Misdirected anger can be an incredibly destructive force. Internalized anger that is unable to be expressed in a healthy way can become a toxic emotion. Unregulated anger has the power to ruin a person’s life, as well as wreak havoc on interpersonal relationships. In this training, we will explore the physiology of anger in order to learn how to best manage it. You will discover a variety of practical tools and strategies for managing anger that you can share with clients. You’ll be able to assist clients in addressing lingering anger from past hurts, as well as prepare them for what they can do the next time they get triggered. The training is aimed at clinicians who work with both youth and adults.
Upon completion of this training, participants will be able to:
- Review how anger is triggered physiologically in the body
- Discuss causes of anger (such as shame and guilt)
- Discuss the physiological effects of anger, both short and long-term.
- Practice various forms of anger management
- Assist their clients in recognizing and managing anger triggers
Syllabus:
Objective #1: Understanding Anger and Its Origins
- Define anger and its psychological and physiological foundations
- Explore anger as a symptom across DSM-5 diagnoses
- Understand the role of trauma, grief, depression, and anxiety in the expression of anger
- Recognize how anger manifests in people-pleasers and those with chronic pain
Objective #2: Building Self-Awareness
- Use journaling to monitor patterns and responses to anger
- Reflect on past anger episodes to learn de-escalation strategies
- Identify personal triggers and physical signs of rising anger
- Understand secondary emotions that may underlie anger such as sadness, shame, fear, or hurt
Objective #3: Healthy Expression of Anger
- Practice effective communication through active listening and empathy
- Use “I” statements and assertiveness to express needs respectfully
- Set boundaries and take timeouts when needed
- Apply nonviolent communication techniques to express feelings and needs constructively
Objective #4: Cognitive Strategies for Regulation
- Challenge negative thought patterns and reframe triggering beliefs
- Practice positive self-talk and affirmations
- Reflect on concepts like the Serenity Prayer to distinguish between controllable and uncontrollable factors
Objective #5: Problem-Solving and Mental Shifts
- Use solution-focused thinking to shift from rumination to action
- Incorporate gratitude practice to redirect attention and build resilience
- Visualize calmness to prepare for high-stress interactions
Objective #6: Physical and Behavioral Techniques
- Use deep breathing, progressive muscle relaxation, and mindfulness to calm the nervous system
- Engage in physical activity or exercise to release built-up tension
- Explore the role of bilateral stimulation and EFT (Emotional Freedom Technique)
- Practice tapping with structured EFT protocols and “Choices” phrasing
Objective #7: Lifestyle, Nutrition, and Stress Management
- Prioritize adequate sleep and physical self-care
- Maintain a healthy diet and limit alcohol and trans fats
- Identify the role of exercise, hydration, and routine in reducing baseline stress
- Address “hanger” and the physiological link between hunger and irritability
Objective #8: Exploring Triggers and Patterns
- Analyze situational, relational, and environmental triggers
- Understand the role of past experiences and recurring thoughts
- Examine how time of day, routine, and physical health influence anger responses
Objective #9: Emotional Awareness and Healthy Outlets
- Deepen emotional intelligence to distinguish anger from other emotions
- Explore expressive and creative outlets such as journaling, humor, and movement
- Practice boundary-setting, assertiveness, and emotional processing with mindfulness tools
Objective #10: Reflective Practice and Family Influence
- Examine how family of origin handled anger and passed down related beliefs
- Identify intergenerational patterns and inherited emotional responses
- Reflect on personal growth, emotional healing, and long-term change in anger expression
Social workers completing this course receive 3 Clinical asynchronous continuing education credits.
For other board approvals, this course qualifies for 3 Clinical continuing education training.
Instructor: Dreya Blume, LCSW
Recording Date: 5/24/2024
CEUS On-Demand, LLC, provider #2274, is approved as an ACE provider to offer social work continuing education by the Association of Social Work Boards (ASWB) Approved Continuing Education (ACE) program. Regulatory boards are the final authority on courses accepted for continuing education credit. ACE provider approval period: 08/7/2026 - 08/6/2027. Social workers completing this course receive 3hrs Clinical continuing education credits.
CEUs On-Demand, LLC has been approved by NBCC as an Approved Continuing Education Provider, ACEP No. 7091. Programs that do not qualify for NBCC credit are clearly identified. CEUs On-Demand, LLC is solely responsible for all aspects of the programs.
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Request for Special Accommodations: Learners can request special accommodations by contacting the administrative team at admin@ceus-ondemand.com