FAQs

At Heavy M.E.T.A.L we refer to anger management classes as a behaviour change program.

All forms of violence can be dangerous and damaging.

Some examples of different forms of violence:

Emotional
Withdrawal, moodiness, manipulation, put-downs, controlling by threats, criticism, fear, mind games.

Physical
Punching, slapping, pushing, bumping, holding forcibly, grabbing, shaking, throwing, and breaking things, punching holes in walls and doors.

Verbal
Swearing, put-downs, threats, blaming, belittling, insults, shouting.

Sexual
Unwanted sexual contact such as touching, fondling, kissing, forcing someone to have sexual intercourse, or to do sexual things that your partner does not feel comfortable in doing.

Social
Controlling social activities of your partner, checking her phone calls, public humiliation, isolating her from friends or family.

Learn the difference between Anger Management & Behavioural Change.

The Heavy M.E.T.A.L change program consists of a small number of men, generally not more than twelve, and two trained group therapists a male and female therapist. The purpose of having a female and male facilitator is to be able to demonstrate a role model of equality between the male and female as well as the importance of the female’s perception of the issues discussed around family violence. Both male and female therapists provide a safe as well as challenging place in which to work on behaviour change. Members can discuss perceptions of each other and receive feedback on how they are perceived by others. Therapy groups are different from other groups in that everything that happens in group is confidential; what is talked about or disclosed is not discussed outside the session.

Establishing a level of trust allows group members to talk openly and honestly. Therapists and group members work together to establish trust and commitment to the group.

Please note: Confidentiality is a primary foundation for group process; however we have a duty of care that put limits on that confidentiality. These limits pertain to information regarding to women’s and children’s safety, the participant's safety, other participants' safety, criminal acts or breaches of court orders, and staff safety.

The Heavy M.E.T.A.L program fosters active learning, a place to work on problems rather than just talk about them. Members often experience the same difficulties in-group that they have elsewhere. The group, with the help of the therapist/facilitator, is able to give support and understanding, offer suggestions, or gently confront the person. Groups offer opportunities to experiment with different ways of communicating with others and to try out new behaviours.

Those who benefit most are usually those who take an active part in the process and who allow themselves to give and receive honest, helpful feedback. Group Counselling also provides opportunities to learn that others have similar difficulties and to learn about yourself as others work on their problems. In an atmosphere of mutual concern, members can care about and help each other. For these and other reasons, Group Counselling is often more effective and efficient than individual therapy.

You can expect to talk about what problem brought you to counselling in the first place. You can ask for both support and for feedback. It is important to let the group know what you want from them.

One of the major reasons men have relationship difficulties is that they have not learned how to express their feelings effectively. Self-disclosure of your feelings, thoughts and behaviour is important in-group and will affect how much you will change.

Most men are somewhat anxious about being able to talk in-group. It is important to realise that you control what, how much, and when you share with the group. It is also important to realise that group facilitators take the responsibility for a supportive environment in which feedback is given and received. Almost without exception, within a few sessions all members are sharing in the group.