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DMDD & ODD

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DMDD & ODD

DMDD & ODD

Helping Children and Families Navigate Intense Emotions and Defiant Behavior

At Lotus Behavioral Health Services, we provide compassionate, family-focused care for children and teens struggling with Disruptive Mood Dysregulation Disorder (DMDD) and Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD). These conditions can lead to chronic irritability, angry outbursts, and persistent defiance—but with the right approach, children can learn to regulate their emotions, follow rules, and build healthier relationships at home, in school, and beyond.

What Are DMDD and ODD?

Both DMDD and ODD affect how children respond to frustration, authority, and emotional stress. While the two share some similarities, they are distinct conditions.

DMDD is characterized by:

  • Chronic irritability or angry mood
  • Frequent and intense temper outbursts (verbal or physical)
  • Reactions that are out of proportion to the situation
  • Symptoms that persist for 12 months or more
  • Significant impairment in school, home, or social settings

ODD is marked by:

  • A consistent pattern of angry or resentful behavior
  • Argumentative or defiant interactions with adults
  • Deliberate refusal to comply with rules or requests
  • Frequent blaming of others for one’s mistakes
  • Spiteful or vindictive behavior

These behaviors are not simply “bad behavior.” They often signal emotional distress, underlying mental health conditions like ADHD, anxiety, or trauma, and difficulty coping with stress or change.

How We Help

At Lotus Behavioral Health Services, we offer structured, effective treatment that’s rooted in understanding—not punishment. Our team supports both the child and the family, working together to improve behavior, build communication, and restore peace in the home.

Therapy for Emotional Regulation & Behavior

Our licensed therapists use evidence-based strategies such as:

  • Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): To help children recognize and change negative thought patterns
  • Parent-Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT): To improve the parent-child relationship and establish consistent discipline techniques
  • Behavioral Therapy: To reinforce positive behaviors and reduce defiance
  • Emotional regulation training: To help children manage frustration, anger, and impulsivity
  • Family therapy: To strengthen communication and problem-solving within the household

We tailor therapy to your child’s developmental stage and emotional needs, creating a safe space where they can express themselves and build healthy habits.

Medication Management

In some cases, psychiatric medication may be recommended to address underlying mood or behavioral symptoms. Our providers conduct careful assessments to determine if medication is appropriate and work closely with families to monitor progress and ensure a thoughtful, personalized treatment plan.

Virtual Support That Works for Families

All our services are delivered via secure telehealth, so families can access support from the comfort of home. Telehealth makes it easier to maintain consistent care while keeping your child in a familiar and calming environment.

A Path Toward Peace and Progress

Raising a child with DMDD or ODD can be incredibly challenging—but you don’t have to face it alone. At Lotus Behavioral Health Services, we offer expert guidance, practical tools, and a supportive partnership to help your child grow emotionally, behave more positively, and thrive at home and in the world.

Call (404) 907-3982 or email contact@pfbehavioralhealth.com to schedule your telehealth appointment today. Most major insurance plans accepted. Self-pay options are available.