Dr. Shafer understands the healing process as one of self-determination through therapeutic empathy. Looking through the lens of attachment, psychodynamic theory, and existential thought within ecological and systemic perspectives, Dr. Shafer provides compassionate and caring support with an appreciation for the pressures that impact the quality of how individuals, couples, and families live their lives. Being curious with sensitive honesty makes Dr. Shafer a good fit for people who are open to self-exploration as a means for finding deeper personal/interpersonal connection. Areas of focus in Dr. Shafer's treatment includes working with individuals, couples, and families from diverse cultural backgrounds who find themselves struggling in relationships, depression, anxiety, complex trauma, psychosis, and grief/loss. With a sensitivity toward helping people find meaning and purpose in their lives, Dr. Shafer is particularly inclined toward understanding identity and life-stage issues spanning from early development into aging adulthood.