My name is Michael. I love tennis, running, college football, my work, and my wife (not necessarily in that order). I have over 3 decades of experience in providing a safe enough space for people to examine/explore and hopefully resolve whatever issues precipitated their reaching out for assistance. I have found, over the years, that entering therapy is, for most, somewhat of a last resort; if it really was an easy fix, they would have resolved the issue on their own with a friend, mentor, or previous therapist.
I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) in the state of Florida and have worked in numerous settings over the years, including inpatient treatment for substance abuse, co-dependency, and eating disorders. Have been in private practice for several decades, in both a group practice and as a solo practitioner. Have encountered and assisted folks suffering from depression, anxiety, and various trauma’s due to distressing life experiences, as well as folks becoming a little lost along the way. Have assisted numerous couples trying to save or make their marriages better.
As a private practice therapist, I have been privileged to work with people from many cultures and from various walks of life. I can best be described as eclectic in approach, with a strong tendency towards experiential therapy, and have found that acceptance of myself and others is one of the keys to harmony in this world and in my life.
My clients and I laugh often in therapy, as I tend to utilize humor wherever I can. I possess what I call a tenacious spirit, as I never give up on anyone. I am competent and compassionate when assisting others who are experiencing periods of pain and loss, and the complicated feelings experienced as we go through life. I am insightful and energetic, drawing upon decades of personal as well as professional experience, sharing easily and often the life experiences I have lived (my mistakes as well as successes). I believe we are shaped by the experiences we have lived and that various aspects of our personality have evolved over time and will continue to evolve as we live our lives. Sometimes we get stuck and need a little nudge to address what we would rather not whereas others dive into the issues they know they need to. I work, at times, to assist in helping develop a balance between our internal parent/adult and child selves, as an imbalance in these aspects of the personality can create the distress that precipitates an entry into therapy.
Additional areas of focus: LGBT, Family conflicts, Grief, Intimacy-related issues, Parenting issues, Anger management, Career difficulties, Depression, Coping with life changes, Compassion fatigue
FL LMHC MH9936
These quotes represent just a few of the many positive reviews that we have received for Michael Shaughnessy. We don't pay anyone to provide their review and they are all made voluntarily. Some people's experience receiving therapy with BetterHelp might be different.
Michael is thoughtful and thorough. He does his best to accommodate his clients’ needs, and is joyful to work with.
Written on Jul 19, 2021 after therapy with Michael for 4 months on issues concerning depression, stress, anxiety, relationship issues, self esteem, career difficulties, coping with life changes, coaching, and adhd
Before Michael, I don’t think I ever had someone who truly saw me. He knew where I was upon his first time seeing me and piecing my words to my self-presentation. In less than five months he has supported me in becoming a much healthier, fully-realized version of myself. I can roll with change now, and I welcome it. I’m forever grateful that I met him when I did. He helped shift my life for the better.
Written on Mar 09, 2021 after therapy with Michael for 4 months on issues concerning depression, stress, anxiety, lgbt, relationship issues, trauma and abuse, grief, eating disorders, self esteem, anger management, coping with life changes, and compassion fatigue
Michael has been fantastic support for me in what have been truly difficult and sad times. He's been very cautious of my feelings, whilst still getting me to analyse things from different angles and I definitely feel much better in myself from talking with him. Would highly recommend!
Written on Nov 30, 2020 after therapy with Michael for 4 months on issues concerning stress, anxiety, grief, and coping with life changes
I've been to a therapy a couple of years ago and changed 3 therapists. I never thought that one day I will find this app and start sessions with a professional like Michael.
I've started working with Michael 4 months ago and I can only say that I've never dreamt of improving my life so much in this short period of time.
Sessions with Michael are like a deep breath I needed after drowning for so long. We just met couple of times, I told him where my soul hurts and he immediately knew and advised me how to heal it.
I've never in my life felt more understood.
I strongly recommend him as a counselor. Not only he is a professional, understanding, and caring , he has a great sense of humor and always makes me laugh even when I feel like I'm in my lowest point.
I enjoy sessions with him more than anything. Moreover, they are the highlight of my week.
I am extremely grateful to BetterHelp for matching me with him.
Written on Nov 29, 2020 after therapy with Michael for 4 months on issues concerning lgbt, relationship issues, family conflicts, trauma and abuse, self esteem, and coping with life changes
Great guy, listens and is honest. A great man
Written on Aug 03, 2020 after therapy with Michael for 2 weeks on issues concerning stress, anxiety, addictions, lgbt, relationship issues, family conflicts, intimacy-related issues, sleeping disorders, and self esteem
I have anxiety about reviews and stuff like this so I never write them but I'll make an exception for Michael. I will make it short and sweet. Michael has been the most supportive person I have had to pleasure of encountering in my life. I had an experience with a therapist where I felt like I was talking to a robot and was afraid I'd never find someone that matches with myself, then I met Michael, he has changed my mind about counselling and is helping me become the person I've wanted to be for my entire life. Thank you Michael.
Written on Jul 26, 2020 after therapy with Michael for 3 months on issues concerning depression, and stress, anxiety