Christine earned her bachelor's of science degree in biochemistry with an emphasis in psychology from the University of Illinois. She continued her work following graduation as a research specialist for the university. After starting a family, she became a stay-at-home mother to her three children, a state-coordinator for a non-profit support group for mothers, a motivational speaker, and a legislative advocate before returning to school to earn a master's degree in social work from Virginia Commonwealth University. She provided clinical services within the school system for five years before beginning her own private practice. Christine is a nationally certified school social work specialist and a licensed clinical social worker in the state of Virginia.