In this episode of the Unmasked Therapist Podcast, Kaitlyn Steel, LMFT, is joined by special guest Michelle Vaughn, LPC—practice owner of Truth and Grace Counseling in Arizona and a seasoned clinician with a unique path into the field.

Kaitlyn begins by sharing her long-standing personal connection with Michelle, who has been a meaningful presence in her life for decades. From there, the conversation shifts into Michelle’s journey of returning to school later in life and building a career in counseling, offering a perspective that challenges the idea of a “traditional” path into the field.

Together, they explore the realities of licensure across states, unpacking the differences in supervision requirements, diagnostic privileges, and the often frustrating barriers clinicians face when trying to maintain continuity of care with clients who move. Through their discussion, they highlight how these systemic differences impact both therapists and the clients they serve.

As the episode unfolds, the conversation turns toward clinical work and one of the most important lessons for new therapists: the value of authenticity in the therapy room. Michelle shares powerful examples of how showing up as a genuine, real person can deepen connection and create a sense of safety for clients—often more than any specific modality or technique.

Drawing from their own experiences in practice and supervision, this episode offers both practical insight and honest reflection on what it means to grow as a clinician while navigating the complexities of the field.

In this episode, we discuss:• Michelle’s nontraditional path into becoming a therapist• Key differences in licensure requirements across states• Challenges with client continuity when clients move• The impact of COVID on early clinical experiences and telehealth• What new therapists are taught vs. what is actually useful in practice• The importance of authenticity in building therapeutic relationships

This is part one of a two-part conversation. Be sure to tune in next week as Michelle shares more about her trauma-focused work and the modalities she uses in practice.

Connect with us:Supervision: ⁠www.keystonetherapygroup.com/supervision/⁠Instagram: @TheUnmaskedTherapistEmail: ⁠Supervision@KeystoneTherapyGroup.com⁠

If this episode resonated with you, leave a five-star review and subscribe for more conversations about authentic, grounded, human-centered therapy.

Disclaimer:This podcast is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for clinical supervision. All information shared represents our own opinions and should not be taken as legal or clinical direction.

#TheUnmaskedTherapist #UnmaskedTherapist #TherapistPodcast #MentalHealthPodcast #TherapistConversations