Therapy Near Me Mental Health Articles

An anger management psychologist helps individuals identify, understand, and control their anger through structured therapeutic methods. Anger, while a natural emotion, can become problematic when expressed destructively or excessively. Anger management therapy focuses on teaching individuals healthier ways to handle their emotions and reduce aggressive behaviours that can negatively affect relationships, work, and personal well-being.

Keywords: Anger management psychologist, Anger management therapy, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) for anger, Mindfulness in anger management, Emotional regulation techniques, Signs you need anger management, Benefits of anger management therapy, Online anger management therapy

Anger management involves the process of learning techniques to control and regulate one’s emotional responses, particularly feelings of anger. This therapeutic approach is not about suppressing anger but rather learning to express it in healthy, constructive ways. According to Kassinove and Tafrate (2002), anger management can reduce the frequency and intensity of anger outbursts and the physical symptoms associated with anger, such as an increased heart rate or muscle tension.

An anger management psychologist utilises evidence-based techniques to help individuals understand their anger triggers and manage their emotional responses. This often includes:

• Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT): Psychologists use CBT to help individuals identify and change negative thought patterns that lead to anger. This therapy teaches clients to reframe their thinking and reduce emotional reactivity (Beck, 2011).
• Mindfulness-based techniques: Mindfulness encourages self-awareness and teaches individuals to pause and reflect before reacting impulsively, helping them reduce emotional reactivity (Kabat-Zinn, 2003).
• Relaxation techniques: Strategies such as deep breathing, progressive muscle relaxation, and visualisation help calm the body’s physical response to anger and reduce the likelihood of an outburst (Kassinove & Tafrate, 2002).

Uncontrolled anger can have a significant impact on personal and professional life. Some reasons individuals might seek anger management therapy include:

• Relationship difficulties: Anger can strain family, romantic, or work relationships.
• Workplace issues: Inability to control anger at work can lead to conflicts with colleagues or supervisors, affecting career progression.
• Legal issues: Individuals may be required to undergo anger management therapy following incidents such as domestic disputes or physical altercations.

Anger management psychologists often work with individuals who display the following signs:

• Frequent irritation or outbursts: Feeling angry over minor issues or frequent verbal or physical aggression.
• Inability to manage stress: Struggling to cope with stress and reacting with anger.
• Physical symptoms during anger: Increased heart rate, muscle tension, or sweating when angry.
• Feelings of guilt or regret after anger outbursts.

Therapy can significantly improve emotional regulation and lead to better relationships and mental well-being. Some of the benefits include:

• Improved communication: Individuals learn to express their feelings in a calm and constructive manner, reducing conflicts.
• Enhanced emotional awareness: Understanding the root causes of anger can help prevent emotional build-up and reduce the frequency of outbursts.
• Reduced stress: Managing anger effectively can lower overall stress levels, improving mental and physical health (Kassinove & Tafrate, 2002).

Many psychologists now offer telehealth services, allowing individuals to access anger management therapy online. This is particularly helpful for individuals living in rural or remote areas, or for those who prefer the convenience of remote therapy sessions. Research shows that online therapy can be just as effective as in-person sessions for anger management and emotional regulation (Batastini et al., 2021).

The duration of anger management therapy can vary depending on the individual’s specific needs and goals. Typically, it ranges from 6 to 12 weeks, with one session per week. However, for individuals with more deep-seated anger issues or complex underlying problems, therapy may take several months or even longer. The frequency of sessions and overall duration depends on the progress made, the severity of anger issues, and how quickly the individual can implement learned strategies into their daily life. Regular reviews with the psychologist ensure that therapy is progressing as needed.

Engaging with an anger management psychologist can provide essential tools to regulate emotions and prevent anger from negatively affecting one’s life. With evidence-based approaches like CBT, mindfulness, and relaxation techniques, individuals can gain a deeper understanding of their triggers and learn healthier ways to express their emotions. This can lead to improved relationships, better mental health, and a reduction in the negative consequences of uncontrolled anger.

• Beck, A. T. (2011). Cognitive Therapy of Depression. Guilford Press.
• Kabat-Zinn, J. (2003). Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR). Clinical Psychology Review, 24(2), 189-210.
• Kassinove, H., & Tafrate, R. C. (2002). Anger Management: The Complete Treatment Guidebook for Practitioners. Impact Publishers.
• Batastini, A. B., Paprzycki, P., Jones, A. C., & MacLean, N. (2021). Are videoconferenced mental and behavioral health services just as good as in-person? A meta-analysis of a fast-growing practice. Clinical Psychology Review, 83, 101944.

How to get in touch

If you or your NDIS participant need immediate mental healthcare assistance, feel free to get in contact with us on 1800 NEAR ME – admin@therapynearme.com.au.