(he/him)
I've been blessed to have wonderful professional positions throughout my career (see roderickhaferphd.com). Most recently I was Vice-Chair of the Psychiatry Department at the University of Wisconsin. I enjoy working with all client presentations and believe that the "connection" with those I treat is critical to therapy success. I think a 15 to 30 minute free consultation would be the best approach to determine "our fit" in working together.
The key to successful therapy involves: 1) establishing a good "connection" 2) Understanding the client's situational events that brought them to the visit 3) Establishing client centered goals, and 4) Most importantly agreeing on tasks to accomplish the goals. All of this can happen quickly and successfully. It is important to monitor our progress each visit and constantly receive your feedback to make sure we're accomplishing your goals for therapy.
I have significant clinical experience across all mental health domains. Rapport is primary, the philosophy or approach secondary. My ultimate therapeutic strength is problem assessment, goal setting based on the issues, and proactively partnering with each patient for incremental change/improvement.
I specialize in working with healthcare professionals seeking work/life balance. Many of my clients are struggling with life transitions, for example: separation/divorce, retirement, major medical issues, or family decisions. I'm particularly interested in working with older adults seeking therapy.
Top specialties
Grief
Life Transitions
Self Esteem
Other specialties
Anxiety
Chronic Illness
Coping Skills
I identify as
Man
White
Adults (18 to 64)
Elders (65 and above)
Florida
Ambetter Health
Solution Focused Brief Treatment
For the past ten years I have specialized in offering solution focused approaches to assist clients with their distress. After 47 years of practice, I am convinced this is the best appropriate (though not the only one) for most individuals seeking help.
Interpersonal
I was initially trained in Sullivanian approaches to therapy. Interpersonal approaches/philosophy fit and apply to most seeking care. This has been an integral thread to my work over all 47 years of practice.
6 ratings with written reviews
May 14, 2026
Rick's warm, solution-focused approach to therapy has been a perfect fit for my needs. I came into our practice feeling overwhelmed by the number of things to track in my life, the number of things I wanted to spend my time on, etc. and have found focus and clear priority through our work together. Always looking forward to the next session!
February 12, 2026
This was my first visit, and I feel very hopeful that Rick will be able to help me get to where I am trying to get to. He is very intelligent, warm, kind, clear, organized, and I am eager to see how he can help me.
November 26, 2025
Dr Hafer puts the patient first and really listens and understands before goes to solution. An awesome human being and great counselor!