For Children & Teens

Child Therapy Specialists in Yorba Linda, CA

Every age brings different challenges — and needs a different approach. Tell us where your child is, and we'll point you to the right person.

You know something isn't right.
We know exactly how to help.

Whether your young child is acting out, shutting down, or struggling in ways you can't quite name — or your teenager is pulling away and you're not sure how to reach them — we have a specialist whose entire practice is built around your child's exact age group and challenges.

Young child therapy Yorba Linda
Ages 4–12
Lillian Lai
Lillian Lai, LCSW
Child Therapy Specialist · $195/session

Your child doesn't have the words — but they have play

Young children can't always explain what's wrong. Lillian uses clinically proven play therapy techniques to help them express and process what they're carrying inside — in a way that feels completely natural to them.

  • Frequent meltdowns, anxiety, or emotional outbursts
  • Withdrawal, school struggles, or dropping grades
  • ADHD, autism, trauma, or behavioral concerns
  • Grief, family changes, or adjustment difficulties
Teen therapy Yorba Linda
Ages 13–19
Timothy Kang
Timothy Kang, AMFT
Teen Therapy Specialist · $150/session

A therapist teens will actually open up to

Timothy has been working alongside teenagers since 2012. He understands today's teen culture, social media pressures, and school stress in a way many older clinicians simply can't. Teens don't need another lecture — they need someone genuinely in their corner.

  • Withdrawal, shutting down, or explosive arguments
  • Slipping grades or loss of interest in activities
  • Anxiety, depression, or identity questions
  • Peer pressure, social isolation, or wrong crowd concerns
Common Questions

Frequently Asked Questions
About Child & Teen Therapy

How do I know if my child actually needs therapy, or if this is just a phase?

Trust your instincts as a parent. If something has felt off for more than a few weeks, if it's affecting your child's school performance, friendships, sleep, or your family's daily life — that's worth taking seriously. A phase passes on its own. A struggle that lingers and grows usually needs support. A free consultation call can help you figure out which one you're dealing with.

Will my child know they're "in therapy"? Will that feel scary or stigmatizing?

For younger children (ages 4–12), Lillian uses play therapy — meaning sessions feel more like play and creative activities than "talking to a therapist." For teens, Timothy approaches it as a conversation, not a clinical session. Most children and teens warm up quickly when they feel they're not being judged or lectured. The first priority is making your child feel safe and heard.

Are parents involved in the sessions?

It depends on the child's age and what works best for them. For younger children, we often include parent check-ins so you understand what's happening and can support the work at home. For teens, having a private space is often key to them opening up — so sessions are typically private, with regular parent updates handled separately. Your therapist will walk you through the approach before you start.

My teenager refuses to come. What do I do?

This is very common. Resistance usually comes from fear of being judged or "fixed." It can help to frame the first session as just a conversation — no commitment, no pressure. You can also start with your own session to get guidance on how to talk with your teen about it. Timothy has a strong track record of winning over reluctant teens once they meet him in person.

What ages do your therapists work with?

Lillian Lai specializes in children ages 4–12, using play therapy and child-centered techniques tailored to young developmental stages. Timothy Kang works with teens ages 13–19, with a deep understanding of adolescent culture, identity, and pressure. Each specialist focuses on their age group exclusively — you won't get a generalist who "also sees kids."

How long does child or teen therapy usually last?

For children, meaningful progress is often visible within 8–12 sessions, though kids dealing with trauma, ADHD, or autism-related challenges may benefit from longer support. For teens, it varies widely — some work through a specific issue quickly, others benefit from ongoing support through a difficult developmental period. Your therapist will be honest with you about what makes sense for your child.

Not sure which specialist is right for your child?

Give us a call — we'll listen to what's going on and help you figure out the best fit. No pressure, no commitment. Just a conversation about what your child needs.

Call or text anytime  ·  (714) 438-4357