Brenda | Therapist, Wellness Strategist, Brain-Based Healer

Brenda is not your typical therapist—she’s a powerhouse of clinical insight, holistic wellness, and human-centered care. With over a decade of experience and an impressive arsenal of credentials—including certifications as a health coach, nutrition coach, and personal trainer—Brenda seamlessly integrates mind-body practices with evidence-based mental health therapy. Her mission? To help clients not just heal—but radically transform.

Holding a Master’s in Clinical Mental Health Counseling, Brenda works with adolescents through adults, guiding individuals through everything from complex trauma and substance use recovery to identity development and neurodivergent support. Her approach is grounded in science, shaped by compassion, and always tailored to the unique needs of the person sitting across from her.

A Deeper Look

Brenda’s clients are drawn to her directness, warmth, and scientific curiosity. She often describes herself as a “brain detective,” passionate about understanding how each person’s unique neurobiology impacts their healing. She blends neuroscience with clinical wisdom to align therapy with nervous system regulation—especially in work with trauma survivors and neurodivergent individuals.

Beyond the therapy room, Brenda is a strong advocate for neurodivergent families, offering educational consultation, 504/IEP support, and collaboration with parents and legal guardians.

At her core, Brenda believes no one is broken. She views every client as whole, worthy, and fully capable of change. Whether you’re facing trauma, rebuilding identity, or simply ready to grow, Brenda offers a space where you’ll feel seen, challenged, and supported every step of the way.

Brenda is currently accepting new clients for therapy and consultation. If you're ready to rise—she’s ready to walk with you.

Brenda specializes in:

Complex trauma and PTSD
Substance use recovery and relapse prevention
First responder and crisis support
Neurodivergent identities (ADHD, sensory profiles)
Anxiety, depression, and self-worth
Family systems, identity exploration, and major life transitions
High clinical needs and general wellness

Her therapy toolkit includes:

Solution-Focused Therapy: Centering on goals, strengths, and what’s already working
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): Challenging negative thought patterns and reshaping behavior
Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT): Building emotional regulation and distress tolerance
Narrative Therapy: Rewriting personal stories and deconstructing internalized beliefs
Person-Centered Therapy: Holding space for autonomy and authentic expression
Trauma-Informed Care: Centering safety, choice, and empowerment
Strength-Based Interventions: Highlighting resilience and internal power

Dr. Matthew E. Sprong | Clinical Supervisor, and Specialist in Integrated Rehabilitation

Dr. Matthew E. Sprong brings unmatched expertise, leadership, and innovation to Black Lotus Counseling Center as its Clinical Supervisor. With over a decade of experience spanning mental health, vocational rehabilitation, and higher education, Dr. Sprong is deeply committed to empowering individuals with chronic psychological conditions to reclaim their lives with clarity, purpose, and resilience.

Dr. Sprong holds a Ph.D. in Rehabilitation and a Master’s in Rehabilitation Counseling and Administration from Southern Illinois University Carbondale. A nationally recognized expert in his field, he has authored more than 60 peer-reviewed journal articles on topics such as vocational rehabilitation, chronic pain, and rare health conditions. His work has been featured in respected publications including PubMed, Rare Diseases, Frontiers in Psychology, Rehabilitation Counseling Bulletin, Journal of Life Care Planning, and the Journal of Applied Rehabilitation Counseling.

Additional Information

His clinical and vocational work includes extensive service at the Department of Veterans Affairs and the Evaluation and Development Center, where he provided rehabilitation services and job placement for hundreds of Veterans and clients with complex psychiatric and medical needs. He has been instrumental in developing independent living solutions for individuals facing the most severe impairments—always advocating for dignity, autonomy, and meaningful recovery.

Currently, Dr. Sprong also serves as an Associate Professor and Chair of the Department of Addiction Studies and Behavioral Health at Governors State University. His academic influence spans multiple graduate-level disciplines, including Rehabilitation Counseling, Clinical Mental Health Counseling, Public Administration, and Human Services.

At Black Lotus Counseling Center, Dr. Sprong combines cutting-edge research, clinical precision, and fierce advocacy to support both clients and the clinical team. His approach is rooted in evidence, empowerment, and the unwavering belief that every person—regardless of their diagnosis or background—deserves the opportunity to heal, work, and thrive.

In addition to his scholarly contributions, Dr. Sprong is:

A Certified Life Care Planner (CLCP)
A Certified Rehabilitation Counselor (CRC)
A Certified Alcohol and Other Drug Counselor (CADC)
A Certified Vocational Evaluator (CVE)
A Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) in Illinois
A Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in Pennsylvania

Get in Touch

We’re here to help! If you’re interested in scheduling an appointment or would like to learn more about one of our team members, please don’t hesitate to reach out. We’re happy to provide any additional information you need. Your inquiries are important to us, and we look forward to connecting with you!

Fuel Your Mind. Awaken Your Power.