Her Story
About Chelsy
Chelsy Reed Lahey has been in the field of counseling for about 13 years. After earning a biology degree with an emphasis in molecular biology and genetics and working in research and retail management, she transitioned into counseling. She is currently completing a master's degree in mental health counseling, with graduation planned for next summer, and holds a Level 2 Gottman Couples therapy certificate as well as certificates in biblical counseling. Chelsy maintains a generalist focus in her practice, which includes couples counseling, and she serves as a supervisor for Level 2 training biblical counselors. She is a member of the American Counseling Association's Iowa branch and an honors association for counselors. Her faith in God serves as a foundational value, guiding her nonjudgmental approach to client care.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Chelsy
01What do you attribute your success to?
My faith in God has been the rock-solid foundation through struggles. Knowing there's a constant in the chaos keeps me grounded and striving for excellence because He loves me. It drives me to care for all people without judgment, just as Jesus did.
02What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
Confidence happens in the rearview mirror. If you're waiting to become confident before you do something, you might wait for a while, but confidence is like hindsight. It comes from overcoming, not before it. That idea made me talk to professors and supervise others even when unsure.
03What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
When your professors talk about self-care, they mean it. Don't skimp on it. If you do that, you won't be good at what you do. Counselors is the most important counsel that you have, because if you're okay, you can't help people that aren't okay.
04What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
Faith in God is central, driving care for all people without judgment based on demographics, following Jesus' example of welcoming everyone including children. This has made integrating faith into clinical counseling surprisingly smooth.
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