Over the course of our evolution men have rigidly occupied a specific role in human development. While gender roles are now more flexible, historically speaking men can perhaps be conceptualized as having been primarily tasked with fighting wars and building the physical infrastructure of society. And, if you think about it, it can be challenging to feel or process one’s emotions while on bloody battlefields or balancing atop a skyscraper. This reality has facilitated a tendency to compartmentalize one’s feelings – opting to stuff down these emotions and circle back later for more complete processing. While men can be more resistant to participate in individual psychotherapy, they are no less likely to find benefit in this process.
Recover A Sense Of Identity
For many generations, definitions of masculinity were rigid and limiting. It is not uncommon for men to struggle with their sense of self. Therapy offers men a space to explore and experiment with a personally resonant definition of their masculinity.
Improve Relationships
It can be difficult for men to communicate their feelings. Avoidance of the practice of emotional vulnerability can leave partners feeling abandoned or confused and contribute to stress in relationships. Therapy can support development of a more effective relationship with uncomfortable emotion and facilitate more substantial connections with important others.
Process Grief And Pain
Loss is an unavoidable component of the human experience. Grieving the pain surrounding loss can be uncomfortable and, as such, is likely to be avoided. Therapy can be utilized to process emotional pain, providing opportunity to heal and move forward.
Working with a skilled, experienced psychologist, therapist, or counselor can help men uncover factors contributing to mental illness as well as increase awareness and use of adaptive skills to cope more effectively with challenges. If you are interested in further exploring your mental health concerns, I invite you to call or email me to get started working together. Telehealth appointments are available.
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