Christen Bird, ACNP

Christen Bird, RN, DNP, FNP-C, AGACNP-BC, is a family and acute care nurse practitioner who cares for cardiology patients. She is the advanced practice provider (APP) director for the Heart and Vascular Institute.

“I strive to create a welcoming, supportive environment where patients feel heard, understood, and cared for,” she says. “I believe in listening closely, communicating clearly, and ensuring patients feel informed regarding their diagnosis and plan of care. I approach each interaction with kindness, humility, and optimism.”

Bird grew up in Memphis, TN, and studied nursing at the University of Tennessee. She worked as a registered nurse in intensive care and telemetry settings in upstate New York before continuing her education to become a nurse practitioner.

She received her master’s and doctorate nursing degrees from Binghamton University with a specialization as a family nurse practitioner. She also completed post-master’s certificate programs at Duke University and Penn University to gain dual certification as an acute care nurse practitioner with specialization in cardiology. She previously worked with the cardiology group at Mayo Clinic in Phoenix, AZ, for a decade before relocating to Virginia.

Outside of work, she loves spending time with her husband and young children and enjoys all forms of sewing, from needlework to quilting.