Gunnar Christiansen, M.D. - NAMI Orange County, Calif.

Dr. Christiansen is a retired board certified ophthalmologist and past president of NAMI California. He has devoted a significant part of his life during the past twenty years advocating for an improved world for those living with mental illness. His most significant contribution was the founding and subsequent development of NAMI FaithNet in California, which is now also the name of NAMI National’s outreach arm to the Faith Community.

Since 2007, Christiansen has been a part of the NAMI National FaithNet Advisory Group. Past accomplishments also include receiving the Mental Health & Spirituality Initiative Award in 2009 for the development of the NAMI FaithNet. He also received the 2011 NAMI California Outstanding Clergy Person Award.

Christiansen has written multiple publications and presented at conferences related to spirituality and mental illness throughout the United States. Before his time with NAMI, Christiansen received his M.D. and M.S. at the University of Oregon Medical School. He was also a soldier in the U.S. Army from 1967-69.