The ACT for Anger Group is a complete and structured anger management programme based on Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT). This free printable therapy manual is designed for use in group therapy, counselling, or other structured emotional support settings. It helps adults and teens learn how to understand, accept, and manage anger through practical exercises, mindfulness activities, and values-based reflection.
Created by psychologists Megan Foret and Patricia Eaton at Kaiser Permanente, the manual combines evidence-based ACT techniques with accessible tools to help participants make lasting changes in how they respond to anger.
What’s Inside This Anger Management Resource?
Eight-session structured programme – Each weekly session includes clear guidance, mindfulness exercises, group discussions, and homework
Understanding anger – Explores the five parts of anger: pre-anger feelings, trigger thoughts, anger feelings, urges, and behaviour
Common anger myths – Challenges unhelpful beliefs such as “venting is helpful” or “others make me angry”
Mindfulness-based activities – Supports emotional awareness by helping individuals observe their thoughts and feelings without reacting automatically
Cognitive defusion techniques – Teaches how to step back from unhelpful thinking patterns and see thoughts as passing experiences
Creative exercises – Includes metaphors like “leaves on a stream” and “tug-of-war with a monster” to support acceptance and emotional flexibility
Values exploration – Helps participants identify what truly matters to them and how they want to behave when faced with anger
Action planning – Encourages committed, values-based action even when emotions are difficult
Journals and logs – Includes worksheets for tracking anger episodes, emotional triggers, and mindful progress over time
How Can the Resource Be Used Practically?
In therapy or counselling groups – A structured guide for therapists, counsellors, and support workers leading anger management sessions
In probation or re-entry programmes – Supports individuals reintegrating after custody by building emotional regulation skills and reducing reactive behaviour
With young people and adults in one-to-one support – Adaptable for individual sessions, especially for those with challenges around impulsivity or emotional outbursts
As a self-help workbook – Can be used independently by those motivated to explore and manage their anger more effectively
In trauma recovery or addiction support settings – Helps individuals shift from reactive behaviours to values-driven choices through reflective and mindful practice
This anger management therapy manual is evidence-informed, accessible, and practical, making it a powerful tool for anyone wanting to respond to anger in a healthier, more values-led way. Using ACT, the manual supports participants to accept what they cannot change and take meaningful action toward a better future.
