We live in a world of awesome opportunities and daunting challenges. As unique, complex human beings each of us experiences and navigates our world differently, but fortunately, all of us can benefit from compassion and interactive guidance. As a professional counselor I am honored to provide both.

My name is Brenda Shafer and I am a Licensed Social Worker (LSW). Understanding and guiding people has been my passion since taking my first psychology course in high school. I went on to earn a BS in Psychology at Salem State College and I have had the honor of serving people in one way or another ever since. Before becoming a Social Worker I was a teacher in the corporate world, helping people succeed at work. When my dad got sick I became his caregiver. That experience inspired me to earn my clinical MSW degree at Loyola University, Chicago in 2016. I have spent the years since working to help individuals and families cope with the personal, social and professional challenges of life.

I believe that mental health is impacted by the dynamic interaction of biological, psychological, and social factors unique to each person. My approach to therapy is integrative, based on the individual’s needs and goals. I provide a safe, compassionate environment which allows for collaboration and solutions. I draw from a variety of evidence based therapies including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Psychodynamic Therapy, and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT). My goal is to enable clients to face challenges, pursue opportunities, and experience their best, most authentic life - Living Pono!