Christina Claffy Benedi is a Licensed Professional Counselor in the Commonwealth    Virginia and has served as a counselor in George Mason University’s Counseling and Psychological Services office since 2001.  She completed a Master’s degree in Counseling Psychology from Marymount University and a Post-Master’s Certificate program in Community Agency Counseling from George Mason University. Ms. Benedi also has a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology from American University, where she was selected for membership in the Golden Key National Honor Society. 

Before joining George Mason University’s Counseling and Psychological Services, Ms. Benedi provided academic, career, and personal counseling at Northern Virginia Community College, where she also taught Student Orientation courses. Prior to that, she served as an elementary school counselor for the Arlington Diocese Catholic School System under the direction of Benedictine Counseling Services, and completed her graduate internship at The Center for Multicultural Human Services in Falls Church, Virginia.

With regard to her current counseling practice, Ms. Benedi has the privilege to serve clients from diverse backgrounds with wide-ranging clinical issues.  Her caseload consists of clients managing developmental and adjustment issues, AD/HD concerns, depression, anxiety, relationship difficulties, personality disorders, self-esteem issues, grief and loss, trauma and abuse, and self-injury.  She also provides emergency services and crisis intervention.

Ms. Benedi integrates Humanistic, Psychodynamic, and Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy into her counseling practice.  Humanistic theory emphasizes the unique value of each person and the importance of a supportive therapeutic relationship, Psychodynamic theory explores the impact of family of origin experiences on personal development, and Cognitive-Behavioral theory focuses on building new coping strategies for managing problems.  She is also learning Logotherapy, as well, which was developed by Dr. Viktor Frankl.  This type of therapy helps clients make meaning of the painful experiences in their lives and explore their purpose in life.
        
In her role as the Outreach Coordinator for the Learning Services division of Counseling and Psychological Services, Ms. Benedi coordinates, as well as presents workshops and skill-building programs to the university community on topics including: Overview of Study Skills, Exam Strategies, Scheduling & Time Management, Improving Concentration, and Motivation & Goal-Setting. In addition, Ms. Benedi provides clinical intakes and assessments to students completing the Certificate in Academic Skills (ASC) program.
     
Ms. Benedi is a busy working mom who enjoys cooking, reading, prayer/meditation, trips to the beach and mountains, and spending time with family, friends, and her affectionate dog, Kenny. A special area of professional interest includes the role of spirituality in coping.