The COVID-19 pandemic brought unprecedented challenges, but one of its most enduring impacts has been the escalation of the U.S. mental health crisis. Recognized as a public health emergency, this crisis continues to be particularly severe in rural and economically disadvantaged areas. According to a 2023 White House report, “The United States has long faced a shortage of mental health providers. It takes an average of 11 years to get treatment after the onset of symptoms, and less than half of Americans struggling with mental illness ever receive the care they need.”
At Cornerstone Care, our Licensed Clinical Social Workers (LCSWs) and Licensed Professional Counselors (LPCs) play a critical role in addressing this shortage. In 2023 alone, our team provided essential mental health services to 12,000 patients across five in-person locations and through telehealth visits. Our mission is to improve the health of our patients and the residents of our community with special concern for the underserved. This mission drives everything we do at Cornerstone Care.
Connection Builds Trust
Finding an LCSW or LPC that you connect with is crucial for effective treatment, as it lets you trust and openly share your thoughts and feelings. A study by The American Psychological Association suggests this connection is one of the most important factors to successful treatment outcomes. This is reflected in the positive feedback we receive from our patients. In 2024, a patient shared, “The Behavioral Health team is so nice and caring. They’ve helped me so much! I’m so glad I found them.” Another shared, “Great place. Dr. Dana Morton is the best. She truly understands and is easy to talk to.” Every day, our team delivers compassionate, impactful care to underserved communities across Southwestern Pennsylvania and Northwestern West Virginia, providing mental health support to those who might otherwise not have access to it.
A Typical Day
The daily work of a counselor at Cornerstone Care is a blend of clinical expertise, empathy and teamwork. Using evidence-based practices like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) and trauma-informed care, our counselors address the needs of patients ranging from as young as five years old to senior adults.
Each day begins with initial assessments and individualized treatment planning, ensuring that care is tailored to each patient’s goals. Throughout the day, counselors document session notes, provide referrals to external resources and collaborate with other professionals involved in a patient’s care. The work is dynamic and diverse, with counselors addressing issues ranging from anxiety and depression to trauma and substance use.
Equally important is the support counselors provide beyond therapy sessions. They connect patients with community resources, facilitate referrals and engage with external organizations to ensure holistic care. This comprehensive approach ensures that every patient’s needs are met, both inside and outside the therapy room.
The Rewards
The LCSWs and LPCs at Cornerstone Care help save lives every day, healing the wounds that are invisible to the outside world. One of our LCSWs, Kylee Henderson, shared, “The most rewarding part of my job is making a meaningful impact on individuals and communities who face significant barriers to mental health care. Working with underserved populations allows me to support people who might not otherwise have access to therapy.”
At Cornerstone Care, collaboration is key. Our counselors work closely with a multidisciplinary team to address patients’ physical, mental and social health needs. This integrated approach not only improves mental health outcomes but also enhances the overall quality of life for our patients.
“Building trust with patients and creating a safe space for them to share their challenges is one of the most fulfilling aspects of this work,” Kylee noted. “It’s incredibly gratifying to help clients navigate complex life circumstances, whether it’s addressing trauma, managing chronic conditions or finding hope amidst financial or social hardships. Seeing patients achieve breakthroughs, no matter how small, reinforces the importance of equity in mental health care.”
The Team
Our work would not be possible without the collaborative efforts of the entire Cornerstone Care team. Care Coordinators, Community Health Workers and Insurance Navigators play a vital role in helping patients overcome barriers to care. By addressing logistical challenges like transportation, insurance and social determinants of health, these team members enable our counselors to focus on what they do best: providing therapy and mental health support.
Counselors also collaborate closely with psychiatrists to ensure patients requiring medication management are meeting their care goals. Medication can help reduce symptoms of challenges, while therapy can teach the skills to manage them. This combination can be especially effective for conditions like depression and anxiety, where medication alone may not be enough. This seamless integration of services embodies our mission to deliver holistic, patient-centered care.
Join a Rewarding Career in Mental Health
Considering a career as an LCSW or LPC opens the door to deeply rewarding and impactful work. While the field can present challenges, embracing strong self-care practices and prioritizing personal well-being can empower professionals to not only succeed but truly thrive in this meaningful career path.
A career in mental health offers a unique opportunity to make a lasting difference. At Cornerstone Care, you’ll have the chance to transform lives while working alongside a team that shares your passion for equitable health care. Ready to make an impact? Apply today: cornerstonecare.com/resources/careers.
