geometry-shapes iconGrief, Stress / Mental Stress / Work Stress, Trauma / PTSD, Depression, Anxiety, Relationships, Bipolar Disorder
In Person & Online in New Orleans, LA
15 years in practice
Ages served: 11-65+
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Accepted insurance & self-pay

Joannie accepts 23 insurers
Aetna
Blue Cross Blue Shield
Anthem
Cigna | Evernorth
Cigna | Evernorth - Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Louisiana | BCBS
Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Louisiana | Medicare Advantage
Blue Cross Blue Shield | Anthem (Blue Card)
Christus Health Plan Exchange
Christus Health Plan Medicare Advantage
Compsych
Firefly Health Plan | Cigna PPO Network
First Health Network
JP Farley Corporation
Multi Plan PHCS
Municipal Health Benefit Program
Optum Serve
Oscar Health
Poppins Health
Quest Behavioral Health
UMR
United Healthcare | Optum
United Healthcare | Optum - Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
United Healthcare | Optum Medicare Advantage
Uprise EAP
SELF-PAY COSTS
Out-of-pocket session costs for clients who don’t have insurance or aren’t covered by their insurance for mental health services.
$200
first session
$170
subsequent sessions
About Provider

About Joannie

I am a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW) with 15 years of professional experience supporting clients through stress, anxiety, family conflict, trauma, depression, grief, and loss. I also have extensive experience working with youth and adolescents, helping them navigate emotional, behavioral, and academic challenges. I create a warm, safe space where thoughts and feelings can be expressed openly and without judgment. It takes courage to seek support, and I am here to walk with you as you pursue healing, balance, and a more fulfilling life.

I hold a master’s in clinical social work from Tulane University. In our sessions, I take time to understand the concerns impacting your daily life and collaborate with you to develop a clear plan for moving forward. My goal is to help you gain insight, rebuild confidence, and begin experiencing meaningful improvement in the areas that matter most to you.

I use a practical, growth-focused approach that supports reflection, skill-building, and real progress. We’ll explore your thoughts, identify unhelpful patterns, and build healthier ways of coping. My goal is to help you move forward with clarity and renewed hope.

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Joannie Sparks's profile image

"I am a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW) with 15 years of professional experience supporting clients through stress, anxiety, family conflict, trauma, depression, grief, and loss. "

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Get to know Joannie

Why did you decide to become a counselor or psychiatric provider?

My journey into becoming a mental health practitioner began relatively early in my professional life, during my time as a school educator specifically within the special education department. The experience of serving children with unique needs has been consistently gratifying, although at times challenging, ultimately proving to be immensely rewarding for both myself and the children I've had the privilege of supporting. Recognizing the critical and often underserved nature of this work has also been a strong motivator. Beyond my initial experiences, I have also found great satisfaction in working with individuals across all age groups and developmental stages.

What types of clients do you work best with?

I believe that clients who are brave enough to seek therapy are demonstrating a remarkable level of self-awareness and a genuine commitment to personal growth, recognizing that they may need some guidance to navigate challenges and ultimately achieve their aspirations for a fulfilling and meaningful life.

What's one thing you wish all clients knew about therapy, mental health, or the healing process?

I want clients to know and feel confident about opening up to a therapist to start their healing process.

What can clients expect in their first session with you and in the early stages of therapy?

Clients can expect a clear understanding of my approach, ensuring they feel informed and guided toward the best possible outcomes, while maintaining the confidentiality and security of their information.

What personal experiences or values inform your practice as a therapist/provider?

My personal values does not play a role in my clients outcome. My approach is unbiased and I try to listen to the clients and view and appreciate the lens through which they view or perceive their life choices.

How do you tailor therapy to meet each client’s unique needs?

I try to focus on a client's strength and start wherever they are in their process.

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Other areas of focus

SpecialitiesGrief, Stress / Mental Stress / Work Stress, Trauma / PTSD, Depression, Anxiety, Relationships, Bipolar Disorder, Divorce, School Issues, Family Conflict, Oppositional Defiance Disorder (ODD), Career Counseling, Anger Management, Weight Loss, Step-Family / Blended Family Issues, Social Anxiety, Seniors & Geriatric, Obesity, Mood Disorders, Marital & Premarital, Learning / Intellectual Disabilities, Developmental Disorders, Caregivers, Antisocial Personality, Life Transition, ADHD, Women’s Issues, Self Esteem, Men’s Issues, Coping Skills, Behavioral Issues
ApproachesMulticultural, Culturally Sensitive, Solution Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT), Person-Centered Therapy, Parent-Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT), Mindfulness-Based Therapy (MBCT), Compassion Focused Therapy (CFT), Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavior Therapy (TF-CBT), Coaching, Behavioral Therapy, Narrative, Applied Behavioral Analysis (ABA)
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Education and training

Years in practice
15 years
Graduating institute
Tulane University
Graduating degree
Master of Clinical Social Work
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Additional details

Languages spoken by this provider
English
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NPI number1285299180
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State of practiceLA
Practice location

Practice information

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Joannie Sparks's profile image

Joannie Sparks

Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW)she/her