Who I Am
I’m a curious explorer of stories, cultures, and the many paths people take in life. Both my work and my life are shaped by the belief that everyone carries a unique story within them - a story that can be told, understood, and transformed.
What I Do
I help people make sense of their story - so that life fits them again.
What does that mean? I support people in seeing, understanding, and telling their story in a new way - without downplaying themselves or losing who they are.
Because it’s not what happened to you that defines your identity - but how you talk about it.
My Path
My interest in language, culture, and identity began early. Even as a child, I loved immersing myself in stories and discovering other perspectives. Later, this turned into academic study, a passion, and ultimately a profession.
For many years, I’ve worked with people from a wide variety of cultural backgrounds - as a teacher, coach, and companion on their path of personal and professional development. After studying Biographical and Creative Writing, I began supporting others in writing their life stories. And what I learned along the way: Change always begins with how we tell our own story. 👉 So take ownership of your story.
Beyond the Story
My work is called 'Beyond the Story' because I believe:
✨ There’s always more behind every story. ✨
More than roles, labels, and old narratives.
More than what’s considered 'functional.'
More than what fits on Instagram or a résumé.
What I Stand For
🌱 I’m convinced that stories - or narratives - shape our lives , both personally and socially.
🌱 Narrative therapy and intercultural coaching are grounded in genuine curiosity and deep respect for others.
🌱 Our differences are what make life flavorful. A diverse society is more creative, more innovative, and more livable than one that strives for uniformity.
🌱 Each person knows their own life and challenges best - I simply help uncover what’s hidden and loosen limiting thought patterns zu auflösen.
🌱 Storytelling works. Advertising uses it to manipulate - I use it to empower. I firmly reject manipulative storytelling.
What Defines Me
I believe that each person holds their own solutions within. My approach is shaped by listening, asking questions, and discovering new ways together. I use creative methods that invite reflection and development - often playful, sometimes unconventional, but always with depth.
I’m structured, attentive and professional. I work with heart - but without making false promises. I take people seriously - even between the lines. I believe in change. And in storytelling as a key to it.
Hard Facts About Me
🧾 Über 15 Jahre Erfahrung in der intercultural education and working with people from more than 60 countries
🧾 B.A. in Cultural Studies (FernUniversität in Hagen)
🧾M.A. in Biographical and Creative Writing (Alice Salomon University, Berlin)
🧾 Heilpraktikerin für Psychotherapie (Berlin Health Authority, Lichtenberg)
🧾 Trained Narrative Therapist (Institute of Narrative Therapy, UK & Institut für ressourcenorientierte Gesprächsführung, Hamburg)
🧾 Trained Certified Systemic Coach and Integration Consultant (Institut für Bildungscoaching)
🧾Ausbildung als author, editor, and dramaturg (Skript Akademie, Berlin)
🧾 Published short story 'Abgefahren' in the anthology 'Vom Aufstehen' (Schibiri Verlag, 2021)
Fun Facts
🎈 When swimming- my favorite sport - I’m as blind as a mole without my glasses
🎈 I’m an early bird . My best ideas come at 5 a.m.
🎈 I laugh heartily at my own 'misheard lyrics' - like thinking 'Sweet dreams are made of cheese' instead of 'Sweet dreams are made of this' by the Eurythmics
🎈 I collect curious quirks of the German language - like: 'Du kannst ruhig lauter sprechen' or 'Wir sollten uns langsam mal beeilen'
In Short
Miriam Rürup is a licensed alternative practitioner for psychotherapy and intercultural coach who brings empathy, respect, and an open heart to everything she does. A creative thinker, she naturally finds innovative solutions when challenges arise. With extensive training and years of experience in intercultural education, she is passionate about fostering authenticity and connection across cultures. As the founder of BeyondTheStory, she inspires people to break free from limiting thought patterns and to enrich their personal stories with meaning. She is especially dedicated to supporting people who feel stuck in difficult life stories - and expats adjusting to new environments.