RS Portrait of Rell Spickerman

Rell Spickerman, LMSW

Experienced counselor focused on practical change

40 years in practice · based in Michigan · sessions in English · online sessions

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About Rell

Rell Spickerman is a licensed master social worker with four decades of experience in counseling and pastoral care. He has worked as a parish pastor and a mental health counselor at the same time, and he brings that long professional path into sessions. He is based in Michigan and conducts work in English.

He aims to be a guide rather than an authority. Sessions focus on practical solutions to everyday problems like anxiety, depression, grief, career concerns, relationship strain, and phobias.

Book with Rell Now Review online therapy options and next steps.

Background and approach

He uses straightforward talk, humor, and steady listening to help people move past stuck patterns. Rell draws on cognitive-behavioral ideas and client-centered practices to help people notice unhelpful thoughts and try new behaviors. He also uses narrative techniques to reframe life stories and solution-focused steps to set clear, achievable goals.

These methods are mixed to match each person’s needs. His background includes hospice chaplaincy and bereavement support, work as a divorce mediator helping with parenting decisions, and long involvement in LGBTQ issues inspired by family experience. That mix gives him particular familiarity with end-of-life concerns, blended family questions, and gender-related topics.

Sessions tend to be warm, direct, and practical. He encourages risk-taking in small steps and keeps conversations free of judgment. People who want clear tools, plain language, and a steady companion through change often find his style a good fit.

Approaches that translate well to online care

Acceptance and Commitment Therapy helps people notice painful thoughts without getting stuck in them, and then commit to actions that match their values; it can be useful for anxiety, grief, and coping with life changes. Client-Centered Therapy focuses on listening, empathy, and unconditional positive regard to create a supportive space where people can find their own solutions; this approach suits those who need steady, nonjudgmental support. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy identifies unhelpful thinking and tests new behaviors through small experiments, which can aid with phobias, depression, and stress management.

Rell works collaboratively to find which approach or mix of approaches fits best. He discusses goals, preferences, and practical needs with each person and adjusts methods over time so the work stays relevant and achievable.

Online formats available include video calls, phone sessions, live chat, and text-based messaging. Video is helpful for conversational work and skill practice, phone sessions can be easier when internet bandwidth is limited, chat works for shorter check-ins, and messaging suits people who prefer to write between sessions. These options offer flexibility for scheduling, location, and the pace of work with a licensed professional.
Book with Rell Now Review online therapy options and next steps.

Questions people ask

What kinds of issues does Rell help with?
He works with concerns such as anxiety, depression, grief, relationship and intimacy issues, addictions, stress, career and life transitions, phobias, and self-esteem struggles.
What is his therapy style like?
His approach is warm, direct, and practical. He uses listening, gentle humor, and clear steps to help people try new behaviors and perspectives.
How much experience does he have?
He brings 40 years of combined experience from roles in parish ministry, counseling, hospice chaplaincy, and mediation.
What are his credentials and where is he located?
He holds the credential MI LMSW, which denotes a licensed master social worker in Michigan, and he practices in Michigan.
Which languages are supported for sessions?
Sessions are offered in English.
What session formats are available?
Sessions may be held via video calls, phone sessions, live chat, or text-based messaging depending on the chosen arrangement.
How does payment and cost work?
Cost varies with location and therapist availability; sessions are provided through a subscription model that can be canceled at any time.
How do I begin working with him?
To get started, select the Start Therapy button, complete a short matching questionnaire, and then schedule sessions according to the therapist's availability.

What this therapist works with

Most often

Experience
40 years
Licensed
Michigan
Languages
English

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