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Disruptive Mood Dysregulation Disorder (DMDD) Counseling and Therapy Treatment Center

A MISSION FOR MICHAEL

16 minutes read

Find out about our free assessments and admissions process

We accept most major insurance providers and can check your coverage levels for you.

If we are not an appropriate provider for care, we will assist in finding a care provider that can help. 

Adults who are experiencing chronic and severe mental health conditions can receive comprehensive and individualized care with A Mission For Michael. Our treatment facilities are located in California, Washington, and Virginia. We believe that it is important to understand your emotional experiences through different moments in life to understand your current challenges.

We can treat various mental health conditions, including mood disorders and dual diagnosis conditions. We would like to focus on Disruptive Mood Dysregulation Disorder (DMDD) and help you understand how experiencing this childhood mood disorder can affect you later in life. If you or someone you love is struggling with DMDD, we encourage you to contact A Mission For Michael to learn about our adolescent mental health program, Mission Prep. 

What is DMDD: Disruptive Mood Dysregulation Disorder?

Disruptive Mood Dysregulation Disorder (DMDD) is a childhood mood disorder characterized by emotional dysregulation. This can include severe temper outbursts, emotional instability, and chronic irritability. This condition can create significant difficulties within the home and within social and academic settings.

This condition was added to the mental health manual used by professionals, the DSM-5, in 2013 to address a gap that had become apparent in children’s mental health. This diagnosis has been able to decrease the misdiagnosis of bipolar disorder in children and differentiate chronic irritability and outbursts from normative mood experiences in children. DMDD is believed to affect 2-5% of children, most commonly beginning around age six.

Unspecified disruptive mood dysregulation disorder is a diagnosis that may be used when a child experiences chronic irritability and temper tantrums without meeting all the diagnostic criteria for DMDD. Furthermore, there are notable differences between disruptive mood dysregulation disorder and similar mental health conditions like adjustment disorder with depressed mood and adjustment disorder with anxiety and depressed mood. The most significant difference is that DMDD is a pediatric diagnosis, whereas adjustment disorders can affect individuals of all ages. DMDD symptoms are different than what we expect with an adjustment disorder as well. Adjustment disorders often include anxiety symptoms, whereas DMDD is known for emotional dysregulation and instability.

Disruptive mood dysregulation disorder causes significant impairments and challenges when left untreated. Children can experience trouble at home and school, which can have a negative impact on adolescent development and education. Additionally, without proper treatment, children may continue struggling with emotional dysregulation, depression, and anxiety in adulthood.

The impairments from DMDD can impede social skills development. Children may also experience behavioral issues that lead to conflicts at school, poor academic performance, and disciplinary actions like suspension. Children who struggle with regulating their emotions may turn to substances to cope, which can later contribute to substance use disorders. Treatment for depression and/or therapy for anxiety in adults is often necessary, as these conditions are frequently the result of untreated DMDD.

Disruptive Mood Dysregulation Disorder (DMDD) is known for specific symptoms, including mood instability, behavioral challenges, and emotional symptoms. Individual differences can be found among children living with DMDD, including their ability to regulate emotions and their responses to stressors. Continue reading for a review of common DMDD symptoms.

  • Mood-Related Symptoms: Persistent sadness or a low mood, which can affect motivation. This can contribute to social withdrawal and tearfulness. Chronic irritability, angry outbursts, and temper tantrums are notable symptoms, often disproportionate to the situation or stressor.
  • Behavioral Symptoms: This can include a loss of interest in hobbies, interests, and other activities, which can reduce the number of positive social experiences had. Mood swings are common, shifting from low mood and irritability to euphoria at times. This commonly causes unpredictability, which can affect social situations and relationships. 
  • Cognitive Symptoms: Poor concentration can affect school performance and task completion. It is also not uncommon to have persistent negative thoughts such as hopelessness and worthlessness.
  • Physical Symptoms: There can be shifts in appetite that contribute to weight gain or loss. Eating patterns can have a connection with mood, where over or under-eating is used as a coping skill. It is also common to have trouble falling asleep, staying asleep, or sleeping more than normal.

Similar to other mental health conditions, the exact cause of disruptive mood dysregulation disorder is unknown. Research has indicated that environmental and genetic factors likely play a significant role. This can include a family history of mood disorders and structural differences within areas of the brain that are responsible for emotion regulation.

Additionally, those who experience trauma, neglect, or abuse in childhood may be at risk for DMDD. Family dynamics, like inconsistent parenting, can also contribute to a mood dysregulation disorder. Other factors that can influence the development of DMDD include an imbalance in the chemicals in the brain and the presence of fluctuating hormones in adolescents.

A mental health clinic can provide comprehensive and individualized care. Treatment for mood dysregulation can include the use of effective emotional regulation skills that can decrease the intensity and frequency of outbursts and temper tantrums. This can also have a positive effect on social relationships and family dynamics at home.

Early mental health care can reduce the risk of long-term challenges often associated with DMDD. Inpatient mental health treatment and outpatient therapy are both options for this condition, depending on the severity of symptoms. Mood disorder treatment can provide a continued source of support for children and their families to focus on promoting overall health and wellness.

Free and Confidential Mood Disorder Assessment and Testing Near Me

We recognize that it can be challenging to narrow down what you’re struggling with, let alone which treatment option would best suit you. AMFM Mental Health Treatment Centers offer a confidential and free assessment for those experiencing mood disorders. Our assessments are geared towards adults, including those who struggled with DMDD at a younger age.

Our clinical team can help you tease out the symptoms you’re experiencing and how they’re affecting your everyday life. We can then help you determine which treatment options are ideal for you based on your needs. Call us today to get started.

What is a Disruptive Mood Dysregulation Disorder Treatment Program?

A Disruptive Mood Dysregulation Disorder (DMDD) treatment program can provide structured therapy for children and adolescents. Children can learn emotion regulation skills, which can reduce irritable mood disorder and bipolar-like symptoms. Treatment can include group therapy, individual therapy, skill-building, and family therapy.

Psychiatric facilities offering DMDD treatment can use a variety of therapeutic interventions. These behavioral health services include Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), crisis stabilization services, and trauma therapy. Depending on individual needs, children may be able to access school-based interventions for additional support.

Disruptive Mood Dysregulation Disorder Therapy Treatment Programs Near Me

A Mission For Michael provides treatment for adults experiencing various conditions, including depression and anxiety. Treatment is available for adults who struggled with DMDD as children and have continued to experience mood or behavioral disorder challenges in adulthood. Dial (866) 478-4383 to learn about our current treatment options.

Common Therapy, Treatment Methods, and Programs for Disruptive Mood Dysregulation Disorder

DMDD treatment can include various therapeutic approaches to help children and adolescents manage mood and behavior. It can also address the mental health needs of adults who may been misdiagnosed and/or untreated in adolescence. Programs are tailored and based on symptom severity and the needs of each individual. Some of the treatment options available for disruptive mood dysregulation disorder include:

Medication-Assisted DMDD Treatment

There are some cases where medication can be a helpful tool in managing severe emotional instability and irritability symptoms commonly associated with DMDD. This may include the use of mood stabilizers, antidepressants, or atypical antipsychotics. Medications are often used to enhance treatment services for anxiety, depression, and other symptoms.

Outpatient and IOP for DMDD

Outpatient and Intensive Outpatient Programs (IOPs) provide flexible treatment options for mild to moderate mood symptoms. These treatment options would be particularly beneficial for adults who have continued to struggle with mood dysregulation from their childhood. These are flexible treatment programs that often accommodate work, school, and other obligations.

PHP and Evening Treatment for DMDD

Partial Hospitalization Programs (PHPs) and evening treatment are additional outpatient programs that provide structured and intensive therapy without overnight stays. These programs can include the use of behavioral therapy, social skills training, and family support sessions. They’re ideal if you need intensive support during the daytime to manage your symptoms outside a live-in psychiatric facility.

Inpatient Residential DMDD Treatment

Residential mental health treatment for DMDD can occur in a private facility or a psychiatric hospital. These programs provide 24-hour care in a controlled environment, ideal for those experiencing severe DMDD and related mood dysregulation symptoms. Treatment often includes a blend of individual therapy, psychoeducation, and medication management services. Adults experiencing intense mood symptoms can also benefit from inpatient mental health treatment.

What are Common Evidence-Based Therapies for DMDD?

Evidence-based therapies for disruptive mood dysregulation disorder can help children and adolescents learn to manage mood swings and irritability while regulating their emotions. This is done by introducing adaptive thought patterns, coping mechanisms, and social skills that can be applied to everyday life. Examples of commonly used approaches include, but are not limited to:

Interpersonal Therapy (IPT) can be used to help understand how to improve relationships that influence emotional challenges. With a focus on communication skills, you can learn to interact with family, peers, and authority figures in a healthier way that decreases the frequency and intensity of emotional outbursts.

Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT) combines the use of mindfulness practices with cognitive strategies. This can help increase awareness of thoughts and how they affect our behaviors. MBCT can aid in reducing reactivity or intense emotional reactions to known triggers. As a result, mood symptoms are improved. 

Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) is an approach that focuses on accepting difficult emotions and having your actions align with your values. This can help you learn to accept emotions like anger and frustration, which can decrease their intensity. ACT instills coping skills to avoid becoming overwhelmed with mood shifts.

Behavioral Activation (BA) encourages positive, goal-oriented behaviors that can counteract a low mood and improve daily functioning. This can be helpful for those who struggle with motivation, reinforcing constructive and positive behaviors.

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is one of the most widely used therapies and targets negative thought patterns. You’ll learn to replace adverse thought patterns with healthier perspectives, which can help manage mood symptoms associated with mood dysregulation. CBT also teaches problem-solving skills to promote emotional stability.

Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) is an approach that blends the use of mindfulness, distress tolerance, and emotional regulation skills. This can help you manage intense mood fluctuations, including anger and frustration. The focus on interpersonal effectiveness can help strengthen the relationships in your life in healthier and constructive ways.

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    Find out about our free assessments and admissions process

    We accept most major insurance providers and can check your coverage levels for you.

    If we are not an appropriate provider for care, we will assist in finding a care provider that can help. 

    Does Private Health Insurance Cover DMDD Therapy Near Me?

    Private health insurance companies often provide insurance coverage for DMDD treatment. The coverage that you’re eligible for is dependent on the details of your plan and who your insurance carrier is. Most insurance companies offer a range of products and services so that policyholders like yourself can choose a plan that fits your needs and budget.

    If you would like to learn more about the details of your insurance policy, we encourage you to complete the insurance verification form with A Mission For Michael. Our admission counselors can help you understand the benefits you’re eligible for regarding treatment for DMDD, conduct disorder, Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD), and many other psychiatric conditions.

    How Much Does DMDD Therapy Treatment Cost with Insurance Support Near Me?

    Costs associated with Disruptive Mood Dysregulation Disorder (DMDD) treatment with health insurance are dependent on the details of your policy. Insurance coverage generally covers a large amount of treatment expenses. This can include the cost of assessments, therapy and counseling sessions, and medication management services that are used. Copayments associated with singular treatment services often range between $20 and $60.

    Your out-of-pocket expenses are dependent on your plan. This can include deductibles, copayments, and limitations for out-of-network providers. For a personalized estimate of treatment expenses, contact A Mission For Michael today.

    There are a number of factors that contribute to the cost of Disruptive Mood Dysregulation Disorder (DMDD) treatment. Generally, therapy sessions fall between $100 and $300 per session. Those who engage in specialized treatment, such as psychotherapy services provided in a psychiatric hospital, may have higher costs for treatment.

    Additional costs may result from assessments, medication management services, and other therapeutic services you engage in. Those who engage in intensive outpatient therapies like Intensive Outpatient Programming (IOP) and Partial Hospitalization Programming (PHP) may also have higher expenses. Residential mental health treatment can range from $500 to $2,000 per day on average. We encourage you to reach out to AMFM about available treatment options and our costs for various treatment options.

    A Mission For Michael offers treatment options for adults experiencing a range of disorders, including anxiety, depression, and bipolar-related conditions. However, we don’t provide treatment for children and adolescents living with disruptive mood dysregulation disorder. With that in mind, some of the key steps of our admission process include:

    • Initial Contact: When you reach out for help, our admission counselors will ask for your contact information and a brief overview of your symptoms. This helps to determine if our available programs would provide you with the treatment you need.
    • Assessment and Evaluation: We then conduct an assessment, which provides us with an in-depth understanding of your mental health concerns. We will talk about your current symptoms, the challenges you’re experiencing, and your mental health history.
    • Insurance Verification and Coverage: We will contact your insurance provider to learn about the details of your coverage, including copayments, deductibles, and required prior authorizations.
    • Treatment Plan Development: Using the information from your assessment, our clinical team will develop a personalized treatment plan based on your needs. Your treatment plan will address your specific symptoms to ensure that you’re receiving comprehensive care.
    • Admissions Coordination: Once we have the necessary documentation complete, we will help you plan for your admission.
    • Orientation and Program Introduction: Upon arrival, we can provide you with a brief orientation and tour of the facility to help you become familiar with your surroundings.
    • Active Participation in Treatment: You can then begin attending treatment and working towards your treatment goals.
    • Progress Monitoring and Adjustments: Throughout your treatment, we will monitor your symptoms and progress to ensure you continually receive the proper support.

    Finding a mood disorder therapy and treatment program near you can be challenging. To help make this process easier for you, we have outlined steps you can take to find your ideal provider. We encourage you to try using the following steps in your search:

    • Use Search Engines: Use keywords like “Disruptive mood dysregulation disorder treatment center near me” or “Mood dysregulation disorder treatment near me in [your location].”
    • Explore Online Reviews and Testimonials: Look at online reviews from previous clients to gain insight into the quality of care that others received. This can help you understand the professionalism of staff and the effectiveness of treatments.
    • Check If They Accept Insurance: When you have a short list of treatment providers, ask them about the insurance plans that they accept. This can help you determine where you can receive in-network psychotherapy services.
    • Confirm Private Pay Options: For those who do not have insurance, we encourage you to contact treatment facilities directly to inquire about specific payment plan options. This can help you determine how you’re going to pay for treatment.
    • Verify Accreditation: Review the accreditation of the treatment center or mental wellness center. You can use organizations like The Joint Commission or CARF (Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities) to assist in your search.
    • Check for Evidence-Based Treatments: You should look into the commonly used therapeutic approaches and interventions to ensure they are evidence-based. This would include approaches like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and medication management.
    • Visit the Location: Some mental health rehabilitation centers provide in-person or virtual tours of their treatment center. This allows you to see the environment they have created so you can determine if it would be appropriate for your recovery.
    • Studies have indicated that the highest rates of disruptive mood dysregulation disorder co-occurring conditions include depressive disorders and Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD).
    • Individuals with disruptive mood dysregulation disorder often face negative health outcomes, limited educational achievement, and increased rates of police contact in adulthood. Interestingly, ADHD comorbidity was associated with driver’s license suspension in adults.
    • The National Institute of Mental Health indicated that children living with DMDD can have a natural reduction in the frequency and intensity of temper tantrums but begin to struggle with anxiety and depression in young adulthood.
    • Additional adverse outcomes of disruptive mood dysregulation disorder (DMDD) in childhood include being impoverished, having police contact, and having low educational achievement compared to adults without a history of mood dysregulation. The American Journal of Psychiatry concludes that children with DMDD often face a long-term prognosis of widespread impaired functioning, which in many cases is more severe than that seen in other childhood psychiatric disorders.
    • Similar to other mental health disorders, early intervention and disruptive mood dysregulation disorder treatment can decrease the presence of continued hardships later in life. 

    Check if your health insurance will cover the cost of mental health treatment.