the therapist's schedule. No matter if you are seeking help from therapists in your area or beyond, online therapy can be a great option.
How should I prepare for my first therapy session with a Sparks counselor?
Before seeing your Sparks therapist, prep for your session by reading to understand the process. You might write a list of questions you want to ask your psychotherapist, any emotional pain you may feel, and the ways in which you hope to improve. When you attend your session, you can let our therapists know if you have any concerns or feel unsure about what to talk about. Sparks therapists here may help guide you with open-ended therapeutic questions while offering mental health services. The first session will often serve as an intake to get to know you as a person and learn why you're attending therapy.
Should I find a therapist or psychologist for therapy if I feel fine?
Some simply don't feel the need to see a psychologist. However, some people may avoid attending therapy due to stigma or preconceived notions of what it might entail. Although psychologists often support people with mental health conditions, you do not need a diagnosis or specific condition. You can discuss grief, relationship concerns, stress, or life changes and ask for general feedback. A Sparks licensed clinical social worker may help you gain power over your life and emotions while you navigate day-to-day experiences.
Gaining a new perspective on yourself through various therapies might allow you to improve your self-esteem, work through relationships, and gain a better sense of your mental health goals. The success you may find with a Sparks counselor can be dependent on your process.
People may also attend therapy for specific motives, such as bullying, an autism diagnosis, a desire to learn mindfulness meditation, personality concerns, trouble with office workers, specific phobias, and many other principles that a counselor can help with.
Is mental health care and therapy with a therapist worth it?
Therapy with a licensed counselor is effective and has the power to change individuals' lives. Each client is at a different stage of their emotional healing journey in life, as each human can be unique in their personality, expression, skills, and goals. A psychologist can target various symptoms, experiences, and personalities to help you feel your best and put you on the path to healing. Unlike advice from a friend, family, or non-professional, a mental health therapist has an understanding of various disorders like ADHD and depression with many hours of experience in treating adults in their practice. For this reason, seeing an evidence based psychologist in Sparks, Oklahoma can be worth it. Over 41 million adults in the US attend therapy services each year, showing it's a popular option and is proven to be effective.
Sparks has many clinicians who practice person or client-centered individual therapy in-person and through online sessions to assist clients in their healing journey. If you opt into online therapy, you might also be able to meet with providers all over the United States and change therapists easily at any time. Many people struggling with anxiety and depression, substance abuse, body image issues, and more find therapists that are a good fit for them, feel supported, and gain further insight into their lives through internet-based therapy.
Do therapists judge you in therapy sessions during telehealth appointments?
The boundaries between you and a therapist are in place to help you and them regarding ethical concerns. Mental health professionals are held by ethical standards through the American Psychological Association (APA) and are not allowed to judge or harm their clients. If you are concerned about sharing details about yourself, feel free to withhold personal information. Their job in the therapeutic relationship is to create a safe place, help you gain a deeper understanding of your mental health, and support you. You might consider changing counselors if you don't feel safe or respected.
Stay up to date with the leading online counseling platform for Sparks, Oklahoma
To stay up to date with BetterHelp's initiatives through their social channels, you can follow them on Pinterest, LinkedIn, Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook. For mental health tips, check out the BetterHelp YouTube channel.
Take some time today to learn more about the team of Sparks therapists at BetterHelp to understand the services available to you clearly. If you are new to therapy or have any questions about the services and terms, please reach out to customer service through the contact page or send an email to contact@betterhelp.com.
If you’re ready to sign up for online therapy, consider signing up with a platform like BetterHelp and get matched within 24 to 48 hours.
If you are experiencing a crisis or emergency, don't use this site's online services. If you are in life-threatening danger, call 911. If you require support for a crisis, reach out to the hotlines below:
- National Domestic Violence Hotline: 1-800-799-SAFE (7233)
- National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1-800-273-TALK (8255)
- Crisis Text Line: Text HOME to 741741
- Veterans Crisis Line: Call 1-800-273-8255 (and press 1) or text 838255. For support for the deaf and hard of hearing community, please use your preferred relay service or dial 711 then 1-800-273-8255.
- Trevor Lifeline (LGBTQ Lifeline): (866)488-7386
- SAMHSA National Helpline (Substance Use): (800)662-4357
- National Eating Disorder Association Helpline:1-800-931-2237 (M-Th: 9 AM-9 PM EST, Fri 9 AM - 5 PM EST)
- Child Help Hotline: Call 1-800-422-4453 or use the online chat feature
- National Anti-Hazing Hotline for young adults, adolescents, and adults: 1-888-NOT-HAZE (1-888-668-4293)
- Physician Crisis Support Line: Contact 1-888-409-0141 if you are a first responder or medical provider experiencing crises related to Covid-19
- Sexual Assault Hotline: Call RAINN at 1-800-656-4673
Below are some of the zip codes served by BetterHelp therapists in Sparks:
74869