About

About Rich Stapleton

Licensed Mental Health Counselor, educator, and clinical supervisor with over two decades of experience helping adults heal and grow.

Rich Stapleton, licensed therapist at Shanthi Wellness

My approach to therapy

I believe that healing happens in the context of a safe, trusting relationship. With over two decades of experience across clinical, academic, and supervisory roles, I bring both depth of knowledge and genuine warmth to every session.

My work is trauma-informed and grounded in evidence-based practice. I tailor each treatment plan to the individual rather than applying a one-size-fits-all method. Whether you're navigating anxiety, depression, trauma, or a difficult life transition, I'll meet you where you are.

In addition to my clinical work, I am an Approved Clinical Supervisor and have spent many years training the next generation of counselors as a faculty member and academic coordinator. That background shapes how I think about growth, change, and what it means to truly support another person.

Education & credentials

CCE Approved Clinical Supervisor (ACS) badgeCCE Board Certified TeleMental Health Provider (BC-TMH) badge

Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC)

Iowa, Colorado, Minnesota & Florida

National Certified Counselor (NCC)

National Board for Certified Counselors

Certified Clinical Trauma Professional (CCTP)

Trauma-focused care

Board Certified Telemental Health Provider (BC-TMH)

Telehealth best practices

Approved Clinical Supervisor (ACS)

Counselor supervision

Doctor of Education (EdD), Counselor Education & Supervision

Argosy University, 2012

Master of Arts (MA), Community Counseling

University of Phoenix

Bachelor of Arts (BA), Religion

Wartburg College

What I believe

You are the expert on your own life

My role is to offer tools, perspective, and support — not to tell you who to be or how to live.

Therapy should feel safe

I work hard to create a space where you can be honest, vulnerable, and fully yourself without fear of judgment.

Progress takes many forms

Healing isn't linear. I meet you where you are and celebrate every step forward, no matter how small.

Leadership & service

Chair, Board of Directors — National Board for Certified Counselors (NBCC)

Past President, American Counseling Association of Iowa (July 2019 – July 2020)

Founding Board Member, American Counseling Association of Iowa

Academic Coordinator, Counselor Education & Supervision — Walden University

Member, Johnson County Iowa Case Management Advisory Board

Ready to take the first step?

I'd love to connect and learn more about what brings you here.