- Addictions support
- Anger management
- CBT and mindfulness
About Norman
Norman Shaffer is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in Tennessee with nine years of professional experience. He works with people coping with addictions, stress, anxiety, relationship difficulties, trauma and abuse, grief, anger, low self-esteem, career concerns, bipolar disorder, depression, and life changes.
He describes clients as experts in their own stories and looks for strengths to build on. Sessions are practical and direct. He focuses on real steps people can use to manage urges, calm down in the moment, and reduce patterns that keep problems returning.
Norman uses tools from cognitive behavioral therapy to help people notice unhelpful thoughts and change behaviors that escalate anger or substance use. He also draws on mindfulness practices to teach attention and breathing skills that reduce reactivity. Motivational interviewing is part of his work when people are unsure about changing habits, helping them clarify what matters and find reasons to move forward.
His approach is straightforward and collaborative. He helps people set small goals and tracks progress week to week. For someone dealing with hoarding, obsessions, compulsions, or sex and substance addictions, he focuses on what changes are realistic and sustainable.
People in Tennessee who want to address anger, compulsive behaviors, or mood problems can expect goal-focused sessions that emphasize practical coping skills and clearer decisions. Norman asks a few questions at the start and then tailors steps to the person’s daily life.
How his approaches translate to online work
CBT helps people spot thought patterns that increase anger or fuel addiction. Online sessions can include talking through recent situations, trying new ways to respond, and setting homework to practice between meetings.Mindfulness therapy trains attention and simple breathing or noticing exercises. In remote sessions he can guide short practices, review how they felt, and help clients use those exercises when frustration rises.
Finding the right mix of approaches is part of the work. He will collaborate with each person to decide which methods fit their goals and daily life. That choice can change as progress is made and new challenges appear.
Session formats are not specified in the biography, so confirm current options before booking. Many people find online sessions useful because they can fit short check-ins into a break, avoid travel time, or use less bandwidth when needed. The therapist will discuss practical arrangements and match the plan to what works best for a person's schedule and needs.
Areas of expertise
Primary focus
Also works with
Additional focus areas
Therapeutic approaches
Experience
9+ years
Listed in
Tennessee
Languages
English
Frequently asked questions
What kinds of concerns does he help with?
He works with addictions, stress, anxiety, relationship problems, trauma and abuse, grief, anger, self-esteem, career issues, bipolar disorder, depression, and coping with life changes.
What is his therapeutic style like?
His style is practical and collaborative. He focuses on clear steps and skill practice rather than abstract discussion.
How much experience does he have?
He has nine years of professional work experience as noted in his biography.
What are his credentials and where is he based?
He is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, LCSW, licensed in Tennessee and practices there.
Which languages are sessions offered in?
Sessions are offered in English only.
Does he work with international clients?
He does not accept international clients at this time.
How are sessions paid for and what do they cost?
Cost varies with location and sessions use a subscription that can be canceled at any time.
How do I begin working with him?
Start by selecting the See online therapy options button, complete a short matching questionnaire, and schedule a first session.