Rell Spickerman , LMSW

Rell Spickerman is a Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW) with four decades of experience combining pastoral care and mental health counseling. He draws on long years as a parish pastor and hospice chaplain to offer compassionate, informed support for people facing grief, end-of-life concerns, and complex family dynamics. His work with bereavement and hospice families complements practical skills developed as a divorce mediator, where he helped couples make parenting decisions focused on children's best interests.

He has a deep commitment to LGBTQ issues informed by his transgender grandson's journey, and he brings that affirming perspective to work with gender dysphoria, relationship and intimacy concerns, and identity-related challenges. Rell favors a collaborative, guide-by-the-side approach rather than a one-size-fits-all model, blending theory and practice to encourage growth, risk-taking, and meaningful change. He describes himself as a non-judgmental listener who routinely uses humor and steady support to reduce resistance to change.

Clinically, he has expertise in cognitive-behavioral methods and rational emotive approaches, with specialized work in anger management, particularly with men who have abused, along with Life Work Planning and career development. He also has modest experience with Ericksonian hypnotherapy and Healing Story Telling, and affirms unconditional positive regard as a central stance in therapy.

Therapeutic Approaches and Online Care

Rell Spickerman draws on cognitive behavioral therapy and client-centered principles in his online practice. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) focuses on identifying and changing unhelpful thinking and behavior patterns; it is often used for anxiety, depression, stress, and coping with life changes. Client-centered therapy emphasizes empathic listening, unconditional positive regard, and meeting clients where they are; it supports self-exploration, relationships, grief work, and identity concerns. Solution-focused techniques are also integrated to set clear goals and identify practical steps toward change, which can be especially useful for career planning, relationship decisions, and problem-solving.

Finding the right approach is part of the therapeutic process, and Rell collaborates with each person to determine what fits best based on their needs, goals, and preferences. He aims to be a guide by the side, combining practical strategies with empathy to help clients move toward their objectives.

Online therapy offers flexibility and accessibility for those juggling work, caregiving, or health limitations. Sessions may take place by video call, phone, live chat, or text-based messaging, allowing clients to choose the format that works best for their schedule and comfort. This range of options makes it easier to maintain continuity of care and to receive support in the ways that suit each individual.