- Values-based work
- Practical problem solving
- Relationship focus
About Patrick
Patrick Shanahan is a licensed clinical social worker with 44 years of experience who helps men focus on wellbeing, relationships, and life transitions. He centers work on each person and their values, aiming to help them move past what keeps them stuck and toward healthier choices. Patrick speaks plain language and keeps sessions practical and goal-oriented.
He draws on many years working in community settings, outpatient clinics, and managed care systems. Early in his career he created and ran an outpatient clinic tied to a runaway and homeless youth shelter, providing case management and therapy both in the shelter and in the community. That work included supervising staff and graduate students and partnering with a university on research to improve clinical practice.
Patrick uses several approaches to shape sessions, including cognitive behavioral methods, attachment-based ideas, and acceptance and commitment strategies. He also integrates communication-focused work and addiction therapies when relevant. Sessions emphasize problem solving, clearer communication, and attention to the client value system that guides decisions.
He has experience offering phone-based support and crisis intervention in managed care settings, and he has worked in outpatient offices and counseling groups. Patrick completed 29 hours toward a Ph.D. in family therapy and was offered a fellowship with Washington University Ph.D. program during his training.
People who come to Patrick can expect direct conversation about concrete steps, exploration of values, and collaborative planning for change. Those seeking to start can confirm current session options before booking.
Therapeutic approaches for online work and fit
Acceptance and Commitment Therapy helps people notice difficult thoughts and feelings without getting stuck in them, then pick actions that match their values. It can help with anxiety, depression, and making life changes. Attachment-Based Therapy looks at how early relationship patterns shape current connections and can guide work on intimacy and communication. Client-Centered Therapy focuses on the person in front of the therapist, offering understanding and support so clients can find their own solutions.Finding the right approach is part of the process. The therapist will talk with each person about needs, goals, and what feels most useful. Together they will choose or combine approaches so work fits the client and changes if needed over time.
The biography documents experience with phone-based support and outpatient office work, so confirm which session formats are offered now before booking. Online sessions can help fit therapy into a busy life by reducing travel time, allowing shorter check-ins when needed, and making it easier to schedule around work or caregiving. Licensed professionals can use these formats to continue the same therapeutic focus on values, communication, and practical steps for change.
Areas of expertise
Primary focus
Also works with
Additional focus areas
Therapeutic approaches
Experience
44+ years
Credentials
Missouri
Languages
English
Frequently asked questions
What concerns does this therapist help with?
He works with a wide range of concerns including relationships, grief, anger, self-esteem, depression, stress, anxiety, addictions, trauma and abuse, intimacy issues, parenting, career challenges, and compassion fatigue.
How would you describe his therapeutic style?
Sessions tend to be practical and values-focused, emphasizing problem solving, clearer communication, and steps people can try between meetings.
What kind of background does he bring to therapy?
He has 44 years of clinical experience across shelters, outpatient settings, and managed care, including supervising staff and partnering on research to improve therapy processes.
What credentials and region are listed for this therapist?
He holds the LCSW credential and practices in Missouri.
Are sessions offered in other languages or to international clients?
Sessions are offered in English, and he accepts international clients.
What session formats are available?
The original biography notes experience with phone-based support and outpatient office work; please confirm current session options before booking.
How is cost handled for sessions?
Cost varies with location and therapist arrangements; sessions use a subscription model that can be canceled at any time.
How do I begin working with this therapist?
Select the Start Therapy button, complete a short matching questionnaire, and schedule according to the therapist availability.