Krista Steele - Licensed Social Worker, Writer & Speaker
Krista Steele
Krista is a Licensed Social Worker, Writer and Speaker based out of Columbus, Ohio. She’s married to her husband Jeff, she’s the mom of a nine month old daughter named Lucy, and together they have an Australian Shepherd named Hank.
Krista believes in the power of storytelling, gathering around the kitchen table, and the words “tell me more.” Through her work, Krista regularly gives talks and facilitates workshops for churches and other organizations. Her mission is simple, to help people create and live a life that they’re excited and passionate about, and create greater accessibility to quality mental health services. In her work, Krista combines the evidence based tools you’d find from traditional therapy with the increased flexibility and access you’d find from a coach.
I’m so excited for you guys to connect with Krista, check out her writing and her work, and follow along as she continues to help people create a life they’re excited to wake up to each day. .
I'd love it if you'd introduce yourself, what you do, and what you're working on.
Hi! I’m Krista! I’m a licensed social worker, writer and speaker. I’m married to Jeff and we have a . I work part time as a therapist in a small private practice here in Columbus, Ohio and spend the rest of my days at home with Lucy. I’m a nap time warrior writing articles for Grotto Network and Evie Magazine. I regularly give talks and facilitate workshops for churches and other organizations to help people create a life they’re excited to wake up to each day.
How did you get started?
At the end of college, I had no idea what to do with my psychology degree. My two options were:
Grad school
Get a job that had NOTHING to do with my degree
I had never been a stellar student so I wasn’t thrilled about three more years of school and I definitely didn’t want to take the GRE. A mentor of mine pointed me in the direction of her alma mater, and I applied on a whim. Three years later I graduated from Case Western Reserve University with my MSSA and the highest GPA I’d ever had. It just goes to show that no identity is permanent. I had always believed that school “wasn’t my thing”. I loved learning but hated being told what to do. Until grad school, that is.
As far as writing and speaking, I’d been writing since I could hold a pencil and my degree was a foot in the door when I reached out to publications I was interested in writing for. Then people started asking me to speak to their groups and now I love getting to share what I know through both the spoken and written word!
What inspired the work that you're doing?
I saw a lot of bad advice on the internet from people who had no knowledge or expertise when it came to helping people improve their lives. I saw a lot of folks calling themselves “life coaches” who had no credentials selling people programs that not only don’t work but were doing more harm than good. That made me angry.
I see the need for increased accessibility to mental health services and I want to make that possible. Not everyone needs traditional therapy. For some people, a coach is more what they’re looking for and I want to be able to provide them with the evidence based tools they’d find in therapy with the increased flexibility and access they’re looking for in a coach.
What is your biggest passion? Do you feel like you're living your passion and purpose?
My family. Hands down. My four walls are the testing ground for everything else I do. All my other work flows from what’s happening within my home. I believe that a thriving society is built by thriving families which are made up of thriving individuals. I am determined to create a family of individuals who are going to set this world on fire with their goodness.
What is your joy blueprint? What lights you up, brings you joy, and makes you feel the most alive?
Simple things. Talking to my husband about our dreams and goals (and laughing at memes). A great novel. The sound of Lucy laughing. Slobbery baby kisses. Being outside. A fabulous meal. A cozy sweater. Spending time with dear friends. Seeing my words on a page and thinking “Yes! That’s exactly what I was trying to say!” There are so many simple things that bring me joy. Even on our hardest days there is joy.
How do you live intentionally? Are there tools/resources/practices that you rely on to help you stay mindful and grounded?
I start the day at least an hour before Lucy to pray, journal and sip a cup of coffee while it’s still hot. Journaling keeps my vision clear. I notice on the page when I’m cranky and need to do something different. This was not the case in the newborn days, but now that her sleep is predictable (for the most part), it’s easy for me to get up early and start the day grounded and at peace. That’s the norm Monday-Friday and then on the weekend we all sleep in and snuggle in bed, which is grounding in its own way.
What would your younger self think about what you're doing now?
She would be SHOCKED that I speak to crowds on purpose and enjoy it. When I was in elementary and middle school, my face would turn dark purple every time I had to speak in class. My classmates called me “tomato”. Aside from being shocked, I think she would be amazed. I’ve wanted to be a wife and mom and writer as long as I can remember. She would be so excited to know that all her dreams are coming true, but shhh. Let’s let her be surprised!
Do you have a go-to mantra or affirmation?
I don’t have a go-to mantra or affirmation at the moment, but I have been listening to “I Don’t Wanna Go” by Chris Renzema on repeat. I tend to hold on to my plans and dreams with a white knuckle grip and his lyrics remind me that God’s plans have always been better than mine. All I have to do is take a look around at my life to see dozens of reminders of that truth.
What is your biggest dream?
I want to dance with Jeff at our grandchildren’s weddings and stand in amazement at the life we’ve built together and then I want to get to heaven and hear God say “well done good and faithful servant.”
To learn more about Krista and her work you can connect with her on her website www.kristasteele.net and on Instagram @kristasteele_ and if you’re interested in 1:1 coaching services or would like help looking for a therapist in your area, email Krista at kristasteele17@gmail.com or call/text her (614) 315-4675. You can read some of her work at Grotto Network and soon at Evie Magazine
Joy Corner is an interview-style blog series brought to you by Seek The Joy Podcast. Our mission continues to be a desire to share your stories, truths, joys and inspiration in your words. We invite you to join our corner, and share your joys, passions, and moments of inspiration as we continue to seek the joy, together. Join this series here