Christine Sumner
Experienced LMFT focused on respectful, practical therapy
LMFT California
- Experience
- 24 years in practice
- Focus areas
- LGBT, Relationship, Trauma and abuse
- Approaches
- Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Client-Centered Therapy
- Languages
- English
About Christine
Christine Sumner is a California-licensed marriage and family therapist with 24 years of clinical experience. She has worked extensively with people navigating LGBT issues, relationship struggles, trauma and abuse, grief, and challenges with self-esteem.
Background and approach
Drawing on a range of therapeutic tools, she adapts conversations and care plans to the particular circumstances of each client and emphasizes respect, sensitivity, and compassion throughout the work. Her practice blends collaborative listening with structured interventions so clients can clarify goals and build practical skills.
Sessions are shaped around what a person needs in the moment while keeping longer-term growth in view. Christine encourages taking the first step toward therapy and offers supportive guidance to help people begin that process and move forward at a pace that feels manageable.
Therapeutic approaches and online care that fit your needs
Christine integrates cognitive behavioral techniques that focus on identifying patterns of thinking and behavior and developing practical strategies to manage symptoms and improve daily functioning. CBT can be helpful for people dealing with relationship stress, low self-esteem, or the effects of trauma.She also uses client-centered therapy which emphasizes empathetic listening and collaboration so clients feel heard and can explore their own goals at a comfortable pace. This approach supports people who need a compassionate space to process grief or identity concerns.
Finding the right approach is part of the therapeutic journey and will be decided together. The therapist works collaboratively to assess a person’s needs, preferences, and goals, then tailors methods from different approaches to create a personalized plan.
Online therapy options include video calls, phone sessions, live chat, and text-based messaging, offering flexibility for varied schedules and life demands. These formats make it easier to maintain continuity of care while balancing work, family, or mobility considerations, and they allow licensed professionals to deliver consistent support without the need for in-person visits.
Frequently asked questions
What concerns does Christine address?
What is her therapeutic style like?
How much experience does she have?
What credentials and location are on file?
Does she offer services in other languages or to international clients?
What session formats are available?
How is cost handled for sessions?
What do I need to do to get started?
Areas of expertise
Primary focus
Therapeutic approaches
Experience
24+ years
Licensed
California
Languages
English