Amy Shafer, LCSW

Amy Shafer is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in California with a background in psychology and human development from Cal Poly San Luis Obispo (1989) and a Master of Social Work from San Diego State University (1991). She has practiced clinically since 1994 and brings more than 30 years of experience working across age groups and settings.

Amy's recent focus has been on adults and geriatric clients and their families, addressing concerns such as depression, anxiety, stress, family conflict, trauma and abuse, life-stage transitions, and grief and loss. Her contemporary practice emphasizes family systems, relationship work, interpersonal recovery, trauma-related loss, and practical problem solving for life stressors.

She approaches each case with an open mind and a range of therapeutic tools gathered from decades in the field. Amy views her role as part of a broader support system for individuals and families who are actively seeking competent professional help, and she aims to provide thoughtful, experienced guidance tailored to each person's needs.

Therapeutic Approaches and Online Care

Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) helps clients clarify what matters most to them and learn practical ways to move toward those values while accepting difficult thoughts and feelings. It is useful for stress, anxiety, and life transitions where avoidance limits living a meaningful life.

Client-Centered Therapy focuses on building a respectful, empathic relationship in which the client leads the pace and goals of work. This approach supports self-exploration and can be helpful for grief, relationship concerns, and rebuilding self-esteem.

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) teaches practical skills to identify and change unhelpful thinking and behavior patterns, making it effective for depression, anxiety, and coping with everyday stressors.

Finding the right approach is part of the therapeutic process. Amy collaborates with clients to determine which methods fit best based on their needs, goals, and personal preferences, and she adapts strategies as progress unfolds.

Online therapy offers flexible access to licensed professionals through video calls, phone sessions, live chat, or text-based messaging. These options make it easier to arrange sessions around work, caregiving, or mobility limits and allow ongoing support from a therapist without geographic constraints.