Dr. Christopher J. Ward is an Assistant Professor of Counseling at National Louis University and serves as a faculty advisor for the National Louis University Counseling Association. He earned his Ph.D. in Counselor Education and Supervision from the University of Northern Colorado, with emphases in both Couple and Family Therapy and Play Therapy. Dr. Ward is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in Colorado and currently provides therapy and supervision services through his private practice. He previously worked as a clinician in crisis services, substance treatment, and rural community behavioral health, serving diverse populations including veterans, clients with dual diagnoses, individuals experiencing homelessness, and those involved in the criminal justice system. His scholarly interests include counselor identity development, student persistence and engagement, and the relational experiences of counselors-in-training.