Jessica Shaffer , CSW-PIP

Jessica Shaffer is a South Dakota based therapist who combines clinical training with extensive hands-on experience to support youth and adults through difficult life challenges. She has worked in the mental health field since 2003 and has been practicing therapy since 2011, bringing expertise in trauma, mood and anxiety disorders, grief, addiction, relationship struggles, and stress-related concerns. Her practice includes both individual and group work, with a current focus on youth ages 5-18 and occasional adult clients who have experienced various forms of trauma.

Jessica values the therapeutic relationship as the primary tool for healing and is practiced at building trusting connections that set the stage for meaningful change. Her approach is collaborative and tailored - she assesses what will work best for each person and may draw from solution-focused techniques, crisis intervention, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), mindfulness tools, or trauma-focused methods depending on need. Earlier in her career she worked in a locked correctional facility in Colorado providing crisis therapy for acutely suicidal clients and treating severe and persistent mental illness, experience that informs her calm and steady clinical style.

She earned a Bachelor of Science in Psychology from Black Hills State University in 2003 and a Master of Social Work from Newman University in 2010. Jessica holds the credential CSW-PIP, which stands for Certified Social Worker in Private Independent Practice. Outside of work she enjoys traveling, spending time with family, and enjoying the outdoors. She is not currently accepting clients.

Therapeutic Approaches and Online Care

Jessica often integrates Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and trauma-focused methods when working with clients. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) helps people identify and shift unhelpful thoughts and behaviors so they can reduce anxiety, depression, and stress symptoms and build practical coping skills. Trauma-Focused Therapy concentrates on processing traumatic experiences in a safe, structured way and can be especially helpful for youth and adults who have endured abuse, accidents, or other overwhelming events.

She also uses solution-focused techniques to help clients set concrete goals and find manageable next steps, which can be a practical fit when rapid problem-solving or crisis stabilization is needed. Choosing the right approach is part of the therapeutic process - Jessica works collaboratively with each person to determine which methods match their needs, goals, and preferences, adjusting the plan as progress unfolds.

Online therapy with Jessica can take place by video call, phone session, live chat, or text-based messaging, offering flexibility for different schedules and comfort levels. These options make it easier to connect from home, work, or school and support continuity of care when in-person visits are not possible. Licensed professionals and therapists can use these formats effectively to deliver evidence-based approaches while accommodating transportation, childcare, and work commitments.