What patients are saying
Overall rating
4.64
Average wait time
5.00
Bedside manner
5.00
“I felt very comfortable with Ms Shaffer. She’s easy to talk to and I really felt that she was listening to what I had to say. Would absolutely recommend her. ”
GSLess than 1 year ago
“She was very professional. also, very understanding and took her time to listen to everything I had to say.”
MFLess than 1 year ago
About Margaret Shaffer
Focus areas
Adjustment Disorder
Bipolar Disorder
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
Adolescent Psychiatry
Depression
Adult Psychotherapy
Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT)
Clientele seen
Children (<13)
Adults (25-64)
Teenagers (13-17)
Seniors (65+)
Young adults (18-24)
Individuals
Treatment approaches
Art Therapy
Culturally Sensitive
Cognitive Behavioral (CBT)
Exposure Response Prevention
Compassion Focused
Mindfulness-Based (MBCT)
Identity
Gender
FemaleSexuality
StraightFaith
ChristianEthnicity
White
Languages spoken
English
Getting to know Margaret Shaffer
Excited to meet with you, I am dedicated to guiding you on a journey toward mental wellness. I am a compassionate and experienced dual-certified nurse practitioner with over 30 years in nursing, focusing on providing comprehensive mental health care to individuals aged 14 and older.
I hold a Bachelor's degree from The Pennsylvania State University, a Master's in Family Health Nursing from PennWest Clarion (formerly Clarion University) since 2010, and a Certificate in Psychiatric Mental Health Nursing from Wilkes University, earned in 2021.
My expertise spans a wide range of mental health issues, including depression, ADHD, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and more. With a background in family and psychiatric nursing, I am committed to delivering personalized care.
I believe in a holistic approach to mental health. My services incorporate mindfulness, music therapy, relaxation techniques, and stress reduction strategies such as journaling, deep breathing, and exercise routines. By encouraging positive coping skills, cognitive reframing, and emotional regulation, we aim to empower you to achieve a balanced and fulfilling life.
Understanding the importance of confidentiality and professionalism, I provide the convenience of online psychotherapy and medication management, ensuring you receive the support you need in a setting that suits your lifestyle. Don't wait-make an appointment today, where your mental health and well-being are my top priorities.
What should a new client know about working with you?
I let you do the talking as I listen, we will trouble shoot different plans of care and pick which one fits you and your life style best. I am empathetic and patient.
What is your typical process for working with clients?
We start with how things have been going since last session, the good, bad and ugly. We then address the Ugly, bad then good or the other way around depending on your personality. Then we discuss the impact the medication has had on your symptoms and if you have had side effects. At this point, We discuss strategies to work with and practice to get beyond your struggles. It could be talk therapy, Meditation, Progressive relaxation, music therapy or many other modalities depending on your needs.
Is this doctor in your insurance network?
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In-network insurances
Aetna
BlueCross BlueShield
Cigna
UnitedHealthcare
Out-of-pocket fees and assistance
Initial session: $150 for 60 minutes
Ongoing session: $110 for 30 minutes
- Charges post-reimbursement amount: This provider will only charge you for the amount you pay after you get reimbursed from your insurance plan, so you don’t need to pay the session fee upfront
Popular visit reasons
Agoraphobia
New Patient Visit
Pediatric Attention-Deficit / Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)
Psychiatry Consultation
Psychotherapy
Psychotherapy Intake / Initial Visit
Sleep Problems
Worry
Agoraphobia
New Patient Visit
Pediatric Attention-Deficit / Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)
Psychiatry Consultation
Office locations
Margaret Shaffer, CRNP also offers online video visits for patients
Life Raft Mental Health Service LLC (2 of 2)
311 E Pleasant Valley Blvd, Altoona, PA 16602
1 of 2
Education and background
Practice names
Education and training
- Wilkes University, Certificate in Psychiatric Mental Health Nursing
- PennWest Clarion, Master's in Family Health Nursing
- The Pennsylvania State University (Bachelor's)
NPI number
1770874125
Patient reviews
All reviews have been submitted by patients after interacting with the practice.
Overall rating
4.64
Wait time
5.00
Bedside manner
5.00
Your trust is our top concern, so providers can't pay to alter or remove reviews. We also don't publish reviews that contain any private patient health information. Learn more here
11 reviews
Most relevant
She was very professional. also, very understanding and took her time to listen to everything I had to say.
Less than 1 year agoMF
My visit was very professional and informative, I had a wonderful experience and I would highly recommend.
Less than 1 year agoTC
East to talk to, patient and understanding , compassionate, listen to what you say .
Highly Recommended
Less than 1 year agoMB
I felt very comfortable with Ms Shaffer. She’s easy to talk to and I really felt that she was listening to what I had to say. Would absolutely recommend her.
Less than 1 year agoGS
Ms.Shaffer was thorough, but not long winded. She was observant to consider other diagnoses if medication was not working well. Started meds low. Frequent monitoring. Aware of which medications insurers would play for first. Personable and professional.
Less than 1 year agoJT
Less than 6 months agoInitials hiddenVideo visit
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Less than 1 year agoInitials hiddenVideo visit
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How soon can I make an appointment with Margaret Shaffer?
Generally, Margaret Shaffer has appointments available on Zocdoc within 1 week. You can see Margaret Shaffer's earliest availability on Zocdoc and make an appointment online.
Is Margaret Shaffer accepting new patients?
Margaret Shaffer generally accepts new patients on Zocdoc. You can see Margaret Shaffer's earliest availability on Zocdoc and schedule an appointment online.
Does Margaret Shaffer accept my insurance?
Choose your insurance plan to verify if Margaret Shaffer is in-network.
Can I make an appointment with Margaret Shaffer online?
Yes, you can make an appointment online with Margaret Shaffer using Zocdoc. It’s simple, secure, and free.
What practice does Margaret Shaffer work with?
Margaret Shaffer works with Life Raft Mental Health Service LLC.
Where is Margaret Shaffer's office located?
Margaret Shaffer has 3 office locations, including in Altoona, Hartstown, and Sigmund, view full addresses on Margaret Shaffer's profile.
What are common reasons for patients to see Margaret Shaffer?
Margaret Shaffer frequently sees patients for New Patient Visit, Psychiatry Consultation, Psychotherapy, Psychotherapy Intake / Initial Visit, and Sleep Problems. You can see other visit reasons for Margaret Shaffer on their profile.
What languages does Margaret Shaffer speak?
Margaret Shaffer speaks English.
How do patients rate Margaret Shaffer in reviews?
11 patients have reviewed Margaret Shaffer. The overall rating for this doctor is 4.64/5. They have a 5/5 rating for bedside manner and a 5/5 rating for wait time. You can read individual reviews and ratings on their profile.