Child Therapy, Online in California

For when your child’s feelings are bigger than their words.

Maybe your child melts down over small things, can’t fall asleep for worrying, or has stopped telling you about their day. You have tried talking it through, and it isn’t landing.

That doesn’t mean you have done something wrong. Many children can’t yet explain what they feel, and some find it easier to tell someone who isn’t their parent.

Therapy gives your child an adult whose only job is to understand them. Sessions are built around how children actually communicate: drawing, stories, games, and play, with conversation woven in.

A therapist sitting beside a young girl as she draws with colored pencils

What parents tell us they’re seeing

Anger and meltdowns that seem much bigger than whatever set them off.
Worry that shows up at bedtime, before school, or when it is time to separate from you.
Sadness or withdrawal, or losing interest in things they used to love.
A divorce, a move, a new sibling, or the loss of someone they love.
Trouble with friends, feeling left out, or being picked on.
Harsh self-talk, like “I’m stupid” or “nobody likes me.”

What a session looks like over video

Parents often wonder whether a young child will engage through a screen. Our therapists build sessions around play, so a session looks more like a game than an interview.

Your child’s therapist might read a book with them, ask them to draw a picture, send them on a scavenger hunt around the room, or play a round of Would You Rather. In a version of Simon Says, your child’s own name replaces Simon’s, so they get to be the one in charge. Some kids like trading virtual squishies. Others would rather show their therapist around a game they love, like Roblox, or invent a game of their own.

For specific struggles such as anger or anxiety, therapists use workbooks written for children. The play is how a child gets comfortable enough to say what is going on, and how they practice handling it differently.

How parents are involved

You know your child best, so the work starts with you.

The first appointment is a parent intake, without your child. You will share what you have noticed, your child’s history, what you have already tried, and what you hope will change.

After that, your child meets with their therapist on their own. Once a month, you meet with the therapist separately for an update on how things are going and ideas you can use at home. Parent check-ins are billed as their own appointments.

Sessions are $220. They run 45 minutes for younger children and 50 minutes for older kids and teens. All you need is a quiet room and a device with a camera.

Finding the right therapist

Children’s sessions are online, so families anywhere in California can work with us. During a free consultation, we will learn what is going on with your child, match them with a therapist on our team who works with children, and talk through whether child therapy, family therapy, or both make sense.

Questions parents ask

Will my child actually engage over video?

Most children do, especially once the session feels like play. Kids often ask for “five more minutes” at the end. If your child struggles with the format, we will talk with you about what to adjust.

Will I know what my child talks about?

You will hear how things are going at your monthly check-in, along with ideas for home. Children open up more when they know their therapist won’t repeat every word, so the details of sessions usually stay private. Your child’s therapist will explain at the start what is always shared with you, including any concern about your child’s safety.

How do I explain therapy to my child?

Keep it short and honest. You might say they will be meeting someone whose job is to help kids with big feelings, and that it involves talking, drawing, and playing games. Avoid presenting it as a consequence for behavior. Your child’s therapist can suggest wording during your parent intake.

Can my child be seen in person?

Children’s sessions are online only. If you would like to meet in person, family therapy is available at our Santa Clara office, and we can talk through which option fits your child during the consultation.

Do you take insurance?

We are out of network for most insurance plans and do not bill insurance directly. You will receive a statement you can submit to your insurer for possible reimbursement. Check with your plan about out-of-network mental health benefits.

Getting started

A 15-minute call, no cost, no obligation. Tell us what you have been noticing, ask your questions, and we will help you decide whether therapy for your child is the right next step.

Book a free 15-minute callYour child doesn’t need to join the call. This first conversation is with you.