

Kimberly Schaffer
MSW, LCSW, CSSW, CCS
Practice Founder
NJ# 44SC05209100
Have you ever felt like you are doing everything you can to keep things together, but something still feels off, like you're not living the life you know you could be? If you are struggling with anxiety, stress, or even just the weight of everyday decisions, it can feel isolating. It is important to have someone by your side who truly understands and has the expertise to help you create lasting change. With over twenty-five years of experience as an Ivy League-educated psychotherapist, I have had the privilege of supporting clients from all walks of life, empowering them to navigate anxiety, depression, grief, life transitions, sexuality issues, and identity-related challenges.
Whether you are struggling with stress, facing transitions, or navigating complex emotions, I am here to meet you where you are. My approach is rooted in understanding, and I take the time to really listen and work with you to identify the core of what’s troubling you. You won’t feel like just another client in my care. I take pride in offering personalized treatment tailored to your unique needs.
I have helped countless individuals work through panic attacks, depression, and grief, and I specialize in assisting those facing identity struggles, including gender and sexuality concerns, divorce, maternal mental health or any challenging life transitions. As an LGBTQ+ and transgender affirming therapist, I am committed to providing a welcoming, nonjudgmental environment where clients feel comfortable being themselves. I am also OutCare certified in culturally competent care for the LGBTQ+ community.
Another area especially meaningful to me is helping students and families navigate the transition to college and the adjustment to returning home. Having personally toured more than 30 universities, I understand how exciting, stressful, and emotional this process can be for everyone involved. From preparing to leave home and adjusting to college life to returning home and redefining family relationships, I enjoy helping both students and parents manage expectations, strengthen communication, and navigate these important milestones.
My background and education - culminating in a Master of Social Work from the University of Pennsylvania, Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology with a Minor in Women's Studies from William Paterson University, a certification in Child and Adolescent Mental Health from Rutgers University, and training in Trauma-Focused CBT, allow me to offer a well-rounded approach to therapy that includes a combination of evidence-based methods like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Humanistic Person-Centered Therapy, Psychodynamic Therapy, Structural Family Therapy, and Strength-Based Therapy. My goal is always to guide you through healing and growth in a way that feels most comfortable and supportive for you.
I am also a Certified Clinical Supervisor and Certified School Social Worker, which allows me to offer a unique perspective and skill set when it comes to addressing your immediate needs and building lasting strategies for growth and well-being. Whether you are dealing with personal challenges or navigating complex situations, my experience equips me to help you make sense of your feelings and experiences while guiding you toward meaningful, positive change.
As the founder of Attentive Psychotherapy & Counseling Center, creating a practice where people feel valued, respected, and genuinely cared for has always been important to me. I want my clients to feel comfortable sharing their experiences without fear of judgment and to know that therapy is a collaborative process, not a one-size-fits-all approach.
Whether you are seeking support during a difficult time or hoping to make meaningful changes in your life, I would welcome the opportunity to work with you. Together, we can explore what's holding you back, build on your strengths, and help you move forward with greater confidence and clarity.
