- Family and parenting focus
- Calm practical style
- LMFT California
About Christopher
Christopher 'Chris' Gunst is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) practicing in California with 15 years of professional experience. He focuses on helping people manage stress, anxiety, depression, and challenges related to addiction and relationships. Chris presents a calm, respectful manner and emphasizes building a strong working relationship from the first session.
He works with people who are facing family conflicts and relational strain and helps them talk through communication problems and attachment concerns. He also supports those dealing with feelings of abandonment, guilt, shame, isolation, and low self-worth. Young adults with mood challenges or difficulty with self-love are among the people he commonly helps.
In sessions he aims to understand where each person is starting from and then create a practical plan that fits their needs. He values straightforward conversation and clear goals rather than jargon. Progress is tracked in ways that matter to the client, such as reduced anxiety, clearer boundaries, or better communication at home.
Chris believes the therapeutic relationship itself is a key part of change, and he prioritizes empathy and sensitivity in sessions. He encourages people to take that first step and offers steady support while they work toward a more fulfilling life. For anyone considering therapy, he suggests discussing goals up front so sessions can be tailored to real-world needs.
How evidence-based methods shape online care
Many of the techniques Chris uses are evidence-based therapeutic techniques that focus on practical change. One common approach involves teaching skills for managing anxiety and mood - skills people can practice between sessions to reduce worry and improve daily functioning. Another commonly used focus is communication work, which helps people learn clearer ways to express needs, set boundaries, and repair misunderstandings in relationships.Choosing the right approach is a collaborative process. The therapist will work with each person to identify goals, try methods that suit those goals, and adjust plans based on what works. That means clients and the therapist decide together which techniques to emphasize as therapy progresses.
If you are considering online therapy, check the current session options before booking so you know which formats are offered. Online care can make it easier to fit sessions into a busy week, shorten check-ins when time is tight, and remove travel time so people can focus on progress. Licensed professionals can help you decide how to structure sessions so they fit your schedule and day-to-day life.
Areas of expertise
Primary focus
Additional focus areas
Experience
15+ years
Listed in
California
Languages
English
Frequently asked questions
What issues does he commonly help with?
He works with stress, anxiety, depression, addictions, relationship concerns, and family conflict. Additional focuses include abandonment, attachment, communication problems, guilt and shame, isolation, and young adult issues.
What is his approach in sessions?
He emphasizes a respectful, sensitive, and straightforward style. Together with the client he sets clear goals and creates a treatment plan that fits real-life needs.
How much experience does he have?
He has 15 years of professional experience working with people on mood, relationship, and addiction concerns.
What credential does he hold and where does he practice?
He is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) licensed in California and practices there.
Which languages are supported in sessions?
Sessions are offered in English.
Can international clients work with him?
International clients are not currently accepted.
How does cost and billing work?
Cost varies with location and therapist availability; sessions use a subscription that can be canceled at any time.
How do I begin working with him?
Click the Start Therapy button, complete a short matching questionnaire, and schedule according to the therapist's availability.