One thing you might try doing is to leave her some clothing with your smell on it -- like a t-shirt, or a night-shirt -- maybe something you are getting ready to wash, but can keep out for her. I know cats are really into smelling things, and this may be a comfort to her.
Also leave the TV and/or radio on when you are gone. The sounds (play classical music) may help soothe her.
The other suggestion -- get her another cat to keep her company!! Did the shelter or volunteer say anything about her ability to get along with other animals???
If you could find the right companion -- that could be the perfect solution to her separation anxiety!
Please keep us posted, and good for you to adopt this kitty in need!!

Yes, thank you for giving this cat a good home, and good luck!

I've attached a link to Tallyville, a comprehensive site on cat health. Look under "anxiety" and see if anything helps you.

Please keep us posted.

I don't know if getting another cat always works, as the chemistry between the cats has to be special between 2 cats. But as sammycat wrote: "the right companion."

Here is a link that might be useful: Tallyville

I tried using Feliway on my anxious kitty and it worked great. Ask your vet about it. Good luck!

Karen

Another cat would not work with this one. I think I will try the Feliway since it can't hurt. She is getting used to her surroundings but I think she sleeps with one ear cocked just listening! In all other ways she is so loving. I wish I had a video camera too as she has this fetish for my husbands head. She lays on the back of the recliner just stroking his hair until he finally has enough and puts her down. I was told she is at least part Ragdoll, not a breed I'm familiar with. Does this breed tend to be more anxious?

My cat has a fetish for my head too..or anything that smells like my head. Its quite odd. She'll sit behind me and try to pull out my hair elastic, and she'll shove her face right into my ponytail and start cleaning it. She falls in love with my winter jacket, or any jackets/sweaters I have that have hoods. She just rubs and rubs herself on the hood. If I put my hair towel down after a shower, she rolls around on it, drooling and purring. I used to think it was something in the products I use, but she does it all the time, whether I've put product in or not, or changed my shampoo.

Lol, sorry Im of no help, but you reminded me of my kitty :)

My room mates & I had a problem with a kitten that pulled out her hair when left alone. I got Rescue Remedy which has solved the problem completely. I bought the drops but have since learned the spray is easier to use. Hopefully it will work for you also.