5 Best Online Anger Management Classes Of 2024

To determine the best online anger management classes of 2024, the Forbes Health editorial team analyzed data across factors including:

• Price
• Whether courses are created by licensed providers
• Whether certificates of completion are accepted by courts and other offices
• Whether the classes are self-paced
• Live sessions and alternative course availability

All star rankings are determined solely by the editorial team.

Anger management classes are a form of behavioral therapy that offer tools, skills and guidance for anyone struggling with anger. These courses may be ordered by a court or employer if someone has had trouble controlling their anger in a public or professional setting, or can be taken out of personal interest. Courses are available in a variety of lengths and are often led by qualified instructors, such as therapists or licensed counselors.

Programs may be one-on-one video sessions or self-paced courses you can take on your own time. In addition to courses, some online anger management classes provide downloadable documents, quizzes that offer feedback and show your progress, and e-books that allow you to keep the information even after the course is done.

“Not only can anger management courses teach you how to communicate better, but they may also help to improve your health and well-being by curbing the side effects of unhealthy anger like headaches, sleeplessness and stomach issues,” says Susan Zinn, L.P.C.C., a licensed psychotherapist, behavioral researcher and founder of Westside Counseling Center in Santa Monica, California.

Zinn notes that aside from convenience, privacy and self-paced classes, online anger management also tends to be more cost effective. “They [online anger management courses] offer the option to learn from mental health and wellness leaders, including well-known doctors, clinicians and authors who you may not have access to otherwise based on location or pricing,” she says.

Who Needs Online Anger Management Classes?

If you find that your anger is interfering with your work, relationships or life, you might consider anger management classes, according to Zinn. “Anger management courses can benefit those who lose control of their anger when their stress levels skyrocket, resulting in a lack of judgment that can harm relationships, cause health issues and contribute to job instability,” she says.

Anger management can be beneficial for, “individuals who have struggled with post-traumatic stress disorder or traumatic brain injuries, young adults with decreased psychosocial functioning and individuals recovering from substance addiction or managing mental health conditions,” adds Zinn, who is also a certified trauma specialist.

However, online anger management isn’t for everyone, and people in need for more support may benefit from in person, one-on-one sessions, says Zinn. “It is essential to note that anger management courses are inappropriate for individuals whose anger is a symptom of an underlying mental health issue, like bipolar disorder, depression or obsessive-compulsive disorder,” she adds, and recommends other forms of therapy for these mental health conditions.

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Online anger management classes can range anywhere from four to 52 hours, and sometimes longer. Courses typically cover three main components, according to Zinn:

• Arousal management: identifying how anger is triggered
• Cognitive restructuring: changing thinking and analysis strategies
• Pro-social skills training: teaching alternative responses

When you complete a course, you will either be able to immediately download a certificate of completion or have a hard copy of your certificate mailed to you. Most sites guarantee court, employee or parole officer approval, and many will offer a refund if the certificate is not accepted.

As is the case with many online mental health platforms or educational courses, the cost of an online anger management class can vary widely in price, depending on the provider. For example, starting costs for the online anger management classes reflected on our ranking above range from just $17 to $65.

Another option? The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs offers an online Anger and Irritability Management Skills (AIMS) course. This online course is free, anonymous and does not require registration, and is accessible via online and in the app store.

Are Online Anger Management Classes Covered by Insurance?

Only some online anger management classes are covered by insurance. Zinn says some may only be covered if the anger leads to a court order mandate.

There are many benefits to anger management courses, says Zinn, including:

• Learning skills for self-control and tools to manage emotional reactions
• Gaining insights into what might cause your anger
• Understanding coherent communication and learning constructive ways to express emotion
• Developing self-regulation skills
• Improving relationships and building skills to repair relationships that have been negatively impacted by anger

“Hundreds of research studies have explored the effectiveness of therapies for treating anger,” says Zinn. “Several extensive analyses of the published research suggest that, overall, approximately 75% of people receiving anger management therapy improved as a result^[1]Understanding anger: How psychologists help with anger problems. American Psychological Association. Accessed 3/31/2022. .”

Online anger management classes can be very similar to anger management classes taken in person, and may include group activities as well as individual sessions. In fact, there are a number of online anger management classes that meet national standards, such as court, legal and employer requirements.

While every course is different, in many cases, online anger management courses are self-paced, allowing you to log out and return to your session at any time.

When searching for an online anger management course, it’s important to consider your needs. Zinn recommends looking for programs led by experienced licensed therapists skilled in cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) or similar modalities. She also notes that, before signing up, you should make sure the program matches any court order requirements and that proof of completion is offered.

How Much It Costs

The cost of online anger management classes varies widely. Most sites charge by the course, while some charge a separate registration fee and/or directly for the certificate of completion. Look over the payment details before signing up to be sure the course fits your budget.

Program Type

There are several forms of anger management courses. Some of the more common program options include:

• Court-ordered domestic violence anger management courses
• Court-ordered anger management for minors
• Parenting anger management classes
• Couples anger management

As every program offers something different, look for one that works best for your specific needs and learning style. Program length will vary depending on the type of course you choose. If a certain amount of course hours are required for a court order or employer, this will impact course selection as well.

User Experience

Zinn recommends reading user reviews before signing up for a program. Participant testimonials or a Google search can all serve as helpful means of deciding if a certain online anger management course is right for you. Some sites also offer trial periods or free courses before buying the full program.

Communication Method

Some online anger management programs offer live anger management courses that can be completed in group sessions or one-on-one sessions. Many offer pre-recorded courses that don’t involve communication. Others have live chat options as well. When choosing the best program for your needs, consider which communication method with which you feel most comfortable, and how much communication you feel you may need.