- CBT techniques
- DBT skills
- Motivational interviewing
About John
John Shovels is a Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW) practicing in Michigan with 15 years as a therapist. He works with adults who want to get a better handle on stress, anxiety, anger, depression, addictions, and related issues. He also offers coaching around leadership and career concerns.
He uses straightforward, evidence-informed approaches. Sessions focus on understanding patterns that fuel anger and frustration. He helps people build clearer coping steps rather than vague promises of change. He sometimes uses gentle humor and visual metaphors to make things easier to talk about.
In the room he aims to identify the moments that trigger strong reactions. That can mean tracing how past relationships or family dynamics affect current responses. He works on practical skills for managing impulses, communicating under stress, and reducing resentments that pile up over time.
He draws on Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Dialectical Behavior Therapy skills to shift thinking and reaction patterns. Motivational Interviewing and Solution-Focused techniques guide goal setting and small, measurable changes. Sessions mix skill practice with reflection about what keeps problems going.
John frames therapy as a collaborative process. He listens for what matters most and adjusts the pace based on what a person can try between sessions. People who want direct, practical work on anger, stress, or relationship strain may find his approach useful.
Approaches used and how online work fits in
John often uses Cognitive Behavioral Therapy to help people notice and change unhelpful thoughts and behaviors. CBT breaks down moments of anger into the thoughts, feelings, and actions that follow, which makes it easier to try specific skill changes.He also draws on Dialectical Behavior Therapy skills to teach emotion regulation, distress tolerance, and clearer communication under stress. DBT skills can help when reactions feel automatic or overwhelming. Motivational Interviewing appears in his work to support commitment to change and set manageable goals.
Finding the right approach is part of the work. He will collaborate with each person to pick methods that match their goals and day-to-day life. That means trying techniques, checking what helps, and adjusting together rather than assuming one method fits all.
Session formats are not listed in the biography, so please confirm which online options are offered before booking. Online work can make it easier to fit therapy into a busy week, allow shorter check-ins when time is tight, and avoid travel time. It also lets people practice skills between sessions in real-world settings and bring situations into conversation that might not come up in an office.
Areas of expertise
Primary focus
Also works with
Additional focus areas
Therapeutic approaches
Experience
15+ years
Listed in
Michigan
Languages
English
Frequently asked questions
What kinds of problems does he help with?
He works with stress, anxiety, anger, depression, addictions, career and relationship concerns, and related issues such as codependency and isolation.
How would you describe his therapeutic style?
He uses direct, practical methods and visual metaphors. Sessions focus on clear skills and problem-solving rather than abstract discussion.
How much experience does he have?
He has 15 years of experience as a therapist and practices in Michigan.
What credential does he hold and where does he practice?
He holds an LMSW (Licensed Master Social Worker) and works in Michigan.
Which languages are supported?
Sessions are offered in English.
Can people outside the U.S. work with him?
He does not accept international clients at this time.
What are the session formats he uses and how do I confirm them?
Session formats are not specified here; please confirm current session options before booking.
How do I start working with him?
Select the See online therapy options button, complete the short matching questionnaire, and schedule a first session.