Anger: The Forgotten Emotion
Anger is one of the most misunderstood emotions, and is often refered to as the forgotten emotion when it comes to the study of emotions overall.
Often seen as destructive, it is, in fact, a natural human response to perceived threats, injustices, or frustrations.
Yet, when anger spirals out of control, it can damage relationships, careers, and even health. Studies show that unchecked anger has been linked to heart disease, high blood pressure, and increased stress levels (Harvard Health Publishing, 2021).
At Colchester Counselling and Psychotherapy Practice, we specialise in helping individuals understand, manage, and transform their anger into a constructive force.
Our Anger Management Therapy services integrate evidence-based therapeutic techniques to help you regain control. Whether your anger stems from deep-seated trauma, stress, frustration, or learned behaviour, our tailored approach can guide you towards lasting change.
Understanding Anger: More Than Just an Outburst
Anger is not inherently negative. In fact, when channelled correctly, it can be a powerful motivator for change, boundary-setting, and self-assertion.
However, for many, anger manifests in ways that feel overwhelming and uncontrollable. It may surface as:
- Explosive outbursts and aggression
- Passive-aggressive behaviour
- Bottled-up resentment
- Irritability and frustration
- Physical symptoms such as headaches, tension, or chest pain
Understanding the root cause of anger is essential to managing it effectively. For some, anger is a learned response from childhood experiences; for others, it may be linked to underlying mental health conditions such as anxiety, depression, or trauma.
By addressing these underlying causes, our therapy sessions provide not just temporary relief but long-term emotional stability.
How Anger Management Therapy Can Help
Effective anger management isn’t about suppressing emotions; it’s about recognising triggers, developing coping strategies, and learning how to express anger in a healthy way.
At Colchester Counselling and Psychotherapy Practice, we offer a range of therapies designed to help you regain control and find healthier ways to respond to anger-inducing situations.
Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) for Anger Management
CBT is one of the most recommended treatments for anger-related issues. This evidence-based approach helps individuals identify negative thought patterns that lead to angry outbursts.
By recognising and reframing these thoughts, you can develop healthier responses to stressors. Techniques include:
- Identifying automatic negative thoughts that trigger anger
- Learning relaxation techniques such as deep breathing and mindfulness
- Developing problem-solving skills to handle challenging situations
- Practising assertive communication rather than aggressive reactions
CBT is highly effective because it focuses on practical skills that can be applied in daily life.
Psychotherapy: Exploring the Root Causes of Anger
For many individuals, anger is a symptom of deeper emotional wounds. Psychotherapy provides a safe and supportive space to explore past experiences, unresolved trauma, and emotional triggers.
By gaining insight into the origins of anger, individuals can work towards healing and developing healthier emotional responses.
EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing) for Trauma-Related Anger
For those whose anger is linked to past trauma, EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing) can be an incredibly effective treatment.
This therapy helps process traumatic memories that contribute to anger and emotional dysregulation.
By reducing the emotional intensity of these past experiences, EMDR allows individuals to respond more calmly to present-day triggers.
Hypnotherapy for Anger Control
Hypnotherapy is a powerful tool that works with the subconscious mind to change automatic responses to anger.
Through guided relaxation and suggestion techniques, individuals can develop a calmer mindset, reduce emotional reactivity, and enhance self-awareness.
Integrative Therapy: A Tailored Approach
Since every individual’s experience with anger is unique, we offer an integrative therapy approach, combining elements of different therapeutic methods to suit each person’s needs.
Our therapists draw on CBT, EMDR, psychotherapy, and hypnotherapy, ensuring the most effective and personalised treatment.

Dr. Tom Barber’s Unique Anger Management Programme
At Colchester Counselling and Psychotherapy Practice, we are proud to offer an exclusive Anger Management Programme developed by Dr. Tom Barber—a leading expert in anger and emotion.
Dr. Barber has spent years researching the lived experiences of anger, culminating in a groundbreaking programme designed to help individuals take back control.
This structured, results-driven approach is suitable for anyone struggling with anger issues, whether it manifests in explosive episodes or long-term resentment.
What the Programme Includes:
- Six One-to-One Sessions (available in person or online)
- Personalised Strategies tailored to individual anger triggers and patterns
- Cognitive and Emotional Techniques to manage anger effectively
- Research-Based Methods drawn from Dr. Barber’s academic expertise
- Practical Tools to help implement changes in real-world scenarios
This programme is ideal for those seeking a structured yet flexible approach to anger management, with the added benefit of working with one of the UK’s foremost experts in emotional regulation.
NICE Guidelines and Our Evidence-Based Approach
We are committed to delivering therapy that aligns with the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) recommendations.
NICE highlights the effectiveness of CBT, psychotherapy, and EMDR in addressing emotional regulation issues, including anger. Our therapies are rooted in these best practices, ensuring that clients receive the highest standard of care.
The Consequences of Unmanaged Anger
Ignoring anger issues can have profound consequences, including:
- Strained relationships with family, friends, and colleagues
- Legal troubles arising from aggressive behaviour
- Physical health problems such as high blood pressure and cardiovascular disease
- Increased stress and anxiety, leading to mental health issues
By seeking professional help, individuals can transform their emotional responses, leading to healthier relationships and improved well-being.
Take the First Step Towards Change
If anger is interfering with your life, it’s time to take action. Our expert therapists at Colchester Counselling and Psychotherapy Practice are here to support you on your journey towards healthier emotional regulation.
With compassionate guidance and evidence-based techniques, you can regain control and build a more balanced life.