Oppositional Defiance (ODD) Therapists in Fresno, CA

Yadira Melgoza
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Online Only
My main focus is working with children (ages 2+), adolescents, young adults, and parents who are struggling with anxiety, depression, adjustment difficulties, behavioral concerns/ oppositional defiance, and/or relational concerns.
I utilize evidence-based techniques tailored to each client’s unique needs. I most frequently use techniques from Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, and Structural Family Therapy. I am also certified in Parent-Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT), which enables me to effectively work with children (ages 2-7) and caregivers.
My main focus is working with children (ages 2+), adolescents, young adults, and parents who are struggling with anxiety, depression, adjustment difficulties, behavioral concerns/ oppositional defiance, and/or relational concerns.
I utilize evidence-based techniques tailored to each client’s unique needs. I most frequently use techniques from Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, and Structural Family Therapy. I am also certified in Parent-Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT), which enables me to effectively work with children (ages 2-7) and caregivers.
(805) 918-1092 View (805) 918-1092
Shelby B Tucker
Licensed Educational Psychologist, LEP
1 Endorsed
Fresno, CA 93711
If you're feeling frustrated with the special education system and unsure how to help your child, you're not alone. I provide private assessments for learning disabilities, ADHD, autism, emotional challenges, and more. I also offer counseling, school-based consultation, parent training, and Independent Educational Evaluations (IEEs). My goal is to help families understand their child's needs and advocate effectively. Together, we can create a path forward that supports your child’s growth and success.
If you're feeling frustrated with the special education system and unsure how to help your child, you're not alone. I provide private assessments for learning disabilities, ADHD, autism, emotional challenges, and more. I also offer counseling, school-based consultation, parent training, and Independent Educational Evaluations (IEEs). My goal is to help families understand their child's needs and advocate effectively. Together, we can create a path forward that supports your child’s growth and success.
(559) 785-0411 View (559) 785-0411
Ashley Damo
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Online Only
Hello, my name is Ashley Damo. I'm a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) who is passionate about creating a safe and supportive environment for my clients as they work toward their personal goals. I utilize Cognitive Behavior Therapy while working with adolescents and adults seeking therapy to address anxiety, depression, life transitions, family issues, and relationship difficulties. I also use Affirmative Therapy to address specific needs of individuals within the LGBTQ+ community.
Hello, my name is Ashley Damo. I'm a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) who is passionate about creating a safe and supportive environment for my clients as they work toward their personal goals. I utilize Cognitive Behavior Therapy while working with adolescents and adults seeking therapy to address anxiety, depression, life transitions, family issues, and relationship difficulties. I also use Affirmative Therapy to address specific needs of individuals within the LGBTQ+ community.
(916) 776-5585 View (916) 776-5585
Dr. Valente Orozco
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, DSW, LCSW, RPT-S
3 Endorsed
Fresno, CA 93720
The relationship you have with your therapist is the biggest factor contributing to positive outcomes in therapy. Establishing a relationship built on mutual trust and respect is the first step in the journey towards health. I work with adults and children to establish this relationship from the very beginning. My goal is to facilitate experiences that allow you to connect with your sense of self and who you are, express feelings and needs that are often hidden, and realize the potential for growth within each of us. Our work helps develop new ways of relating to our world and connecting with the people and things we care about.
The relationship you have with your therapist is the biggest factor contributing to positive outcomes in therapy. Establishing a relationship built on mutual trust and respect is the first step in the journey towards health. I work with adults and children to establish this relationship from the very beginning. My goal is to facilitate experiences that allow you to connect with your sense of self and who you are, express feelings and needs that are often hidden, and realize the potential for growth within each of us. Our work helps develop new ways of relating to our world and connecting with the people and things we care about.
(559) 340-4922 View (559) 340-4922
Guadalupe Vaca
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, PPS
1 Endorsed
Fresno, CA 93704
Welcome. Bienvenido/a. I am a bilingual therapist (English/Spanish) with 25 years of experience working with individuals and families. Life can be beautiful, but at times, can be filled with struggles, confusion, and painful experiences. It may also be a time of self discovery, self awareness, a time to thrive and heal. We will work together to formulate a treatment plan that fits your needs, based on your values while honoring your culture and your spirituality. Therapy is about providing you with a genuine, safe, and supportive environment. Please contact me if you have any questions or to schedule an appointment today.
Welcome. Bienvenido/a. I am a bilingual therapist (English/Spanish) with 25 years of experience working with individuals and families. Life can be beautiful, but at times, can be filled with struggles, confusion, and painful experiences. It may also be a time of self discovery, self awareness, a time to thrive and heal. We will work together to formulate a treatment plan that fits your needs, based on your values while honoring your culture and your spirituality. Therapy is about providing you with a genuine, safe, and supportive environment. Please contact me if you have any questions or to schedule an appointment today.
(559) 484-2376 View (559) 484-2376
Addison H. Torossian
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Fresno, CA 93720
I work with both children (ages 5 and up) and adults, assisting individuals and families in addressing ADHD, depression, anxiety, oppositional behaviors, relational issues, and past trauma.
I began my career at Fresno County Department of Behavioral Health, Children’s Outpatient. It was here where I gained the majority of my experience working with a diverse population of youth. I graduated with distinction from Fresno State with my Bachelor of Science and earning my Master’s of Science in Marriage, Family, and Child Counseling.
I work with both children (ages 5 and up) and adults, assisting individuals and families in addressing ADHD, depression, anxiety, oppositional behaviors, relational issues, and past trauma.
I began my career at Fresno County Department of Behavioral Health, Children’s Outpatient. It was here where I gained the majority of my experience working with a diverse population of youth. I graduated with distinction from Fresno State with my Bachelor of Science and earning my Master’s of Science in Marriage, Family, and Child Counseling.
(559) 235-1674 View (559) 235-1674
CME Wellness Therapy, Maria Martinez LCSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Fresno, CA 93710
At CME Wellness Therapy, we believe in the power of compassion, mindfulness and empowerment to support individuals and families through life challenges. Our mission is to provide a safe, and healing space where you can be seen, heard and supported.
At CME Wellness Therapy, we believe in the power of compassion, mindfulness and empowerment to support individuals and families through life challenges. Our mission is to provide a safe, and healing space where you can be seen, heard and supported.
(559) 785-2403 View (559) 785-2403
Esperanza Family Counseling
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
1 Endorsed
Fresno, CA 93711
I am a passionate Marriage and Family Therapist who strongly believes in empowering those who are underprivileged and underserved. I specialize in helping couples who struggle with intimacy due to communication problems, sexual disorders, infidelity, trust issues, and other causes - including those who feel that they have 'fallen out of love'. I also have expertise in treating pornography and other sexual addictions, adolescent issues, children with behavioral problems, spirituality issues, and anxiety.
I am a passionate Marriage and Family Therapist who strongly believes in empowering those who are underprivileged and underserved. I specialize in helping couples who struggle with intimacy due to communication problems, sexual disorders, infidelity, trust issues, and other causes - including those who feel that they have 'fallen out of love'. I also have expertise in treating pornography and other sexual addictions, adolescent issues, children with behavioral problems, spirituality issues, and anxiety.
(559) 364-9876 View (559) 364-9876
Shannon Accardo
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Fresno, CA 93704
Starting therapy isn't easy, but scheduling your first session is often the hardest part of the entire journey. You’ve already done the heavy lifting by showing up. My goal is to blend theories of therapy with real world practices. Learning why we do what we do, and then figuring out how to untangle that in real time. I enjoy being able to work with my clients to learn what is best for them, and the various aspects of their life that led them to where they are at now. Highlighting and celebrating the successes, while we process and work through the challenges.
Starting therapy isn't easy, but scheduling your first session is often the hardest part of the entire journey. You’ve already done the heavy lifting by showing up. My goal is to blend theories of therapy with real world practices. Learning why we do what we do, and then figuring out how to untangle that in real time. I enjoy being able to work with my clients to learn what is best for them, and the various aspects of their life that led them to where they are at now. Highlighting and celebrating the successes, while we process and work through the challenges.
(559) 546-7360 View (559) 546-7360
Samantha Hernandez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Online Only
My name is Samantha, but I go by Sam. I specialize in helping individuals navigate challenges such as anxiety, depression, and life transitions while fostering resilience and emotional well-being. My goal is to create a warm, collaborative space where you feel supported and empowered to make meaningful changes. My approach to therapy is authentic, compassionate, and grounded in meeting clients where they are. I believe in creating a genuine connection built on trust and openness. When appropriate, I use self-disclosure thoughtfully to foster relatability and deepen understanding, always with the client's growth and healing in mind.
My name is Samantha, but I go by Sam. I specialize in helping individuals navigate challenges such as anxiety, depression, and life transitions while fostering resilience and emotional well-being. My goal is to create a warm, collaborative space where you feel supported and empowered to make meaningful changes. My approach to therapy is authentic, compassionate, and grounded in meeting clients where they are. I believe in creating a genuine connection built on trust and openness. When appropriate, I use self-disclosure thoughtfully to foster relatability and deepen understanding, always with the client's growth and healing in mind.
(559) 660-8716 View (559) 660-8716
Nairi DBT Behavioral Health
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Fresno, CA 93704
Narine Zilfugharyan provides evidence-based treatment for individuals struggling with life-threatening behaviors, including suicidal ideation, attempts, non-suicidal self-injury (NSSI), and other behaviors intended to cause bodily harm. Narine also helps individuals to heal from the emotional distress associated with trauma and other disturbing life experiences. Treatment supports clients in developing healthier ways of coping, strengthening emotional regulation, changing maladaptive thinking. Through therapy, clients learn practical skills to reduce unhealthy behaviors, replace them with more adaptive coping strategies.
Narine Zilfugharyan provides evidence-based treatment for individuals struggling with life-threatening behaviors, including suicidal ideation, attempts, non-suicidal self-injury (NSSI), and other behaviors intended to cause bodily harm. Narine also helps individuals to heal from the emotional distress associated with trauma and other disturbing life experiences. Treatment supports clients in developing healthier ways of coping, strengthening emotional regulation, changing maladaptive thinking. Through therapy, clients learn practical skills to reduce unhealthy behaviors, replace them with more adaptive coping strategies.
(559) 785-0347 View (559) 785-0347
Fresno Family Therapy
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
1 Endorsed
Fresno, CA 93711
At Fresno Family Therapy we provide Individual, Child/Teen, Couples, and Family Therapy. Our mission is to provide high quality, reliable, and evidence based counseling services for the community of Fresno. You do not need to go through this on your own… we are here to help. We believe that you deserve to feel well and seeking help is strength, not a weakness.
At Fresno Family Therapy we provide Individual, Child/Teen, Couples, and Family Therapy. Our mission is to provide high quality, reliable, and evidence based counseling services for the community of Fresno. You do not need to go through this on your own… we are here to help. We believe that you deserve to feel well and seeking help is strength, not a weakness.
(559) 206-3724 View (559) 206-3724
Mary Catherine Siemens
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Fresno, CA 93720
We often have hopeful expectations for our lives, but find that life unfolded in a way we didn’t expect. Divorce, separation, abuse, anxiety, depression, life transitions, and grief can make life seem difficult or even unbearable at times. Are you feeling overwhelmed, disappointed or stuck and is this affecting your sense of well-being, relationships or career? My goal as a therapist is to provide a safe, respectful environment so that together we can explore new thinking patterns, become aware of how the past can influence current and future behaviors, and empower you to live your most authentic life.
We often have hopeful expectations for our lives, but find that life unfolded in a way we didn’t expect. Divorce, separation, abuse, anxiety, depression, life transitions, and grief can make life seem difficult or even unbearable at times. Are you feeling overwhelmed, disappointed or stuck and is this affecting your sense of well-being, relationships or career? My goal as a therapist is to provide a safe, respectful environment so that together we can explore new thinking patterns, become aware of how the past can influence current and future behaviors, and empower you to live your most authentic life.
(559) 282-2103 View (559) 282-2103
Cordie Micah Qualle
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Fresno, CA 93711
Concerned about the behavior of your child or teenager? Having difficulty connecting with someone you care about? I enjoy working collaboratively with clients of all ages, but specialize in using my experience gained working with the juvenile corrections population and establishing an Adolescent DBT Program for Kings View Counseling Services to provide effective treatment to families with children or adolescents who struggle with explosive anger, substance abuse, mood disruption or self-harming behaviors. Together we work to improve their understanding and control of their emotional and mental responses in order to accomplish their life goals.
Concerned about the behavior of your child or teenager? Having difficulty connecting with someone you care about? I enjoy working collaboratively with clients of all ages, but specialize in using my experience gained working with the juvenile corrections population and establishing an Adolescent DBT Program for Kings View Counseling Services to provide effective treatment to families with children or adolescents who struggle with explosive anger, substance abuse, mood disruption or self-harming behaviors. Together we work to improve their understanding and control of their emotional and mental responses in order to accomplish their life goals.
(559) 717-4106 View (559) 717-4106
Laura Slagle
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
2 Endorsed
Fresno, CA 93710
How long has it been since you felt at peace in your life....in your family...in your relationships...in yourself? We chose an olive leaf as our logo because and olive leaf symbolizes peace, and we believe that peace comes by nurturing healthy relationship connections. Maybe you have a difficult child, teen, spouse or extended family member. You want peace in that relationship, and you wake up every morning hoping things will be better....but the same unhealthy patterns happen again and again. You are exhausted from searching for ways to stop the behavior, which only causes more tension in the relationship.
How long has it been since you felt at peace in your life....in your family...in your relationships...in yourself? We chose an olive leaf as our logo because and olive leaf symbolizes peace, and we believe that peace comes by nurturing healthy relationship connections. Maybe you have a difficult child, teen, spouse or extended family member. You want peace in that relationship, and you wake up every morning hoping things will be better....but the same unhealthy patterns happen again and again. You are exhausted from searching for ways to stop the behavior, which only causes more tension in the relationship.
(559) 549-5672 View (559) 549-5672
Darren Cooke
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Fresno, CA 93726
I am Darren Cooke, a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist who has vast knowledge and experience in the field of mental health. I have over 18 years of experience and have worked in various roles as a Therapist. Including Crisis work. I provide services for individual, couples, and family counseling and can treat almost all mental health needs. Anywhere from trauma, grief, anxiety, depression, co-occurring disorders including substance and alcohol use, and attachment issues revolving around relationships.
I am Darren Cooke, a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist who has vast knowledge and experience in the field of mental health. I have over 18 years of experience and have worked in various roles as a Therapist. Including Crisis work. I provide services for individual, couples, and family counseling and can treat almost all mental health needs. Anywhere from trauma, grief, anxiety, depression, co-occurring disorders including substance and alcohol use, and attachment issues revolving around relationships.
(747) 347-4775 View (747) 347-4775
Leslie Hoyt
Psychologist, PsyD
Online Only
Hi, I'm Leslie, a Licensed Psychologist with over 20 years of experience. I help people struggling with depression, anxiety, grief, coping skills, anger management, and more. I employ techniques such as Acceptance and Commitment (ACT), Client Centered Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral (CBT), Dialectical (DBT), and Grief Therapy modalities. Therapy should be a positive experience that helps you resolve a current issue and develop skills you can use throughout your life. I'm here to listen in order to understand you and your unique situation, with the goal of working with you to journey through the difficulties you are having.
Hi, I'm Leslie, a Licensed Psychologist with over 20 years of experience. I help people struggling with depression, anxiety, grief, coping skills, anger management, and more. I employ techniques such as Acceptance and Commitment (ACT), Client Centered Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral (CBT), Dialectical (DBT), and Grief Therapy modalities. Therapy should be a positive experience that helps you resolve a current issue and develop skills you can use throughout your life. I'm here to listen in order to understand you and your unique situation, with the goal of working with you to journey through the difficulties you are having.
(747) 298-6027 View (747) 298-6027
Julie Phillippe
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
1 Endorsed
Fresno, CA 93701
If you're looking for a therapist who will gently challenge you - not just nod along - you've come to the right place. I believe meaningful change happens through a genuine therapeutic relationship, not by handing out coping skills and hoping they stick. My goal is to provide clients with individualized support in the context of a safe and trusted clinical relationship in order to pursue growth and healing from anxiety, depression, trauma & PTSD, familial difficulties, life changes, and grief.
If you're looking for a therapist who will gently challenge you - not just nod along - you've come to the right place. I believe meaningful change happens through a genuine therapeutic relationship, not by handing out coping skills and hoping they stick. My goal is to provide clients with individualized support in the context of a safe and trusted clinical relationship in order to pursue growth and healing from anxiety, depression, trauma & PTSD, familial difficulties, life changes, and grief.
(559) 933-8485 View (559) 933-8485
Craig Landers
Registered Psychological Associate, PhD, MS
1 Endorsed
Fresno, CA 93711
Let me help you become the main character in the RPG of your life. My name is Craig Landers, originally from Illinois, I moved to California to complete my PhD program and have worked to help children and adolescents confront their psychological difficulties in a variety of settings from hospitals to private practices.
Let me help you become the main character in the RPG of your life. My name is Craig Landers, originally from Illinois, I moved to California to complete my PhD program and have worked to help children and adolescents confront their psychological difficulties in a variety of settings from hospitals to private practices.
(559) 461-3004 View (559) 461-3004
Brooke Woods
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
1 Endorsed
Fresno, CA 93727
My areas of focus include career counseling, child abuse or neglect, depression, dual diagnosis, impulsivity, mood disorders, oppositional defiance, pregnancy/prenatal/postpartum issues, psychosis, self-esteem, self-harming behaviors, suicidal ideation, teen violence, and trauma/PTSD.
An accomplished mental health professional with extensive experience in emergency psychiatric evaluation, stabilization, and referrals. I am skilled in working with individuals related to acute mental health condition/s, substance abuse, domestic violence, HIV/AIDS treatment referrals, grief/loss, crisis intervention, abuse/neglect factors, and treatment analysis and planning.
My areas of focus include career counseling, child abuse or neglect, depression, dual diagnosis, impulsivity, mood disorders, oppositional defiance, pregnancy/prenatal/postpartum issues, psychosis, self-esteem, self-harming behaviors, suicidal ideation, teen violence, and trauma/PTSD.
An accomplished mental health professional with extensive experience in emergency psychiatric evaluation, stabilization, and referrals. I am skilled in working with individuals related to acute mental health condition/s, substance abuse, domestic violence, HIV/AIDS treatment referrals, grief/loss, crisis intervention, abuse/neglect factors, and treatment analysis and planning.
(323) 643-8569 View (323) 643-8569

See more therapy options for Fresno

FAQ - About Oppositional Defiance (ODD) Therapy
How do I know if my child has oppositional defiant disorder?
While it is normal for children to argue, become frustrated, or resist rules from time to time, oppositional defiant disorder (ODD) involves a more persistent pattern of irritability, anger, arguing, or defiance that is more severe than what is typical for a child’s age. A diagnosis of ODD may be made when these symptoms have a significant negative impact on your child’s functioning in home life, school, or relationships. Signs that your child may have ODD include frequently losing their temper, arguing with adults or authority figures, refusing to follow rules, deliberately annoying others, blaming others for mistakes, or being easily annoyed. Because similar behaviors can also occur with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), anxiety, trauma, learning difficulties, or other conditions, a mental health professional can evaluate your child’s symptoms to differentiate between ODD and other disorders. They may conduct a formal evaluation or assessment, which can be used to identify the most appropriate type of treatment, including what types of therapy may be most effective.

What therapeutic approaches are most effective for ODD?
For ODD, the most effective treatments generally focus on changing patterns of interaction between your child and the adults around them, rather than relying on individual talk therapy alone. One of the most common approaches is parent management training (PMT), which teaches parents and caregivers how to reinforce positive behavior, set clear boundaries, give effective instructions, and respond to defiance without creating additional conflict. This approach can be particularly effective for younger children. For older children and teens, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) can help strengthen problem-solving skills, improve emotional regulation, and develop more flexible ways of responding to conflict. Family therapy may also be effective, particularly when oppositional behavior is contributing to frequent conflict at home.

What is the difference between ODD and ADHD and how are they treated?
ADHD primarily affects attention, impulse control, activity level, and executive functioning. In contrast, ODD involves an ongoing pattern of irritability, arguing, defiance, and conflict with parents, teachers, or other authority figures. A child with ADHD may appear defiant because they are distracted, impulsive, or having difficulty following instructions, while ODD involves a more persistent pattern of oppositional behavior. Some children have both ADHD and ODD, and both conditions typically begin in childhood. Treatment also differs depending on the diagnosis. ADHD may be treated with behavioral therapy, school-based supports, medication, or a combination of these approaches. Treatment for ODD generally focuses on parent management training, family therapy, and behavioral strategies that reinforce positive behavior and reduce conflict between children and caregivers. Medication is not typically used to treat ODD itself, but it may be recommended to treat co-occurring conditions such as ADHD, depression, or anxiety.

How long does therapy for oppositional defiant disorder take?
Therapy for ODD can vary in length depending on your child’s age, the severity of their symptoms, whether other mental health conditions are present, and how consistently treatment strategies are used at home and school. Some structured parent training or behavioral programs may last several weeks to a few months, while other children may benefit from longer-term support. Your child’s therapist should be able to give you an estimate of their typical treatment length when starting therapy.

How can I find a therapist who specializes in oppositional defiant disorder?
The Psychology Today Directory can help you find therapists who specialize in ODD and related behavioral concerns. Use the Specialties filter and select “Oppositional Defiance (ODD).” You can also search for related specialties, such as ADHD or behavioral issues, and further narrow your results by cost, location, insurance, and other preferences. When considering a therapist, ask about their experience treating ODD, the age groups they typically work with, and the approaches they use. Because treatment for ODD often involves parents or caregivers, it may also be helpful to ask whether they offer parent management training or family-based treatment. If you are seeking treatment for a young child, look for a child therapist with experience working with younger clients. You may also want to confirm whether the therapist accepts your insurance and whether your plan covers the recommended services, since insurance coverage can vary depending on the type of therapy and whether psychological testing or other assessments are needed.