When Christina McLaughlin meets with a prospective resident and/or their family about living at The House of the Good Shepherd Retirement Community in Hackettstown, she treats them as individuals on a journey.

McLaughlin, CDP, CBT, CCP, brings a wealth of experience to The House as its new Director of Sales and Marketing. That experience in many ways focuses on providing residents with the kind of guidance needed for any life journey.  

“Often times families I work with are either in crisis mode or in some sort of crossroad with their own situation or that of their loved one,” said McLaughlin. “I want to meet them where they are in this journey and truly understand what their individual needs are by being both attentive and accessible. From that standpoint it’s more like a counseling role.”

McLaughlin, whose educational background includes Marketing and Interior Design, has been in the senior industry for the past 25 years. A Cognitive Behavioral Therapist, Certified Dementia Practitioner and Certified Counseling Practitioner, McLaughlin has worked as a Sales Director, Regional Director, Corporate Brand Manager and Senior Living Consultant. 

In her various roles she has worked nationwide in Independent living, Assisted Living, Memory Care, Skilled Nursing,  and CCRC’s both for profit and not for profit.

“Christina’s experience – on so many levels – will benefit greatly those individuals looking for alternative living,” said Sue Lanza, CEO of The House. “We are very excited to have her on our team.”

With COVID on people’s minds, McLaughlin is up front: “When COVID questions are presented I give honest answers and assure them that we implement the very best and safest methods of cleaning and disinfecting and stay ahead of the curve on all COVID protocols including screening and testing.  We consult daily with our Infectious Disease Physician and with the Department of Health and communicate regularly with families and residents.”

From the Greater Marketing standpoint, McLaughlin believes strongly in bringing new and different ideas with events, advertising and promotion and utilizing input from current residents and prospective residents.

A resident of Panther Valley, McLaughlin was familiar already with The House when she saw that the job had opened up. “I was attracted to many aspects of The House such as reputation, longevity, mission statement, and in location,” she said. “Additionally, I felt my experience in the industry could be a valuable asset in bringing The House into a spotlight showcasing qualities that may not already be recognized.”

Originally from Ohio, McLaughlin, married with five children and four grandchildren, has lived in New Jersey for the past 12 years. When not working she enjoys reading, beach vacations with her family, and interior decorating and design for family and friends.