Credentials:
- Master of Social Work, New York University, Ehrenkranz School of Social Work
- Bachelor of Science in Social Welfare and Justice, Stony Brook University
- Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW), New York State & Connecticut
- Trained in Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)
- Trained in Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT)
- Seminar in Field Instruction (SIFI) certified to provide clinical supervision
Professional:
Dawn Schaefer is an accomplished Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with more than 18 years of expertise in mental health, specializing in leadership, clinical oversight, and program development. She has a proven record of managing complex behavioral health programs for adolescents and families, with a focus on evidence-based practices, trauma-informed care, and strategic initiatives to achieve lasting, positive outcomes.
Dawn’s career began in 2004 as a direct support professional with an internship in youth residential services. She steadily advanced to roles such as clinician and assistant clinical director, eventually taking on leadership positions. A few of her notable leadership roles include:
- Program Director: Dawn oversaw operations for two OMH community residences, leading interdisciplinary teams across clinical, nursing, and direct care departments. Her work emphasized acute stabilization, holistic health, and community integration, all while ensuring regulatory compliance and promoting collaborative, client-centered care.
- Director of Permanency for an RTF Division: Dawn led family advocacy initiatives, admissions, and discharge planning teams, ensuring smooth transitions and positive outcomes for clients and their families.
Dawn is deeply committed to providing access to high-quality residential services and advancing trauma-informed practices tailored to the unique needs of communities, clients, and families. She believes families are essential partners in the treatment process, and emphasizes an interdisciplinary approach, fostering cohesive and collaborative teams. Dawn is skilled in integrating evidence-based modalities, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Trauma-Focused CBT (TF-CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and family therapy, into therapeutic and administrative frameworks.
Personal:
Dawn is the Vice President and co-founder of the Andrew McMorris Foundation, a role that underscores her dedication to advocacy and community service.
In her personal life, Dawn enjoys spending quality time with her family and loved ones. She has a passion for outdoor activities, such as going to the beach, boating, hiking, and rollerblading. Dawn also loves traveling to new destinations and immersing herself in diverse cultures, which fuels her sense of adventure and personal growth.
- Working in Mental Health & Human Services since 2006
- Specializing in Adolescent Residential Treatment since 2006
- Serving in Leadership Roles since 2016
- Working at Shrub Oak International School since 2025
