There are several different types of anger management courses available, so you will need to take several factors into consideration when making your selection. If you are required to complete a course by the courts, your choices may be limited. Still, you will want to take a course that is taught by a reputable instructor in a format that works for you and at a price that you can afford. Carefully review course websites and other literature and ask for referrals from reputable mental health professionals before you make a final decision.
Sometimes courts and social service agencies recommend or require people to take an anger management course. Anger management courses are often prescribed to individuals who have a history of domestic violence or who are seen at risk for committing child abuse. If you need anger management courses because you have been ordered to take them by a legal authority, you should find out which courses are actually approved by the court or agency that asked you to receive anger management help. Typically, you will be given a list of acceptable courses. You may also wish to ask your caseworker, probation officer, or attorney for recommendations.
Anger management courses may be available in a variety of formats. You may be able to attend courses in a traditional classroom setting, or you may be able to take a course online. One advantage of taking a course in a classroom with other people is that you may be able to interact with individuals who are experiencing similar struggles. On the other hand, distance learning courses can offer you some privacy as well as convenience if you have an unusual work or school schedule. Keep in mind that some courts may not recognize distance-learning courses, so double check to make sure that anger management courses taught over the Internet are approved by your court system.
Other considerations include the course format and instructor. You may wish to look over course descriptions and lesson plans so you can get an idea of whether the class will touch on those issues that most affect you. It's also a good idea to look at the credentials of the instructor. Ideally, you want to work with somebody who has legitimate mental health credentials and experience in working with individuals who have trouble with anger management. You may also want to find out if the instructor offers individual therapy or coaching that you can take advantage of even after you have completed your anger management courses.