Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD) in Children: Therapy and Parent Guidance
Every child says "no" sometimes. When a child argues, defies adults and loses their temper almost every day for months, and it is hurting family life and school, a psychologist can help work out what is going on. The Meeting Matters offers assessment and therapy for defiant and angry behaviour, online across Pakistan and in Islamabad, with a strong focus on parent guidance.
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What ODD Looks Like
Signs include frequent temper outbursts, arguing with adults, refusing to follow rules, deliberately annoying others, blaming others for mistakes, and being easily irritated or resentful. These patterns last for at least six months and are more intense than is usual for the child's age. Only a trained clinician can say whether a child meets the criteria for ODD.
Behaviour That Looks Like ODD but Is Something Else
Defiance is often a sign of something underneath: ADHD, anxiety, a learning difficulty, difficulty with language, bullying, stress at home, or a mood problem. A careful assessment looks at these, because treatment differs. See ADHD in children and learning difficulties.
How Therapy Helps
For most children, the most effective help is working with parents to change patterns at home: clearer rules, consistent consequences, more positive attention, and ways to avoid power struggles. Children also learn to manage anger and frustration, and to solve problems. See child behavioral therapy.
What Parents Can Try Now
Pick a few important rules and keep them simple. Give attention to good behaviour, even small steps. Stay calm in a conflict and choose your battles. Give choices rather than orders. Avoid shouting and threats that you will not carry out. Our child therapy guide for parents has more.
Teenagers
In teenagers, defiance may reflect a wish for independence, but when it leads to serious conflict or risky behaviour, support helps. See teen counseling.
Online or in Islamabad
Sessions are by secure video or in person at our F-11/1 clinic in Islamabad, in English, Urdu or Punjabi, with evening and weekend slots. Sessions start from PKR 5,000, and the fee is the same online or in person.
Meet Therapists Who Can Help
Muhammad Naushad Anjum
Founder & Lead Psychologist — Couples, Marriage & Relationship Counselling
Lamiah Munaf
Teenage Counselor & Educational Remedial Therapist
Kainat Ali
Clinical Psychologist — Anxiety, Panic Disorder & BPD
What Our Clients Say
“I had a really great experience at Meeting Matters Clinic in F-11. The therapists here are highly professional aur unka ravaiya bohat supportive hai. It’s not easy to find a safe space for mental health, but yahan ka mahol bohat pur-sakoon aur welcoming hai. They genuinely listen to your problems without any judgment. Highly recommended for anyone looking for good counseling in Islamabad.”
Subhan A. · Google Review
“I am truly grateful to Ms. Tasmiya Asghar and the team at Meeting Matters. I reached out during one of the most difficult periods of my life while dealing with grief and trying to be the best parent I could be for my children. Ms. Tasmiya's kindness, empathy, and guidance helped me navigate emotions that often felt overwhelming. She helped me understand my feelings, regain perspective, and think through practical ways of supporting my children and myself. I always felt respected, heard, and comfortable during our sessions. I would wholeheartedly recommend Ms. Tasmiya Asghar and Meeting Matters to anyone going through a challenging time and looking for professional support in a compassionate environment.”
Hashir K. · Google Review
“Have noticed alot of changes within myself because of the sessions I've had. My therapist is extremely kind and helpful. I've never once felt uncomfortable feeling like I'm talking to a stranger. My Dr has made me feel as if she's my own and has helped me a lot.”
Shagufta K. · Google Review
15+ Years of Experience You Can Trust
The Meeting Matters has been providing professional counseling, therapy and training since 2010 — over fifteen years of clinical experience supporting individuals, couples and families across Pakistan and around the world. Our psychologists are trained in evidence-based approaches including CBT, DBT, EMDR and psychodynamic therapy, delivered through confidential online counseling and online therapy as well as in-person sessions at our Islamabad clinic.
Explore Our Full Range of Services
Alongside specialist support for this concern, you have access to our full range of services — the same experienced team, available online or in person:
Individual Therapy
One-to-one online counseling and therapy for anxiety, depression, stress and personal growth.
Couples Counseling
Online relationship counseling for communication, conflict and rebuilding trust.
Marriage Counseling
Online marriage counseling for couples working through distress or disconnection.
Premarital Counseling
Guided conversations before marriage, available online.
Family Therapy
Family counseling for communication, parenting and conflict resolution.
Child Psychology
Child and adolescent therapy with parent guidance.
Online Therapy
Secure online therapy sessions from anywhere.
Corporate Mental Health Workshops
Workplace wellbeing programs for organisations.
Career Counseling
Support for career transitions and workplace stress.
Key Benefits
- Careful assessment before any label
- Strong parent guidance
- Anger and frustration skills for the child
- Support for ADHD, anxiety or learning issues underneath
- Online or in Islamabad
- Confidential
Frequently Asked Questions
Ready to Begin Your Journey?
Take the first step toward better mental health. Our compassionate team is here to support you.