Rell Spickerman, LMSW
Pastor-trained therapist focused on practical solutions
- LMSW licensed counselor
- 40 years experience
- LGBTQ and bereavement focus
About Rell Spickerman
Rell Spickerman is a Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW) and an experienced counselor who combines decades of pastoral work with clinical practice to support individuals and couples. He has maintained two concurrent careers as a parish pastor and a mental health counselor, bringing both spiritual sensitivity and therapeutic skill to his work. His professional background also includes hospice chaplaincy, where he provided bereavement support to families, and work as a divorce mediator helping couples make parenting decisions that prioritize their children’s needs.
Deeply invested in LGBTQ issues, he cites his transgender grandson's journey as a meaningful influence on that focus. He approaches therapy as a guide by the side rather than a sage on a stage, emphasizing practical, solution-oriented work for clients facing relationship, grief, career, addiction, trauma, or life-transition challenges. His clinical expertise includes cognitive-behavioral counseling, rational emotive psychotherapy, anger management - particularly with men who have abused - and Life Work Planning and Career Development. He also has modest experience with Ericksonian hypnotherapy and healing storytelling.
He blends theory and practice while encouraging growth and appropriate risk-taking. Known as a non-judgmental listener, he routinely uses humor and unconditional support to reduce resistance to change. An old-fashioned believer in unconditional positive regard, he seeks to help people find truths that lead to greater freedom. He practices in Michigan and brings 40 years of experience to his work.
Deeply invested in LGBTQ issues, he cites his transgender grandson's journey as a meaningful influence on that focus. He approaches therapy as a guide by the side rather than a sage on a stage, emphasizing practical, solution-oriented work for clients facing relationship, grief, career, addiction, trauma, or life-transition challenges. His clinical expertise includes cognitive-behavioral counseling, rational emotive psychotherapy, anger management - particularly with men who have abused - and Life Work Planning and Career Development. He also has modest experience with Ericksonian hypnotherapy and healing storytelling.
He blends theory and practice while encouraging growth and appropriate risk-taking. Known as a non-judgmental listener, he routinely uses humor and unconditional support to reduce resistance to change. An old-fashioned believer in unconditional positive regard, he seeks to help people find truths that lead to greater freedom. He practices in Michigan and brings 40 years of experience to his work.
Areas of Expertise
Primary Focus
Also Specializes In
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseIntimacy-related issuesEating disordersParenting issuesAnger managementSelf esteemBipolar disorderCoping with life changesCoachingCompassion fatigue
Additional Focus Areas
Aging and geriatric issuesBlended family issuesCancerCommitment issuesDivorce and separationDomestic violenceEmptinessFamily of origin issuesFamily problemsForgivenessGender dysphoriaGuilt and shameHospice and end-of-life counselingInfidelityJealousyLife purposeMidlife crisisVeteran and Armed Forces IssuesPanic disorder and panic attacksPersonality disordersPhobiasPolyamory / non-monogamous relationshipsPrejudice and discriminationProcess addiction (porn, exercise, gambling)Self-loveSex addiction
Therapeutic Approach
Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) Client-Centered Therapy Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) Narrative Therapy Solution-Focused Therapy Trauma-Focused Therapy
Frequently Asked Questions
How much experience does Rell Spickerman have?
Rell Spickerman has 40 years of experience.
Is Rell Spickerman a licensed therapist?
Yes. He holds the credential LMSW, which stands for Licensed Master Social Worker. His license details are MI LMSW 6801013241.
In which languages does Rell Spickerman provide therapy?
He provides therapy in English.
Where is Rell Spickerman located?
He is located in Michigan.
How can I work with Rell Spickerman as my therapist?
You can work with Rell Spickerman through video calls, phone sessions, live chat, or text-based messaging.
Does Rell Spickerman work with international clients?
No. Rell Spickerman does not currently work with international clients.
How much does therapy with Rell Spickerman cost?
The cost of therapy can vary depending on factors such as your location and the therapist's availability. Sessions are billed through a subscription that can be canceled at any time, for any reason. For current details, click the "Start Therapy" button on this page.
How can I get started with therapy?
Getting started is quick and straightforward. Click the "Start Therapy" button and complete a short questionnaire that helps match you with your therapist. Depending on availability, you can then schedule your first session, which may take place by phone, video call, live chat, or in-app messaging.
Therapeutic approaches that work well online
Rell Spickerman incorporates Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Client-Centered Therapy, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) into his online practice. ACT focuses on clarifying personal values and taking committed action toward them while accepting difficult thoughts and feelings - it can help with depression, anxiety, and life transitions. Client-Centered Therapy emphasizes empathetic listening and unconditional positive regard, creating a space for clients to explore their concerns and find their own solutions - this approach supports relationship, grief, and identity work. CBT involves identifying and changing unhelpful thought patterns and behaviors to improve mood and functioning, and it is often effective for anxiety, depression, and coping with stress.Finding the right approach is part of the therapeutic process. He works collaboratively with clients to identify which methods fit their needs, goals, and preferences, adjusting strategies over time as progress unfolds. This collaborative stance helps clients feel involved and respected in planning their care.
Online therapy with Rell is offered through video calls, phone sessions, live chat, and text-based messaging, providing flexibility for busy schedules, mobility limitations, or those who prefer remote sessions. These options make it easier to maintain continuity of care and access professional support from wherever the client is located within the permitted service area.