John Shafer

John Shafer is a licensed clinical social worker practicing in New York with 25 years of experience. He earned his master of social work from Syracuse University’s School of Social Work in 1998 and has built a long-standing clinical practice since graduation.

His professional background spans rural community mental health programs, school-based mental health settings, and both city and suburban practice environments. Over the years he has worked with people across the lifespan - from children as young as three to older adults in their nineties - and with clients from a range of socio-economic backgrounds. Ongoing diversity training has helped him refine clinical approaches across many racial and ethnic communities, and he has developed techniques for addressing gender identity expressions in a culturally sensitive way.

Vocationally, a diversified set of experiences has shaped his approach to care, and he has applied a variety of therapy models in practice. He most often uses Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, mindfulness practices, Narrative Therapy, Strengths-Based Therapy, and Solution-Focused Therapy. He has provided individual, couples, and group therapy and collaborates with people to pursue client-centered, person-centered goals.