Institute of Pediatric Psychology
Helping Kids & Teens Thrive. Supporting Families Along the Way.
Evidence-based pediatric psychology and therapy for children, teens, and families in Orange County, California.
You are not alone.If you’re feeling concerned about your child’s emotional, behavioral or learning challenges, we’re here to help. With expertise, compassion and a plan that supports your whole family.
Is therapy right for my child?
Sometimes, it's hard to know when your child needs a little extra support.
Maybe you've noticed changes in their mood or behavior. Maybe school has become a struggle, they're pulling away from friends, or something just doesn't feel quite right. As a parent, it can be difficult to know what's part of growing up and when it might be time to reach out for help.
Some signs that your child or teen may benefit from therapy include:
Difficulty focusing at school or completing homework
Losing interest in activities they once enjoyed
Withdrawing from friends or family
Changes in grades or school engagement
Frequent conflicts or behavioral challenges at home or school
Persistent worry, anxiety, or fear of failure
Ongoing sadness, irritability, or changes in mood
You don't have to wait until things feel overwhelming to ask for support.
At the Institute of Pediatric Psychology, our Orange County child psychologists and therapists provide compassionate, evidence-based care for children, teens, and families navigating anxiety, depression, ADHD, behavioral challenges, and more.
Through approaches such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), we help young people understand their emotions, build confidence, and develop practical skills they can carry into everyday life.
And if you're not sure whether therapy is the right next step? That's okay, too. We're here to listen, answer your questions, and help you explore what might be best for your family.
A Collaborative, Whole-Family Approach
Evidence-Based Care
Family-Centered Support
Compassionate & Personalized
It’s okay to have questions.
Knowing when to seek support isn't always straightforward. Here are a few things families often wonder about when considering therapy for their child.
It's not always easy to distinguish typical developmental challenges from something that might benefit from additional support. If your child's emotions, behaviors, or worries are affecting their daily life, relationships, or overall well-being, it may be helpful to talk with a professional. You don't have to figure it out alone.
How do I know if my child needs therapy?
1
The first appointment is an opportunity for us to learn about your child, understand your family's concerns, and discuss your goals. We'll explain what the process may look like and work together to determine the best next steps.
What happens during my child's first therapy appointment?
2
There are many ways to support your child's emotional development, from helping them identify feelings to practicing calming strategies together. Our team works with families to develop practical, age-appropriate tools they can use beyond the therapy room.
How can I help my child manage big emotions at home?
3
How involved will I be in my child's therapy?
4
We believe parents and caregivers play an important role in supporting their child's progress. Depending on your child's age, needs, and treatment goals, we'll discuss how you can be involved while respecting your child's privacy and independence.
How do we get started?
5
Simply complete our inquiry form to tell us a little about your family and what you're looking for. Our team typically responds within 24 hours to discuss availability and next steps, which may include a brief consultation.
Let’s take the Next Step
Schedule a free consultation to talk about your child’s needs and see if we’re a good fit.