Office Staff

Originally hailing from England, Chris Cook made the move to Florida three decades ago, embarking on a diverse professional journey. During a four-year stint on the west coast, Chris served as the manager of a 40-unit vacation rental complex. Responsibilities included handling paperwork, managing office tasks, booking guests, overseeing housekeeping, and addressing the diverse needs and requests of residents, including arranging tours.

Following this, Chris relocated to St. Cloud and spent seven years at Orlando International Airport as a Passenger Service Representative. In this role, Chris assisted with check-ins, provided support to passengers, processed payments, and offered assistance in cases of missed flights. Additionally, Chris actively volunteered at their children's school, demonstrating a commitment to community involvement and support.

Since 2019, Chris has been an integral part of Next Step Counseling, contributing to the smooth functioning of the front office. From scheduling appointments to managing client calls and handling insurance matters, Chris plays a crucial role in ensuring the efficient operation of the counseling center.

Working at Next Step Counseling, Chris emphasizes the importance of creating a welcoming and comfortable environment for everyone. The team's dedication to helping people is evident in their collective efforts to provide valuable support.

Chris Cook continues to be an essential member of the Next Step Counseling family, embodying a commitment to excellence and compassionate service.

Gigi serves as the Referral Coordinator on The Next Step Counseling team. As an alumna of the University of Central Florida, she applies her education and experience to effectively manage client and office needs.  In her role, she handles phone calls, coordinates appointments, and oversees all referrals for client intakes, ensuring each step is carried out with precision and care.

As the main communication link with health assistance programs, she is committed to making sure every incoming client is approved and coordinated with the highest level of attention.  Her work as Referral Coordinator is essential to the smooth operation of our office, and she takes great pride in contributing to the well-being of our clients.  Everyday she strives to reflect the professional excellence that our team upholds.

Joanne Johnson holds a Bachelor of Science degree from Centenary College. She brings 21 years of experience in the healthcare sector, having worked in various capacities for a Pediatrician's office. Joanne has been involved in front desk management, medical billing, and served as a medical assistant during her tenure.

Her skills extend to billing processes, as demonstrated during her one-year role at Next Step. Joanne's practical experience and proficiency in administrative and billing functions contribute to her effectiveness in healthcare settings.



With a solid foundation in healthcare administration and a focus on practical application, Joanne Johnson remains a dedicated professional committed to supporting the operational aspects of medical practices.

Katy brings a wealth of experience and expertise to our team, having dedicated 33 years to teaching within the Osceola County school system. Her in-depth knowledge of the Individualized Education Program (IEP) and Response to Intervention (RTI) process is invaluable, and she plays a vital role in supporting our office operations.

In addition to providing administrative support, Katy efficiently manages insurance Explanation of Benefits (EOBs), handles phone inquiries, and coordinates appointment scheduling. Her dedication and proficiency contribute significantly to the smooth functioning of our office, ensuring that our clients receive the high level of care and attention they deserve.