Thursday, June 24, 2010

Anger Management Classes: Your Guide to Understanding these Programs

Anger management classes can vary greatly. I have written on this topic many times before, and I am constantly baffled every time I peruse the Internet and see what pops up. I think that only the savviest of consumers can really tell what programs are going to be helpful and which ones might just be a bunch of hot air. Below is a short and easy guide to follow to help figure out if the program your interested in might be worthwhile:

1. Does the program use a quality curriculum that has been used or approved by any governmental agency?
2. Is the course offered by a licensed or professional certified anger management provider?
3. If you’re looking at an online anger management class, don’t just shop for price, look at what the programs consists of and who is offering it. Does the program and format look to be of substance?
4. How long has the organization been in business and do they have any testimonials from previous clients?
5. Does the program cover skills in the following areas: Assertive communication, stress management, expectation management, empathy, improving judgment and impulse control, taking time outs, forgiveness, learning to respond instead of react, increasing skills in optimism?
6. Can the program credentials be verified?
7. Are there metrics to understand what is going to be learned?
8. Do they provide quality customer care and is the administrator of the program readily available?
9. If for a court or legal requirement, make sure the program is acceptable in your county or state
10. Go with your gut. If something doesn’t feel right, look at another program.

The journey to gaining skills in anger management is a life long lesson, but finding the right foundation can make all the difference.

Ari Novick, Ph.D.
AJ Novick Group, Inc. Anger Management Classes

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