Natalie Woodson-Booska, MSW, LISW
Natalie Woodson-Booska, MSW, LISW, is a dedicated mental health professional based in Dayton, Ohio, specializing in counseling and therapy for individuals with complex mental health and substance use needs. She currently serves as a Mental Health Counselor at NGU Wellness, where she provides individualized therapy, trained in EMDR intervention, and collaborates with interdisciplinary teams to ensure evidence-based care for her clients. With experience as a Residential Therapist and Qualified Mental Health Specialist at OneFifteen, Natalie has developed expertise in supporting clients with dual diagnoses, empowering them to achieve their treatment goals and improve overall well-being. Natalie earned her Master’s degree in Social Work from Wright State University in 2021 and holds a Bachelor of Social Work in Mental Health from Defiance College, completed in 2020. She became a Licensed Independent Social Worker (LISW) in 2025, reflecting her commitment to professional excellence and ethical practice. Throughout her career, Natalie has demonstrated strong leadership and problem-solving skills, integrating evidence-based interventions with a compassionate approach to care, and fostering meaningful therapeutic relationships with clients and their families. She has volunteered and led initiatives with the Backpack Buddies program through United Way in 2022, supporting children in need. Additionally, Natalie participated in a research study at Defiance College with the McMaster School of Advancing Humanity by implementing coping skills, anger management, and conflict resolution to students of many ages throughout Panama in 2018 to 2019. Outside of her professional work, Natalie is deeply committed to community service and holistic wellness. Natalie enjoys traveling and kayaking with her husband, as well as knitting and caring for her two dogs and three cats. Her dedication to both her clients and her community reflects her belief in the importance of self-care, connection, and giving back, making her a well-rounded and impactful mental health practitioner. Natalie's personal life has shown determination due to having a disability called Hereditary Spastic Paraplegia that she tries to not let stop her from living her life to the fullest as she leans on her faith with learning to adapt to a world that is created for able bodied people.
• Licensed Independent Social Worker (LISW)
• Wright State University – Master’s Degree, Social Work (MSW)
• Defiance College – Bachelor of Social Work (BSW), Mental Health
• Http://publications.hubbardcompany.com/books/jxea/?fbclid=IwY2xjawO2NcNleHRuA2FlbQIxMQBicmlkETFPUjFENHNoUkRzUHNpWkhxc3J0YwZhcHBfaWQQMjIyMDM5MTc4ODIwMDg5MgABHrreksawCLGbBAVOXMIZz1BKORWokf1hdlV7OmZAJR_msvIYQwHnhLDA_DWB_aem_qGQ2QmzjXJWzOeeEm7GMfg#p=96
• Moms in the Making
What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to the unwavering support of my family, the guidance of my professors, professional supervisors, and the foundation provided by my education.
What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I’ve received is to never give up and to keep working diligently toward my goals and aspirations.
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
My advice to young women entering this field is to remain resilient in the face of challenges, as the rewards of making a meaningful difference in people’s lives are immeasurable.
What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
One of the biggest challenges in the field today is addressing external needs, particularly the lack of sufficient resources to meet the growing demand for mental health services.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values I hold most important are respect, compassion, care for others, and a strong work ethic, both professionally and personally.