Free Yourself from Feeling Boxed in By Anger
As therapists, we often hear our clients feeling like they are boxed in by their anger. This overwhelmed state of mind can leave them feeling resistant to strategies that can help reduce anger such as deep breathing, muscle relaxation, being able to engage in cognitive reframing of anger-related thoughts, or exploring underlying, primary feelings that drive anger (such as anxiety or shame).
The following, easy to visualize, empowering metaphor can quickly help clients free themselves from feeling trapped in by anger.
Free Yourself from Feeling Boxed in By Anger
Visualize your anger as a box you are climbing out of. Now imagine the soothing feelings you have by seeing yourself in open space — free to roam. Stay with this image, and now look back at the box that you stepped outside of. As you gaze back at the angry box that you left behind, visualize it progressively shrinking and being farther and farther behind in the distance.
Best,
Jeffrey Bernstein, Ph.D.
Licensed Psychologist & Author
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He is the author of seven books: The Anxiety, Depression, & Anger Toolbox for Teens; The Stress Survival Guide for Teens; Mindfulness for Teen Worry; 10 Days to a Less Defiant Child; 10 Days to a Less Distracted Child; Liking the Child You Love and Why Can’t You Read My Mind. Dr. Bernstein has also published the Letting Go of Anger Therapeutic Card Deck, a therapeutic card deck widely used by mental health professionals.
Dr. Bernstein has appeared on the Today show and Court TV as an expert advisor and frequently presents at conferences for school counselors and mental health professionals. He completed his post-doctoral internship at the University of Pennsylvania Counseling Center and holds a PhD in Counseling Psychology from the State University of New York at Albany.
Speaker Disclosures:
Financial: Jeffrey Bernstein maintains a private practice. He is an author and receives royalties. Dr. Bernstein receives a speaking honorarium, recording, and book royalties from PESI, Inc. He has no relevant financial relationships with ineligible organizations.
Non-financial: Jeffrey Bernstein is a fellow with the Pennsylvania Psychological Association.
