ANGER MANAGEMENT Small Group Counselling Curriculum – Middle School

“Keep Your Cool” is an ASCA-aligned counseling curriculum designed for middle school students aged 11-14. This comprehensive program features engaging and interactive activities to help students manage anger, improve emotional regulation, and enhance interpersonal skills.

“Keep Your Cool” provides a comprehensive approach to emotional well-being. It creates a safe and supportive space for students to explore emotions, learn effective coping strategies, and foster healthier relationships within an interactive and engaging small group format.

This Curriculum Includes:

• Note to Counselors
• Objectives & Goals
• Group Session Overview
• ASCA Mindset and Behavior STANDARDS
• Binder Cover Page & Spine Options
• Teacher Nominations and Follow Up Forms
• Parent/Guardian Letter and Consent Form
• Group Planning Sheet
• Name Tags
• Group Member Reminders
• Group Attendance Record
• Student Pre & Post Outcome Measures
• Teacher Pre & Post Outcome Measures
• Additional Data Collection
• Confidentiality Sign
• Passes – Hall, Class, Counselor, Social Worker & Psychologist
• Student Desk Reminders
• Counselor Chats Handout
• Certificates

Below are the specific details for each individual session which can be used in isolation or as a comprehensive curriculum.

Comprising of EIGHT SESSIONS tailored to address specific aspects of anger-related issues, this program equips students with essential life skills:

1. Session 1: Welcome & Introduction to Anger Management Students are introduced to the group’s purpose and the importance of anger management. Expectations for the coming weeks are discussed.
2. Session 2: Recognizing Physical and Emotional Responses This session focuses on identifying the physical and emotional signs of anger in themselves, a crucial step in managing anger effectively.
3. Session 3: Triggers and Warning Signs Students explore various triggers and warning signs that lead to anger, helping them proactively manage their reactions.
4. Session 4: In and Out of My Control The concept of control and responsibility in anger management is explored. Students differentiate between what they can control and what they cannot.
5. Session 5: Problem Solving Effective problem-solving techniques for addressing anger-provoking issues are taught. The session emphasizes the importance of resolving problems constructively.
6. Session 6: Helpful vs Unhelpful Thoughts Students learn to recognize how their thoughts can escalate or defuse anger, distinguishing between helpful and unhelpful thought patterns.
7. Session 7: Coping Skills Participants are introduced to a range of coping skills and strategies for managing anger, teaching practical techniques for staying calm in challenging situations.
8. Session 8: Termination & Review In the final session, students review key concepts and skills acquired throughout the program. They reflect on their progress and set goals for managing anger in the future.