Explosive outbursts, constant irritability, and emotional extremes can be overwhelming—for children and their families alike. At Encompass Therapy & Counseling in Southlake, TX, we provide thoughtful, structured therapy for children and teens diagnosed with Disruptive Mood Dysregulation Disorder (DMDD). Our goal is to help young clients learn to manage their emotions, reduce intense outbursts, and develop tools to cope more effectively with the world around them.
If your child seems constantly angry, struggles with extreme emotional reactions, or has frequent meltdowns that disrupt school, home, or social life, you are not alone—and this behavior is not your fault. DMDD is a complex, treatable condition, and with the right support, your child can begin to experience more emotional stability, improved relationships, and a stronger sense of control.
Disruptive Mood Dysregulation Disorder is a childhood mood disorder characterized by severe irritability, frequent temper outbursts, and chronic anger. These symptoms are far more intense and persistent than typical childhood tantrums or mood swings and often interfere with a child’s ability to function day-to-day.
Children with DMDD may:
These symptoms typically begin before age 10, but the diagnosis is usually made between ages 6 and 18. Without treatment, DMDD can significantly impact a child’s academic success, friendships, and family dynamics.
At Encompass Therapy & Counseling, we focus on teaching children the tools they need to understand their emotions, communicate more effectively, and regulate their reactions. We approach treatment with patience, empathy, and age-appropriate strategies that make children feel safe and engaged in the process.
Therapy sessions are structured to help children:
We don’t expect change to happen overnight, but through consistent support, children begin to feel more in control of themselves and less overwhelmed by emotion.
DMDD doesn’t just affect the child—it affects the whole household. Parents often feel helpless, exhausted, or unsure how to respond without escalating the situation. That’s why we integrate parent support into our therapy process.
We work with families to:
By aligning support at home with what we’re working on in therapy, children experience more consistent reinforcement—and families begin to function with less chaos and more connection.
School can be a major stressor for children with DMDD. We’re happy to collaborate with educators, school counselors, or pediatricians to create a support plan that ensures your child’s needs are met across all environments. Whether that means helping advocate for accommodations, supporting behavior plans, or guiding transitions, our team is here to work as part of your child’s village.
With time and support, therapy can help children with DMDD improve emotional regulation, reduce the intensity and frequency of outbursts, and feel more confident expressing themselves in healthy ways. Parents gain practical strategies to respond calmly, reinforce growth, and reconnect with their child. Families begin to experience less tension and more understanding—building the foundation for stronger, more peaceful relationships.
It might be time to seek help if your child’s outbursts are becoming more frequent or intense, their mood feels chronically irritable or angry, or the impact of their behavior is straining family relationships, school performance, or their self-esteem. If your child seems “out of control” or you’re feeling at a loss for what to do next, you don’t have to navigate this alone.
Contact Encompass Therapy & Counseling in Southlake today to schedule a consultation or learn more about how we support children and families living with DMDD. Real change is possible—and it starts with the right support.
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