Meet Christina McBride, LPC: Lead Clinician Of Child & Teen Services

Discover Christina McBride, LPC, our dedicated Lead Clinician Of Child & Teen Services, committed to enhancing youth mental health through tailored clinical support and innovative therapeutic approaches.

Meet Christina McBride, LPC: Our Lead Clinician of Child & Teen Services

Christina McBride is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in Virginia, where she specializes in providing counseling services for children and teens. With a Master's degree in Counseling from Liberty University, she has a solid educational foundation that supports her clinical work. Christina is also a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional (CCTP-1), which enhances her ability to provide trauma-informed care to young clients. Her commitment to tailoring individualized treatment plans ensures that each child receives support specific to their unique needs and circumstances.

Christina joined our team in March of 2020 as our first Resident In Counseling. Since than she has earned her full LPC License and has become a clinicial supervisor herself assisting new Residents on their path towards licensure.

In addition to her formal education and certifications, Christina is an active member of professional organizations dedicated to child and adolescent mental health. This involvement allows her to stay updated with the latest research and practices, enhancing her effectiveness as a clinician. Families seeking mental health support for their children can trust that Christina is equipped with both knowledge and compassion, making her a valuable resource in the field of youth mental health.

Qualifications and Experience

With over nine years of counseling experience, Christina has worked with clients aged 5 and up, effectively addressing a wide range of mental health issues. Her background includes teaching elementary school, a role that ignited her passion for helping children manage their emotions and set achievable goals. Christina's expertise encompasses various challenges, including autism, anxiety, depression, trauma, bipolar disorder, and self-harm, providing comprehensive support for her clients.

In addition to her clinical work, Christina has experience conducting autism testing and assessments. This critical service provides families with essential diagnostic information that can guide treatment. Her commitment to ongoing education ensures that she continually refines her skills and learns new therapeutic techniques to better serve her clients.

Counseling Services Offered

Christina offers a variety of individualized counseling services tailored for children and teens, focusing on emotional support and the development of coping strategies. Among the therapeutic approaches she employs are play therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), and trauma-focused CBT. Each method is designed to create a safe, non-judgmental environment where clients can express their feelings freely.

Additionally, Christina provides family counseling sessions aimed at improving communication and understanding among family members. By incorporating mindfulness and relaxation techniques, she helps clients effectively manage stress and anxiety, equipping them with essential tools for everyday challenges. This holistic approach supports not only the child but also fosters family cohesion and understanding.

Importance of Mental Health Support for Youth

Early mental health support is crucial for addressing behavioral issues and emotional difficulties that arise during developmental stages. Research shows that children and teens who engage in therapy often demonstrate improvements in emotional regulation and social skills. Access to mental health resources not only reduces stigma but also promotes the overall well-being of youth, paving the way for healthier relationships and academic success.

Moreover, studies indicate that youth who receive mental health support are less likely to engage in risky behaviors, such as substance abuse. By addressing challenges early on, Christina helps her young clients build a solid foundation for a healthier future. The positive impact of therapy can last a lifetime, making mental health support an essential aspect of youth development.

Techniques and Approaches in Counseling

Christina employs a diverse array of therapeutic techniques, including art, music, and play therapy, to engage younger clients effectively. For teens, she incorporates Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to help them identify and reshape negative thought patterns that contribute to their challenges. By utilizing trauma-informed care, Christina ensures that her therapy is sensitive to the unique experiences of each client, promoting healing and resilience.

Building a strong therapeutic alliance is another cornerstone of Christina's approach. She emphasizes the importance of trust and openness in her sessions, which allows clients to feel safe and supported while they navigate their emotional landscapes. Her tailored approach incorporates evidence-based practices, ensuring that her methods are effective for both children and teens.

Client Success Stories and Testimonials

Christina's clients have reported significant improvements in managing anxiety and depression following their sessions with her. Many testimonials highlight her approachable demeanor and effectiveness in building trust with both children and their parents. Parents frequently note positive changes in their child's behavior and emotional responses, attributing these improvements to their therapy experiences with Christina.

Success stories from her practice often include clients developing better coping strategies and enhanced self-esteem throughout their therapy journey. Christina's ability to communicate effectively with both children and their parents fosters collaboration, which is crucial for achieving successful outcomes in therapy. These testimonials reflect the profound impact Christina has on the lives of the young individuals she serves.

Overview of Christina's Commitment to Youth Mental Health in her new role

Christina McBride is deeply committed to providing high-quality mental health support tailored for children and teens. Her comprehensive approach combines professional expertise with a warm, approachable style, creating a supportive therapeutic environment that encourages growth and healing. Families seeking counseling services for their children can greatly benefit from Christina's extensive training and dedication to youth mental health.

In her new role, Christina not only serves her clients but also actively engages with developing the clinical skills of all of the clinicians at our practice by helping to promote awareness and understanding of mental health issues affecting youth.

She believes in empowering both children and parents with knowledge and tools to support mental health at home. Her commitment extends to coordinating office-based and virtual consultations, developing training for staff, and creating child-focused resources for our practice, ensuring that all clinicians are equipped to provide the best care possible to children and teens across our Stafford, Fredericksburg, Glen Allen, Richmond City and Midlothian locations in Virginia