Physical Therapist, Doctor of Physical Therapy

Movement is one of the most beautiful parts of growth.

I’m Dr. Lien Tran, PT, DPT, a licensed and board certified physical therapist specializing in pediatrics. I have been practicing since 2021 and currently serve families throughout Orange County.

My commitment to pediatrics began in 2018 during physical therapy school, where I intentionally pursued clinical rotations across hospital, inpatient rehabilitation, outpatient therapy, and intensive care settings. Early in my training, I knew I wanted my work to focus on supporting infants and children during the most foundational stages of growth.

Following licensure, I practiced in Houston, Texas for three years, expanding my experience in developmental delay, neuromotor conditions, and pediatric intensive rehabilitation. I now continue this work in California.

I am passionate about helping children build strength, coordination, and confidence as they move through important milestones. I believe growth is always possible, especially when supported by intentional intervention and an environment that nurtures the nervous system.

Pediatric Expertise

My pediatric foundation was built during my clinical training at Mary Free Bed Rehabilitation Hospital in Grand Rapids, Michigan, and Helen DeVos Children’s Hospital, where I trained across pediatric intensive care, inpatient rehabilitation, and outpatient therapy settings.

I also completed outpatient pediatric clinical rotations throughout the Detroit metropolitan area, further expanding my experience in early intervention, developmental therapy, and family-centered care.

Throughout my years of practice in Texas and California, I have worked with infants and children across a broad spectrum of developmental needs, from early motor delays and torticollis to medically complex neurological diagnoses. I also participated in pediatric intensive therapy programs in Houston utilizing the Universal Exercise Unit (UEU) to promote strength, postural control, and functional motor development.

Advanced Training & Continuing Education

To provide individualized, evidence-informed care, I regularly pursue advanced training and continuing education, including:

• Dynamic Movement Intervention (DMI) – Level A

• Neurodevelopmental Treatment (NDT)

• Total Motion Release® (TMR TOTS) – Levels 1 & 2

• Primitive Reflex Integration

• Myofascial Release & Soft Tissue Mobilization

• Infant Massage for regulation, sensory organization, and parent–infant bonding

• Pediatric Bowel & Constipation Management

Rather than relying on a single treatment philosophy, I integrate current evidence, clinical reasoning, hands-on techniques when appropriate, therapeutic play, caregiver education, and individualized treatment strategies to help children develop efficient, functional movement patterns within their everyday environments.

My treatment approach may incorporate neuromotor facilitation strategies, developmental handling, strengthening, and motor learning principles to support postural control, coordination, and age-appropriate gross motor development. Equally important is empowering caregivers with practical strategies that can be carried over throughout daily routines.

When clinically appropriate, I also incorporate gentle manual therapy techniques to address soft tissue restrictions, cervical alignment, jaw mobility, and craniofacial muscle balance as part of a comprehensive assessment of movement, posture, and functional development. These interventions are integrated within a broader treatment plan that prioritizes each child’s functional goals, comfort, and participation.

Who I Serve

I work with children experiencing:

• Global or gross motor developmental delays

• Torticollis and plagiocephaly

• Cerebral palsy

• Down syndrome

• Genetic and neuromuscular conditions

• Low muscle tone or high muscle tone

• Clubfoot (Talipes Equinovarus)

• Delayed walking or difficulty with balance and coordination

• Gait abnormalities

• Postural asymmetries

• Jaw or cervical alignment concerns affecting movement and breathing coordination

Whether a child has a medical diagnosis or simply needs additional support reaching milestones, my focus remains the same. I build strong foundations that support confident movement and long term independence.

My Philosophy

Therapy should feel intentional, empowering, and hopeful.

Progress is not about rushing milestones. It is about building the strength beneath them. It is about honoring each child’s pace while providing the expertise and structure needed to move forward with confidence.

I take an evidence-based, integrative approach that views the body as a connected system. Posture supports breathing, alignment guides movement, and stability creates the foundation for exploration. When we support the body as a whole, development unfolds more naturally and with greater ease.

Parent education is central to my approach. When families understand the “why” behind each strategy, they become active partners in their child’s development, and that is where meaningful, lasting growth happens.

At Grace in Growth Physical Therapy, we focus on strong foundations, purposeful movement, and celebrating every step forward, whether it is big, or small.

Beyond the Clinic

Outside of my work, I find inspiration in exploring new places, being in nature, fresh blooms, and time with loved ones. That balance of adventure and stillness grounds me and shapes the warmth, creativity, and presence I bring to the families I serve.