Corey Cunningham is a Licensed Professional Counselor and National Certified Counselor. Corey is a two-time Alumni of EIU, receiving their BA in Psychology and MS in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. Prior to their tenure at EIU, Corey worked as a counselor for a central Illinois rape crisis center serving survivors of sexual violence and their non-offending loved ones. Corey possesses experience in supporting individuals who have faced interpersonal violence and trauma, as well as working with students from diverse cultures and backgrounds, all while maintaining an awareness of their own white identity and the associated privileges.

Corey is trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) and Somatic Experiencing Theory and has completed extensive training on ADHD and Autism intervention considerations. Corey’s clinical approach utilizes trauma informed strength-based practices that highlight the uniqueness of each client; often pulling from somatic experiencing theory, motivational interviewing, and brief-solution focused modalities. Corey invites their clients to approach counseling through a lens of curiosity and non-judgment while leaning into the temporary discomfort of trying something new.

Corey loves connecting with nature and models daily how coffee can, in fact, be self-care. Corey is frequently seen sporting hair of any color of the rainbow and incorporating inclusion any way they can into their space. Corey’s hobbies are far and wide, depending on their current high-interest topic. Most recently, Corey has focused on landscaping with native plants and wildflowers, resin art, developing new recipes, and collecting one-of-a-kind pieces for their maximalist-decorated home.