Our approach
Our Approach: Personalized. Empowering. Results-Driven.
At Next Step, we understand that no two journeys are the same. That's why our coaching is deeply personal, grounded in empathy, and driven by real-world strategies that produce results.
We meet you where you are—emotionally, academically, and professionally—and tailor our support to your unique goals, strengths, and challenges. Through one-on-one coaching, practical resources, and an unwavering belief in your potential, we help you:
Break through fear and self-doubt
Develop confidence, structure, and direction
Build skills that serve you for life—not just for now
Stay accountable, motivated, and focused
Celebrate progress and stay resilient through obstacles
This isn’t just about goals. It’s about growth, healing, and transformation. We're not just here to coach—we’re here to walk beside you, every step of the way.
Contact 757-929-1044
Take Your Next Step With Confidence.
Personalized coaching for adult learners, career changers, and professionals in transition.
Next Step Education & Career *
Next Step Education & Career *
Dr. Kimberlyn Baughans created Next Step Education & Career Coaching and Consulting, LLC out of a deep commitment to empower adults who often feel overlooked or underprepared as they navigate the next chapters of their educational or professional lives.
As an educator, coach, and lifelong learner, Dr. Baughans saw firsthand how many capable individuals—single parents, career changers, working professionals, and returning students—struggled with confidence, resources, and clarity. Many of them faced impostor syndrome, lacked digital literacy, or felt isolated in online learning environments.
She founded Next Step to provide personalized support for those who needed more than generic online advice. Next Step bridges the gap between where people are and where they’re destined to go—academically, professionally, and personally.
“This work is personal. It’s transformational. And it’s driven by one core belief: ✨ Everyone deserves a second chance—and a strong support system to take the next step.”
Take the Next Step
Virtual Learning
At Next Step Education, we understand that adult learners often juggle multiple responsibilities—from careers and caregiving to personal growth. That’s why we champion virtual learning as a powerful tool for transformation. Its flexibility and accessibility align perfectly with our mission: to help adults return to school or pivot careers without sacrificing their current obligations. Virtual learning allows our clients to study on their own schedule and at their own pace, and through our personalized, in-person support and coaching, we ensure that no one feels lost or overwhelmed along the way. Whether you're mastering basic computer skills or completing a graduate degree, Next Step bridges the gap between online education and real-life success.
Our Mission
Empowering individuals to achieve their educational and career goals through personalized support.
Our Vision
Creating accessible, transformative pathways for nontraditional learners and professionals in transition.
Our Services
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Our Services *
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Support through the most demanding academic journey.
Master’s and doctoral programs are rigorous—and you don’t have to go it alone. We provide structure, clarity, and accountability throughout your graduate journey. From narrowing your research focus to organizing your writing, editing drafts, and staying on track, we help you finish strong and on time. -
Pivot with purpose and confidence.
Whether you’re changing industries, starting over after a life change, or feeling stuck in your current role, we help you chart a new path. We’ll work together to identify your transferable skills, update your resume and LinkedIn, build job search strategies, and design a career roadmap that aligns with your goals and values. -
ItemYou belong here. Let’s make sure you feel that way.
Struggling with self-doubt or feeling like a fraud despite your accomplishments? You’re not alone—and you don’t have to stay in that mindset. Our coaching helps you rebuild confidence, shift your internal narrative, and take ownership of your success in academic, personal, and professional spaces.description -
Motivation and strategy—tailored for your audience.
We offer dynamic, interactive workshops and keynote-style presentations for schools, churches, nonprofits, and community organizations. Topics include overcoming imposter syndrome, adult learner success, navigating transitions, and workplace confidence—all designed to inform, inspire, and equip.here -
We partner with schools, training programs, and community organizations to design and implement initiatives that support adult learners and career changers. Services include staff training, curriculum development, student support strategies, and program evaluation—all tailored to your mission and audience.