“Two roads diverged in a wood, and I—I took the one less traveled by,
And that has made all the difference.”
— Robert Frost
Marzena Rafalo, ND, CNS
As a Naturopathic Doctor and Functional Medicine Practitioner, I focus on addressing the root causes of illness and promoting long-term wellness through natural, holistic approaches.
My journey into Complementary and Integrative Healthcare (CIH) began when I moved to the United States from Poland over twenty years ago. Motivated by a passion for a healthy lifestyle and expanding my knowledge, I pursued a career in natural medicine. I graduated from the National University of Health Sciences (NUHS) in Lombard, Illinois, where I earned my Doctor of Naturopathic Medicine degree.
In 2019, my father was diagnosed with cancer, which profoundly shaped my path. While researching integrative cancer therapies, I completed a Master’s in Human Nutrition and Functional Medicine from the University of Western States (UWS) and earned Certification in Nutrition Specialist® through the American Nutrition Association (ANA). My continued interest in nutrition for chronic conditions led me to the Oncology Nutrition Consulting (ONC™) program, which provided me with the knowledge to support clients undergoing conventional treatments with dietary and holistic therapies.
My father’s healing journey and his positive response to natural therapies strengthened my belief in the body’s innate ability to restore balance when given the right support. This experience deepened my understanding of how every organ and system in the body is interconnected, and how addressing imbalances in one area can positively influence overall health. This holistic perspective continues to guide my commitment to offering individualized care for chronic conditions, with a focus on detoxification and immune system support.
I believe more individuals are recognizing the value of natural treatments and that options like drugs, injections, and surgery are not always the only solutions. As interest in alternative therapies continues to grow, I am dedicated to helping others tap into their natural capacity for healing by guiding them through naturopathic principles and empowering them to make the changes needed to restore their health and live a more balanced, vibrant life.
Education
- Doctor of Naturopathic Medicine, National University of Health Sciences
- Master of Science in Human Nutrition and Functional Medicine, University of Western States
- Certified Nutrition Specialist® (CNS), The Board for Certification of Nutrition Specialists
- Certified Oncology Nutrition Consultant®, Oncology Nutrition Institute
- Certified in Clinical Homeopathy, Center for Education & Development of Clinical Homeopathy
- Certified in Acupuncture Techniques and Protocols (100+ hours of training), National University of Health Sciences
Additional Training
- Functional Medicine Courses, Metabolic Management
- Functional Medicine Courses, Apex Energetics™
- Assessment & Treatment of Autoimmune Diseases
- Biotherapeutic Drainage Courses through Seroyal
- UNDA Numbered Compounds
- Clinical Application of Gemmotherapy, Oligo-elements, Plexes, and Schuessler Salts
- Clinical Applications for Phytotherapy
- Fundamentals and Clinical Applications of IV Nutrient Therapies


