Ryan Shelby Butler is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) based in Arizona. He focuses on helping people who feel overwhelmed by stress, anxiety, low self-esteem, depression, relationship and family conflicts, grief, addictions, trauma, and other life changes. He writes plainly and meets people where they are in their daily life.
Butler earned a Master of Science in Professional Counseling and a Master of Science in Leadership from Grand Canyon University, along with a Bachelor of Arts in General Studies from Montana State University. He also completed a post-graduate degree in Christian counseling. His background includes years working in higher education where he supported students, faculty, and school leaders in counseling and guidance roles.
His approach blends person-centered listening with practical, evidence-informed tools. He uses techniques from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Dialectical Behavior Therapy for skills-building. He also draws on Acceptance and Commitment Therapy and attachment-informed work to help people clarify values and improve close relationships.
Sessions tend to be realistic and solution-focused. Clients can expect straightforward skill practice, values-based discussions, and collaborative problem solving. He incorporates spiritual and meditative elements when they fit a persons needs and preferences.
Outside of clinical work he spends time with family, serves in church leadership, and enjoys reading, writing, and the outdoors. He emphasizes clients' existing strengths and supports them in taking concrete steps toward more meaningful, stable day-to-day life.
Approaches that guide online work and goal setting
Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) helps people clarify what matters most to them and take small steps toward those values. It is useful when someone feels stuck, overwhelmed, or unsure about priorities.
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) focuses on identifying unhelpful thinking and behavior patterns and practicing new skills. This approach is often used for anxiety, depression, and building self-esteem through concrete exercises.
Finding the right approach is part of the therapy process. The therapist will collaborate with each person to decide which methods fit their needs and goals. That choice is revisited as progress is made and priorities change.
For practical matters, confirm current session options before booking so you know which formats are offered. Online sessions can make it easier to fit appointments into a busy day, allow for shorter check-ins when needed, and reduce travel time. They also make it simple to continue work between appointments with skills practice and brief coaching-style conversations when useful.
He works with stress, anxiety, depression, grief, addictions, trauma, self-esteem, relationship and family conflicts, parenting strain, anger, and coping with life changes.
What is his general therapy style?
His style is person-centered and practical. He blends skill training with values-focused conversation and uses realistic, solution-oriented steps.
How long has he been practicing counseling?
He has seven years of professional counseling experience since beginning practice in 2018.
What credential does he hold and where is he based?
He is a Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, licensed in Arizona and practices there.
Which languages are supported for sessions?
Sessions are offered in English.
Can people outside the United States work with him?
He does not accept international clients at this time.
How does payment and cost work?
Cost varies with location and therapist availability; sessions use a subscription that can be canceled at any time.
How do I begin if I want to work with him?
Click the continue button on this profile, complete a short matching questionnaire, and then schedule sessions according to the therapists availability.
