06/04/2026
Business Spotlight: Michelle Rathfelder, LISW-S of Michelle Rathfelder Counseling, LLC and Bailey's Healing Paws
When you first meet Michelle Rathfelder, one thing becomes immediately clear: helping people isn't just her profession—it's her calling. As the owner and Mental Health Therapist of Michelle Rathfelder Counseling, Michelle has created a practice built on authenticity, compassion, and meaningful connection. Her counseling practice provides a welcoming environment where clients can feel seen, heard, and supported through life's challenges.
Recently, Michelle trusted Luna Studios to create personal branding and headshot images that would help her better share her story and connect with potential clients. During our time together, I had the opportunity to learn more about her journey, her business, and what makes her approach to counseling so unique.
So Michelle, what inspired you to start your own business?
“Prior to owning my own private practice, I worked in community mental health. The experience was invaluable but I felt confined and did not have the creative freedom to provide therapy in a way that felt genuine to me.”
Michelle's answer perfectly captures the entrepreneurial spirit. Sometimes the desire to start a business isn't about becoming a business owner—it's about creating the freedom to serve people in a way that aligns with your values and vision.
What’s one thing about your business that makes you most proud?
“I am most proud of being able to provide Canine-Assisted Therapy to the community and that I am in partnership with the goodest girl, Bailey.”
Bailey is a beautiful Golden Retriever who just received her CTD and is a Certified Therapy Dog. If you've ever met Bailey, you understand why Michelle smiles when she talks about her. Bailey isn't simply an office dog—she's an important part of the therapeutic experience, helping clients feel comfortable, safe, and supported throughout their journey.
What’s one piece of advice you’d give to someone just starting out in your industry?
“Develop connections with professionals who can help you build your business. Just because you can do everything on your own, doesn’t mean you need to or should. Use the professional resources, that’s what they are there for.”
That's advice that extends far beyond the counseling profession. Building relationships and seeking support can often be the difference between surviving and thriving in business.
What’s something surprising about you that most people wouldn’t know?
"This is hard for me because I don’t like talking about myself. I have two Master’s Degrees, one in Forensic Psychology and one is Social Work. I am a grandmother of two." I had to giggle a little bit when Michelle admitted she doesn't like talking about herself because it became a recurring theme throughout our planning process. Like so many professionals who spend their careers helping others, she prefers to keep the spotlight off herself. Yet her accomplishments tell an impressive story of dedication, education, and lifelong learning.
What struggles were you having with marketing your business before our session together?
“I am not sure I was really having struggles per se, I just wasn’t doing very much of it. I had a profile on Psychology Today and a page but that was it.”
Many business owners find themselves in a similar position. They know they should be marketing but aren't quite sure where to start or how to consistently show up online.
What prompted you to inquire about having headshot photos taken for your company?
“I wanted to have professional images to be able to use in marketing. After talking with you, my ideas for marketing grew and I knew I needed a few good photos of me and Bailey.”
What started as a desire for professional photos quickly became a bigger conversation about visibility, branding, and the impact that strategic images can have on a business.
How has working with a professional branding photographer helped you?
Michelle said, “Working with Luna Studios has increased my confidence and willingness to market my business more fully. It has inspired me to be on more social media platforms and to not shy away (as much) from marketing opportunities.”
As a photographer, this answer means the world to me because it highlights something that goes far beyond beautiful images. Confidence is often the greatest transformation that comes from a branding session. I’m always honored to be a part of that.
How did you feel about having your photo taken before and after working together?
“I was very hesitant about having my photos taken simply because I don’t like being the center of attention and/or having my photo taken. After working together, I still don’t like having my photo taken but I am glad I did it.”
I appreciate Michelle's honesty here. Not every client leaves suddenly loving being photographed—and that's okay. The goal isn't to become someone you're not. The goal is to feel comfortable enough to show up for your business and your audience!
Was there anything you learned during the planning process that made an impact on how your session turned out?
“It felt very overwhelming during the planning session. Looking back, the photoshoot wouldn’t have been as successful without it.” This is exactly why planning matters! While it can sometimes feel overwhelming in the moment, a thoughtful strategy creates stronger, more intentional images that tell a cohesive story.
How did you feel after you received the final images?
“I am very pleased with the final images. It was really hard to narrow down to just a few. The final images represent the way I want my business and brand to be presented, (and) I have already used some of the images for my business profiles. I am proud of myself for following through and doing something not just for my business but for me also,” Michelle said.
This answer may be my favorite. Building a business often requires us to do things that push us outside our comfort zone. The best branding images don't simply show what someone looks like—they communicate who they are and what they stand for.
Michelle went on to share, “The knowledge and experience you provided, along with the photos you took, will help me market my business, bring in more clients and spread awareness about mental health topics. I tell people that you are very good at what you do—not just taking photos but capturing the message people want to share. I tell them that you really do care about helping others reach their goals. I also tell them you have a lot of insight and creative ideas on how to market their business. And I have already recommended you! 🙂
This is exactly why I do what I do and couldn't ask for a more meaningful compliment. Beautiful photographs are important, but helping business owners grow their visibility and impact is even more meaningful.
Michelle, thank you for trusting me, my hair and makeup team, and Luna Studios with your story. It was a joy getting to know you, creating images that showcase both you and Bailey, and helping you build a stronger visual presence for your business. Your commitment to helping others, advocating for mental health, and serving our community is inspiring, and I'm honored to have played a small part in helping you share that message.
To learn more about Michelle Rathfelder Counseling and the unique support she provides through counseling and Canine-Assisted Therapy, connect with her practice in the Chamber Office on Napoleon Street, Fremont and show her pages some love as she builds her business! Thank you, Moon
HAIR: Liza Semer | Luxe Creative Studio
MAKEUP: Kelly Graham Albrecht | IG: wink.makeupartistry
PHOTOGRAPHS: Luna Studios - Fremont
PHOTOGRAPHER: Lori Mooney Fox
CAMERA: Canon R5
STROBES and MODIFIERS: Godox Flashes & Lights
OTHER GEAR FAVE: Spider Camera Holster
