John Shovels
Evidence-based therapy for meaningful change
Start with John ShovelsLicensed · Professional · Cancel Anytime
About
John Shovels, LMSW, is a licensed clinical social worker in Michigan who has spent decades working in the mental health field and has provided therapy for 15 years. He completed his professional training at Wayne State University in Detroit, Michigan, and brings a steady, practical perspective to helping adults navigate life’s challenges.
His work often centers on depression, anxiety, substance misuse, and men’s issues, with additional experience supporting concerns such as stress, anger, grief, relationship challenges, trauma and abuse, and major life transitions. He also offers leadership coaching and development, drawing on evidence-based approaches that support insight, skill-building, and personal growth.
John tailors therapy to the individual, aiming to help clients better understand underlying patterns, work through difficult emotions, and strengthen coping strategies over time. He takes an open-minded stance and focuses on creating a supportive space where meaningful connection can develop. When appropriate, he may incorporate humor, along with metaphors and visual examples, to make complex experiences easier to name and address. His goal is to help clients build resilience, gain clarity, and move toward positive change.
His work often centers on depression, anxiety, substance misuse, and men’s issues, with additional experience supporting concerns such as stress, anger, grief, relationship challenges, trauma and abuse, and major life transitions. He also offers leadership coaching and development, drawing on evidence-based approaches that support insight, skill-building, and personal growth.
John tailors therapy to the individual, aiming to help clients better understand underlying patterns, work through difficult emotions, and strengthen coping strategies over time. He takes an open-minded stance and focuses on creating a supportive space where meaningful connection can develop. When appropriate, he may incorporate humor, along with metaphors and visual examples, to make complex experiences easier to name and address. His goal is to help clients build resilience, gain clarity, and move toward positive change.
- Location:
- Michigan, United States
- Years Experience:
- 15
- Gender:
- Male
- Languages Spoken:
- English
- Therapist of Color:
- No
- Communication Options:
- Phone • Video • Live Chat • Messaging
Specialties
Primary area of focus:Stress, Anxiety, Addictions, Anger management, Depression, Coaching
Other areas of experience: Relationship issues, Trauma and abuse, Grief, Self esteem, Career difficulties, Coping with life changes, Codependency, Communication problems, Family of origin issues, Fatherhood issues, Isolation / loneliness, Life purpose, Midlife crisis, Mood disorders, Narcissism, Paranoia, Personality disorders, Self-harm, Workplace issues
Credentials & Verification
- Credentials: MI LMSW 6801067333
- NPI Number: 1124169545
- License: LMSW (Michigan)
Practical Approaches, Flexible Online Support
John Shovels draws from evidence-based methods that help clients understand patterns, build coping skills, and move toward meaningful change. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) focuses on how thoughts, feelings, and behaviors interact, and it can be especially useful when stress, anxiety, depression, or unhelpful habits start to feel stuck. Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) emphasizes skills for managing intense emotions, tolerating distress, and improving relationships, which many clients find helpful when anger, impulsivity, or overwhelm are getting in the way. Motivational Interviewing supports change by exploring ambivalence with respect and curiosity, often helping people clarify their reasons for shifting behaviors related to substance use or other personal goals.Finding the right approach is part of the process. John works collaboratively with clients to understand what they want to be different, what has or has not worked before, and which strategies feel realistic and supportive for their preferences and pace.
Online therapy also makes it easier to fit help into real life. Sessions can happen through video calls, phone sessions, live chat, or text-based messaging, giving clients flexible options for connection whether they prefer face-to-face conversation or more gradual communication between sessions.
How much experience does John Shovels have?
John Shovels has 15 years of experience providing therapy.
Is John Shovels a licensed therapist?
Yes. John Shovels is a licensed LMSW (Licensed Master Social Worker) in Michigan. License number: MI LMSW 6801067333.
In which languages does John Shovels provide therapy?
John Shovels provides therapy in English.
Where is John Shovels located?
John Shovels is located in Michigan.
How can I work with John Shovels as my therapist?
You can work with John Shovels through video calls, phone sessions, live chat, or text-based messaging, allowing you to choose the format that fits your schedule and comfort level.
Does John Shovels work with international clients?
No. John Shovels does not currently work with international clients.
How much does therapy with John Shovels 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.