Natalie Polupan

MSW, LCSW
Accepting Clients

I specialize in helping people who have spent their lives taking care of everyone else learn how to care for themselves without guilt.

Clinical Social Worker in Chicago, IL

Services

About My Clients

Many of my clients are the people everyone else depends on. They're the responsible child, the caretaker, the fixer, the peacekeeper, or the person who always seems to have it together. They often struggle with anxiety, chronic stress, dysfunctional family dynamics, people-pleasing, relationship issues, chronic pain, or the feeling that they've lost themselves while taking care of everyone else. They're ready for support that feels honest, practical, and real.

My Background and Approach

Most of my career has been spent in community mental health, where I worked with people facing everything from everyday stress and relationship challenges to complex mental health concerns and crises. That experience taught me that therapy should never be one-size-fits-all. My approach is direct, supportive, and genuine. I'll take the time to understand your experience, but I won't keep you stuck there. We'll notice patterns, talk honestly about what's working and what isn't, and figure out what comes next. Expect practical tools, the occasional reality check, and probably some humor along the way. I especially enjoy working with difficult family dynamics, codependency, enmeshment, people-pleasing, and chronic illness or pain. I also help clients navigate the grief that can come with letting go of who they thought they were supposed to be. My goal is to help you have those "lightbulb moments" where things finally make sense, then turn that insight into meaningful change in your life.

My Values as a Therapist

My values as a therapist are integrity and authenticity. I believe people do their best healing when they stop trying to become who they think they should be and start getting to know who they already are. Not the "perfect" version of you. Not the cousin you're compared to at family parties. Just you, as you are. I show up to therapy as myself, bringing years of experience, practical tools, and genuine curiosity about your story. My goal is to create a space where you can stop pretending, start being honest about what you're carrying, and build a life that feels more aligned with who you truly are.

Insurance Plans Accepted
  • Out of Network
  • Aetna
  • Optum
  • Blue Cross Blue Shield (BCBS)
  • United Healthcare
  • UMR
  • Blue Cross Blue Shield PPO
  • UMR - United Medical Resources
  • Aetna PPO
  • United Healthcare Optum
I offer online counseling in the following states:

At A Glance

  • Experience: 7 years of practice
  • Languages: English
  • Rate: $160/session

Info

Email Natalie
680 N. Lake Shore Dr.
Ste. 110 1181
Chicago, IL 60611

Reach out to Natalie