I am a Bay Area Native, born and raised in the competitive area we now call Silicon Valley. My family was in military-law enforcement, and I had personal challenges, from being a teen mom to domestic violence. My educational background includes a Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology from San Jose State University and a Master’s in Clinical Psychology from Notre Dame de Namur. While in school, I worked with a private practice doing therapy sessions with Law Enforcement Officers and their families. Out of school, I trained with individuals struggling with eating disorders at a residential level and worked in Community Mental Health to support the chronically homeless population. In the jail system, I worked on an acute psychiatric unit providing services to individuals in crisis. I am a Suicide Prevention Trainer for the County of Santa Clara Behavioral Health System. I currently work as a Clinical Supervisor in a residential setting providing support to Clinicians in addiction services. Outside of work… I am a mother to two boys, one currently serving in the United States Army, and my little guy is just starting school. Oh, did I mention I have a wiener dog named Winnie? I adopted her as a senior from a local rescue; she loves snacks and naps. For fun, I enjoy cruising my Indian motorcycle through the beautiful Bay Area, lifting heavy weights, and competing in local CrossFit competitions.

What can clients expect to take away from sessions with you?

This is the part where we get to know each other's style. We will chat about why you are seeking therapy, what you have tried in the past and how we can work together to get you back at it.

Explain to clients what areas you feel are your biggest strengths.

Listening. “This is the problem with dealing with someone who is actually a good listener. They don’t jump in on your sentences, saving you from actually finishing them, or talk over you, allowing what you do manage to get out to be lost or altered in transit. Instead, they wait, so you have to keep going.” ― Sarah Dessen, Just Listen

Describe the client(s) you are best positioned to serve.

I work with individuals and couples. I have experience working with military, law enforcement and first responders.

About Jessica Sparks