About Me

Dr. Ben Steel LMHC, CMPC

I grew up loving sports and competition, but as I got older, fear and anxiety began to creep into my performance. I struggled with the idea of meeting other people’s expectations and doing everything perfectly. The pressure became overwhelming, filling my mind with doubt and self‑criticism. It chipped away at my confidence, made it hard to focus, and stole the joy I once felt. Eventually I learned to focus on what I can control, and enjoy the process leading to better performances and a more enjoyable experience.

When I began coaching a high school team, I noticed many of my athletes facing similar challenges. Some were dealing with pressures far beyond the gym, carrying personal and family hardships that affected every part of their lives. I realized I needed better tools to help them rethink their struggles and turn their mindset into a strength.

That realization led me to earn a Masters and Doctorate in sports psychology. As I moved through my program, I saw how deeply performance issues connect to overall mental health. I expanded my training to include a focus in clinical mental health counseling in order to help with a larger variety of challenges in life such as depression, relationship issues, and unhelpful coping behaviors. After graduating, I specialized in trauma work, with a certification in EMDR, and became an active member of the Green Cross working towards becoming a certified Traumatologist.

My philosophical research interests focus on Ancient and Medieval moral psychology, habit formation, and identity. With my psychological training and philosophical interests I help people work through past pains and current challenges so they can transform their mind from a burden into an asset—and live with greater peace and joy.