Meet nikole sparks, amft
You Don't Have to Figure It Out Alone
There is much more to you than you may realize, and being human is both beautiful and messy. As a fellow human, relational therapist, I am here to accompany you as you strive toward living from your most authentic self.
CA AMFT 150080
Supervised by Dr. Jacqueline Gattis, Psy 22045
I am an Associate Marriage and Family Therapist specializing in depth-oriented and attachment-based therapy in Orange County. I come to therapy by way of a career as a designer; I have spent 15+ years working with people to uncover their unique point of view and expression. This leads me to be a firm believer that therapy is its own creative process. It's an invitation to slow down, listen deeply to what has shaped you, and to make space for what wants to emerge.
I approach this work with warmth, curiosity, and a profound belief in the power of understanding ourselves at the root. My practice is grounded in psychodynamic therapy, an evidence-based approach that helps us explore the emotional and relational patterns that shape and guide our lives. Together, we’ll trace these patterns with care, honoring where they come from while creating space for new possibilities.
I particularly enjoy working with creatives, those who have difficulties with anxiety and self-expression, as well as those navigating the intersection of mental health and spirituality—whether integrating their faith into the healing process or untangling pain or abuse connected to their spiritual or faith background. I also work with those facing depression, shame, identity issues, grief, trauma, or relationship struggles. If you’re ready to step into the process, I’d be honored to get to know you.
Education
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M.S. Marriage & Family Therapy,
Fuller Graduate School
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B.F.A. Design, Biola University
You might be here because
Your relationships keep hitting the same walls, and you can't figure out why
You're tired of feeling like you're not good enough, no matter what you achieve
Work success feels hollow, and you're questioning what really matters
Anxiety is eating up your peace of mind, even when everything looks "fine" on paper
You are a creative but are facing burnout, cynicism, or feeling lost about you professional direction
You notice that it's difficult to connect to or express yourself, your needs, or what you really want
You are experiencing communication breakdowns with a partner and feel like you’re speaking different languages
You’re preparing for marriage and seeking premarital counseling to explore your attachment histories and expectations before beginning a lifelong commitment
Carl Sagan
Helpful to Know
Fees
45 mins | $120
Standard, individual session for ongoing treatment. Sessions are typically weekly, but the frequency will be determined according to your needs. I do have a limited number of sliding scale options. Please don’t hesitate to inquire if needed.
insurance
While I’m not contracted with any insurance provider, if your insurance does have coverage for mental health, I’m able to submit you a superbill for out of pocket reimbursement.
Location
I see people both virtually or in-person in Newport Beach with Newport Mesa Individual & Family Therapy
next steps
Starting therapy is vulnerable, and finding the right therapist matters. I offer a free 15-minute consultation to give you chance to ask questions and get a feel for how I work. During the consultation we’ll:
⁕ Discuss what brings you to therapy
⁕ Talk about how I might help
⁕ Answer any questions you have
⁕ See if we're a good fit
Ready to take the first step?