LGBT therapists in Mission Viejo, CA

I have 10 years of experience working with children, individuals, couples and families to using a strength-based, systems approach. For couple’s I utilize Gottman-based approaches.

I subscribe to cognitive behavioral therapy, emphasizing the rational behavioral therapy modality. I hold a doctorate (EdD) in counseling and educational psychology from the University of San Francisco, where I also earned my Master's in Marriage and Family Therapy. I earned a Master's in Divinity from the Franciscan School of Theology at the Graduate Theological Union. I have been practicing since 1987 and am a seasoned therapist.

¡Hola! Finding your balance doesn't happen all at once, it happens paso a paso (step by step). As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with 8+ years of experience, my heart’s work has always been to provide culturally centered, evidence-based care for those navigating the complexities of early parenthood, identity transitions, anxiety, and depression.

My goal is to provide a warm, collaborative space where you feel truly heard and empowered. Together, we will work to reduce the overwhelm so you can find more balance and joy in your everyday life.

Welcome to Bright House Therapy, LLC. My name is Virginia Sanchez, I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with several years of experience working in LGBTQIA+, Grief & Loss, Bipolar, Trauma, ADHD, and Autism. I have worked in several different settings; supporting families involved with the Department of Children Services, assisting creating and following through with routines for adults with special needs, developed and ran LGBTQIA+ groups for parents of LGBTQIA+ youth, and provided support to Veterans through the Veteran Crisis Line.

You may be seeking support in moving toward a more preferred version of yourself, your life, and your relationships. You may be questioning important facets of your identity, or wondering how to locate and uproot the seeds of painful and complicated emotions. Perhaps you are curious about navigating a different type of relational structure with your loved ones, or you may be feeling stuck with a particular challenge in the way you connect to others. My role as a therapist is to provide support and facilitate insight that will allow you to work toward your personal goals.

In addition to my work as a licensed therapist, I have over 15 years of experience supporting children, adults, couples, and families in a variety of mental health and community settings. As a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist who works with teens, adults, couples, and families navigating trauma, anxiety, relationship challenges, and the lasting impact of childhood experiences. My passion is helping cycle breakers heal old wounds, build healthier relationships, and create lives that feel more connected, intentional, and authentic.

As a therapist, I am passionate about walking alongside folks as they reveal their truths and vulnerabilities to themselves. I believe, and have witnessed that people are capable of long standing change with knowledge, support, and connection, and that therapy is a great place for that. You can learn new ways to manage life stressors, feel safe, gain confidence, and live a more joyful and purposeful life. I use cognitive behavioral, solution-focused, and strength-based techniques, while never ignoring the human element and connection where the real change happens.

I HAVE 40 YEARS EXPERIENCE WORKING IN MENTAL HEALTH. I HAVE TRAVELED THE WORLD STUDYING CULTURES AND RELIGIONS AND HAVE A LIFETIME OF PERSONAL EXPERIENCES THAT GIVES ME A CLEAR INSIGHT INTO WHAT YOU ARE GOING THROUGH. I WILL BE THERE FOR YOU 24/7 AND I ACTUALLY CARE. I AM INTERESTED IN YOU AS A WHOLE PERSON AND NOT JUST A CURRENT PROBLEM, MY GOAL IS TO GET YOU FEELING BETTER QUICKLY AND ENRICHING YOUR LIFE FOR A FUTURE FILLED WITH POTENTIAL AND JOY.

As a lived-experience therapist, I specialize in neurodiversity-affirming therapy for individuals navigating eating disorders, religious trauma, chronic illness, and identity exploration. My goal is to provide a brave, non-judgmental space where you can reflect on your experiences, reclaim agency over your life, and develop strategies that align with your unique strengths and values. I believe that you are the expert on your own story, and in our work together, I will encourage you to trust yourself more deeply and move toward healing in a way that feels right for you.

I offer online individual therapy for adults and teens across California and Colorado, providing accessible and affirming care that meets you where you are. Whether you're exploring your relationship with food and body, healing from religious trauma, or navigating life as a neurodivergent person, I’m here to support you with a therapy experience that prioritizes collaboration and consent.

Choosing a therapist is a big decision, and it helps to know a little about the person you’ll be working with. With more than 18 years in behavioral health, I’ve supported people from all walks of life through mental health challenges, trauma, and major life transitions. Whatever brought you here, I’d be honored to walk alongside you as you move forward with more confidence and resilience.

I have a passion for helping people navigate life's challenges. Seeking help can feel like a big step, but it's also a powerful one. I offer a collaborative and nonjudgemental space for discovering strengths and with helping you feel empowered.