Mieke Stapelberg, LPC Pronunciation: Mee-Kuh

  • Early in my career, I was working as a clinical sexologist and had planned to focus exclusively on sexuality and relationships. I was fascinated by human connection, intimacy, and the ways people navigate their emotional and sexual lives. Everything changed in July 2016 when my sister died by suicide. Her death deeply impacted me and shifted the course of my life. In many ways, I initially responded by intellectualizing my grief. I enrolled in grad school for mental health counseling as a way to better understand what had happened and to make sense of my own experience. What began as a way of coping with loss quickly evolved into my passion.

  • I work best with clients who are ready to actively engage in the therapeutic process and are motivated to make meaningful changes in their lives. My intake process focuses on understanding your goals, strengths, challenges, and the patterns that may be keeping you stuck. Together, we create a plan tailored to your needs. Progress often looks like increased self-awareness, improved relationships, healthier coping strategies, and the ability to make choices that align with your values. I enjoy working with individuals and couples who are open to reflection, willing to practice skills outside of sessions, and committed to doing the work necessary for lasting growth and healing.

  • I view learning as an essential part of being an effective therapist. I regularly participate in continuing education focused on trauma, couples therapy, sex therapy, suicide prevention, ethics, ADHD, neurodiversity, and evidence-based treatment approaches. I am particularly drawn to trainings that help me better understand relationships, attachment, emotional regulation, and the intersection of mental health and sexuality. I also enjoy learning from consultation groups, supervision, research, and the experiences of my clients. Currently, I am especially interested in expanding my knowledge of neurodiversity, trauma-informed care, and innovative approaches that help clients create lasting change in their lives and relationships.