NARM Training Institute

In this webinar, NARM Master Therapist, Sherri Sharkins and Dr. Laurence Heller discuss the anger continuum, ranging from protest to rage, and the importance of understanding the differences between them. They emphasize that anger, in its core form, is a vital communication to the environment, but it can become distorted when not attended to properly, leading to anxiety, depression, or rage. They stress the significance of recognizing the distinction between anger as an emotion and the behaviors that might stem from it. They advocate for exploring one's personal relationship with anger and addressing the fear of anger, which often originates from childhood experiences, rather than trying to "get the client into their anger."

The presenters delve into the idea of containing anger rather than simply releasing it, as this allows for a deeper understanding and integration of the emotion's message. They argue that the emotional completion process supports this containment and integration. The discussion also covers how anger can be a default emotion or used as a defense, often masking other vulnerable emotions. Larry and Sherri explain how integrating anger can result in increased strength, separation-individuation, aliveness, and even sexual passion. Furthermore, they highlight the importance for therapists to do their own work around anger to effectively support their clients.