| 01 |
Presentation of the program (basic structure and rules) and baseline assessment. |
Increase motivation and enhance adherence (to the process, meetings, homework, etc.). |
| 02 |
Basic neurophysiology of anger and introduction to relaxation techniques. |
Increase self-awareness of the angry state and understand the concept of triggers. |
| 03 |
Relaxation techniques (e.g., diaphragmatic breathing) and introduction to automatic thoughts (ATs). |
Provide resources to avoid/better cope with anger and enable initial recognition of ATs. |
| 04 |
Further assessment of ATs and psycho-education on CBT. |
Identify maladaptive ATs and understand that they may be modified. |
| 05 |
Discussion of ATs and emotions and assessment of cognitive distortions. |
Identify the association between inadequate ATs and anger, and challenge the veracity of ATs. |
| 06 |
Identification of intermediate beliefs and introduction to core beliefs. |
Understand that ATs reflect deeper concepts (ideas of self, perception of injustice, etc.). |
| 07 |
Analysis of intermediate beliefs and core beliefs. |
Discuss and identify the link between intermediate/core beliefs and excessive anger. |
| 08 |
Identification of core beliefs. |
Identify, discuss, and challenge core beliefs. |
| 09 |
Discussion of alternative intermediate and core beliefs. |
Start to modify maladaptive intermediate/core beliefs and enhance cognitive flexibility. |
| 10 |
Introduction to assertiveness (concept and use) and problem-solving techniques. |
Increase insight on how to solve conflicts in constructive ways and improve communication skills. |
| 11 |
Assertiveness training and problem-solving techniques. |
Improve communication skills and simulate “real-world” situations. |
| 12 |
Review of the content discussed. |
Summarize/reinforce the subjects discussed, and give a comprehensive overall perspective. |
| 13 |
Discussion of the perceived therapeutic gains and relapse prevention. |
Reinforce the use of assertiveness, and the solution of conflicts in constructive ways. |
| 14 |
Learning from relapse. |
Discuss real case(s) of relapse in the group and analyze what could have been done differently. |
| 15 |
Discussion of perceived therapeutic gains and program conclusion (Phase 1). |
Reinforce positive behaviors and incentivize further transfer of learned skills to the “real world”. |
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Maintenance schedule (three sessions every 2 weeks)
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| 16 |
Follow-up on the occurrence of aggressive and non-aggressive behaviors. |
Assess transfer of learned skills to the “real world” and work further on possible weaknesses. |
| 17 |
Review of the basic concepts of CBT and its application. |
Reinforce that thoughts and beliefs may be modified. |
| 18 |
Conclusion of maintenance program, discussion of therapeutic gains, and final assessment. |
Reinforce positive thought processes and behaviors and enhance the “internal psychotherapist.” |
