Rev. Michael Abell, LPC

Rev. Michael Abell brings a combined background in pastoral ministry and clinical training to his counseling work. An Ordained Minister (Rev), a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), and a National Certified Counselor (NCC), he also holds a Master of Arts in Marriage and Family Therapy completed in December 2017. His formal credentials reflect both faith-based experience and graduate-level preparation for working with individuals, couples, and families.

Since beginning pastoral ministry in January 2001, he has spent many years providing counseling across a wide range of concerns, including parenting, premarital and marital issues, ADHD, depression, anxiety, gambling and substance use, legal and religious questions, trauma and PTSD, and grief and loss. He has worked with people from diverse backgrounds - across faith traditions and with those who have no faith affiliation - and has experience supporting children, teens, adults, parents, grandparents, and hospice families.

Married since June 2000 and a parent to five children aged 12 to 18, he blends real-world family experience with clinical skills. He views each person as the expert on their own life and focuses on helping clients identify strengths and practical steps to move from their current situation toward their goals. In sessions he aims to be a supporter, encourager, and teammate, helping clients translate change from the therapy room into everyday life.

Therapeutic approaches and online access

Rev. Michael Abell uses client-centered therapy to place the client's experience and values at the center of the work - this approach helps people feel heard and supported while exploring goals and personal strengths. He also brings cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) into sessions to help clients recognize and change unhelpful thinking and behavior patterns, which can be effective for anxiety, depression, and stress-related concerns. Additionally, he incorporates emotionally-focused therapy (EFT) techniques when working with couples and families to strengthen emotional bonds and improve communication.

Choosing the right approach is a collaborative process. Rev. Michael Abell works with each person to identify which methods best match their needs, goals, and preferences, and he adjusts the plan over time as progress is made.

Offering sessions by video call, phone, live chat, or text-based messaging, he provides flexible options to fit different schedules and comfort levels. Online therapy makes it easier to maintain consistency, access support from home, and engage in care in ways that suit each client’s life and responsibilities.