LP, 47 years of experience
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.
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.
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.
3 ratings with written reviews
August 13, 2025
Dr. Hafer has extensive expertise as a therapist and psychologist and you can feel this when engaged in sessions with him. He is really fantastic and is exactly what we were looking for in a couples therapist. Dr. Hafer is warm, welcoming, and genuine, while also being pragmatic, reflective, and direct in his approach. We really appreciate him!
February 24, 2025
Rick is an excellent listener, remembers details from previous sessions and brings his years of counseling experience to shine a light on what could be looked at in a difficult situation to achieve a positive outcome.
February 4, 2025
Thank you for listening .