Amy Shafer , LCSW

Amy Shafer brings three decades of clinical experience to her work with individuals and families. She earned degrees in Psychology and Human Development from Cal Poly San Luis Obispo in 1989 and completed a Master of Social Work with a clinical specialization at San Diego State University in 1991. She has been a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in California since 1994 - LCSW indicates a professional license for clinical social work in the state.

Amy has worked across the lifespan but most recently has focused on adult and geriatric clients and their families, addressing concerns such as depression, anxiety, stress, family conflict, trauma and abuse, life-stage adjustments, and grief and loss. Her contemporary practice emphasizes family systems, relationship dynamics, interpersonal recovery, trauma-related loss, and practical approaches to managing life stressors.

Throughout decades of practice in varied settings, Amy has developed an open-minded approach and a wide set of therapeutic tools drawn from evidence-informed methods. She views it as a privilege to support individuals and families who are seeking professional help to navigate challenges and to find workable paths forward.

Could Remote Therapy Be a Good Fit?

Many people wonder whether meeting with a therapist remotely can actually help. For common concerns such as stress, anxiety, depression, relationship challenges, and navigating life transitions, online therapy has been shown to be just as effective as traditional in-person sessions.

One of the key benefits is flexibility - individuals can connect in the format that suits them best, whether through video calls, phone sessions, live chat, or in-app messaging. This flexibility can make it easier to incorporate regular therapy into a busy schedule or during times of change.

Licensed professionals provide these services, and clients may change therapists if they prefer a different fit. For many people, online sessions offer a practical, effective way to access therapeutic support when and how they need it.