Counselor Spotlight: Christina

Christina Birch, LAC talks faith and servant-heartedness.

Tell us a bit about yourself. 

I’ve been married for 30 years and am blessed with three grown children—with my first granddaughter on the way! A Christian for nearly 40 years, I love the Lord and find great joy in serving others well while using my gift of mercy through volunteering in various ministries at my church.

My husband and I were foster parents for three years, an experience that deeply shaped our hearts and strengthened our commitment to serving others. Professionally, I spent 10 years as a supervisor of a program for adults with autism, another role that deepened my passion for helping others. I was also a stay-at-home mom for 10 years, during which time I returned to school and earned my Master’s in Counseling from The College of New Jersey. I also hold a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology from Liberty University.

Life has brought many challenges and blessings through the years, but my relationship with the Lord has always been central—His faithfulness has carried me through every season.

What do you do for fun?

I love to bake, read, watch documentaries, go for walks, play board games, and spend time with my family and 3 dogs. 

Favorite book, movie, or artist? 

Favorite movie would be a toss up between The Outsiders and Tombstone, I cannot even tell you how many times I have watched them!! They never get old!

What does your ideal day look like? 

Relaxing by any type of water, it doesn't matter what—ocean, lake, stream, pool—water is so therapeutic. The sounds and smells...I love it!

Do you have any pets? 

3 dogs that are my shadow: Joy, a goldendoodle, and brothers Tucker and Trey, golden retriever/German shepherd mixes.

Cake or pie? 

BOTH! I am a sweets girl and love to bake and share my favorite treats with others.

What was your journey to becoming a counselor? 

I’ve always had a heart for serving others, a passion that began in my youth and has grown throughout my life. After earning my Bachelor’s degree in Psychology is when my husband and I became foster parents for three years. During that time, I was moved by the opportunity to help children and families work toward their emotional, behavioral, and educational goals.
This experience inspired me to pursue further education, so I returned to school and earned my Master’s in Counseling. Over the years, I’ve continued to refine my counseling skills, always seeking to grow and improve. Through it all, I’ve trusted that God has guided my steps, using both the challenges and blessings of life to prepare me for the calling I have as a counselor.

Describe your approach to counseling.

My approach to counseling is grounded in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and trauma-informed care. I am trained in perinatal loss and mood disorders and am currently being trained in EMDR. I believe that emotional and behavioral struggles exist both internally and within broader social and cultural systems. I work collaboratively with clients in a safe, empathetic environment to explore patterns of thinking and behavior, build effective coping skills, and foster meaningful, lasting change. My goal is to help clients gain insight into their experiences while supporting their resilience and personal growth through their walk with Jesus.

What areas of counseling are you most passionate about?

I love to work with adolescents and adults who are feeling overwhelmed by anxiety, depression, or the weight of past trauma. Many of the people I support are navigating big life changes, relationship challenges, or struggling with self-esteem. I also have a special focus on those experiencing perinatal loss or mood changes during and after pregnancy. My goal is to offer a space where individuals feel heard, supported, and empowered to heal and grow at their own pace.

Any advice for someone considering becoming a counselor? 

Remember that counseling is both a skill and a calling. Ground yourself in prayer and Scripture to stay rooted in God’s wisdom and love. Be patient with yourself and your clients—healing is often a gradual process. Use your knowledge and training, but never underestimate the power of empathy, grace, and listening well. Stay humble, seek ongoing growth, and lean on your faith as your greatest source of strength and guidance.