Children’s therapy in Yorba Linda for big feelings
I work with children who are having a hard time at home, at school, or in their relationships. I provide a warm, supportive space where young people can feel understood, build confidence, and develop healthy ways to cope with life’s challenges.
What people bring me
Children often come in when emotions are spilling out in behavior, withdrawal, or trouble at school. Some are struggling with worry, sadness, anger, or changes in family life. Others have a hard time naming what’s wrong, but parents can tell something feels off. I listen for what the child is showing through play, behavior, and the way they relate to people around them.
- I don’t know what’s wrong, but something feels off.
- I get in trouble a lot at school.
- I have big feelings and don’t know what to do with them.
- I wish my child would open up more.
How I work with it
With children, I rely on play therapy, simple language, and steady relationship. I pay attention to how they express feelings, what themes repeat, and how stress shows up in behavior. I also keep family patterns in mind, because what happens at home often affects what I see in the room. When helpful, I bring in parents so we can think through what the child needs outside of session too.
- Internal Family Systems (IFS)
- IFS can help children notice different feelings and reactions without feeling blamed for them. I keep it simple and child-friendly.
- Play Therapy
- Play gives children a way to communicate what they may not be ready to say. I use it to understand feelings, behavior, and the patterns underneath both.
- Trauma-Informed Care
- I work carefully when a child’s reactions are connected to stress or painful experiences. That means paying attention to pacing, trust, and what helps them feel settled.
What the first sessions look like
The first sessions are about getting to know your child and understanding what their days actually look like. I talk with the parent or caregiver, spend time with the child, and decide together what kind of support makes sense.
I use play, connection, and careful attention to what a child is showing me.
Questions people ask
What age do you see for children’s therapy?
I work with children, and the approach depends on their age and what they need from the work. Some children need more play, while others can use more conversation.
My child won’t talk much. Is that a problem?
No, that’s very common. I can work with play, observation, and relationship so your child doesn’t have to perform talk before they’re ready.
Do parents get involved in child therapy?
Yes, parent involvement is often part of the work. I may talk with you about what I’m noticing and how your child is showing things at home.
Can you help if school is becoming a struggle?
That’s a common reason families come in. I’d want to understand what’s happening at school and how it connects to what your child is carrying overall.
The practical details
For fees, insurance and current availability, see fees and insurance on Child & Teen Therapist in Yorba Linda, CA's website.
About Child & Teen Therapist in Yorba Linda, CA
I work with children, teens, and families who are dealing with anxiety, trauma, depression, or family transitions. I see people in person in Yorba Linda and online across California.
Talk it through with Lillian
Tell us what has been going on and we will take it from there.