Does this sound like your child?
It can be exhausting to feel like every request turns into a battle. Some children push back on rules, test limits, or seem determined to say “no” at every turn. Others are labeled with “oppositional defiant disorder” (ODD) or “behavior problems” when what they really need is understanding and support.
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Kids and teens who struggle with defiance or misbehavior may:
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Argue with adults or refuse to follow directions
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Have angry outbursts that seem to come out of nowhere
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Say “no” even to simple requests
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Become easily frustrated or explosive
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Seem like they are “always in trouble” at school
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Struggle to accept limits or rules without a fight
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Get labeled as “bad kids” by others, even when they are hurting inside
These behaviors are not about being a “bad kid” or about parents failing. They are rooted in how the brain and body handle stress, frustration, and emotional regulation.
At PlayWorks, We Help Kids and Teens With Defiance Thrive
Research shows that kids who appear “defiant” are often struggling with underlying anxiety, trauma, or stress. Therapy addresses the root cause, not just the behavior.
At PlayWorks, we look past the label and focus on what is underneath the behavior. Many kids who act out are struggling with anxiety, trauma, learning differences, or trouble regulating emotions. Our role is to help them build the skills they need to feel safe, calm, and connected.
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Through play and neuroscience-informed approaches, we help kids:
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Build emotional regulation and calming strategies
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Strengthen problem-solving and flexibility
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Reduce angry outbursts and oppositional behavior
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Improve communication with parents and teachers
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Practice empathy and perspective
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Rebuild confidence after being labelled as “the difficult kid”
Play therapy gives children safe ways to practice self-control, reduce disruptive behavior, and strengthen positive relationships with adults and peers.
- Supported by play therapy research on externalizing behaviors (Bratton et al., 2005; Ray, 2011)
Why is Play Based Therapy So Effective for Kids Who "Act Out"?
When children feel powerless or overwhelmed, the brain’s stress systems go into overdrive. Play therapy helps calm these systems and strengthen pathways for self-control and flexibility.
Because behavior is communication. When kids act out, they are showing us that something feels overwhelming or out of control. Play therapy allows them to express those feelings safely and practice new skills in real time.
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The brain’s stress systems, including the amygdala and prefrontal cortex, can become over-activated when kids feel threatened, frustrated, or powerless. Play therapy helps calm those systems, giving children the space to think, regulate, and choose new behaviors.
Over time, kids learn to:
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Pause before reacting
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Use coping strategies instead of outbursts
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Handle frustration in healthier ways
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Strengthen problem-solving and communication
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Rebuild relationships with parents, siblings, and peers
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Why Wilmington Parents Choose PlayWorks
for ADHD Support
We see beyond labels
Some providers label kids with things like an ODD diagnoses ("Oppositional Defiant Disorder"), but we focus on the whole child, not a label. Behaviors make sense when we understand what is underneath.
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We are neuroscience-informed
Our therapists use brain-based strategies to help kids develop real tools for regulation and problem-solving.
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We support YOU too
We offer parent check-ins, progress feedback, and practical strategies you can use at home (without adding to your plate).
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We honor the whole child
We don’t just reduce “symptoms”, we support emotional growth, identity development, and resilience for a lifetime.
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We’re inclusive and affirming
Our therapists are trained in LGBTQ+ affirming care, trauma-informed care, and neurodiversity-affirming approaches.
You’re Not Alone & It’s Not Too Late
Raising a child who is constantly "getting in trouble" can feel frustrating and discouraging. You may worry about your relationship with them or their future. The good news is that with the right support, children can learn to regulate their emotions, improve behavior, and strengthen family bonds.
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At PlayWorks, therapy is child-first, family-focused, and grounded in neuroscience. Together, we will help your child move past labels and into healthier patterns of connection, confidence, and growth.
We’re located in Wilmington, NC and work with children, teens, and families across the Cape Fear region. Schedule your free 20-minute parent consult or start the intake process here.