Biography - Marybeth Bethel

Marybeth Bethel received a bachelor’s degree in Psychology and a masters in Counseling Psychology from the University of Kansas. She has been in private practice as a psychotherapist and personal coach since 1991, specializing in helping people develop their potential and make the most of their lives.

Marybeth bases her work on the tenets of Positive Psychology and Maslow’s theory of Self-Actualization. As a foundation, she teaches people how to build self-esteem, think more effectively, deal with anxiety and develop effective risk-taking skills. From this base, clients are better able to work towards cherished goals.

For several years, she was the Assistant Director for a crisis counseling center, in charge of recruiting, training and managing a staff of 80 volunteer counselors. Since 1998 she has worked part-time as a professional scorer of standardized test essays, including the ACT.

Prior to pursuing her masters degree, Marybeth had a career in the publishing industry, while raising her son as a single parent. He followed his passion to Japan, where he currently lives and teaches. From 1997-2000 Marybeth wrote monthly columns for several regional magazines. Another pursuit involved developing and hosting a weekly radio show, where she interviewed people about their creative lives.

Marybeth sees life as an adventure, and is a perennial student. Her current interests include studying Italian, traveling throughout Italy and writing about her experiences. She lives in Lawrence, KS.