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Last edited 03/19/2026

Headshot of Natalie Shafer, Licensed Professional Counselor

Natalie A Shafer

She / Her / Hers

Accepting New Clients
In Person in Chicago
Online in Illinois
Headshot of Natalie Shafer, Licensed Professional Counselor
Identifies As
She / Her / Hers
Location
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Specialties
Specializes in
DepressionAnxietyRelationship IssuesLoss/GriefIdentity development
General Expertise
CareersWork StressSexuality Based IssuesSocial AnxietyADHDAddictionAging related concernsAttachment issuesBody image issuesCaregiver stress & supportCodependencyCommunication issuesDivorce & separationFamily issuesGender identity & transgender healthLGBTQIA related issuesLife transitionsPost-traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)Trauma
Treatment Approaches
Mindfulness PracticesPerson-Centered TherapyPsychodynamic Therapy
Clientele
Types of Therapy
Individual Therapy
Serves Ages
ParentsYoung Adults (18-24)Adults (25-65)Seniors (65+)
Languages
English
Professional Background
Licensure
Under Supervision: Natalie A Shafer, Licensed Professional Counselor, 178.022327 is practicing under the supervision of Jennifer Stranski (Illinois, LCPC, 180010708) at Moonlight Wellbeing.
Please, note: A clinician listed as being “clinically supervised” is completing clinical hours toward their licensure. They have one or more fully licensed clinical supervisors that often have special training. They consult with their supervisor(s) on all of their cases.
Training/CertificationsNational Certified Counselor (NCC)Certified Yoga Therapist
Education
Northwestern University, Master of Arts, Clinical Mental Health Counseling, 2025 — Capstone Topic: The Disproportionate Impact of Sociopolitical Distress Among Marginalized Groups
University of Wisconsin-Madison, Bachelor of Arts, Communication Science and Rhetorical Studies, 1999
Work HistoryMy work as a therapist has centered on helping adults, seniors, and couples navigate the deeper emotional patterns that shape their relationships and sense of self. In my clinical training in a female-led private practice setting, I supported clients through challenges such as grief and loss, major life transitions, relationship struggles, and the lasting impact of interpersonal trauma. These experiences allowed me to develop a strong focus on attachment, family dynamics, and how our past continues to shape how we connect with others today. I take an integrated, insight-oriented approach to therapy, blending psychodynamic understanding with a warm, person-centered style. In practice, this means I help clients explore not just what’s happening in their lives now, but also the underlying patterns and emotional experiences that may be keeping them stuck. At the same time, I prioritize creating a space that feels safe, supportive, and genuinely collaborative. Over time, I’ve developed a particular interest in working with life-stage transitions, whether that’s navigating adulthood, aging, shifting relationships, or redefining identity. I also incorporate elements of somatic awareness, helping clients tune into how emotions show up in the body, which can be especially helpful in trauma recovery. Before becoming a therapist, I spent over 20 years working in food and nutrition marketing and advocacy. That background strengthened my ability to listen, communicate clearly, and understand people from a wide range of perspectives; skills that continue to shape how I show up for clients today. Alongside my clinical work, I’ve remained committed to community involvement, including volunteer work focused on increasing equitable access to school programs. At the core of my work is the belief that relationships, both past and present, play a powerful role in shaping who we are. Therapy offers a unique opportunity to experience a different kind of relationship: one grounded in empathy, curiosity, and respect, where meaningful growth can begin.
Frequently Asked Questions
It’s not uncommon to have questions before starting therapy. Natalie A Shafer, LPC, has answered a few of the questions they receive most often from new clients.