Yeah. If you have any problems with using regular road shifters, use bar-end friction shifters. They mostly don't care what chainrings/derailleurs/cassettes are on the bike, and they are used in many touring bikes for their versatility.

And by the way, there are TONS of Touring Bikes* out there using Road-style Shimano STI shifters with Deore/LX/XT rear derailleurs. I don't know why your Bike Shop man thinks it's impossible.

*Here's a list:

Fuji Touring
Novara Randonee
Rocky Mountain Sherpa 10
Rocky Mountain Sherpa 30
Jamis Aurora
Cannodale T800
Cannondale T2000