About Me

John D. Murphy, LMFT

I offer a proactive therapeutic approach tailored to understanding your unique needs. It’s a privilege to support your healing and personal journey.

This approach includes people from all creeds and cultures. I am happy to support Entrepreneurial, Religious, Non-Religious, LGBTQ+, and Veteran populations. Particularly, and as a male therapist, I have special interest in supporting young men as they navigate the unique challenges of today's modern world.

My goal for each client includes attaining self-reliance and greater autonomy. That means intentionally climbing to a point of no longer needing therapeutic services. Though there is nothing wrong with check ups as new problems arise, the final destination for therapy is to live life on your own terms.

I practice with an ‘Attachment Theory, Solution Focused Therapy, Brainspotting, Internal Family Systems (IFS), and Mindfulness Framework’ to conceptualize and treat clinical disorders. The overall model is a holistic approach that respects client’s values and assesses all areas of life to develop tailor made solutions.

Rock Garden, Kyoto, Japan

Therapeutic Experience

My clinical work history includes a diverse clientele base, from counseling those in the Tennessee prison system to a university mental health clinic, and my own private practice, going 5 years strong. I’ve encountered and treated a wide variety of diagnostic populations. This has also helped me become culturally sensitive and empathetic to struggles I have not personally experienced. So while I’ve seen the works, that doesn’t mean I know your story or get to make assumptions about who you are. 

Education and Training

M.A. Marriage and Family Therapy - Lipscomb University

B.A. Entertainment Industry Studies - Belmont University

RYT 500 - Certified Yoga Teacher - Yoga Union

Brainspotting (Phase 1)

But perhaps more important than data or certifications, I'm drawn to connect with people from all walks of life. I've had the pleasure of traveling around Asia, Latin America, and Europe. Authentic connection is priceless, and fortunately, it's everywhere. I feel it at music festivals, Titans games, bachata classes, while practicing yoga, or surfing with new friends in Bali. In my opinion, that underlying humanness is a central element of psychotherapy.

My natural disposition is curious about stories and obstacles. No matter who you are or where you’ve come from — I know your journey is unique and I would be honored to join you in that process of healing or exploration. 

If You’ve Never Tried Therapy….

Or tried it once and left thinking, “What was the point?” you’re not alone. A lot of my clients felt the same way. 

  • Therapy either felt too clinical, too emotional, or like they had to perform some version of vulnerability they didn't recognize. 

  • Here’s the difference with me: It’s not cold. It’s not fluffy. And it’s definitely not you lying on a couch decoding your childhood for 10 years.

  • It’s more like talking things through with a buddy over a beer, except this friend’s clinically trained to help you untangle what’s happening and do something about it.

We’ll keep it honest, practical, and focused on what matters to you. And while we’ll get into the real stuff, there’s always room for shooting the proverbial shit.

"When we hit our lowest point, we are open to the greatest change." - Aang


Therapy for men who feel successful on paper but disconnected from their relationships and personal lives.