About Cheryl Sparks, MA
Cheryl is a masters level clinical psychotherapist specializing in individual, couples and group therapy. Her private practice is in Wayne, PA, and she is part of a group practice in West Philadelphia. She serves as adjunct faculty and and as a teaching assistant in the counseling program at Eastern University. She has experience working in a mental health clinic, and is comfortable working with diagnoses including mood disorders (depression, bipolar disorder), relationship issues, and abuse and trauma recovery.
In therapy, Cheryl provides a safe and comfortable approach which discovers how thoughts and feelings may have gotten "stuck" in painful patterns, causing difficult symptoms such as anxiety, constant worry or depression. These painful patterns of thinking and feeling may have gotten started in past relationships or situations and can affect not only your personal sense of well-being, but also current relationships or work performance. Cheryl uses a collaborative approach to address the root issues which are underlying the problems you face, helping you to re-gain a sense of peace and control. Her clients find her friendly, approachable and understanding.
Cheryl's approach to therapy is flexible, and depends on your particular needs and interests. Tools such as Insight-Oriented (Psychodynamic Therapy) or Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), relaxation techniques to control anxiety, taking brief inventories, and practicing new communication skills are all possibilities. She is comfortable working with clients who wish to integrate their faith and spirituality into their work. With compassion and understanding, she encourage her clients throughout the difficult and sometimes painful process of growth and healing.
In Marriage and Family Therapy, Cheryl works with clients in the areas of
*Pre-marital assessments and counseling to explore areas of strength and growth, providing a solid foundation for the relationship
*Establishing healthy boundaries
*Building and restoring a sense of trust
*Marriage conflict and crisis
*Parenting children with difficulties
*Pornography and Sex Addictions
*Communication
*Building emotional and sexual intimacy
*Caring for aging parents
Education
Master of Arts in Counseling, Eastern University's Graduate School of Counseling Psychology
Master of Arts in Christian Education, seminary at Columbia International University
Bachelor of Science in Physical Therapy from UNC-Chapel Hill
Facilitator, PREPARE / ENRICH program for couples counseling
Experience
In addition to private practice of psychotherapy, her experience includes clinical mental heath work, participating in research as a therapist, pastoral therapy, teaching and ministry in church and college ministries, and working as a licensed Physical Therapist in a variety of settings.
Professional Organizations
American Counseling Association
North American Association of Masters Psychologists
Christian Association for Psychological Studies.