Nicole Kinney

Professor Nicole Kinney is a counselor educator who is deeply committed to equipping the next generation of clinicians to serve with both clinical excellence and Christ-centered compassion. Known for her approachable yet purposeful teaching style, she creates a classroom environment where students are challenged to grow academically, personally, and spiritually as they prepare for meaningful work in the counseling field.

Professor Kinney teaches Masters-level courses in foundations of clinical mental health counseling, assessment and diagnosis, and counselor development. She also maintains a private practice, Ember Counseling. Her clinical background includes experience in hospital and outpatient settings, providing a well-rounded perspective on the realities of therapeutic work. Her time serving as a missionary in Germany, along with broader international experiences, has shaped her understanding of culture, identity, and the global need for compassionate, well-trained helpers.

Professor Kinney is currently completing her PhD in Counselor Education and Supervision at CIU with an expected graduation in December 2026. Her research explores the experiences of individuals who have encountered spiritual abuse, particularly within Christian contexts, to better equip students to walk wisely and sensitively with those navigating spiritual and emotional wounds. She is an active member and participant of the Christian Association for Psychological Studies (CAPS), the American Counseling Association (ACA), and the Association of Counselor Educators and Supervisors (ACES). She also serves as co-advisor to the Grad Life Council, which facilitates community-building and spiritual growth among graduate students at CIU.

Outside the classroom, Professor Kinney enjoys spending time with her husband and their pets, as well as crafting, camping, reading, traveling, and playing games. She is actively engaged in her local church and values opportunities for community and discipleship.