Brian Willshire, LPC

Brian Willshire is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) based in Michigan with two decades of clinical experience helping people navigate stress, anxiety, relationship and family challenges, depression, grief, parenting concerns, anger, self-esteem, and major life transitions. Ordained to the Permanent Diaconate in the Kalamazoo Diocese on April 13th, 2024 with his wife of 32 years, he brings a perspective that includes both clinical training and faith-informed values. He believes many emotional struggles stem from a lack of love, and while he acknowledges biological and psychological factors that influence behavior, he also sees spiritual practices and the Sacraments as potential supports for emotional healing when clients request that approach.

Brian frames therapy around finding a workable balance between what a person can control and what they cannot. He emphasizes clearer thinking, setting and communicating healthy boundaries, and practical coping strategies that fit the client’s life. He works with people from all faith traditions as well as those with little or no faith, and will only incorporate Catholic or Christian faith-based counseling when a client asks for it. His background combines long-term clinical experience with pastoral sensibilities, offering a calm, goal-oriented space to address emotional pain and build resilience.

Therapeutic Approaches Delivered Online

Brian Willshire draws from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, mindfulness-based methods, and solution-focused techniques to tailor online care to each person’s needs. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) helps clients identify and reframe unhelpful thoughts and build practical skills for reducing anxiety, managing mood, and addressing relationship patterns. Mindfulness Therapy teaches present-moment awareness and self-regulation skills to reduce reactivity, improve emotional balance, and support coping with stress or grief. Solution-Focused Therapy emphasizes setting concrete goals and identifying small, achievable changes that move a person toward the life they want.

Finding the right approach is a collaborative process. Brian will work with each client to clarify goals, explore what feels most helpful, and adjust techniques over time so therapy fits the client’s priorities and preferences. This collaborative stance helps ensure that chosen methods align with values, faith preferences, and daily life demands.

Online therapy offers flexibility and accessibility through video calls, phone sessions, live chat, and text-based messaging. These options make it easier to schedule sessions around work, family, and other commitments and allow clients to receive support from licensed professionals and therapists without extra travel. The format supports consistent progress through timely communication and convenient appointment choices.