What patients are saying
Overall rating
4.97
Average wait time
4.79
Bedside manner
5.00
“The office itself seemed disorganized (couldn’t run my insurance, did not clearly explain all charges) but the doctor was great.”
Initials hiddenJanuary 20, 2026
“This office has great communication and they actually had tried to call me prior to the time I signed up for, to reschedule. I still showed up and the doc was able to squeeze me in, which was very much appreciated. I had a great experience at this office.”
Initials hiddenLess than 6 months ago
About Dr. Kathleen Shafer
Where did you go to school?
I attended the University of Notre Dame for college with a major in pre-professional studies. My optometry degree is from The Ohio State University College of Optometry. I also completed a residency in primary care and ocular disease at the Albuquerque VA Medical Center.
What do you enjoy about Optometry?
I enjoy interacting with patients and learning about their work, hobbies, and visual needs. I value taking the time to really listen and understand their questions/concerns and provide suggestions on optimizing clarity, comfort, and eye health. I enjoy getting to know patients and being able to provide continuity of care, compassion, and practical solutions visit to visit over the years.
What are your favorite spots in Austin?
Some of the usual ones, of course, like the Town Lake trail and Barton Springs. I ended up in Austin after visiting in the winter from snowy Wisconsin and enjoying a weekend of beautiful weather and fun times in Zilker and downtown Austin (that was back in 2002!) I also love getting out on all the hiking trails around town and day trips to Enchanted Rock, Pedernales Falls, and The Blue Hole in Wimberley.
What do you like to do outside of Optique?
My favorite thing is time spent with my husband and two kids, and our weekends are often full with sports competitions and dance performances. We love to travel and especially welcome any chance to get to the ocean. I practice yoga regularly and am a certified yoga teacher. Also, my family and I love food and the abundance of fun places to eat in Austin, and with more time at home this year, we've also taken our cooking up a notch.
Is this doctor in your insurance network?
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In-network insurances
99% of patients have successfully booked with these insurances
Aetna
BlueCross BlueShield
Cigna
EyeMed
UnitedHealthcare
VSP
Office location
Education and background
Practice names
Education and training
- The Ohio State University College of Optometry, Doctor of Optometry
- New Mexico VA Health Care System, Residency in Ocular Disease and Primary Care Optometry
Languages spoken
- English
Provider's gender
Female
NPI number
1205997855
Patient reviews
All reviews have been submitted by patients after interacting with the practice.
Overall rating
4.97
Wait time
4.79
Bedside manner
5.00
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35 reviews
Most relevant
Very professional and kind. Explained everything well. Didn’t coerce me into anything.
January 7, 2026Sophie C.Verified patient
Very friendly, knowledgeable
March 11, 2026Louis R.Verified patient
The office itself seemed disorganized (couldn’t run my insurance, did not clearly explain all charges) but the doctor was great.
January 20, 2026Initials hidden
This office has great communication and they actually had tried to call me prior to the time I signed up for, to reschedule. I still showed up and the doc was able to squeeze me in, which was very much appreciated. I had a great experience at this office.
Less than 6 months agoInitials hidden
Can't recommend this place enough! The staff was excellent and took great care of me. Dr. Kathleen explained everything thoroughly to me so I'd understand my eye health, what was important and considered when reviewing the results of each exam. Never learned so much before! She's also a wonderful person all around. I will definitely be back.
December 15, 2025Hazenet N.Verified patient
It was a pleasure visiting your practice for my eye examination. The optometrist provided a thorough and clear explanation of each step during my visit. I truly appreciated how they patiently walked me through all aspects of the examination. The entire team was friendly and professional, contributing to a very positive experience. I will certainly recommend your services to others seeking excellent eye care.
October 27, 2025Cavaughn B.Verified patient
So friendly and a great overall experience!
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March 11, 2026Liam L.Verified patient
March 4, 2026Audrey P.Verified patient
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December 20, 2025Jeanie N.Verified patient
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November 28, 2025Sameer C.Verified patient
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How soon can I make an appointment with Dr. Kathleen Shafer?
Generally, Dr. Kathleen Shafer has appointments available on Zocdoc within 1 week. You can see Dr. Shafer's earliest availability on Zocdoc and make an appointment online.
Is Dr. Kathleen Shafer accepting new patients?
Dr. Kathleen Shafer generally accepts new patients on Zocdoc. You can see Dr. Shafer's earliest availability on Zocdoc and schedule an appointment online.
Does Dr. Kathleen Shafer accept my insurance?
Choose your insurance plan to verify if Dr. Shafer is in-network.
Can I make an appointment with Dr. Kathleen Shafer online?
Yes, you can make an appointment online with Dr. Shafer using Zocdoc. It’s simple, secure, and free.
What practice does Dr. Kathleen Shafer work with?
Dr. Kathleen Shafer works with Optique.
Where is Dr. Kathleen Shafer's office located?
Dr. Kathleen Shafer's office is located at 11624 Rock Rose Ave, Austin, TX 78758.
What are common reasons for patients to see Dr. Kathleen Shafer?
Dr. Kathleen Shafer frequently sees patients for Contact Lenses, Eye Infection, Eyeglasses, General Eye Consultation, and Routine Eye Exam. You can see other visit reasons for Dr. Kathleen Shafer on their profile.
What languages does Dr. Kathleen Shafer speak?
Dr. Kathleen Shafer speaks English.
How do patients rate Dr. Kathleen Shafer in reviews?
35 patients have reviewed Dr. Kathleen Shafer. The overall rating for this doctor is 4.97/5. They have a 5/5 rating for bedside manner and a 4.79/5 rating for wait time. You can read individual reviews and ratings on their profile.