Christina Richardson, PhD

Educational Background: I earned my bachelor’s degree in psychology and Women & Gender Studies from Towson University in Maryland. I then pursued my master’s degree and PhD in Counseling Psychology at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln. My training included externships at UNL’s Counseling and School Psychology Clinic, Lincoln Veterans Administration Clinic, Nebraska State Penitentiary, and the Seward Family Support Center, a therapeutic group home for adolescents. I completed my doctoral internship at the Federal Medical Center in Butner, North Carolina, focusing on correctional psychology, forensic evaluations, and treatment of individuals civilly committed due to sexual dangerousness.

Professional Experience: I have worked in private practice and as a psychologist in the prison system, overseeing a sex offense-specific treatment program. My role in providing mental health treatment within a prison setting has given me a unique perspective and specialized expertise working with diverse health conditions and social factors.

Areas of Expertise:

• Healthy sexuality

• Managing unhealthy sexual thoughts and behavior

• Emotion regulation

• Anger management

• Interpersonal relationships

• Assertive communication

• Problem-solving

• Addressing guilt and shame

• Coping with difficult situations beyond one's control

• Health psychology

• Oncology-related psychological support

• Grief and loss counseling

Therapeutic Approach: I focus on helping clients make decisions that align with their core values and find meaning and purpose during challenging times. My primary approach is Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), complemented by strengths-based, solution-focused, interpersonal, and evidence-based cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT). I approach every client with empathy and compassion, considering the impact of cultural influences and power systems on their lived experiences. I work primarily with adults and older adolescents.

Philosophy: I believe in empowering clients to navigate their challenges and make meaningful changes in their lives. My goal is to support individuals in finding their path to well-being and fulfillment, even in the most difficult circumstances. This includes providing specialized support for those dealing with life transitions, interpersonal relationships, chronic illnesses, cancer diagnoses, and the profound impact of grief and loss.