Navigating life when dealing with anger issues can be a real challenge. Anger issues may cause relationship struggles, legal problems, and other life complications. Getting a hold of these issues before they start causing trouble that’s hard to come back from is important. While it’s normal for all people to experience anger, it becomes a problem when it occurs too frequently, is too intense, or is poorly managed. (1)
Therapist Rychel Johnson, MS, LCPC, describes anger as the “tip of the iceberg,” a common analogy for how anger shows up: “Often, anger serves as a ‘check engine light’ for our system, indicating something under the surface is bothering us—this can be a more complex emotion that we don’t have words for, so anger comes out.” Johnson believes that anger management classes and therapy specific to addressing anger can help individuals get to the root of what causes their angry reactions.
We reviewed multiple online therapy platforms to find the best anger management classes and came up with seven great options for helping you manage your anger. Often, the development of an anger disorder is a result of dealing with feelings of anger inappropriately. The maladaptive behaviors can worsen over time; the more you deal with anger the wrong way, the harder it can be to learn to deal with it the right way. (2)
Luckily, there are many easily accessible classes and resources online that can help you or a loved one navigate feelings of anger more appropriately. As a behavioral interventionist, I have worked with multiple individuals to help them replace inappropriate behaviors with more suitable ones. While the process can be long and time-consuming, the outcomes are worth it. Reviewing the anger management options available and choosing the best online anger management class for you could have a profound impact on your life and relationships.
Editor’s pick online anger management class
Looking at all the online anger management classes we reviewed, Online-therapy.com is our pick for the most comprehensive platform. With included extras like yoga, worksheets, and journaling, this platform offers not only therapy but additional tools that are beneficial in helping to develop new coping skills and reflect on past behavior.
Our picks for the best online anger management classes
- Most comprehensive: Online-therapy.com
- Best flexible: BetterHelp
- Most affordable: Calmerry
- Best for teens: Teen Counseling
- Best for court-ordered classes: My Court Class
- Best for couples: Anger Coach
- Best non-subscription: Amwell
Compare online anger management classes
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| Online-therapy.com | BetterHelp | Calmerry | Teen Counseling | My Court Class | Anger Coach | Amwell | |
| Rating | |||||||
| Cost | $50-$110 | $70-$100 per week | $57-$90 per week | $65-$90 per week | $75-$425 per class | $15-$180 per product/session | Varies |
| Session type | Video, phone, messaging | Video, phone, messaging, live chat | Video and messaging | Video, messaging, phone, live chat | Online course | Online courses and Video | Video or audio |
| Accepts insurance | No | No | No | No | No | Yes | Yes |
Most comprehensive online anger management class: Online-therapy.com
Key product features
What you should know
We like that Online-therapy.com is more than just an online anger management service. It’s our most comprehensive pick because it offers helpful tools that promote a well-rounded outcome.
- In addition to therapy, this platform has a lot of additional support tools like an activity planner, yoga videos, and a place for journaling.
- Given the number of extras offered by the program and the availability of therapy, this platform’s price of $50-$110 per week is excellent.
- This is best for people who want to get to the root of their anger management issues.
Why we like Online-therapy.com as most comprehensive
When dealing with anger management issues, it can be challenging to admit, or even recognize, that you are struggling. It’s essential to have comprehensive support when dealing with anger issues since finding the root cause and appropriate coping techniques can be very difficult. Online-therapy.com offers treatment that is catered specifically towards those struggling with anger management.
“Anger issues are important to address in general, particularly when they affect a person’s work performance and social life. When it’s difficult to engage in relationships due to anger, seeking guidance is essential–and there’s no shame in needing some help.”
Rychel Johnson, MS, LCPC, Fortune Recommends Mental Health Advisor
By having various tools included in their treatment, the Online-therapy.com program is likely to help you successfully improve your coping abilities. With the basic plan, you can access unlimited texting with a therapist and the toolbox. This plan is only $50 per week when you’re paying full price, and while it doesn’t include live sessions, it’s a great start to improving your ability to cope with anger.
You might be more interested in live session therapy so that you have the opportunity to get real-time feedback and guidance from your therapist. For this, you can sign up for the plan that includes two weekly live sessions, which is $110 per week, plus unlimited texting and the toolbox. It’s an excellent option for someone who is newly exploring their anger issues or has recently found themselves in some type of trouble because of their anger-related behaviors.
The therapists at Online-therapy.com specialize in using cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), which has proven to be an effective treatment for managing anger.
(3)
With the combination of a CBT approach plus an interactive therapy toolbox, you’re likely to be set up for success if you do your part, considering the approach, tools, and price offered by Online-therapy.com.
Specs
| Price | $50-$110 per week |
| Insurance accepted | No |
| Therapist assignment | Matched by platform, can change later |
| Session type | Video, phone, and messaging |
Best flexible anger management class: BetterHelp
Key product features
What you should know
BetterHelp has been on the online therapy scene for longer than most other platforms and has the advantage of a massive network of therapists.
- The large number of therapists makes it easy to get an appointment quickly.
- While BetterHelp isn’t the cheapest online therapy, financial aid is available for those who need it.
- This platform is best for those with unique needs or who are particular about their therapist. There is a large variety to choose from, which makes meeting needs in this area easier.
Why we like BetterHelp as best flexible
BetterHelp is well-known as it was one of the earliest online therapy platforms. Since this platform has been around for quite a while, it’s had the opportunity to establish a large and very experienced team of licensed therapists. Having such a large selection of therapists available makes the platform very flexible. You’ll have a greater ability to find a therapist available when needed, which is excellent for people who work non-traditional hours or have hectic schedules.
Whether you want to meet your therapist in live video sessions or a live chat room or just text when it suits you, you can access it all for anywhere from $70 to $100 per week. Why a range? There’s only one membership available, but the weekly cost (though you’re billed by the month) may vary depending on your location and the availability of therapists.
One downside of BetterHelp is that it doesn’t offer online psychiatrist services, so if you’re looking for a medical diagnosis and want medication as a treatment, this platform cannot offer that. You’re also unlikely to get documentation about your treatment to use for legal purposes, so if you’re getting therapy for anger management and want to show proof of progress to someone, this is probably not a great option for you.
I once signed up for BetterHelp after a car accident and experiencing symptoms of PTSD. After messaging with a therapist before officially starting, I was told that it wouldn’t be possible to get copies of session notes to share with the insurance company. As such, I wanted to cancel the subscription I had already prepaid for since it wouldn’t meet my needs. Customer service was excellent, and they allowed me to cancel and gave me a refund without having to fight them over it. So, their flexibility extends into their customer service as well.
What customers are saying
On Trustpilot, BetterHelp has nearly 7,500 reviews and an average rating of 4.5 stars. Given my personal experience with the platform, I agree with this rating. Many reviewers note that there is easy access to helpful therapists to understand and correct their anger issues.
“I have struggled with anger issues my whole life. I’ve tried everything except professional therapy. I didn’t know how to find a compatible one. It was costly. Also, I have time management problems, so arriving at an office on time would be stressful. BetterHelp eliminates ALL those obstructions…My therapist is a great listener who will give me direct advice if I ask for it. She also sends me ‘homework’ if I am interested. Some are educational, and some offer exercises that let me practice more constructive ways of approaching others if I am angry. Very effective. In summary, knowing I have a safe place to reveal my struggles has relieved me tremendously both emotionally and psychologically.”
Karen Parker, Trustpilot verified reviewer
On the flip side, some customers have not been satisfied with the services (or lack thereof) they have received despite being billed for those services.
Specs
| Price | $70-$100 per week |
| Insurance accepted | No |
| Therapist assignment | Matched by platform, can change later |
| Session type | Video, phone, messaging, and live chat |
| Platform | Online, mobile app |
Most affordable online anger management class: Calmerry
Key product features
What you should know
Calmerry offers an affordable option for those seeking help with anger management. It works with you to find a plan that fits within your budget.
- You can browse the website and see what’s available before paying for services.
- While the cheapest plan is under $60 per week, it doesn’t allow video sessions.
- Best for people who want more intensive treatment and up to four video sessions per week.
Why we like Calmerry as most affordable
Affordability is typically a high priority for people seeking mental health support of any kind, including anger management, and Calmerry is a great support option. Adding financial stress to your life is not beneficial. Anger is a commonly experienced emotion, and poor management of it can have a detrimental impact on your health , like heart disease, heart attacks, and strokes, just as anxiety and depression can. It’s worth noting that individuals with lower socioeconomic status may be more likely to experience anger—therefore, the more affordable therapy is, the better. (4)
One of the things we love most about Calmerry is that you can sign up and access multiple account features without paying first. Certain aspects of the platform, like the mood tracker and reflection note tool, are free. You can even book a 60-minute session for $120 without fully committing to a membership. You’ll be able to quickly flip through the available therapists and book your session without the stress of commitment. The platform also offers informative articles free of charge.
For under $70 per week, you can access two 30-minute live video sessions, unlimited texting with your therapist, a personalized therapy plan, and free reflection tools. If you want something more affordable, you can opt for the messaging-only plan for less than $50 per week. For more intense manager management therapy, you can access messaging plus four live video sessions per week for under $75. These prices include discounts that are always available but may vary.
One great feature of Calmerry is that you can chat with support and ask for additional plan options to find an option that fits your budget. They will ask you about your needs, budget, and the therapy modality you want and then customize a therapy plan for you.
What customers are saying
On Trustpilot, Calmerry has a rating of 4.2 out of 5 stars out of 51 reviews.
Five-star reviews note the ease of switching therapists, positive experiences with CBT, and access to free, helpful mental health tools.
“I have a minimal budget for therapy, and Calmerry is a life savior. They offer [a] discount to start and lots of free tools. Even when my subscription expires, I still have access to my mood journal.”
Jairo England, Trustpilot
As with most platforms, some customers complain about their therapists’ lack of timely responses. The good thing is that if you have this issue, you can request a change in your therapist. Other complaints included wanting longer video calls and problems with the app.
Specs
| Price | $57-$90 per week |
| Insurance accepted | Yes |
| Therapist assignment | Matched by platform, can change later |
| Session type | Video and messaging |
| Platform | Online, mobile app |
Best online anger management class for teens: Teen Counseling
Key product features
What you should know
Giving teens the tools they need to manage anger can set them up for success. Teen Counseling is here to help with multiple forms of therapy and the opportunity for parental involvement.
- There are nearly 34,000 therapists, and the platform will automatically match you with one.
- Insurance is not accepted, and nearly $360 per month is not affordable for many families.
- This is an excellent option for teens whose parents want to be involved in therapy.
Why we like Teen Counseling as best for teens
The teenage years can be a confusing and overwhelming time. There are various anger management programs for teens that vary in intensity and encourage non-aggressive ways of dealing with the frustrations teens may experience. We love the options that Teen Counseling has to offer.
Research shows that if left untreated, anger issues during adolescence can lead to problems with social adjustments and increase the likelihood of developing antisocial behaviors later in life. (5) According to therapist Johnson, teens are in a tough time developmentally, and guidance is essential in this pivotal time. She shares, “Self-awareness of emotional reactivity and anger in the teen years is challenging, and mental health intervention can truly light the way for teens to develop better coping skills.” Teen Counseling online therapy is designed specifically for teens and has a parent interaction component that helps keep everyone on the same page.
While the parent and teen sessions on the platform are conducted separately, nothing the teen says will be told to the parent unless there is a safety concern. Teen Counseling is designed to support both teens and parents. When you first sign up, you can connect your team to the platform and therapist using a code sent after being matched with a therapist.
Teen Counseling’s therapists primarily specialize in treating depression and anxiety. Still, most have an array of expertise, and your desire to treat anger issues will be considered during the matching process. The services that this platform offers are not suitable for teens who have court-ordered therapy needs, are in crisis, or are seeking official diagnoses or medication prescriptions.
While this platform doesn’t offer many extra tools beyond texting therapy and video sessions, that seems typical for a teen platform since those tools may not be utilized as frequently.
What customers are saying
On Trustpilot, Teen Counseling has an average rating of 3.1 out of 5 stars, with 55 total reviews. Reviewers note the night-and-day difference Teen Counseling has made in their child’s mood and outlook.
“My daughter was in a very dark place a year ago when I signed her up with Teen Counseling. Her therapist has been an incredible help, and I have seen so many positive changes in my daughter since she started therapy. I would recommend this to everyone!”
Adrienne Stephany, Trustpilot
The biggest complaints are about pricing for multiple children and paying for services when a child doesn’t utilize them. There were also some complaints about therapists canceling appointments.
Specs
| Price | $65 to $90 per week |
| Insurance accepted | No |
| Therapist assignment | Matched by platform, can change later |
| Session type | Video, phone, messaging, and live chat |
| Platform | Online, mobile app |
Best online anger management class for court-ordered classes: My Court Class
Key product features
What you should know
Complete court-mandated classes from home and pay by the hours you need with My Court Class.
- This program is set up in class form rather than by sessions, and you’ll be expected to take an exam.
- You’ll pay for a class priced by the number of hours you need, at $75-$425 per class
- Best for people who have court-mandated class requirements to meet and want a self-paced course.
Why we like My Court Class as best for court-ordered classes
My Court Class classes are much different than most of the other online anger management programs we’ve mentioned. This is primarily because these classes are meant to meet the needs of court-mandated requirements. Rather than involving live video or chat sessions with a therapist or providing you with a personalized therapy program, this platform offers courses purchased with the number of hours required to complete in mind. There are a variety of courses you can buy. They start at four hours for $75 and go up to 52 hours for $425.
All the offered classes are self-paced and include quizzes to test you along the way and a final exam and completion certificate. While the courses offered by My Court Class satisfy court requirements, they may not be the best treatment for anger management and are likely to be best completed as an addition to counseling. That being said, research does show that even mandated treatment has some effectiveness, even if participants are resistant and unmotivated. (6)
The anger management curriculum offered by My Court Class covers various topics. Customers will learn how to manage their aggression, improve their emotional intelligence, accept feedback, etc. Although these classes don’t include any live video or chat sessions, you’ll be required to view various videos throughout the course. You’ll also be given resources to find help and quizzes to test your understanding of the material.
My Court Class honestly seems to serve its purpose: to satisfy court-mandated anger management. It does not go above and beyond that, but this likely helps keep the cost down, which is helpful since this will surely be an added expense on top of other court fees.
Specs
| Price | $75 to $425 per package |
| Insurance accepted | No |
| Therapist assignment | N/A |
| Format | Written course with some videos |
| Platform | Online |
Best online anger management class for couples: Anger Coach
Key product features
What you should know
Couples looking to manage anger will find many benefits in Anger Coach, as classes start at just $30, and insurance is accepted for some services.
- This platform offers therapy as well as a variety of virtual classes and courses.
- There are some free materials available, as well as multiple classes for under $30.
- Couples interested in investing time and effort into improving their relationship and are not yet in crisis would benefit most from these offerings.
Why we like Anger Coach as best for couples
In a relationship, when one or both partners are experiencing high levels of anger, minor conflicts can escalate more quickly and end negatively. It’s normal to feel anger in a romantic relationship from time to time, but resolving those feelings is the key to avoiding long-lasting negative impacts on relationships. (7) Over time, these little conflicts become the “new normal” for a couple, causing resentment, avoidance of issues, and even lead to separation, according to Johnson. Anger Coach offers anger management classes, programs, and products for couples and has a variety of options available.
Johnson shares that she sees many individuals in therapy who are afraid to speak to their partner about specific issues because their partner will become angry. She adds, “It’s clear that many couples could benefit from coaching to alleviate relationship tension.”
Through Anger Coach, you can purchase self-paced home study courses and shorter online classes. Anger Coach offers a free mini course to get a feel for its programs, and classes range in price from $14.95 to $69.95. In addition to the online courses and classes, it also offers a five-session counseling program and professional telehealth services with a licensed psychologist.
I found the platform to be a bit overwhelming, but that isn’t necessarily a bad thing. There are various treatment options, so it can be hard to navigate them and find what’s best for your relationship. The live sessions include consultation, anger-management coaching, and a virtual anger-management class. I found the appointment options to be confusing and wasn’t sure who would choose what. Your best bet would likely be to sign up for the couple’s consultation initially to get some guidance from a psychologist. Insurance is accepted, and appointment costs range from $65 to $180.
We love that there are some very affordable learning materials you can purchase and download for instant access, which may be an excellent option for couples who aren’t comfortable working with a therapist but are looking to improve their anger management.
Although Anger Coach offers a variety of anger management classes and appointment options, we didn’t really like the platform’s setup and felt a bit turned off.
Specs
| Price | Starting at $14.95 per course |
| Format | Virtual therapy appointments, classes, and courses |
| Insurance accepted | Yes |
| Therapist options | Only one |
| Trial | Free mini-course available |
Best non-subscription online anger management class: Amwell
Key product features
What you should know
Unlike most other online anger management class programs, Amwell can provide diagnoses, prescribe medications, and pay as needed.
- Amwell is an online telehealth service that connects you with a provider as needed rather than an online therapy platform.
- The cost will vary depending on service and location.
- This is best for people needing immediate therapy with a licensed clinician.
Why we like Amwell as best non-subscription
Amwell is much different than a regular subscription platform that offers therapy and education. This platform is more of a place to find a provider instantly. You can choose the type of therapy or another service you’re interested in. Then, after entering your location and insurance information, you’ll be directed to select which service you want and whether you’d like a video or phone visit. For anger management, you will want to choose behavioral health services, and from there, you can choose a specific type of therapy or psychiatry you’re interested in and schedule an appointment.
I didn’t love the number of steps I had to take to finally get to a place where I could schedule an appointment with a provider, but once I got there, I could schedule an appointment the very next morning. From my location, there were two providers available for a next-day appointment, and the cost of one session with either of them was $109.
I appreciate that I could easily access the available therapists’ profiles once I got to this point. This allowed me to see details about each therapist’s clinical interests, education, and experience. Therapist rating could also be seen. When I looked into booking an appointment with a psychiatrist, I wasn’t able to get in for a couple of weeks, and the cost for one session was $279.
While Amwell offers a convenient way to connect with providers without requiring any type of subscription, booking an appointment requires some work, which may be frustrating for some people.
Specs
| Price | Varies based on state and insurance |
| Insurance accepted | Yes |
| Therapist assignment | Your choice |
| Format | Video and audio |
| Platform | Online |
How we test online anger management classes
At Fortune, online therapy and other mental health-related service reviews are conducted using a combination of firsthand experience and testing as well as extensive reviews of services. Our reviewers are experienced in mental health and related fields, and all information undergoes a review by a mental health expert to ensure its accuracy. To learn more about how we assess services and platforms, you can read our teletherapy testing methodology for more information.
Testing criteria
Therapist quality—30%
Each therapy service should make its users feel valued and should use experienced therapists who are ready and available to help. We look for:
- Expertise
- Personalization
- Interaction quality
Accessibility and convenience—30%
A teletherapy service is only useful if it’s accessible to a wide audience. We evaluate:
- Ease of use
- Availability
- Platform reliability
Cost and value—20%
Mental health services can be a financial burden, which is why we believe strongly in evaluating the overall value each platform provides its users. We factor the following into our ratings:
- Pricing transparency
- Insurance and coverage
- Value for money
Support and resources—10%
After-session support and resources are especially important when mental health is involved. We rank programs that have the following features higher than those that don’t:
- Supplementary materials
- Customer support
- Aftercare
Privacy and security—10%
Data security should be at the forefront when choosing a trustworthy mental health resource. To ensure a safe and comfortable experience for users, we look into the following features:
- Compliance with HIPAA and data protection laws
- Encryption and security measures
- Anonymity options
What is an online anger management class?
An anger management class is designed to help individuals better regulate their anger and aggression-related problems. This includes dealing with anger- and aggression-related issues with intimate partners and others.
(8)
By helping individuals improve their ability to regulate their anger, these classes are seen as an effective intervention method. They can be used in couples counseling, as a condition for release from prison, and more. Being able to regulate feelings of aggression better can positively impact an individual’s relationship quality and mental health.
(8)
Types of online anger management classes
There are various types of online anger management classes available. Some are meant to deal with an individual’s anger-related issues. In contrast, others may focus more on the anger issues present within a relationship, such as anger management for couples. There are also anger management classes meant to fulfill court-mandated anger management requirements.
Some online anger management classes are conducted in live sessions with therapists and can be in a group, couple, or individual setting. Other anger management classes are presented as prewritten, self-paced courses that you will work through independently. Most courses offered in a self-paced format include additional support tools like videos or worksheets.
Who should try an online anger management class?
Anger management classes are appropriate for anyone who is struggling to cope with their anger and aggression issues and feels that these struggles are impacting their relationships and other aspects of their lives. Both males and females can struggle with anger management issues, and while these issues may become more evident in adulthood, adolescents are also affected. Both adults and teens can benefit from anger management classes.
(1)
Anger management classes are also often required when an individual has committed a crime and is either being released from incarceration or given an alternative to becoming incarcerated. It’s common for individuals who have had conflicts with the law to be referred to anger management classes.
(2)
These classes can also be very beneficial for teens and parents as they can help improve communication and problem-solving, which can ultimately reduce conflict in the home.
(9)
“Online anger management could also be appropriate for someone who feels like they struggle to manage anger or have a quick temper but does not want to deal with the perceived stigma of an in-person anger management class.”
Rychel Johnson, MS, LCPC, Fortune Recommends Mental Health Advisor
How to choose the best online anger management class for you
Choosing the best online anger management class for you can be daunting with so many options on the market. Consider your personal preferences when choosing an anger management class.
You’ll want to consider whether you would prefer individual or group treatment, whether or not you have a romantic partner that should be included, your availability, and how you best learn. For some people, live sessions that include discussions with others are beneficial, while others may prefer working independently through course-style work. There are a variety of modalities available when it comes to online anger management courses.
How much do online anger management classes cost?
The price of online anger management classes can vary greatly depending on whether or not it’s an online therapy that takes insurance and many other factors. If the classes involve live sessions, they will likely be more expensive than courses and lessons that you can purchase. The price may also differ depending on whether you want an individual class or to participate in a group setting.
Some subscription-style anger management therapy options cost around $60 per week, while individual sessions with a psychiatrist could cost close to $300. You can expect to pay anywhere from $15 to around $400 for self-paced courses. Courses that are court-mandated are typically worth a certain number of hours; the more they’re worth, the more expensive the package will likely be.
FAQs
What is the best therapy for anger management?
The best therapy for anger management can vary depending on your needs. We love the services offered by Online-therapy.com because they include live sessions, worksheets, and unlimited messaging. This program easily caters to individual needs.
Are anger management classes worth it?
We believe that anger management classes are worth it. People who struggle with anger are at risk of facing both psychological and physical health issues if it is not managed properly. It’s essential to take the appropriate steps towards better-managing anger to reduce these risks. (10)
How effective are online anger management classes?
The effectiveness of online anger management classes depends on the effort an individual puts into them and whether the modality is a good fit. If you first try a live session and you don’t feel it works, you may want to try other approaches, like texting therapy or a self-paced course.
How long do anger management classes last?
The length of anger management classes depends on the program you choose. Some classes last a certain number of hours (such as court-mandated classes), while others depend on therapist evaluations and your progress. You should expect to spend at least four weeks improving your anger management skills.
Are there any free online anger management classes?
There are several free online anger management classes and courses available. These offer a great start to dealing with anger-related issues. You’ll want to remember that free resources may not fulfill the requirements for court-mandated classes.
Our experts
Rychel Johnson, M.S., LCPC
Rychel is a licensed clinical professional counselor in Kansas. She owns a private practice specializing in anxiety treatment and social skills development. Rychel also enjoys extensive road trips and spending time with her husband, daughter, and two cats.
Krista Manning
Krista Manning is an accomplished medical copy editor and fact-checker who stands out in the pharmaceutical, health, and wellness domains. With a meticulous eye for detail and a command of medical language, Krista ensures the accuracy and clarity of content. Beyond her professional expertise, Krista is an advocate for mental health awareness. Recognizing the crucial intersection of psychological and physical well-being, she actively contributes to projects that promote mental health awareness within the healthcare narrative. Krista’s commitment extends beyond the pages she edits, emphasizing the holistic nature of health communication.
Amber Nelson, MS, Behavioral Interventionist
Fortune Recommends Writer
About Author
Amber Nelson has an educational background in psychology but stumbled into love with weightlifting and running when she decided to go on a weight loss journey. She became fully immersed in the health and fitness community overtime. Eventually her passion for writing collided with this community when she became a health and fitness writer, leading to publications for Active.com, BarBend.com, and iRunFar.com.
Born and raised in Idaho, Amber is a lover of trail running and UESCA certified running coach. While she still resides in Idaho, she loves traveling both for leisure an athletic competitions. She spends her free time being creative in the kitchen and trying every new restaurant that pops up.