Therapy for Men

You know the tropes and stereotypes: real men don't cry, real men tough it out, real men play through the pain; the list goes on. Today, more than ever, we are beginning to call into question our cultural assumptions about manhood and whether or not it's helpful to measure ourselves by the "real man" standard. I have developed a compassionate and non-judgmental relationship with dozens of male clients, which has allowed us to explore how ideas about manhood are helping or hurting their ability to live lives aligned with their values. We have explored how ideas of manliness might be interfering with their ability to express emotions, heal from trauma, reduce substance use, or develop meaningful relationships. We have also explored how they may come to terms with, and take accountability for, the harm and emotional disconnection that masculinity has invited them to enact.

In addition to working with men and boys, I have also supported many women and gender-queer people in naming and responding to the effects of culturally dominant ideas about masculinity. These explorations often lead to new ways of relating to the important men in their lives or responding to gender-based oppression.

In all of these conversations, I take a stance of curiosity instead of assuming or advising. While my own identity as a cis-gendered man provides me with important knowledge about how ideas of masculinity operate, I know that my history is my own. Instead of providing instruction, I am trained to ask questions that will allow us to explore the unique ways in which ideas of masculinity have shaped your life.

If you have been looking for a therapist to support you in dealing with the challenges or questions affecting your life, contact me here.