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Allyson Shaffer, LICSW, MD, LCSW-C

Experienced social worker for stress and relationships
  • Stress and anxiety support
  • Relationship and family help
  • Flexible online sessions

About Allyson Shaffer

Allyson Shaffer, LICSW, MD, LCSW-C, is a licensed social worker with more than 20 years of clinical experience serving adults and families in Maryland and the District of Columbia. She approaches therapy from a strengths-based perspective, helping clients recognize their existing resources while working through stress, anxiety, relationship and family concerns, self-esteem struggles, and life transitions. Her practice also addresses attachment issues, caregiver stress, communication difficulties, and social anxiety or phobia. Allyson emphasizes collaborative care, inviting clients to take an active role in shaping goals and strategies that fit their lives and values.

Clients work with Allyson to learn practical coping skills, improve communication, and rebuild confidence during times of change. She supports people through both immediate challenges and longer-term growth, offering guidance and encouragement as clients try out new ways of thinking and relating. Allyson holds clinical social work credentials and is licensed to practice in both jurisdictions, bringing two decades of experience to each therapeutic relationship while honoring each person as the expert of their own story. Her focus is on empowerment, clear direction, and compassionate partnership throughout the change process.

Areas of Expertise

Primary Focus

Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsSelf esteemCoping with life changes

Additional Focus Areas

Attachment issuesCaregiver issues and stressCommunication problemsSocial anxiety and phobia

Frequently Asked Questions

How much experience does Allyson Shaffer have?

Allyson Shaffer has 20 years of professional clinical experience.

Is Allyson Shaffer a licensed therapist?

Yes. She holds these credentials: LICSW, MD, LCSW-C. License details are DC LICSW LC303507 and MD LCSW-C 12452.

In which languages does Allyson Shaffer provide therapy?

Allyson provides therapy in English.

Where is Allyson Shaffer located?

Allyson is located in Maryland.

How can I work with Allyson Shaffer as my therapist?

You can work with Allyson through video calls, phone sessions, live chat, or text-based messaging.

Does Allyson Shaffer work with international clients?

Allyson does not currently work with international clients.

How much does therapy with Allyson Shaffer cost?

The cost of therapy can vary depending on factors such as your location and the therapist's availability. Sessions are billed through a subscription that can be canceled at any time, for any reason. For current details, click the "Start Therapy" button on this page.

How can I get started with therapy?

Getting started is quick and straightforward. Click the "Start Therapy" button and complete a short questionnaire that helps match you with your therapist. Depending on availability, you can then schedule your first session, which may take place by phone, video call, live chat, or in-app messaging.

Evidence-Based Techniques and Online Care

Allyson draws on evidence-based, skills-oriented techniques to help clients manage stress and anxiety, teaching practical tools for breathing, grounding, and reshaping unhelpful thought patterns so everyday worries feel more manageable. She also offers attachment-focused work that explores patterns in relationships and family dynamics, helping clients understand how early experiences influence current connections and improving closeness and trust. Communication-focused strategies are used to address relationship and caregiver stress, providing concrete practice in expressing needs and resolving conflicts more effectively.

Finding the right approach is part of the therapeutic process. Allyson collaborates with each person to identify which strategies fit their goals, values, and preferences, adjusting the plan over time so therapy remains responsive and effective. Clients are active partners in choosing the methods that feel most helpful.

Online therapy with Allyson includes video calls, phone sessions, live chat, and text-based messaging, offering flexibility for busy schedules and varied comfort levels. These options make it easier to maintain continuity of care during life transitions, reduce travel time, and access consistent support from a licensed professional when it is most needed.

Ready to start therapy with Allyson Shaffer?

Take the first step toward a better you.