Michael Shaughnessy, LMHC

Michael Shaughnessy brings more than three decades of clinical experience to his work, combining steady professionalism with an approachable, often humorous manner. He enjoys tennis, running, and college football, and he values his work and his wife - not necessarily in that order. Michael creates a safe-enough space where people can examine, explore, and work toward resolving the issues that led them to seek help, recognizing that entering therapy is frequently a last resort when other supports have not sufficed.

As a Licensed Mental Health Counselor - LMHC - in the state of Florida, he has practiced across a range of settings, including inpatient treatment for substance use, co-dependency, and eating disorders. He has maintained private practice for several decades, both within group settings and as a solo practitioner, assisting individuals facing depression, anxiety, trauma from distressing life events, and those who feel lost along the way. He has also worked with many couples seeking to improve or preserve their marriages.

Michael describes his approach as eclectic with a strong inclination toward experiential work, and he emphasizes acceptance of self and others as central to well-being. He often uses humor in sessions and says that he never gives up on a person - a tenacious spirit that clients notice. He pairs compassion and competence when helping people navigate pain, loss, and the complex emotions that accompany life changes.

Drawing on decades of personal and professional experience, Michael shares life lessons and insights candidly, including his mistakes as well as successes. He believes people are shaped by their experiences and that personalities continue to evolve. When clients feel stuck, he offers nudges and guidance; when they are ready, he supports deeper engagement. He also works on helping develop balance among the internal parent, adult, and child selves, since imbalances among these parts can contribute to the distress that brings people into therapy.