Throughout her life, Shaffer has appeared in numerous soap operas, including "Search for Tomorrow" where she played two separate roles; that of scheming Emily Rogers Hunter (1967–1968) and powerful businesswoman Stephanie Wilkins#2 (1984–1986), "Hidden Faces" (1968–1969)," and Where the Heart Is" (in which she played Allison Hathaway Archer Jessup) through the show's entire -year run. From 1975 to 1976, she was praised for her performance on "The Edge of Night" (where she played split personality Serena Faraday/Josie) who shot and killed her estranged husband Mark on the courthouse steps then was defended on an insanity plea. During the trial, the character's split personality was revealed, having been a victim of child abuse years before. Her "Edge of Night" stint as Serena/Josie is considered to be one of that mystery soap opera's best storylines.