Career Opportunities | Step by Step Counseling

Do work that matters, join our Step By Step Counseling family! At Step By Step Counseling, we are changing the lives of our local community, and lets not forget, at the center of all of this is our world-class, A+, rockstar awesome team!

Currently, we are recruiting for part-time and full-therapist positions. We are open to both provisional and licensed clinicians. Please scroll down for ways to apply, reasons why someone would want to work with us, and frequently asked questions. If you feel that you would be a good fit, we would love to hear from you!

Child IOP Therapist (Saint Charles)

We are looking for therapists to support our intensive out patient programming. Our IOP programming is for children ages 5-11 yrs old. Kids are with us on Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursdays from 2-5pm. Looking for someone who can commit to IOP hours and to assessments for new IOP clients.

Minimum Qualification Requirements:

Enjoys working with kids who have problems, behaviors and big feelings
Ability to provide family therapy for children & their caregivers
Effective group facilitation skills: The clinician facilitates a skills group effectively, creating a safe and supportive environment where clients can learn and practice new skills.
Organizational skills: The clinician is well-organized and able to keep track of client progress, group materials, and schedules, ensuring that the groups run smoothly and effectively.
Master’s or Doctorate degree in psychology, counseling, social work, marriage, and family and active, unrestricted professional license (LPC, LCSW, LMFT) in the State of Missouri (must be fully licensed). A color copy must be provided to Step By Step Counseling during the interview process.
- Open to working with PLPCs
Comfortable working with technology including our Electronic Health Records and telehealth
Afternoon hours are expected because of current client demand.
Understanding of and using evidence-based mental health treatments, and evidence of mastering and practice of a consistent theory or modality.
Cultural sensitivity and competence: The candidate should have a strong understanding of the importance of cultural sensitivity and competence in therapy and be able to work effectively with clients from diverse backgrounds.

Preferences:

Collaboration and teamwork: The clinician should be able to work effectively with other treatment providers, including individual therapists, to provide comprehensive group treatment. Ability to collaborate with other professional team members including school personnel, medical providers, case managers, and others involved in the treatment of their clients.
Ability to establish and maintain professional relationships.
Clinicians should have extensive experience working with clients who have complex and challenging issues
Flexibility and adaptability: The clinician modifies their approach to meet the unique needs of individual clients or groups and be able to handle difficult situations in a skills group setting.
Open-mindedness and willingness to learn: The clinician is open to ongoing learning and development, and is willing to seek out training and professional development opportunities.
Empathy and compassion: The clinician should have the ability to understand and relate to the experiences of clients and be able to provide a non-judgmental and empathetic environment for skills group participants.
Good communication skills: The clinician has excellent verbal and written communication skills and is able to clearly and effectively
Positive attitude and energy: The clinician has a positive attitude and brings energy and enthusiasm to their work, helping to create a supportive and uplifting environment for clients.
Active listening skills: The clinician actively listens to clients and attends to their needs and concerns, ensuring that each client has the opportunity to participate and get the most out of the skills group

Community Programs Assistant

Program Assistant

We are seeking a dedicated and dynamic Program Assistant to play a pivotal role in our counseling practice. The candidate will be the mastermind behind our groups & programs. They will be responsible for supporting our therapeutic or skills groups by helping with promotion & recruitment, registration, documentation, and assisting in groups as needed. There’s an opportunity to be the ultimate group whisperer, swooping in to save the day whenever our groups need an extra dose of awesomeness.

Key Responsibilities:

Marketing and Outreach:

Develop and execute marketing strategies to promote our counseling services, programs and therapeutic groups.
Leverage social media, community events and partnerships to expand the reach of our groups and programs. For example: Collaborate with external organizations, schools, and community partners to expand our outreach efforts. Another example would be creating compelling content for social media, newsletters, and other communication channels to promote groups.

Comprehensive Program Support:

Assist in planning and coordinating various groups and programs within the counseling practice.
Be the bridge between the group therapy experience and the administrative backbone of our practice. The organized approach will ensure the smooth functioning of sessions, from logistics to documentation. Collaborate closely with our main group therapists to ensure smooth and welcoming client experiences.
Act as a point of contact for clients participating in therapeutic groups, providing information and support.

Coordination and Administrative:

Organize and oversee events, workshops, groups and presentations related to counseling and mental health. Coordinate logistics, manage registrations, and ensure events run smoothly.
Assist with administrative tasks such as scheduling, maintaining records, and managing communication.
Collaborate closely with the owner and leadership team to recognize possibilities and facilitate growth.

Qualifications:

Bachelor’s or Masters degree in Social Work, Counseling, Psychology, or a related field.
Excellent interpersonal and communication skills. We’re after a social ninja who can wield words like nunchucks and turn awkward conversations into delightful waltzes. If your voicemail messages could win awards, we’re all ears!
Strong organizational and multitasking abilities. Hunting for that special someone whose attention to detail could give Sherlock Holmes a run for his magnifying glass, and whose organizational skills could turn a tornado into a ballet dancer. If color-coding your sock drawer brings you immense joy, we want you on our team!
Empathy and a genuine passion for helping others. We’re on the lookout for an empathy superhero with a cape woven from understanding and a passion for helping. If you’ve ever teared up during a Pixar movie, your superpowers are exactly what we need!

Opportunity for growth:

This position has the strong potential for full time and/or leadership opportunities over the next year if desired.

If you’ve ever daydreamed about being a mental health superhero and want to team up with a dedicated team, then your adventure starts by applying for this position!

Child & Adolescent Group Therapist (Saint Charles)

We understand the importance of having qualified and compassionate therapists to run groups for our clients. Groups can be a powerful tool for those seeking help and guidance, and the therapist leading the group plays a crucial role in creating a safe and supportive environment for all participants. We are actively recruiting for a child and adolescent therapist to run a few of our groups.

Minimum Qualification Requirements:

Effective group facilitation skills: The clinician facilitates a skills group effectively, creating a safe and supportive environment where clients can learn and practice new skills.
Organizational skills: The clinician is well-organized and able to keep track of client progress, group materials, and schedules, ensuring that the groups run smoothly and effectively.
Master’s or Doctorate degree in psychology, counseling, social work, marriage, and family and active, unrestricted professional license (LPC, LCSW, LMFT) in the State of Missouri (must be fully licensed). A color copy must be provided to Step By Step Counseling during the interview process.
- Open to working with PLPCs
Comfortable working with technology including our Electronic Health Records and telehealth
Afternoon and evening hours are expected because of current client demand.
Understanding of and using evidence-based mental health treatments, and evidence of mastering and practice of a consistent theory or modality.
Cultural sensitivity and competence: The candidate should have a strong understanding of the importance of cultural sensitivity and competence in therapy and be able to work effectively with clients from diverse backgrounds.

Preferences:

Collaboration and teamwork: The clinician should be able to work effectively with other treatment providers, including individual therapists, to provide comprehensive group treatment. Ability to collaborate with other professional team members including school personnel, medical providers, case managers, and others involved in the treatment of their clients.
Ability to establish and maintain professional relationships.
Clinicians should have extensive experience working with clients who have complex and challenging issues
Flexibility and adaptability: The clinician modifies their approach to meet the unique needs of individual clients or groups and be able to handle difficult situations in a skills group setting.
Open-mindedness and willingness to learn: The clinician is open to ongoing learning and development, and is willing to seek out training and professional development opportunities.
Empathy and compassion: The clinician should have the ability to understand and relate to the experiences of clients and be able to provide a non-judgmental and empathetic environment for skills group participants.
Good communication skills: The clinician has excellent verbal and written communication skills and is able to clearly and effectively
Positive attitude and energy: The clinician has a positive attitude and brings energy and enthusiasm to their work, helping to create a supportive and uplifting environment for clients.
Active listening skills: The clinician actively listens to clients and attends to their needs and concerns, ensuring that each client has the opportunity to participate and get the most out of the skills group

Licensed In-Office Child & Adolescent Therapist - Olivette

Minimum Qualification Requirements; here’s what you need to bring to the playroom!

Superhero Training: You should have experience, CEUs, or training in saving the day for kids and teens. Experience, CEUs, or training specific to working with children & adolescents is needed
Tech Savviness: Don’t worry; you won’t need a cape for this, but you should be comfortable with technology, like our Electronic Health Records and occasional telehealth adventures.
Times: Expect either afternoon/evening hours (or weekend availability) because our young clients & families are available at those times. Ideal candidates are like elastic superheroes with either weekend and evening availability.
Understanding of and using evidence-based mental health treatments, and evidence of mastering and practice of a consistent theory or modality
Master’s or Doctorate degree in psychology, counseling, social work, marriage, and family and active, unrestricted professional license (LPC, LCSW, LMFT) in the State of Missouri (must be fully licensed). A color copy must be provided to Step By Step Counseling during the interview process.
- Open to PLPCs who are willing to work towards certification in EMDR, CPP, TF-CBT, EFT, or DBT – because even superheroes can use some extra training!

Preferences, ::ahem:: Super-Duper Wishlist for Our Child Whisperers

Have at least one niche or specialty, Ideal candidates have a niche or a population they enjoy working with. It’s awesome if you’ve got a specialty or a favorite group of kids to work with. We’re looking for heroes who have a soft spot for a particular group.
We value accessibility. Openness to being paneled in-network with insurance plans (office will take care of credentialling). Don’t worry, our office will help you with all the paperwork – no capes required.
Ability to collaborate with other professional team members including school personnel, medical providers, case managers, and others involved in the treatment of their clients. Teamwork is key!
Ability to establish rapport with families and maintain professional relationships. Ideal canidates should be a master of building and maintaining super-duper relationships with their young clients and the community.

Other details:

We are open to part time playful pros and full time fun enthusiasts

Licensed In-Office Child & Adolescent Therapist - Saint Charles

Minimum Qualification Requirements; here’s what you need to bring to the playroom!

Superhero Training: You should have experience, CEUs, or training in saving the day for kids and teens. Experience, CEUs, or training specific to working with children & adolescents is needed
Tech Savviness: Don’t worry; you won’t need a cape for this, but you should be comfortable with technology, like our Electronic Health Records and occasional telehealth adventures.
Times: Expect either afternoon/evening hours (or weekend availability) because our young clients & families are available at those times. Ideal candidates are like elastic superheroes with either weekend and evening availability.
Understanding of and using evidence-based mental health treatments, and evidence of mastering and practice of a consistent theory or modality
Master’s or Doctorate degree in psychology, counseling, social work, marriage, and family and active, unrestricted professional license (LPC, LCSW, LMFT) in the State of Missouri (must be fully licensed). A color copy must be provided to Step By Step Counseling during the interview process.
- Open to PLPCs who are willing to work towards certification in EMDR, CPP, TF-CBT, EFT, or DBT – because even superheroes can use some extra training!

Preferences, ::ahem:: Super-Duper Wishlist for Our Child Whisperers

Have at least one niche or specialty, Ideal candidates have a niche or a population they enjoy working with. It’s awesome if you’ve got a specialty or a favorite group of kids to work with. We’re looking for heroes who have a soft spot for a particular group.
We value accessibility. Openness to being paneled in-network with insurance plans (office will take care of credentialling). Don’t worry, our office will help you with all the paperwork – no capes required.
Ability to collaborate with other professional team members including school personnel, medical providers, case managers, and others involved in the treatment of their clients. Teamwork is key!
Ability to establish rapport with families and maintain professional relationships. Ideal canidates should be a master of building and maintaining super-duper relationships with their young clients and the community.

Other details:

We are open to part time playful pros and full time fun enthusiasts

In-Home Child & Adolescent Therapist

Minimum Qualification Requirements; here’s what you need to bring to the playroom!

Superhero Training: You should have experience, CEUs, or training in saving the day for kids and teens. Experience, CEUs, or training specific to working with children & adolescents is needed
Tech Savviness: Don’t worry; you won’t need a cape for this, but you should be comfortable with technology, like our Electronic Health Records and occasional telehealth adventures.
Expect either afternoon/evening hours (or weekend availability) because our young clients & families are available at those times. Ideal candidates are like elastic superheroes with either weekend and evening availability.
Understanding of and using evidence-based mental health treatments, and evidence of mastering and practice of a consistent theory or modality
Master’s or Doctorate degree in psychology, counseling, social work, marriage, and family and active, unrestricted professional license (LPC, LCSW, LMFT) in the State of Missouri (must be fully licensed). A color copy must be provided to Step By Step Counseling during the interview process.
- Open to PLPCs who are willing to work towards certification in EMDR, CPP, TF-CBT, EFT, or DBT – because even superheroes can use some extra training!

Preferences, ::ahem:: Super-Duper Wishlist for Our Child Whisperers

Have at least one niche or specialty, Ideal candidates have a niche or a population they enjoy working with. It’s awesome if you’ve got a specialty or a favorite group of kids to work with. We’re looking for heroes who have a soft spot for a particular group.
We value accessibility. Openness to being paneled in-network with insurance plans (office will take care of credentialling). Don’t worry, our office will help you with all the paperwork – no capes required.
Ability to collaborate with other professional team members including school personnel, medical providers, case managers, and others involved in the treatment of their clients. Teamwork is key!
Ability to establish rapport with families and maintain professional relationships. Ideal canidates should be a master of building and maintaining super-duper relationships with their young clients and the community.

Other details:

Open to someone who wants to do part time in office, part time in-home
We are open to part time playful pros and full time fun enthusiasts

DBT Skills Groups & Individual Therapist (Saint Charles)

Minimum Qualification Requirements:

Master’s or Doctorate degree in psychology, counseling, social work, marriage, and family and active, unrestricted professional license (LPC, LCSW, LMFT) in the State of Missouri (must be fully licensed). A color copy must be provided to Step By Step Counseling during the interview process.
- Open to PLPCs who are willing to work towards certification in DBT
Comfortable working with technology including our Electronic Health Records and telehealth
Afternoon and evening hours are expected because of current client demand. Ideal candidates would have some weekend or evening availability.
Understanding of and using evidence-based mental health treatments, and evidence of mastering and practice of a consistent theory or modality, in particular DBT for DBT Skills groups. We would expect comprehensive DBT knowledge: The clinician should have a strong understanding of the four modules of DBT (Mindfulness, Distress Tolerance, Emotion Regulation, and Interpersonal Effectiveness) and be able to articulate how they integrate these modules into their skills groups.
Cultural sensitivity and competence: The candidate should have a strong understanding of the importance of cultural sensitivity and competence in therapy and be able to work effectively with clients from diverse backgrounds.

Preferences:

Collaboration and teamwork: The clinician should be able to work effectively with other treatment providers, including individual therapists, to provide comprehensive DBT treatment. Ability to collaborate with other professional team members including school personnel, medical providers, case managers, and others involved in the treatment of their clients.
Ability to establish and maintain professional relationships.
Clinicians should have extensive experience working with clients who have complex and challenging issues and be able to demonstrate how they have used DBT to help clients make progress.
Flexibility and adaptability: The clinician modifies their approach to meet the unique needs of individual clients or groups and be able to handle difficult situations in a skills group setting.
Effective group facilitation skills: The clinician facilitates a skills group effectively, creating a safe and supportive environment where clients can learn and practice new skills.
Open-mindedness and willingness to learn: The clinician is open to ongoing learning and development, and is willing to seek out training and professional development opportunities to stay current with the latest developments in DBT.
Empathy and compassion: The clinician should have the ability to understand and relate to the experiences of clients and be able to provide a non-judgmental and empathetic environment for skills group participants.
Good communication skills: The clinician has excellent verbal and written communication skills and is able to clearly and effectively explain DBT concepts and skills to clients.
Organizational skills: The candidate is well-organized and able to keep track of client progress, group materials, and schedules, ensuring that the skills group runs smoothly and effectively.
Positive attitude and energy: The clinician has a positive attitude and brings energy and enthusiasm to their work, helping to create a supportive and uplifting environment for clients.
Active listening skills: The clinician actively listens to clients and attends to their needs and concerns, ensuring that each client has the opportunity to participate and get the most out of the skills group.

Other details:

We have a DBT consult group once a week
We have many DBT resources, manuals, and guides available to use

The ideal candidate will have a background in Dialectical Behavior Therapy and experience leading skills groups for individuals struggling with complex and challenging issues. The clinician we are looking to hire would need to be trained in DBT principles and techniques, this can be done through workshops, online courses, or certification programs. They would need a solid understanding of who would benefit from DBT and who would not. We would want them to regularly monitor the effectiveness of their DBT groups and make any necessary adjustments. This can be done through regular feedback from clients, staff, and supervisors.

If you are passionate about using DBT to help individuals make positive changes in their lives and have the skills and experience we are seeking, we encourage you to apply.

Licensed In-Office Adolescent & Adult Therapist - Saint Charles

Minimum Qualification Requirements; here’s what you need to bring to the playroom!

Superhero Training: Have at least one niche or specialty, Ideal candidates have a niche or a population they enjoy working with. We’re looking for heroes who have a soft spot for a particular group.
Tech Savviness: Don’t worry; you won’t need a cape for this, but you should be comfortable with technology, like our Electronic Health Records and occasional telehealth adventures.
Times: Expect either afternoon/evening hours (or weekend availability) because our young clients & families are available at those times. Ideal candidates are like elastic superheroes with either weekend and evening availability. We are okay with some daytime, but our goal is to fill schedules first then readjust.
Understanding of and using evidence-based mental health treatments, and evidence of mastering and practice of a consistent theory or modality
Master’s or Doctorate degree in psychology, counseling, social work, marriage, and family and active, unrestricted professional license (LPC, LCSW, LMFT) in the State of Missouri (must be fully licensed). A color copy must be provided to Step By Step Counseling during the interview process.
- Open to provisional therapists who are willing to work towards certification in EMDR, CPP, TF-CBT, EFT, or DBT – because even superheroes can use some extra training!

Preferences, ::ahem:: Super-Duper Wishlist for Our Child Whisperers

We value accessibility. Openness to being paneled in-network with insurance plans (office will take care of credentialling). Don’t worry, our office will help you with all the paperwork – no capes required.
Ability to collaborate with other professional team members including school personnel, medical providers, case managers, and others involved in the treatment of their clients. Teamwork is key!
Ability to establish rapport with families and maintain professional relationships. Ideal candidates should be a master of building and maintaining super-duper relationships with their clients and the community.

Other details:

We are open to part time playful pros and full time fun enthusiasts

Please e-mail: info@StepByStepCounselingLLC.com

1. A cover letter highlighting what position you are applying to, why you want to work with our office, and what experiences, credentials, or certifications you have that would be helpful for our clients or to our office. What makes you stand out compared to other applicants?

2. Resume sharing some of your professional experiences that would be relevant to our open position.

When providing references, please include the person’s name, relation to you, and their e-mail address. Please know that we check all references. Please only give references that will be able to communicate with our office within a timely manner. Often we have applicants who provide references that will either not return our emails or phone calls, or references that state they only confirm employment but do not provide character or clinical references.

3. Acknowledgement or agreement in this statement.

Step By Step Counseling, as a Medicaid provider, is committed to upholding the highest standards of health and safety in compliance with federal guidelines. It is important to note that, as of the present moment, there is no mandate regarding COVID-19 vaccination or other health-related requirements. However, we acknowledge that the landscape of healthcare regulations can evolve. In the event that the government establishes any mandates that pertain to Medicaid providers or healthcare facilities, Step By Step Counseling will fully adhere to these directives.

As a current or prospective member of our staff, we kindly request your understanding and flexibility in the face of any potential changes that may arise. The health and well-being of our clients, staff, and the community we serve are of paramount importance to us, and we remain committed to providing the highest quality care while staying in compliance with all relevant regulations. We appreciate your ongoing commitment to the well-being of those we serve.

Please complete our get to know you form online. Click on the link below.

Clinician only: GET TO KNOW YOU (Clinicians)

Program Coordinator only GET TO KNOW YOU (PROGRAMS)

Office Operations Assistant: GET TO KNOW YOU (Staff)

Interview

Once application materials have been received, we will determine if the applicant seems to be a good fit for our office. If we feel as if the applicant may be a good fit, we’ll reach out and offer a phone or video interview. During this conversation, applicants have the opportunity to ask questions about our organization and share more about what they are looking for in a position.

Why would a therapist want to work for us instead of starting their own practice?

We believe that is exactly the right question to ask.

When we talk with candidates, we are transparent about this being a two-way decision. Working with us means we need to be a strong fit for your career goals, and you need to feel aligned with our culture. It should always be a win-win.

Private practice can be exciting, but it can also be isolating, mentally heavy, and financially risky. Doing meaningful clinical work is often easier and more sustainable when you are part of a team that carries the weight with you.

So why choose Step By Step Counseling?

Community instead of isolation We intentionally build connection. Our clinicians celebrate wins together, consult with one another, and feel supported during hard moments. Independent practice can feel lonely. Here, you have people to rally around you.

Your time and mental energy are protected
Owning a business demands significant unpaid labor. Billing, credentialing, phone calls, scheduling, paperwork, and vendor management add hours each week that often go unseen. Our administrative team handles these responsibilities so clinicians can come in, do their clinical work, and go home. That translates into better work-life balance and less burnout.

Support replaces competition Our leadership team is invested in clinician success. We have intentionally removed internal competition and replaced it with built-in systems, consultation, and encouragement so clinicians can thrive clinically and professionally.

Lower risk, greater stability Clinicians consistently share that working with us feels like a low-risk decision. You gain access to established systems such as EHR, website, paperwork, marketing, and billing, while the practice absorbs the larger financial risks. We carry the responsibility for rent, building maintenance, utilities, licensing, and infrastructure.

A clearer picture of real income While independent practice may look more lucrative at first glance, once expenses, unpaid labor, and self-employment taxes are factored in, take-home income often decreases significantly. We encourage clinicians to look at true household value, not just gross revenue.

Our practice supports clinicians by providing:

Reliable, secure technology HIPAA-compliant cloud storage, secure electronic health records, and HIPAA-approved telehealth platforms so documentation and virtual care are seamless and compliant.

Built-in marketing and referrals Ongoing marketing support, referrals aligned with your preferred niche, and a dedicated in-house billing team that files claims, posts payments, and resolves insurance issues.

An administrative team that understands clinicians Friendly, knowledgeable staff who schedule clients based on your specialties, preferences, and availability so your caseload feels intentional and manageable.

Comprehensive consultation and supervision at no cost to employees We offer multiple layers of clinical support, including:

As-needed clinical supervision
Weekly licensure supervision for provisional therapists
As-needed play therapy supervision toward RPT credentialing
As-needed EMDR consultation toward EMDRIA certification

Extensive clinical resources Access to play therapy journals, professional books, treatment planning guides, therapeutic board games, expressive art supplies, child bibliotherapy collections, client lending materials, and clinician workbooks. Many resources are also available digitally through our intranet and virtual playroom. A resource coordinator keeps everything current and organized. We also provide a free membership to Pathways to Play

Career growth that is actively supported We encourage and support clinicians in working toward long-term professional goals, including specialization, credentialing, and leadership development.

Connection and communication Clinician group chat, an internal website with shared tools and resources, and an accessible leadership team available for questions, consultation, and guidance.

No responsibility for practice overhead We cover general practice expenses including business taxes, licenses, internet, phone, fax, office supplies, and legal retainer fees.

W-2 employment and financial clarity Hourly wages, payroll taxes, and self-employment taxes are covered by the practice so clinicians can focus on clinical work without financial complexity.

Fully supported clinical space We provide and maintain the space to see clients, covering property taxes, insurance, utilities, cleaning, maintenance, and snow or ice removal.

Benefits that support long-term wellbeing Access to a 401k with up to a 4 percent match as well as health and dental insurance for full-time employees, with the practice contributing to premiums

Intentional time to unplug at Firefly Acres Clinicians have access to a few days away at Firefly Acres, offering space to slow down, disconnect from daily demands, and reset their nervous systems. This time is designed for reflection, restoration, and sustainable long-term work in the helping profession.

Option 2: Burnout-prevention focused

Finding a professional home is a significant decision. We do not take that lightly.

We are honored you would consider Step By Step Counseling. Ask questions during the interview process. We welcome thoughtful dialogue and believe the right fit matters for everyone involved.

Frequently asked questions

Can you tell me about the management style of the person I would be reporting to?

A supervisor or owner’s management style is how they accomplish their goals. It includes how they make decisions, delegate, and manage their staff. Supervisors in our office act in the best interests of their employees. They are personally invested in their employees’ well-being. Our owner will many times asks employees their feedback or opinions and views before making a decision. Prior to making a decision, they are able to analyze all internal and external options and provide explanations for their decisions. Employees are encouraged to express their opinions and ideas in person, by email, via Google forms, or through payroll surveys, resulting in better problem-solving and innovation. Our owner and leadership team want employees to feel that their ideas are valued.

Within our leadership team our director of compliance monitors documentation, HIPAA compliance, etc. while our director of clinician care, focuses on ensuring that your emotional needs, career goals are being met. Both of them come from a place of:

Constructive: feedback is always constructive and focused on helping you improve, rather than tearing you down. They provide specific examples and actionable steps for how you can make progress.
Supportive: supportive and encouraging, even when they’re providing critical feedback. They acknowledge your strengths and accomplishments and help you build on them, rather than focusing solely on your weaknesses.
Respectful: always communicates with respect and professionalism, even when discussing difficult topics or challenging situations. They value your perspective and treat you with dignity and kindness.
Collaborative: approaches feedback as a collaborative process, rather than a top-down directive. They listen to your perspective and work with you to develop solutions that work for everyone involved.
Solution-focused: feedback is always focused on finding solutions and moving forward, rather than dwelling on past mistakes or problems. They help you identify actionable steps to address challenges and improve your performance.

Does this role come with a lot of structure in place, are you looking for someone more autonomous?

In our office, we have a combination of both. We have a balance of both structure and autonomy in place here at our practice. We do have certain office protocols and procedures that we ask all of our clinicians to follow to ensure the highest quality of care for our clients. This might include completing documentation. However, we also believe in giving our therapists the freedom to be autonomous in their approach to therapy. We recognize that every client is unique, and our therapists are encouraged to tailor their modality and interventions to best fit the needs of each individual client. So while there is some structure in place, there is also flexibility for clinicians to use their expertise and creativity in their work.

How will my success be measured if I'm hired?

In our office, the definition of success is very personal. While we want our clinicians to feel happy in the work they’re doing. What the office looks at is:

Is the practice the right fit (Alignment with the values of the organization).
Is your position/the clients that a clinician sees, a good fit? Are clinicians seeing the clients that they want to see?
Client feedback is important. This helps us determine a good fit or not a good fit.
Does the employee *understand* the job, * want* the job, and have *capacity* for the role or position
Documentation, are clinicians completing the necessary documentation per Missouri Professional Registration Board
Professionalism, are clinicians seeing clients (running on time, limited late cancels, etc)
Team member, connecting with other therapists in the office, and collaborating when necessary
Are clinicians reaching out and getting the support they need in whatever certification/credential they are working towards?

What makes Step By Step Counseling different?

We’re not just a small business.
We’re not just a counseling practice.
We’re not just another job.
We are making an impact, we are making a difference.

We are a group of master’s level clinicians providing high-quality, evidence-based services. By working with all populations, including those that are disadvantaged, together, we are part of the solution, part of the healing in our community. When asking colleagues in the field what makes us different, here is what is shared:

“Step By Step Counseling takes a holistic approach to therapy, which means they consider the whole person when providing treatment. This includes addressing physical, emotional, and spiritual needs to promote healing and growth. Many times therapists will work with doctors or other professionals to ensure that the client is being taken care of as a whole person, not just focusing on mental health. I have loved watching how my patients will report that many of the therapists will focus on the whole person not just the symptoms or problem areas.” – a primary care nurse practitioner

“Step By Step Counseling practice emphasizes the importance of healthy relationships and offers therapy for couples and families in addition to individual therapy. This focus on relationships sets them apart from other counseling practices that may only offer individual therapy. I know that when I send a family to their office, if they need more than one type of service, they can get everything under the same umbrella” – a licensed clinician

“I worked for Step By Step Counseling before I moved and I loved the overall team. The practice has a diverse team of therapists who have a variety of specialties and areas of expertise. This means that clients can find a therapist who they feel comfortable working with and who has experience addressing their specific needs. The team was also beneficial because I was offered team support, group consultations, and as needed 1:1 case consults whenever I needed it” – Former employee

“There was a focus on empowerment. The owner allowed me to dream about what I wanted to do in my career. She gave me opportunities and encouraged me, even if it was different than the practice vision. I love her phrase, about when employees leave, they move onto their next adventure” – Former employee

When interviewing what skills or qualities are you looking for?

When we are connecting with potential therapists, we look for a few key qualities:

Knows our core values and feel’s it’s a good fit for them
Team player: works well with others, jumps in when needed, and is accountable. Step By Step Counseling has an interdisciplinary team that is built on each other’s expertise and allows for collaboration and consultation.
Unconditional and accepting: acknowledges diversity by being sensitive and honoring differences. Step by Step Counseling strives to be an inclusive practice, hiring staff and supporting clients of all ages, gender identities, sexual orientations, disabilities, racial and cultural groups, religions, and socioeconomic statuses.
Growth mindset: strives to learn more, to continue to grow in their niche, while also providing evidence-based treatments.