PuttingFamilyFirst

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MS Portrait of Michael Shugrue
Online therapist

Michael Shugrue

Compassionate practical help for family stress

Credentials
LCSW
Experience
25 years
Licensed in
New Jersey
Languages
English
Format
Online sessions

About Michael

Michael Shugrue is a licensed clinical social worker with 25 years of experience. He focuses on helping people facing stress, anxiety, depression, relationship strain, family challenges, and low self-esteem. He keeps sessions straightforward and practical so parents can quickly understand what's happening and what might help.

He uses evidence-based therapeutic techniques and relies on clear, collaborative work with each person. In sessions he listens for patterns that increase stress or tension and then helps build specific skills to change them.

Background and approach

That might mean trying new ways to talk about difficult subjects, shifting daily routines, or practicing skills to reduce anxiety. Michael aims to make therapy a team effort. He helps clients set realistic goals and checks progress regularly.

His style is steady and direct, with an emphasis on usable strategies rather than long theory talks. Working from a New Jersey base, he draws on many years of clinical experience to help people find what works for them. Sessions are offered in English and organized to fit the realities of busy family life.

Overall he focuses on clear steps that reduce distress and improve connection within relationships and families. The work is practical, gradual, and tailored to each person’s situation.

Therapeutic approaches and online care that fit family life

Many of the methods Michael uses are evidence-based techniques that focus on changing unhelpful patterns and building new skills. Cognitive behavioral techniques help identify negative thought patterns and replace them with more balanced thinking; this approach often helps with anxiety and low mood by teaching practical coping skills. Skills-based strategies for emotion regulation teach short exercises and routines to lower stress and ease tense family interactions, which can help when feelings run high.

Choosing the right approach is part of the work. He collaborates with each person to find what feels most useful based on goals, preferences, and what has or has not helped before. That way clients try manageable steps and adjust the plan as they learn what works.

Online therapy offers flexible options that fit busy schedules. Sessions are available by video calls, phone sessions, live chat, or text-based messaging so parents and caregivers can pick what suits them best. These formats make it easier to keep continuity of care while balancing work, school, and family demands.

Frequently asked questions

What concerns does he address?
Michael focuses on stress, anxiety, depression, relationship struggles, family dynamics, and self-esteem issues.
How does he typically work with clients?
He uses straightforward, evidence-based techniques and collaborates with clients to set goals and try practical strategies in daily life.
What is his background and experience?
He has 25 years of clinical experience as a licensed social worker, working with people across a range of emotional and relational concerns.
Where is he based and what are his credentials?
He practices from New Jersey and holds the credential LCSW with license number NJ LCSW 44SC05207900.
Which languages are supported?
Sessions are offered in English.
What session formats are available?
Sessions can be held by video calls, phone sessions, live chat, or text-based messaging to fit different needs.
How are fees and payment handled?
Cost varies with location and therapist availability; sessions use a subscription that can be canceled at any time.
How do I begin working with him?
Use the Start Therapy button, complete a short matching questionnaire, and schedule sessions according to the therapist's availability.

Specialties and expertise

Top specialties

Also works with

Experience
25 years
Licensed
New Jersey
Languages
English

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