About Madeleine Sparhawk, In-Person and Telehealth Clinician

Madeleine Sparhawk is a Clinical Mental Health Counseling Intern working in her final phase of her Master’s program from Grand Canyon University. She completed her undergraduate in Health Psychology with an emphasis in Public Health and a minor in Russian Language and Culture. She and her husband live locally in Tooele County and have two sons.

As a clinical mental health counselor, Madeleine works with both minors and adults using a variety of evidence-based practices tailored to meet each client's unique needs. For individuals, Madeleine utilizes approaches such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), which helps clients identify and reframe negative thought patterns, and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), which supports emotional regulation and mindfulness. These methods are grounded in research and provide clients with practical tools to cope with challenges such as anxiety, depression, and trauma. Additionally, Madeleine integrates strengths-based approaches to empower clients, encouraging them to recognize and build on their own inherent strengths. By combining these evidence-based techniques with a client-centered approach, Madeleine fosters a safe and supportive environment for growth and healing.

When working with couples, Madeleine uses the framework developed by the Gottman Institute, which emphasizes building a strong foundation of friendship, respect, and effective communication. Through this framework, Madeleine guides couples in identifying and addressing negative interaction patterns, improving conflict resolution skills, and increasing emotional intimacy. The Gottman approach is research-driven, focusing on practical strategies such as active listening, turning toward each other in moments of stress, and fostering shared meaning in the relationship. Madeleine's goal is to help couples strengthen their emotional connection and build lasting, fulfilling partnerships by applying these proven strategies in a way that is personalized to their unique dynamics.

A woman in a blue shirt is smiling for the camera.

Experience and Certifications

Experience

9/2024-Present

Clinical Mental Health Counselor- Intern

Precipice Counseling


2/2024-2/2025

Online Team Grader

BYU-Idaho


9/2021-12/2022

International Student Mentor

BYU Pathway Worldwide


5/2020-7/2021

Phlebotomist, Lab Technician, NAC Health Unit Coordinator

University of Utah Hospital


11/2018-3/2020

Phlebotomist, Lab Coordinator, Supervisor

BYU-I Health Center Lab


Certifications and Memberships

  • Certified CPR, AED, First Aid
  • Smoking Cessation Treatment and Prevention
  • Gottman Method Couples Therapy Level 1
  • Gottman Method Couples Therapy Level 2
  • Associations
  • Member of the American Counseling Association

Associations

  • Member of the American Counseling Association

Therapeutic Journey

As a therapist, I offer a range of services tailored to meet the unique needs of each individual, couple, and family. I specialize in trauma-informed Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), which helps clients identify and challenge negative thought patterns while developing healthier coping strategies. In addition, I provide Gottman Method Couples Counseling, a research-based approach that strengthens relationships through communication, conflict resolution, and emotional intimacy. I also utilize Person-Centered Therapy, focusing on creating a safe, non-judgmental space where clients feel empowered to explore their emotions and personal growth. For families, I offer Family Therapy to improve communication, resolve conflicts, and foster stronger, more supportive relationships. My services are custom for each client, increasing the effectiveness of treatment

Medication

I believe in taking a balanced approach to mental health treatment. While I recognize that medication can be a helpful tool for some individuals, I prioritize addressing the root causes of emotional and psychological struggles through therapy, personal growth, and lifestyle changes. I encourage clients to explore all available options, including therapy, mindfulness, and natural coping strategies, as well as medication when appropriate. The goal is to empower individuals to regain control over their well-being, with a strong foundation in personal responsibility and resilience


Passion for Couples and Family Therapy

I am deeply passionate about couples therapy because I believe in the foundational importance of the family unit in society. Strong, healthy relationships form the bedrock of thriving communities, and by helping couples navigate challenges, I aim to preserve and strengthen these bonds. My work is rooted in the belief that stable, loving partnerships provide not only emotional security for individuals but also create a positive, lasting impact on future generations. Through therapy, I strive to support couples in building resilience, communication, and a deeper connection, ultimately fostering stronger families and a more unified society.

Opinions On Politics/Religion

As a therapist, I believe in upholding values and fostering personal responsibility. I approach therapy with respect for individual beliefs, whether related to politics or religion, while prioritizing a sense of balance and personal growth. While I maintain my own views, my goal is to create a safe space where clients feel empowered to explore their perspectives and work toward meaningful change, rooted in their own values and beliefs.

Madeleine's Favorite Quote by Viktor Frankl

“Between stimulus and response, there is a space. In that space is our power to choose our response. In our response lies our growth and our freedom.”

Call Precipice Counseling at 435-200-3107 to schedule an appointment with Madeleine.