Understanding Anger

Understanding AngerIn my first job as a mental health counselor, one of my clinical supervisors taught me something that has always stuck with me. He said that “all anger comes from fear or pain.” This was a simple sentence that has had a profound impact on my ability to be present with clients even in their anger and rage.

If you add the word shame to this theory, after 16 years I can honestly say that I have never worked with a client with chronic anger issues for whom this was not true. I have learned how important it is to look at what is underneath the anger and to have compassion for the individual for whatever it was that originally created that condition.

In the book Anger Alcoholism and Addiction, authors Ronald and Patricia Potter-Efron list some of the most common ways that chronic anger can serve someone.

If you think that inappropriate anger might be getting in the way of what you want for yourself, or if you’ve been told that you may have an issue with anger, Solutions: Santa Fe can help.

Our treatment team is highly skilled at helping people find emotional balance, and teaching anger management skills including breathing techniques, mindfulness tools, and uncomplicated cognitive behavioral suggestions (CBT).

We also offer specialized services such as acupuncture and Reiki sessions, both of which have been successful in helping people who are dealing with anger management issues.

Amy Lashway, MA, LPC, NCC

Solutions – we can help you find your way again. Call one of our intake counselors for a free consultation – 877-499-1354 or 505-424-3170.