Hey Y’all, I’m Rickell!

Growing up in the south, sex was not something commonly discussed. I gained most of my knowledge from women’s magazines and instantly became the go-to “sexpert” amongst my friends. However, over time I learned that not only was this information not easily accessible, but also mostly incorrect. Still, I thoroughly enjoyed empowering those around me to not be ashamed and seek out their own information to better themselves and their sex lives. You can imagine the difficulty I had in sharing this with my guidance counselor…

I found myself in the Upstate by attending Clemson University for a Bachelors of Arts in Architecture (yes, you read that correctly). Studio life was relentless and draining and quickly taught me the importance of mental health. With a desire to help people, a personal interest in sex and relationships, accompanied by my minor in psychology, I bravely made the decision to not continue in the field of architecture post grad but instead attend Converse University (then Converse College) for my Masters in Marriage and Family Therapy.

When I am not in the therapy room you may find me out playing pick-up volleyball or trying all of the fun places to eat around Greenville. My ultimate happy place, however, is near any body of water. In my quiet time I enjoy crocheting and catching up on the latest Netflix special. Recently I have been challenging myself by learning new recipes to cook for my family of two.

“I have no special talent. I am only passionately curious.” - Albert Einstein

My Approach

  • My therapeutic approach is active and engaged. I am not a therapist who passively listens. I believe this approach can reinforce the feeling of stagnation that may have brought you to therapy to begin with. You can expect that I will provide questions, observations, education, and specific tools you can use in your daily life.

    I believe that the therapist and client share the responsibility of identifying goals and directing sessions. I come to each session with a plan for what we can work on that aligns with your goals for therapy. I also understand that life happens in between sessions, and there may be something else you'd rather prioritize. I strive to be agile and adapt to your evolving needs over the course of our work together. I welcome client feedback at all stages of the therapy process and do my best to integrate it into our work together.

    I have personally benefited from engaging in therapy at multiple points in my life. My experience being a client helps me to understand and appreciate the vulnerability and courage my clients bring with them into the therapy room.

  • I utilize a collaborative approach in the room and this is reinforced by embracing eclecticism. Some theories I work best with include Narrative, Experiential, Emotionally Focused, and Bowen therapies. Being systemically trained means that I understand life does not happen in a vacuum. I will inquire about your past and present and especially those around you who influenced and shaped your current understanding. These theories further inform my stance.

  • During our first few sessions we will focus on getting to know each other. I will ask questions about your symptoms, concerns, and history. We will identify your goals for therapy. I will begin exploring which type(s) of therapy may be most appropriate to help you reach your goals.

    During subsequent sessions we will utilize the chosen type of therapy and interventions. Based off your goals and what was discussed in session, I may suggest a “homework assignment” to mull over before next session. I occasionally enjoy providing podcasts, videos, articles, books, worksheets, and/or conversations to help you incorporate lessons from the therapy room into the rest of your life. I encourage these tools to be utilized outside of my office on your own time for best potential of therapeutic growth.

    The following session I will check in with how the “homework” felt for you and continue working towards your goals.

  • I strive to create a safe and empowering environment for all. My office is open to any race, age, gender, sexual orientation, relationship configuration, political and religious beliefs. I understand the privilege and power that my stance holds within the room and vow to utilize what I can to the client’s benefit. I will put forth effort to empathize with any differences my clients and I may not share.