Dr. Hillary Schaefer , NY Psychologist 022053, WA Psychologist PY.61029319

Searching for a new therapist can feel overwhelming, whether it is the first session or the hundredth. Dr. Hillary Schaefer recognizes how challenging it is to choose someone to hear your struggles from a brief profile, and she offers a clear introduction to her training and approach to help with that decision.

Dr. Schaefer is a licensed clinical psychologist who earned her doctorate in 2013 from the University of Virginia. She has worked across clinic, hospital, university, and military settings and has experience directing a clinic for families and children. Her clinical work spans age groups and a wide range of concerns, including stress and anxiety, depression and self-esteem, trauma, motivation, parenting and relationship issues, LGBTQ+ matters, Veteran and military-related concerns, and medical challenges affecting clients or their loved ones.

Her practice emphasizes an environment of understanding and support combined with practical tools that clients can use right away. She values transparency and collaboration, tailoring evidence-informed methods to each person rather than applying a one-size-fits-all model. Dr. Schaefer aims to help clients identify strengths and build pathways toward a more satisfying life. Please note that evening appointment times are currently full; available hours are 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. EST.

Evidence-Informed Approaches and Online Care

Dr. Hillary Schaefer draws on several evidence-informed approaches to tailor online therapy to each client's needs. Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) helps people clarify their values, accept difficult feelings, and take committed action toward meaningful goals - it is often used for anxiety, stress, and managing life transitions. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) focuses on identifying and changing unhelpful thinking and behavior patterns, making it useful for anxiety, depression, sleep and eating challenges, and coping skills. Client-Centered Therapy emphasizes empathy, active listening, and collaboration so clients feel heard and supported while they explore goals and make changes.

Choosing the right approach is part of the therapeutic process. Dr. Schaefer works collaboratively with each person to determine which methods fit their situation, goals, and preferences, and adapts strategies as progress unfolds.

Online sessions are offered by video call, phone, live chat, or text-based messaging to provide flexibility for different schedules and communication styles. These options make it easier to access care from home or during a break in the day, helping clients maintain consistency and integrate therapeutic tools into everyday life.