John Shirkey, LICSW
Experienced mental health professional
Provides online counseling through BetterHelp
At a glance
John is an experienced, licensed Mental Health Professional who specializes in affordable online therapy offered through our partner, BetterHelp.
- Speaks English
- Offers Telehealth visits
- Licensed in Minnesota and Montana
More about John
- 14 years' experience
- Male
- LICSW, LCSW
Hi, I’m John Shirkey — a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LICSW/LCSW) and Mental Coach.
With over 15 years of experience in mental health and performance work, I specialize in helping individuals navigate stress, anxiety, identity, performance pressure, and life transitions. My clients often include athletes, high performers, and individuals striving to overcome internal barriers so they can thrive in high-demand environments.
My approach is collaborative, grounded in trauma-informed care, and tailored to each person’s strengths. I use evidence-based modalities like CBT, ACT, Motivational Interviewing, and Solution-Focused Therapy to support your growth. Whether you're struggling with anxiety, feeling stuck, or wanting to build confidence and clarity — I’m here to help you move forward with purpose.
Through my work with collegiate and elite-level athletes (including NCAA Division I and Olympic hopefuls), I’ve learned that mindset shifts often lead to life-changing results. Therapy with me is an open space where you can be real, challenged, and supported.
If you're ready to focus on your growth and build mental resilience, I’d be honored to walk with you.
BE RELENTLESS, LIVE EYES UP!
Specialties
Treatment Approaches
- Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
- Motivational Interviewing
- Solution-Focused Therapy
Licenses
John Shirkey's National Provider Identifier (NPI) is 1346631371.
- LICSW · Minnesota · 18705 · Expires January 2027
- LCSW · Montana · BBH-LCSW-LIC-43800 · Expires December 2025
About online counseling
- Affordable.
- Pay a low flat fee.
- Convenient.
- Do it at your own time and at your own pace. Communicate whenever you feel it's needed.
- Available now.
- There is no waiting list and no calls to make. Simply fill out a short questionnaire and send your first message.
Online counseling, also known as teletherapy, is a method of delivering mental health services through digital means such as video conferencing, phone calls, or messaging platforms. It can be an ideal option for individuals who have difficulty accessing traditional therapy due to geographical distance, time constraints, or personal preferences like privacy and comfort. Many people find it easier to open up from the familiarity of their own space.
Teletherapy has been found to be highly effective, with studies showing that it can produce similar outcomes to in-person therapy, particularly for issues like anxiety, depression, and PTSD. The flexibility and accessibility it offers make it a valuable alternative to conventional therapy settings.
Reviews for John Shirkey
Frequently asked questions
Does John Shirkey offer telehealth visits?
Yes. John Shirkey works with clients by exchanging messages, chatting live, speaking over the phone, or video conferencing based on what works for the client at that particular time.
What language(s) does John Shirkey speak?
John Shirkey speaks English.
How many years of experience does John Shirkey have?
John Shirkey has 14 years of experience.
Where is John Shirkey licensed to practice?
John Shirkey is licensed to practice in Minnesota and Montana.
Does John Shirkey accept clients outside of the United States?
Yes, John Shirkey accepts clients outside of the United States.
Is online therapy as effective as in-person therapy?
Numerous studies support the effectiveness of online platforms in facilitating life changes. For instance, research published by JMIR Publications, conducted by teams from the University of Berkeley, UCSF, and SF General Hospital, found that "users of BetterHelp experienced significantly reduced depression symptom severity after engaging with the platform."
What treatment approaches does John Shirkey offer?
John Shirkey offers clients Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Motivational Interviewing, and Solution-Focused Therapy.
How can I communicate with John Shirkey?
John Shirkey can be engaged in any one of four ways: (1) Exchanging messages, (2) chatting live, (3) speaking over the phone, or (4) video conferencing. You can use different ways at different times as you wish, based on your needs, availability, and convenience.
How do I get started with John Shirkey?
Just tap the CHAT NOW button or tap here: A new window will open and you'll be directed to a simple form that will help start the conversation. Please note: It can take up to a few days to be matched to a therapist.
Mental health conditions are real, common, and treatable.
And recovery is possible.
When you tap CHAT NOW a new window will open and you'll be directed to a simple form that will help start the conversation. Please note: It can take up to a few days to be matched to a therapist.