Male Therapists in Ridgecrest, CA

Photo of Daniel Banaitis, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Daniel Banaitis
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Ridgecrest, CA 93555
My name is Dan Banaitis, LMFT specializing in the treatment of anxiety and depression as well as treating adolescents and adults with Autism Spectrum Disorder. I also work with couples, families and provide pre-marital counseling. I work with anxious and depressed clients that are highly motivated to make positive changes in their lives by engaging fully in the therapeutic process. I work with adult clients with ASD experiencing challenges with the social and emotional aspects of life. I am also pursuing certification as a Sex Addiction Specialist (CSAT) and can help clients suffering from sexual addictions.
My name is Dan Banaitis, LMFT specializing in the treatment of anxiety and depression as well as treating adolescents and adults with Autism Spectrum Disorder. I also work with couples, families and provide pre-marital counseling. I work with anxious and depressed clients that are highly motivated to make positive changes in their lives by engaging fully in the therapeutic process. I work with adult clients with ASD experiencing challenges with the social and emotional aspects of life. I am also pursuing certification as a Sex Addiction Specialist (CSAT) and can help clients suffering from sexual addictions.
(760) 760-2208 View (760) 760-2208
Photo of Richard Scott, LCP, Psychologist
Richard Scott
Psychologist, LCP
Verified Verified
Ridgecrest, CA 93555
One of my functions is in psychotherapy and in-depth psychotherapy, which many times goes below the level of awareness or consciousness to help enact deep change, and it is an honor to serve those in need as a facilitator of this process.
My name is Dr. Scott, and I have been practicing for over 20 years as a clinical. Health, CAM, and Immigration specialist psychologist, and my highest degree earned is my Ph.D. (Doctor of Philosophy in Clinical Psychology), accompanied by a D.C.H. (Doctor of Clinical Hypnosis) and a doctorate level medical school education (M.D.). I have also studied many other fields. I start with CBT (Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy) in treatment and integrate many other empirically based treatment modalities as psychotherapy progresses.
One of my functions is in psychotherapy and in-depth psychotherapy, which many times goes below the level of awareness or consciousness to help enact deep change, and it is an honor to serve those in need as a facilitator of this process.
My name is Dr. Scott, and I have been practicing for over 20 years as a clinical. Health, CAM, and Immigration specialist psychologist, and my highest degree earned is my Ph.D. (Doctor of Philosophy in Clinical Psychology), accompanied by a D.C.H. (Doctor of Clinical Hypnosis) and a doctorate level medical school education (M.D.). I have also studied many other fields. I start with CBT (Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy) in treatment and integrate many other empirically based treatment modalities as psychotherapy progresses.
(707) 343-4424 View (707) 343-4424
Photo of Ilya Belitsky, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Ilya Belitsky
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Ridgecrest, CA 93555
Ilya Belitsky is an LMFT in CA specializing in anxiety, depression, and other problems that may interfere with daily life. My approach includes CBT, DBT, Solution focused, Narrative. I work with clients who have anxiety, depression, relationship issues, and life transitions. I provide a safe environment with an empathetic approach where I allow clients to be able to express themselves without any judgment. I love the work that I do, and the reason why is because I get to help clients become the best versions of themselves.
Ilya Belitsky is an LMFT in CA specializing in anxiety, depression, and other problems that may interfere with daily life. My approach includes CBT, DBT, Solution focused, Narrative. I work with clients who have anxiety, depression, relationship issues, and life transitions. I provide a safe environment with an empathetic approach where I allow clients to be able to express themselves without any judgment. I love the work that I do, and the reason why is because I get to help clients become the best versions of themselves.
(323) 274-1419 View (323) 274-1419
Photo of Michael Buck, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Michael Buck
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Ridgecrest, CA 93555
My approach to therapy is from a Generalist Practitioner's Perspective being trained in many therapeutic perspectives, honoring an individual's right to establish and define their personal goals.
Hello, My name is Michael Buck and I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the State of California. Even though my experiences include multiple modalities in Behavioral Health covering all age groups, my passion lies in the area of Substance Use Services/Recovery. I utilize a Cognitive Behavioral Perspective to support individual's journeys and I come with 25 plus years in this field. My communication style can vary depending on the individual, delivered without judgment, while being supportive through active listening. I've been told that my style is calm and comfortable.
My approach to therapy is from a Generalist Practitioner's Perspective being trained in many therapeutic perspectives, honoring an individual's right to establish and define their personal goals.
Hello, My name is Michael Buck and I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the State of California. Even though my experiences include multiple modalities in Behavioral Health covering all age groups, my passion lies in the area of Substance Use Services/Recovery. I utilize a Cognitive Behavioral Perspective to support individual's journeys and I come with 25 plus years in this field. My communication style can vary depending on the individual, delivered without judgment, while being supportive through active listening. I've been told that my style is calm and comfortable.
(949) 787-1233 View (949) 787-1233
Photo of Arnoldo Montelongo Guzman, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Arnoldo Montelongo Guzman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Ridgecrest, CA 93555
Hello, my name is Arnoldo Montelongo and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in Los Angeles, California. I work with adolescents and adults and specialize in End-of-Life, Medical Trauma, Medical Parents, Depression and Anxiety. I utilize Person-Centered Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Psychodynamic therapy in order to assist my clients in reaching their goals. My approach to therapy is always tailored to my client's needs, background and unique experiences. I tend to use Person Centered Therapy, Narrative Therapy and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy.
Hello, my name is Arnoldo Montelongo and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in Los Angeles, California. I work with adolescents and adults and specialize in End-of-Life, Medical Trauma, Medical Parents, Depression and Anxiety. I utilize Person-Centered Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Psychodynamic therapy in order to assist my clients in reaching their goals. My approach to therapy is always tailored to my client's needs, background and unique experiences. I tend to use Person Centered Therapy, Narrative Therapy and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy.
(559) 934-5228 View (559) 934-5228

Online Therapists

Photo of Samuel Lirones, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Samuel Lirones
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Santa Clarita, CA 91355
A strong client/therapist alliance has been shown to be one of the most important factors in healing by a large number of studies. I would be happy to offer a free consultation to see if we are a good fit and discuss how I can assist you on your journey towards greater life satisfaction. I enjoy working with individuals, couples and families struggling with parenting. I offer highly structured trauma therapy based in desensitizing and reprocessing negative past events, but many clients prefer a looser structure, with a focus on finding meaning and building on natural supports and strengths.
A strong client/therapist alliance has been shown to be one of the most important factors in healing by a large number of studies. I would be happy to offer a free consultation to see if we are a good fit and discuss how I can assist you on your journey towards greater life satisfaction. I enjoy working with individuals, couples and families struggling with parenting. I offer highly structured trauma therapy based in desensitizing and reprocessing negative past events, but many clients prefer a looser structure, with a focus on finding meaning and building on natural supports and strengths.
(323) 800-8439 View (323) 800-8439
Photo of Brandon Kyle Guresky, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Brandon Kyle Guresky
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Santa Clarita, CA 91321
Whether it's a child and parents conjointly receiving treatment together, or a couple being seen together by one clinician and separately with their own clinicians, there are many benefits of collaborative therapy, which has a strong prognosis.
In 2020, I opened a private practice. I was blessed it grew to full capacity but dealt with sadness of turning people away due to no space. Frequently people shared their difficulties with finding therapy. I am tired of people and families, who are suffering emotionally not getting the help they need. So, I put together a group of several skilled clinicians. We operate by providing a therapy environment that is confidential and emotionally safe. We’re dedicated to making people feel comfortable and understood when discussing the most sensitive issues. Our goal is to ensure support that is empathetic and non-judgmental.
Whether it's a child and parents conjointly receiving treatment together, or a couple being seen together by one clinician and separately with their own clinicians, there are many benefits of collaborative therapy, which has a strong prognosis.
In 2020, I opened a private practice. I was blessed it grew to full capacity but dealt with sadness of turning people away due to no space. Frequently people shared their difficulties with finding therapy. I am tired of people and families, who are suffering emotionally not getting the help they need. So, I put together a group of several skilled clinicians. We operate by providing a therapy environment that is confidential and emotionally safe. We’re dedicated to making people feel comfortable and understood when discussing the most sensitive issues. Our goal is to ensure support that is empathetic and non-judgmental.
(661) 426-2328 View (661) 426-2328
Photo of Aaron Kellogg, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Aaron Kellogg
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Santa Clarita, CA 91355
Many of my clients who have met with prior therapists identify that they did little more than listen to their problems.
Are you feeling stuck in your relationship or thought patterns? Do you wish you knew your partner or yourself better than you do now? Do you want to get real answers to these questions? I can help. I have been told by previous clients that they have learned more about their partner and themselves than they have after decades of marriage and therapy. I love helping people get to the bottom-line of what they experience and I excel at it.
Many of my clients who have met with prior therapists identify that they did little more than listen to their problems.
Are you feeling stuck in your relationship or thought patterns? Do you wish you knew your partner or yourself better than you do now? Do you want to get real answers to these questions? I can help. I have been told by previous clients that they have learned more about their partner and themselves than they have after decades of marriage and therapy. I love helping people get to the bottom-line of what they experience and I excel at it.
(661) 403-0283 View (661) 403-0283
Photo of Christopher C Cornell, PsyD, Psychologist
Christopher C Cornell
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Palmdale, CA 93551  (Online Only)
I have over 20 years working as a psychologist and have helped many individuals who struggle with Anxiety, Depression, Phase of Life Issues, and those with Substance Abuse concerns. I enjoy assisting those seeking to find meaning, purpose, direction and enjoyment in their lives and those who struggle with setting and achieving goals that make them more effective in managing their lives. My clients consistently report feeling highly understood. Our work will be conversational, exploratory, supportive and solution focussed. Let's build a strong and collaborative relationship together and move you in the direction you want to go!
I have over 20 years working as a psychologist and have helped many individuals who struggle with Anxiety, Depression, Phase of Life Issues, and those with Substance Abuse concerns. I enjoy assisting those seeking to find meaning, purpose, direction and enjoyment in their lives and those who struggle with setting and achieving goals that make them more effective in managing their lives. My clients consistently report feeling highly understood. Our work will be conversational, exploratory, supportive and solution focussed. Let's build a strong and collaborative relationship together and move you in the direction you want to go!
(661) 443-5831 View (661) 443-5831
Photo of Ben Bizar-Stanton, LCP, Psychologist
Ben Bizar-Stanton
Psychologist, LCP
Verified Verified
Bakersfield, CA 93309
My wide range of experience has caused me to develop experience with most issues, with the greatest emphasis being on anxiety, depression, men’s issues, grief and loss, and difficult transitions, to name a few.
Hello! My name is Ben Bizar-Stanton and I appreciate you taking the time to read this. I’m a licensed Clinical Psychologist here to help you in whatever way I can. I’m a father of two, a dog lover, food lover, and like to spend my free time doing anything I can outside unless I’m watching basketball or soccer. My clinical experience has ranged from VAs to elementary schools, to the US Air Force, to university counseling centers, and even to prison. I’ve worked with individuals ages 5-94 and have found that my niche is with individuals ages 16-60.
My wide range of experience has caused me to develop experience with most issues, with the greatest emphasis being on anxiety, depression, men’s issues, grief and loss, and difficult transitions, to name a few.
Hello! My name is Ben Bizar-Stanton and I appreciate you taking the time to read this. I’m a licensed Clinical Psychologist here to help you in whatever way I can. I’m a father of two, a dog lover, food lover, and like to spend my free time doing anything I can outside unless I’m watching basketball or soccer. My clinical experience has ranged from VAs to elementary schools, to the US Air Force, to university counseling centers, and even to prison. I’ve worked with individuals ages 5-94 and have found that my niche is with individuals ages 16-60.
(661) 463-9791 View (661) 463-9791
Photo of Dr. Jeffrey W Cheney, PhD, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Dr. Jeffrey W Cheney
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Verified Verified
Bakersfield, CA 93309
Areas of expertise include: Crisis Management, Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy, Gott man Communication Skills, CBT therapy to reduce anger and address addictive behaviors, Love & Logic Parenting, ADHD testing, and extensive experience working with loss/trauma.
You're feeling hurt and angry again and thinking, 'Why do we fight about the same things over and over again? I am so tired of arguing! What happened to the way we used to be?' I know you're feeling alone and frustrated. Couples tell me how lonely and confused they feel. You and your partner can be happy again, you can learn to turn towards eachother, reconnect emotionally and create a more caring and fulfilling relationship. For more than 20 years I've worked with couples and families helping them find a better way to live and love and work together.
Areas of expertise include: Crisis Management, Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy, Gott man Communication Skills, CBT therapy to reduce anger and address addictive behaviors, Love & Logic Parenting, ADHD testing, and extensive experience working with loss/trauma.
You're feeling hurt and angry again and thinking, 'Why do we fight about the same things over and over again? I am so tired of arguing! What happened to the way we used to be?' I know you're feeling alone and frustrated. Couples tell me how lonely and confused they feel. You and your partner can be happy again, you can learn to turn towards eachother, reconnect emotionally and create a more caring and fulfilling relationship. For more than 20 years I've worked with couples and families helping them find a better way to live and love and work together.
(661) 731-3925 View (661) 731-3925
Photo of Edward Jason Valdez, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Edward Jason Valdez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Hesperia, CA 92345
Hi there! My name is Edward "Jason" Valdez, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW). Throughout my professional journey, I have had the privilege of working with clients from diverse backgrounds and across various life stages. Each encounter has enriched my understanding of the hu man experience and reinforced my commitment to promoting mental health and well-being. Whether supporting individuals struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, or relationship issues, I am dedicated to fostering a collaborative therapeutic relationship built on trust, respect, and empathy.
Hi there! My name is Edward "Jason" Valdez, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW). Throughout my professional journey, I have had the privilege of working with clients from diverse backgrounds and across various life stages. Each encounter has enriched my understanding of the hu man experience and reinforced my commitment to promoting mental health and well-being. Whether supporting individuals struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, or relationship issues, I am dedicated to fostering a collaborative therapeutic relationship built on trust, respect, and empathy.
(760) 938-9786 View (760) 938-9786
Photo of Ronald Offenstein, LCP, Psychologist
Ronald Offenstein
Psychologist, LCP
Verified Verified
Santa Clarita, CA 91387
Hello, my name is Ron Offenstein, I am a California Licensed Psychologist, and I am trained and experienced in the evaluation and treatment of mood, anxiety, attention, and other psychological conditions arising from relationship and occupational experiences. I typically work with adults attempting to navigate relationships, family, and occupational conditions that have become overwhelming. I generally focus on reducing distress through finding coping strategies that work for an individual while increasing self-understanding.
Hello, my name is Ron Offenstein, I am a California Licensed Psychologist, and I am trained and experienced in the evaluation and treatment of mood, anxiety, attention, and other psychological conditions arising from relationship and occupational experiences. I typically work with adults attempting to navigate relationships, family, and occupational conditions that have become overwhelming. I generally focus on reducing distress through finding coping strategies that work for an individual while increasing self-understanding.
(619) 848-5574 View (619) 848-5574
Photo of Troy Hughes, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Troy Hughes
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Castaic, CA 91384
I am an LMFT and have been a clinician for over 9 years. I also have over 26 years of varying levels of dynamic social interactions for the government , interpersonal engagement expertise, and conflict resolution skills. I am a veteran and have experience working with the youth and young adults in faith based and clinical settings. My private practice populations have included veterans, first-responders, couples, singles, and families. I have extensive training in PTSD, Grief, Anxiety and substance issues/addictions.
I am an LMFT and have been a clinician for over 9 years. I also have over 26 years of varying levels of dynamic social interactions for the government , interpersonal engagement expertise, and conflict resolution skills. I am a veteran and have experience working with the youth and young adults in faith based and clinical settings. My private practice populations have included veterans, first-responders, couples, singles, and families. I have extensive training in PTSD, Grief, Anxiety and substance issues/addictions.
(661) 451-5631 View (661) 451-5631
Photo of Curran Commerford, CP, Psychologist
Curran Commerford
Psychologist, CP
Verified Verified
Palmdale, CA 93550
My name is Curran Commerford Psy.D. and I am a licensed clinical psychologist in California (PSY33834). Change is a constant experience of life. Whether we seek change or change finds us, challenges arise as we strive to better ourselves through understanding. This is part of the hu man journey. As a psychologist, it is my goal to bring understanding, meaning, and skills to those who work with me. I believe that genuineness, compassion, and respect are imperative in all aspects of clinical work. My specialties are treating anxiety, trauma, chronic pain/health issues, interpersonal relationships, aging, depression, and life changes
My name is Curran Commerford Psy.D. and I am a licensed clinical psychologist in California (PSY33834). Change is a constant experience of life. Whether we seek change or change finds us, challenges arise as we strive to better ourselves through understanding. This is part of the hu man journey. As a psychologist, it is my goal to bring understanding, meaning, and skills to those who work with me. I believe that genuineness, compassion, and respect are imperative in all aspects of clinical work. My specialties are treating anxiety, trauma, chronic pain/health issues, interpersonal relationships, aging, depression, and life changes
(209) 308-8959 View (209) 308-8959
Photo of Gregory A. Walston - Growth Rings Relationship & Family Therapy, Inc., PhD, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Growth Rings Relationship & Family Therapy, Inc.
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Verified Verified
Palmdale, CA 93550
I have worked in community mental health over 30 years, private practice for several years, and have experience with many situations.
Are you ready to change your life for the better? No matter what you are going through, remember: you are not your problem! Life is both complicated and stressful, and we are not born with "how-to" instructions or "live-life-this-way" manuals. We are all in a process of trying to find personal security while feeling our way through life. I invite you to work with me to untangle and understand your life, increase personal security and life satisfaction, and resolve issues and symptoms that are holding you back from becoming the person you really want to be.
I have worked in community mental health over 30 years, private practice for several years, and have experience with many situations.
Are you ready to change your life for the better? No matter what you are going through, remember: you are not your problem! Life is both complicated and stressful, and we are not born with "how-to" instructions or "live-life-this-way" manuals. We are all in a process of trying to find personal security while feeling our way through life. I invite you to work with me to untangle and understand your life, increase personal security and life satisfaction, and resolve issues and symptoms that are holding you back from becoming the person you really want to be.
(818) 869-4311 View (818) 869-4311
Photo of Jeremy Maler, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Jeremy Maler
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
Santa Clarita, CA 91321
Consider working with me if you wish to; Create more meaningful relationships; Transform negative patterns into positive ones; Develop a deeper understanding along the spectrum of emotions that guide your experience; Cultivate deeper intimacy within yourself and extend it outwards; Develop skills to improve your quality of life. Additionally, I have developed an effective approach to the complex challenges of parenting and marriage, and enjoy working with couples and parents.
Consider working with me if you wish to; Create more meaningful relationships; Transform negative patterns into positive ones; Develop a deeper understanding along the spectrum of emotions that guide your experience; Cultivate deeper intimacy within yourself and extend it outwards; Develop skills to improve your quality of life. Additionally, I have developed an effective approach to the complex challenges of parenting and marriage, and enjoy working with couples and parents.
(424) 379-5026 View (424) 379-5026
Photo of Omar De La Cruz, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Omar De La Cruz
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Bakersfield, CA 93306
Hi! My name is Omar de la Cruz, and I am a licensed marriage and family therapist. I have an extensive amount of experiencing working with individuals having difficulties with substance use and mental health. I have worked with children, youth, and adults experiencing difficulties in different areas, such as anxiety, depression, substance use, relationship difficulties, and trauma. My goal is to meet clients where they are at and through my expertise be able to work on the therapeutic goals that individuals have.
Hi! My name is Omar de la Cruz, and I am a licensed marriage and family therapist. I have an extensive amount of experiencing working with individuals having difficulties with substance use and mental health. I have worked with children, youth, and adults experiencing difficulties in different areas, such as anxiety, depression, substance use, relationship difficulties, and trauma. My goal is to meet clients where they are at and through my expertise be able to work on the therapeutic goals that individuals have.
(661) 370-2857 View (661) 370-2857
Photo of James Clarke, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
James Clarke
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Bakersfield, CA 93308
In my practice, I integrate a variety of therapeutic approaches; hu manistic, holistic, existential, spiritual, depth, and dialectical behavior therapies.
Hello! My name is James Clarke and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family therapist in California. I approach therapy with a foundation of compassion and draw from years of experience and genuine passion for serving others. My therapeutic style is centered around building a strong relational connection and fostering an interactive and supportive environment to collaboratively work towards your goals.
In my practice, I integrate a variety of therapeutic approaches; hu manistic, holistic, existential, spiritual, depth, and dialectical behavior therapies.
Hello! My name is James Clarke and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family therapist in California. I approach therapy with a foundation of compassion and draw from years of experience and genuine passion for serving others. My therapeutic style is centered around building a strong relational connection and fostering an interactive and supportive environment to collaboratively work towards your goals.
(909) 640-3990 View (909) 640-3990
Photo of Jesse Marez, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jesse Marez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Bakersfield, CA 93307
My name is Jesse Marez, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, licensed in the State of California since 2003. Over the years of my practice, I have cultivated an ability to respond to my clients personally and individually while establishing therapeutic rapport by using motivational interviewing, client-centered therapy and Jungian and existential psychology. My clinical orientation is cognitive behavioral (CBT) and client-centered therapy with a specialty in Trauma Focused CBT; I am also well-versed in psychodynamic and hu manistic psychology.
My name is Jesse Marez, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, licensed in the State of California since 2003. Over the years of my practice, I have cultivated an ability to respond to my clients personally and individually while establishing therapeutic rapport by using motivational interviewing, client-centered therapy and Jungian and existential psychology. My clinical orientation is cognitive behavioral (CBT) and client-centered therapy with a specialty in Trauma Focused CBT; I am also well-versed in psychodynamic and hu manistic psychology.
(661) 463-7903 View (661) 463-7903

See more therapy options for Ridgecrest

Male Therapists

As a man, why might I want to see a male therapist?

There are many reasons a man might wish to work with a male therapist, including a degree of shared identity, which may help client and therapist connect to each other and allow for a more free-flowing discussion of issues that can be deeply personal. Some men may feel more comfortable talking to a male therapist about relationship concerns, the pressures they feel around the roles society and family place on men, career or job challenges, self-esteem, or anger problems. For some men who have not had a male role models in their lives, a good male therapist may be especially helpful.

How can I find out about a therapist’s experience treating men?

Individuals looking for treatment should feel comfortable directly asking a therapist about their history treating men overall and the issues that arise in therapy with men. A good therapist will be happy to discuss such matters as well as their educational background, approach to treatment, and how they think they can aid a prospective client. Prospective clients should also ask what the expectation is for treatment, and what the fee structure is, and whether and which insurance plans are accepted.

Can clients benefit from having a therapist of the same gender?

Therapy is not gender-specific, but some men as well as women feel more comfortable opening up about their experiences and history with a male therapist. An individual may feel that they have to explain less background information and be on the same page more quickly, particularly when discussing gender-specific challenges, in the case of male clients. Some women have prior negative experiences with women that predispose them to prefer working with a male in therapy. That said, a good clinician can transcend most if not all gender concerns. Ultimately, the most important factor in therapy is the connection and trust the client is able to build with the practitioner.

Would a male therapist have specific training in treating men?

Generally, no. There are no certifications for treating men specifically, but there are continuing education classes that therapists may take that focus on treating men as a group. There are many therapists who focus on men and male issues in their treatment and therefore have experience and expertise in this domain.