Title: President and Chief Executive Officer
Company: Bethany Children’s Home
Location: Womelsdorf, Pennsylvania, United States
Joseph T. Birli, EdD, President and Chief Executive Officer at Bethany Children’s Home, has been recognized by Marquis Who’s Who Top Executives for dedication, achievements and leadership in counseling and child protection.
Dr. Birli’s career is marked by his leadership as the chief executive officer of Bethany Children’s Home since 2019. Located in Womelsdorf, Pennsylvania, Bethany Children’s Home has existed since the mid-1860s and provides residential services for children and youth unable to live with their own families or substitute families. In his role, Dr. Birli oversees a team of approximately 215 individuals, emphasizing teamwork and collaboration. His responsibilities include managing budgets, engaging in fundraising and providing trauma training for new hires.
In addition to his work at Bethany Children’s Home, Dr. Birli has spent over a decade as a full-time graduate faculty member in the counseling program at Alvernia University in Reading, Pennsylvania, since 2014. He also serves on the board of the Pennsylvania Council of Children, Youth & Family Services as its vice chair.
Previously, Dr. Birli served as the president and chief executive officer at the Children’s Home of York from 2017 to 2019. His expertise in trauma and therapeutic services is well-recognized, having worked with diverse populations such as individuals with disabilities. The state of Pennsylvania has also contracted him for severe cases in hospital systems. Furthermore, as an expert witness for the attorney general’s office, Dr. Birli provides clinical insights into approaches within the disability community.
Dr. Birli’s academic journey began with a bachelor’s degree in social work from Eastern University in 1994. He furthered his education with a master’s degree in counseling, community and higher education from West Chester University of Pennsylvania in 2001 and a Doctor of Education in educational leadership and innovation from Wilmington University in 2007. Dr. Birli’s certifications include licensed professional counselor supervisor from the National Board for Certified Counselors and certified investigator from the Department of Human Services.
Beyond his primary work initiatives, Dr. Birli’s commitment to education and advocacy is evident through his involvement with organizations such as the American Counseling Association, the Association of Counselor Education and Supervision, and the Pennsylvania Counseling Association’s government relations committee. He is also actively involved in civic activities, such as providing clinical oversight for local LGBT centers and contributing to fundraising events.
Dr. Birli authored “Eating Disorders Among Male College Students.” Adding to his credentials, he frequently speaks at various professional conferences. Dr. Birli’s personal experiences have fueled his passion for education to overcome adversity, a theme he explores in his forthcoming parenthood books.
Dr. Birli’s dedication to diversity and inclusion earned him a Faculty Award at Alvernia University. His work at Bethany Children’s Home earned the organization recognition as one of Central Pennsylvania’s Top 100 employers for nonprofits.
As a lifelong learner, Dr. Birli has shared his philosophy that counseling education administration is a healing journey for everyone. Looking ahead, he aims to continue educating and advocating for legislators on human trafficking awareness through his work at Bethany Children’s Home while striving to position the organization as a provider and employer of choice in Pennsylvania. Dr. Birli’s strategic vision includes expanding political engagement to foster greater understanding of critical issues affecting children today.
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