A guide for new anger management clients.

When a new client begins anger management classes there seems to be a mixture of emotions and different apprehensions.  It is common to have some concerns and I believe it is always best to just discuss our concern so we can work with them!

The first emotion expressed by many is “Not wanting to be here!”  Many people are ordered to come into an anger management class by the court system, an employer, or a spouse or loved one.  At first he or she might not think that “Anger Management” is the right place because he or she is “not angry!”  I find that after one session that this attitude softens dramatically.  In our Gardena Class we focus on the whole person and the whole list of emotions as part of managing anger.  Everyone has room to grow and most would agree that at the end of the day, we all want to be the best us we can be.
Another apprehension stems from a concern to open up to a room full of strangers (especially, the perceived, angry people!).  People often state that they are shy, or concerned that others will judge them.  This is a common issue when entering a class for the first time.  Truth is, everyone that comes to our classes is there for similar reasons.  The class members have historically been very supportive and helpful to new and returning members.  Each member shares a space in the same crazy world and it proves to be very comforting to everyone when people share their experiences and help each other guide themselves through situations that anger might have been present.

A third emotion and apprehension that people sometimes walk into the first class is that they “have nothing to learn.”  They believe that they handle all situations well and do not want to or believe they need to learn more.  When this is reflected back to a person, most would not consciously agree.  We know, as human beings, our lives are constantly presenting us opportunity to learn new skills, we just need to be open to it.  Again, with in one class, maybe two, most can see that there are things to learn and growth is always an option.

So bottom line is that most people have some concerns or apprehensions as they start an anger management class.  With in a few weeks these concerns usually go away and class members are left with an opportunity to improve their lives!

Robin Aulgur is an anger management instructor for Daybreak Counseling Service in Gardena, California. Daybreak continues to service communities throughout Los Angeles including the cities of Santa Monica and Pasadena . We also have locations in Yorba Linda, Orange County California. For more information please call 855-662-6437 or visit www.daybreakservices.com