Anger Management Classes

by Carlos R. Todd

All anger management classes are not made equal. In every city, there are those free and cheap classes available to the consumer. This approach may be less expensive; but what is the consumer really getting? Are these programs credible?

Inappropriate anger is a very complex problem that should not be taken lightly. Any effective anger management program must have an assessment component. Why? Because all anger is not created equal. Some individuals are implosive, some have stress management problems, some need help learning to communicate their needs effectively, some lack assertiveness skills, some lack empathy and some need to learn simple skills to improve emotional intelligence.

It is of vital importance that all individuals entering an anger management program receive an assessment to determine the real areas of need in managing their anger. Information from the assessment can be used to help that individual develop skills in the areas in which they are the weakest. Programs that have no assessment, in my mind, should be avoided. Handouts, lectures and simply practicing skills without a context or a plan of action do not reflect best practices in any psycho-educational program.

Ideally, with the assessment in hand, the class should focus on four areas: anger management, stress management, emotional intelligence and communication skills. The client who is weak in any of these areas will then have to focus special attention in practicing skill enhancement in the areas of their greatest need. Over time, there will be improvement and, with the feedback of the instructor and others in the group, the client will grow in anger management.

Anger can have a high cost. Therefore, it is important that one considers carefully where to go for anger management services. The Anderson and Anderson model is an anger management model that offers the highest level of credibility, versatility and ease of use. The consumer can know that when they choose any of the nationwide network of providers at http://www.andersonservices.com/, they will be in good hands.

Carlos Todd, LPC, NCC, CAMF

President of the American Association of Anger Management Providers

Carlos Todd is the owner of Todd’s Anger Management Solutions in Charlotte, NC

http://www.masteringanger.com/

http://www.angeronmymind.com/