Rell Spickerman, LMSW

Rell Spickerman brings parallel careers in parish ministry and mental health counseling together to offer grounded, practical support for individuals, couples, and families. He has long served as a parish pastor while maintaining a practice as a mental health counselor, and his experience also includes work as a hospice chaplain offering bereavement support and service as a divorce mediator assisting parents in making decisions focused on their children’s needs. He is especially invested in LGBTQ issues informed by his transgender grandson’s journey and brings that personal perspective to his clinical work.

As a therapist he prefers to act as a guide by the side rather than a sage on a stage, helping clients find practical solutions that fit their lives. He holds the LMSW credential, which means Licensed Master Social Worker, and he blends theory and practice across several therapeutic methods. His clinical strengths include cognitive-behavioral counseling, rational emotive psychotherapy, anger management with particular experience working with men who abuse, and Life Work Planning and Career Development. He also has modest experience with Ericksonian hypnotherapy and healing storytelling.

Rell is a non-judgmental listener who routinely uses humor and unconditional support to reduce resistance to change. He affirms growth and risk-taking, values unconditional positive regard, and seeks to help people discover truths that free them to move forward.

Therapeutic approaches for online care and personal growth

Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) helps clients notice difficult thoughts and feelings without being ruled by them, and then commit to actions that reflect their values. It is often used for anxiety, depression, and navigating life transitions. Client-Centered Therapy focuses on creating an accepting, empathetic relationship in which the client’s own insights and strengths guide change, making it useful for self-esteem, relationship concerns, and identity work. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) examines patterns of thinking and behavior and teaches practical skills to reduce distress and improve coping for issues like anxiety, depression, and anger.

Licensed professionals and therapists often blend these methods, and Rell Spickerman works collaboratively with clients to determine which approaches best match their needs, goals, and personal preferences. That process includes reviewing what has and has not helped in the past and adjusting the plan as progress unfolds.

Online therapy with Rell is offered via video calls, phone sessions, live chat, or text-based messaging to provide flexible access to care. These formats make it easier to fit sessions into busy schedules, connect from different locations in Michigan, and continue support between appointments, while still focusing on effective, goal-oriented work.