March Rising Star: Christine Garcia, LPCC, MBA

Uwill’s Monthly Rising Star acknowledges one counselor every month who has “shined bright” in support of Uwill in their first year as a member of our counseling community. Congratulations, Christine Garcia, LPCC, MBA! Since joining the Uwill team, Christine has completed over 100 sessions across California and Nevada.

Check out our interview with Christine as she discusses Uwill as a tech-friendly platform, how Uwill has made her more empathetic toward her own children, and tips for adjusting to new routines.

What excites you the most about working with Uwill?
I love how UWill just makes things easier for both students and therapists. With my experience as both a mental health clinician and a project manager, I really appreciate a tech-friendly platform that eliminates unnecessary steps. It lets me dive straight into what actually matters: connecting with students and helping them through their journey. I am especially excited to see this generation of Asian-American and BIPOC students going above the stigma and proactively seeking counseling; it’s an honor to be part of that shift.

Can you illustrate the importance of a student being able to access a platform like Uwill?
College can be stressful and when a student decides to ask for help they shouldn’t have to deal with delays or jump through hoops. UWill meets students where they are, usually on their phone or laptop. Getting support right away can make a huge difference for a student who feels overwhelmed and needs to know someone is there for them.

What aspect of your work do you enjoy the most?
I definitely live for those aha moments. It’s so rewarding to see a student realize they’re stronger than they thought or find a tool that actually works for them. Every student I meet is differen, and I love the variety and the energy they bring to our sessions.

What are some skills you have learned from Uwill that you have been able to apply in your everyday practice?
As a former milieu therapist and clinical social worker in inpatient psychiatric hospitals and residential treatment centers, UWill has helped me bring my crisis intervention skills, like assessing for suicidal risk, making solid safety plans, and using evidence-based coping strategies, into the fast-paced digital world of student mental health. Working with such a diverse group of students has also improved my ability to build rapport, create a safe, and welcoming space quickly. I’ve also become much more adept at solution-focused work—helping students find practical, actionable steps they can take right now to feel better.

What was it that first attracted you to working with Uwill?
I was immediately interested in its mission to make mental health support accessible to students. I wish something like this existed when I was in college so seeing UWill use technology to remove barriers to care made me want to be part of it. The flexibility for therapists is another big plus.

How has being a member of Uwill’s Counselor Community impacted you as a professional?
It’s humbling to feel like I’m part of something bigger. Being in the UWill community keeps me closely connected to the real needs and challenges students face today. I have two kids in college and working with students has made me even more empathetic to their experiences and helps keep my clinical skills sharp. It’s also boosted my confidence in telehealth since having a reliable system lets me focus fully on my clinical work.

What advice do you have for students who may be adjusting to a new academic schedule or routine?
Be kind to yourself! Instead of trying to change your whole life overnight, just focus on one “micro-habit.” Maybe it’s just committing to a consistent sleep or wake-up time or taking a 15 minute mindful walk around campus. Small wins lead to big changes.

To learn more about becoming a counselor with Uwill, click on the link below.

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