University Counseling Center

Photo of Christie Reynolds

Christie Reynolds

Christie Reynolds is a bilingual Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor. She graduated from Eastern Illinois University with a BA in Psychology and a minor in Family and Consumer Science. She earned her Masters in Counseling at Western Illinois University. Christie uses a myriad of theories when working with her clients: Family Systems Theory, Internal Family Systems (IFS), and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. She enjoys working with the college population, and her interests include working with trauma, anxiety, family of origin issues, assertiveness training, and multicultural concerns. Christie is involved with suicide prevention initiatives at Western, and is active in the community.

Resources or Recommendations

"I would recommend students take a holistic approach to their wellbeing. While counseling is a valuable tool, a lot of the growth happens outside of the office. Daily exercise, nutrition, and healthy social connections are also important. Western Illinois University provides many of these resources for our students. I also suggest using apps and podcasts. Breathe2Relax is a free app that helps guide you in deep breathing. Brene Brown's Unlocking Us podcast is popular among many of the counselors at the UCC. I appreciate Brene Brown's authentic approach and her views on shame and vulnerability. Her book, "Braving the Wilderness," is also a suggested read. "A Man’s Search for Meaning" by Viktor Frankl was one of my favorite reads during this pandemic. I pride myself on practicing what I preach. Self-care is something I take seriously. I believe that self care looks different for everyone. Exercising, immersing myself in nature, and surrounding myself with healthy relationships is how I take care of myself. I encourage everyone to find theirs."

Favorite Quote

There are several quotes that I usually share:

"Don't trip over what's behind you."
"Life is not what it's supposed to be. It's what it is. The way you cope with it is what makes the difference." - Virginia Satir
"Vulnerability is the birthplace of innovation, creativity, and change." - Brene Brown
"Change doesn’t come from comfort."