Child Psychologist in Westwood, CA
Child & Family STEPS offers expert psychological services for families in Westwood, Los Angeles. We recognize that Westwood, with its world-class academic institutions and intellectually stimulating environment, presents a unique backdrop for raising a family. The pressures of academic achievement and social development can begin early, and our practice is here to support your child’s emotional growth every step of the way.
We are proud to serve the Westwood community, providing tailored and confidential therapy to help children and families navigate the complexities of early childhood.
Our Approach to Child Therapy
Our approach to child therapy is centered on creating a supportive and empathetic environment where children feel safe to express themselves. We utilize engaging, play-based, and developmentally appropriate techniques, as play is the natural language of children. Through activities like art, games, storytelling, and imaginative play, we help children:
- Process their emotions
- Develop effective coping skills
- Build resilience
By engaging with your child in a way that feels natural to them, we can gently guide them through their challenges and help them build a strong foundation for emotional health.
Specialized Psychological Services for Westwood Families
We provide a focused suite of services for children aged 0-8, designed to meet the specific challenges faced by families in the Westwood area.
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.
A Collaborative Approach with Westwood Parents
Your role as a parent is the most influential factor in your child’s life, and we honor that by making you a central part of the therapeutic process. We function as a team, working together to:
- Provide you with a clearer understanding of your child’s needs.
- Equip you with effective strategies to implement at home.
- Promote positive interactions and lasting family harmony.
This collaborative spirit ensures that the progress achieved during therapy is sustained and integrated into your daily life.
Meet Dr. Holly Paymon
Licensed Clinical Psychologist
Dr. Holly is a licensed clinical psychologist dedicated to serving families throughout the Westwood community. She provides specialized infant and early childhood mental health services (ages 0-8), focusing on creating strong emotional foundations for children growing up in this intellectually vibrant area. Dr. Holly recognizes the importance of early experiences in shaping a child’s overall well-being.
Her goal is to support Westwood families in building secure relationships and equipping them with practical strategies to manage stress and foster balanced development.
Contact Us
FAQs about Child Therapy in Westwood
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.