Child Psychologist Serving Irvine, CA
Child & Family STEPS provides highly specialized psychological services for families in Irvine. We recognize that in a city renowned for its exceptional schools, safe neighborhoods, and focus on family life, parents are dedicated to providing every advantage for their children’s development.
Our practice offers premier psychological expertise, made conveniently accessible to you and your family right in your Irvine home.
We are proud to support families throughout Irvine’s villages, from Northwood to Woodbridge, offering confidential therapy that helps your child meet their full potential.
Our Approach to Child Therapy
Our therapeutic approach is built on a foundation of trust, empathy, and evidence-based practice. We understand that for a child to truly flourish, they must feel safe and understood. We connect with children through their natural language: play. Using interactive games, creative expression, and engaging storytelling, we help your child:
- Develop emotional intelligence and self-awareness.
- Build a strong foundation for social success.
- Master coping skills to navigate academic and social pressures.
This method allows us to provide specialized care that is both effective and enjoyable for your child, all from the comfort and security of your own home.
Specialized Psychological Services for the Irvine Community
Our practice is exclusively focused on the foundational years of development, from birth to age eight. We offer a complete range of services for Irvine families.

Dyadic Parent-Child Interventions
(0-8 years)
Utilizing therapeutic techniques aimed at improving attachment, communication, development, and emotion regulation within the parent-child dyad.

Individual Therapy with Children
(5-8 years)
Supporting children with identifying emotions, teaching coping skills for managing big feelings, and understanding and navigating social interactions.

Parenting Support
(Parents/family)
Helping parents and families learn strategies to support child development, address co-parenting conflict and parenting stress, and improve family dynamics and communication.

Behaviors & Emotion Regulation
We help children who are struggling with tantrums, aggression, anxiety, and other challenging behaviors.

Trauma/Stress
We offer trauma-informed therapy to help children and families process traumatic/stressful experiences and build resilience in a safe and supportive environment.

Early Development & Neurodevelopmental Disorders
We address challenges in early childhood such as sleep concerns, potty training, and difficulties with communication and social interactions.
Partnering with Irvine Parents
We believe that the most profound and lasting change occurs when parents are active partners in the therapeutic process. Our practice is designed to be a collaborative resource for Irvine parents. We work alongside you to:
- Gain deeper insight into your child’s unique needs and temperament.
- Feel confident and effective in your parenting role.
- Create a supportive home environment where your child can thrive.
This partnership model ensures you are empowered with the knowledge and skills to support your child’s growth long after our sessions have ended.
Meet Dr. Holly Paymon
Licensed Clinical Psychologist
Dr. Holly is a licensed clinical psychologist dedicated to serving families throughout the master-planned communities of Irvine. She provides specialized infant and early childhood mental health services (ages 0-8), focusing on creating strong foundations for children in a city known for its commitment to family life and education.
Dr. Holly recognizes the importance of early experiences in shaping a child’s well-being. Her goal is to support Irvine families in building strong, secure relationships and equipping them with practical strategies to nurture their child’s development.
Contact Us
FAQs about Child Therapy in Irvine, CA
Can we access your services from Irvine?
My child seems bright, but is struggling socially. Can you help?
How do I know if my child needs therapy?
If your child is experiencing emotional, behavioral, or developmental challenges that affect their daily life, therapy may be beneficial. Signs can include difficulty regulating emotions, behavioral issues, social withdrawal, or developmental delays.
Will I participate in my child's therapy?
How do I prepare my child for their first therapy session?
How often will my child need to attend therapy?
The frequency of sessions depends on your child’s specific needs and our agreed-upon treatment plan. Typically, sessions are held weekly to maintain continuity and progress.
Do you offer support for parents as well?
Absolutely. I provide guidance and strategies to help you in your parenting role, offering support that can enhance your confidence and effectiveness as a parent. I am also a certified Parent-Child Interaction Therapy provider and offer live coaching to support parents with practicing skills learned.
How do I schedule an appointment?
You can schedule an appointment by calling us at 310-363-0026 or emailing us at drpaymon@childfamilysteps.com. We’ll start with a free consultation call to discuss your needs and determine if our services are a good fit for your family.