Kelly Schafer,LCSW

Kelly Schafer,LCSW

Telehealth Available
Professions: Clinical Social Worker
License Status: I'm a licensed professional.
Billing and Insurance:
I am an in-network provider for:
  • Aetna
  • Anthem
  • CDPHP
  • Cigna
  • Excellus Blue Cross Blue Shield
Free Initial Consultation
Weekend Availability
Evening Availability

Offices

Norwich, New York 13815

My Approach to Helping

As a social worker, my approach to helping others is grounded in empathy, respect, and a deep commitment to fostering positive change. Each day, I embark on a journey alongside individuals and communities facing diverse challenges, from economic hardships to emotional crises. My role transcends mere problem-solving; it's about building meaningful connections and empowering people to discover their strengths and potential.

Through active listening and understanding, I strive to create a safe space where individuals feel heard and validated. Whether I'm supporting a struggling family, advocating for a marginalized group, or counseling someone through a personal crisis, my goal remains consistent: to facilitate growth and resilience.

I believe in the importance of holistic support, addressing not just immediate needs but also underlying factors that contribute to difficulties. This means collaborating with other professionals, organizations, and community resources to provide comprehensive care and sustainable solutions. Every person's journey is unique, and I approach each case with sensitivity and a non-judgmental attitude, recognizing the complexities of human experience.

Ultimately, my work as a social worker is driven by a profound belief in the inherent dignity and potential of every individual. By empowering others to navigate challenges and envision brighter futures, I strive to make a meaningful impact in their lives and contribute positively to our shared community.

What I Love about Being a Psychotherapist

What I love most about being a therapist is witnessing the incredible strength and resilience of my clients. It's incredibly rewarding to be part of their journey towards healing and growth, helping them discover their inner strengths and achieve their goals. Building genuine connections and seeing positive changes unfold is truly fulfilling.



My Role as a Therapist

As a therapist, my role is deeply rooted in empathy, understanding, and a commitment to facilitating healing and growth. Each day, I have the privilege of entering into the sacred space of my clients' lives, where I provide a supportive environment for them to explore their thoughts, emotions, and experiences without judgment.

Central to my practice is building a therapeutic relationship based on trust and mutual respect. I strive to create a safe and non-judgmental space where clients feel comfortable sharing their vulnerabilities and exploring their deepest concerns. Listening attentively and with empathy, I aim to understand not just the words they speak but also the emotions and underlying meanings behind them.

Empowerment is a cornerstone of my approach. I see my role as empowering clients to recognize their strengths, capabilities, and inherent resilience. Together, we collaborate to identify goals, explore obstacles, and develop strategies to overcome challenges. I believe in fostering a sense of agency and self-efficacy within clients, encouraging them to take an active role in their own healing journey.

Education and psychoeducation are integral parts of my practice. I provide clients with information and insights into mental health, emotional well-being, and effective coping strategies. Through psychoeducation, I empower clients to develop greater self-awareness, understand their thoughts and behaviors, and make informed decisions that align with their values and goals.

Cultural competence is essential in my work. I respect and honor the diverse backgrounds, identities, and experiences of my clients. By understanding and acknowledging cultural factors, I create an inclusive and affirming therapeutic environment where clients feel understood and valued. I strive to integrate cultural sensitivity into my practice, recognizing how cultural beliefs and values shape clients' perspectives and experiences.

Ethics and professionalism guide my interactions and decisions as a therapist. I adhere to ethical guidelines set forth by professional organizations, ensuring confidentiality, respect for client autonomy, and maintaining boundaries in all aspects of my practice. I engage in ongoing professional development to stay informed about best practices and emerging research in the field of mental health.

Self-care is fundamental to my ability to support others effectively. I prioritize my own well-being through regular self-care practices such as mindfulness, exercise, and engaging in activities that replenish my spirit. By nurturing my own emotional resilience, I am better equipped to provide compassionate and effective care to my clients.

Reflection and supervision are integral to my professional growth. I participate in supervision with experienced colleagues to discuss cases, explore therapeutic dynamics, and gain insights that enhance my clinical skills. Supervision provides a space for self-reflection, ongoing learning, and refinement of my therapeutic approach.

Advocacy is another important aspect of my role. I advocate for social justice, equity, and access to mental health care for all individuals. This may involve challenging stigma, promoting awareness about mental health issues, and advocating for systemic changes that benefit the well-being of my clients and the community at large.

Above all, my role as a therapist is a profound privilege and responsibility. It is a calling that allows me to support and empower individuals as they navigate life's challenges, heal from past wounds, and discover their inner strengths. I am continually inspired by the resilience and courage of my clients, and I am committed to walking alongside them on their journey toward healing, growth, and a more fulfilling life.







Services I Provide

Ages I Work With

  • Teens
  • Adults
  • Elders

Languages

  • English

Industries & Communities Served

  • First Responder/Medical Professionals
  • LGBTQ+
  • Military/Law Enforcement

Client Concerns I Treat

  • Abuse / Abuse Survivor Issues
  • Anxiety
  • Autism Spectrum
  • Career Issues
  • Communication Problems
  • Depression
  • Divorce / Divorce Adjustment
  • Family Problems
  • First Responders
  • Gender Dysphoria
  • Grief, Loss, and Bereavement
  • Health / Illness / Medical Issues
  • LGBT (Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Transgender) Issues
  • Military and Veterans Issues
  • Stress
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Types of Therapy

  • Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
  • Collaborative Therapy
  • Compassion Focused Therapy (CFT)
  • Holistic Psychotherapy
  • Mindfulness-Based Interventions
  • Motivational Interviewing
  • Object Relations
  • Psychodynamic
  • Solution-Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT)
  • Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT)

See other therapists in Norwich, NY.


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