Male Therapists in North Riverside, IL
![Photo of Noel Cordova, LCPC, CADC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4914d992-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Many people have slipped into unhealthy habits with substance use during the stress of the pandemic.
I am a bi-lingual (English and Spanish) counselor. I enjoy working with adults and adolescents who are dealing with symptoms related to depression, anxiety, stress related to life changes, and symptoms related to child abuse or trauma. I am also a Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor. I work well with difficult to engage teens, adults looking to make life changes, adults with substance use issues, and people with issues related to trauma. My style is easy going and non-judgmental but I can also help you work on meeting your goals. I am doing EMDR (trauma treatment) sessions online and in person at this time.
Many people have slipped into unhealthy habits with substance use during the stress of the pandemic.
I am a bi-lingual (English and Spanish) counselor. I enjoy working with adults and adolescents who are dealing with symptoms related to depression, anxiety, stress related to life changes, and symptoms related to child abuse or trauma. I am also a Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor. I work well with difficult to engage teens, adults looking to make life changes, adults with substance use issues, and people with issues related to trauma. My style is easy going and non-judgmental but I can also help you work on meeting your goals. I am doing EMDR (trauma treatment) sessions online and in person at this time.
![Photo of Micah Caldwell, LPCC, LCPC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2fb41e54-c1da-42ea-aad6-c625f6dc8ca6/1/320x400.jpeg)
I understand the wrenching, sickening feeling you get in your stomach when life keeps hitting you with stressors over and over again. We can fix that and I can help you feel better as fast as possible. I conduct virtual therapy sessions with adults in both Illinois and California and I have the training and expertise to address your mental health issues, whether it's anxiety, depression, trauma, men's issues, college-related challenges, and so much more. If you're looking for immediate relief and are ready to make serious changes to overcome life's difficulties, then let's work together.
I understand the wrenching, sickening feeling you get in your stomach when life keeps hitting you with stressors over and over again. We can fix that and I can help you feel better as fast as possible. I conduct virtual therapy sessions with adults in both Illinois and California and I have the training and expertise to address your mental health issues, whether it's anxiety, depression, trauma, men's issues, college-related challenges, and so much more. If you're looking for immediate relief and are ready to make serious changes to overcome life's difficulties, then let's work together.
![Photo of Jennifer Froemel - Innovative Counseling Partners, PLLC, MA, LPC, LCPC, LCSW, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ea0ee82e-7548-4584-ae80-60993721c3bb/3/320x400.jpeg)
Innovative Counseling Partners, PLLC
Counselor, MA, LPC, LCPC, LCSW
Verified Verified
North Riverside, IL 60546
We have been trained to work with a variety of issues-Depression, Anger, Anxiety (group and individual formats), Bipolar disorder, Trauma, Child and Adolescent work ( males and females), Sexual Abuse, Play Therapy, Family therapy, Cultural issues (adapting to the western culture), and Gay/Lesbian family issues.
Our life's work is helping clients achieve a better sense of self and happiness...more recently we've recognized that without good mental health providers, finding this balance in life can be more difficult and stressful. As a result, we tend toward an Integrative approach and help our clients transform into the people they want to be. We see each client as an individual with many parts to their identity. Utilizing a holistic and systemic approach we help clients reintegrate the parts of themselves to function better as individuals and within their systems. Our focus tends toward a systems based approach using behavior methods.
We have been trained to work with a variety of issues-Depression, Anger, Anxiety (group and individual formats), Bipolar disorder, Trauma, Child and Adolescent work ( males and females), Sexual Abuse, Play Therapy, Family therapy, Cultural issues (adapting to the western culture), and Gay/Lesbian family issues.
Our life's work is helping clients achieve a better sense of self and happiness...more recently we've recognized that without good mental health providers, finding this balance in life can be more difficult and stressful. As a result, we tend toward an Integrative approach and help our clients transform into the people they want to be. We see each client as an individual with many parts to their identity. Utilizing a holistic and systemic approach we help clients reintegrate the parts of themselves to function better as individuals and within their systems. Our focus tends toward a systems based approach using behavior methods.
![Photo of Samuel I Villaseñor, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/33b074f1-c4d1-4c8e-8299-26ccdfe9529a/7/320x400.jpeg)
Samuel I Villaseñor
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
North Riverside, IL 60546 (Online Only)
As a bilingual-bicultural, indigenous Latinx licensed clinical social worker, my goal is to join you and collaborate with you. I believe our environment and culture play a significant role in our behavior, influencing how we show up in the different spaces we navigate. One of the goals in therapy is to understand how the systems and spaces you interact with are impacting the various dimensions of you. Typical issues I work with include substance use management, adjustment, anxiety, life changes, gender, cultural, racial, sexual identity exploration, loss, grief, and trauma.
As a bilingual-bicultural, indigenous Latinx licensed clinical social worker, my goal is to join you and collaborate with you. I believe our environment and culture play a significant role in our behavior, influencing how we show up in the different spaces we navigate. One of the goals in therapy is to understand how the systems and spaces you interact with are impacting the various dimensions of you. Typical issues I work with include substance use management, adjustment, anxiety, life changes, gender, cultural, racial, sexual identity exploration, loss, grief, and trauma.
More Therapists Nearby
![Photo of Fernando Cisneros, LCSW, CAADC, CODP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/42cff639-fd20-4713-8ad2-e48b38eca070/3/320x400.jpeg)
Fernando Cisneros
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CAADC, CODP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Berwyn, IL 60402
Connecting with my clients is mutually transformative and compels me to honor your dignity as a hu man being.
Bilingual and bicultural psychotherapist with over 18 years of experience. I will address your concerns with warmth and total acceptance in a non-judgmental and safe therapeutic environment that fosters healing, self-knowledge, a sense of freedom and expression, vitality, inner peace, joy, and the creation of inspiring possibilities for growth and fulfillment in your life. We will work together to overcome your life stressors so that you develop inner strength and a sense of self-empowerment. You will be lifted to new heights; to an awareness of self and of your higher power.
Connecting with my clients is mutually transformative and compels me to honor your dignity as a hu man being.
Bilingual and bicultural psychotherapist with over 18 years of experience. I will address your concerns with warmth and total acceptance in a non-judgmental and safe therapeutic environment that fosters healing, self-knowledge, a sense of freedom and expression, vitality, inner peace, joy, and the creation of inspiring possibilities for growth and fulfillment in your life. We will work together to overcome your life stressors so that you develop inner strength and a sense of self-empowerment. You will be lifted to new heights; to an awareness of self and of your higher power.
![Photo of Dr. Ed Muldrow, PhD, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ed84419b-516c-45ce-9517-c1a7232bdc5d/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Ed Muldrow
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW
Verified Verified
Forest Park, IL 60130 (Online Only)
Welcome! I'm Dr Ed-PhD, Diplomate in Clinical Social Work. In today's multicultural society, I provide a safe space to explore your values and strengths. With a 4.6 rating and over 63+ positive reviews on United, Aetna, and HealthGrades, I've earned the trust of each person I've worked with. My focus extends to adults, children, and families. I'm committed to improving lives of all ages, stages, strugglng with feelings of rejection, guilt, loneliness, and losses. Regardless of gender, You don’t need to settle for poor relationships with self, spouse, family, kids and at work. Let's figure it out together. Office: 708-910-1071.
Welcome! I'm Dr Ed-PhD, Diplomate in Clinical Social Work. In today's multicultural society, I provide a safe space to explore your values and strengths. With a 4.6 rating and over 63+ positive reviews on United, Aetna, and HealthGrades, I've earned the trust of each person I've worked with. My focus extends to adults, children, and families. I'm committed to improving lives of all ages, stages, strugglng with feelings of rejection, guilt, loneliness, and losses. Regardless of gender, You don’t need to settle for poor relationships with self, spouse, family, kids and at work. Let's figure it out together. Office: 708-910-1071.
![Photo of David P Ley, MSS, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3e77f082-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
I help clients develop "mindfulness" to gain easy access to a self that is integrated and connected with others. I focus not on what is wrong but on what would help restore a sense of sanity and mental health to the expanding experience of life
I help clients develop "mindfulness" to gain easy access to a self that is integrated and connected with others. I focus not on what is wrong but on what would help restore a sense of sanity and mental health to the expanding experience of life
![Photo of Nap Pozulp, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3c14a829-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
I find it particularly rewarding to see the perfor mance of children and adults improve geometrically through training and academic accommodations.
I have been in practice for over 30 years and feel that I'm best at dealing with individuals with anxiety, depression and relationship issues. The goal of all my work is to help individuals live up to their full potential. I have an expertise with numerous techniques to accomplish this goal. Traditional insight-oriented, cognitive/behavioral therapy, interpersonal therapy and specialty techniques such as hypnotherapy, biofeedback and relaxation training are just a few of the interventions I use.
I find it particularly rewarding to see the perfor mance of children and adults improve geometrically through training and academic accommodations.
I have been in practice for over 30 years and feel that I'm best at dealing with individuals with anxiety, depression and relationship issues. The goal of all my work is to help individuals live up to their full potential. I have an expertise with numerous techniques to accomplish this goal. Traditional insight-oriented, cognitive/behavioral therapy, interpersonal therapy and specialty techniques such as hypnotherapy, biofeedback and relaxation training are just a few of the interventions I use.
![Photo of Anthony Oltean, PhD, LCSW, CADC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/799650fa-989d-46fe-9667-fd5b57b62075/2/320x400.jpeg)
Anthony Oltean
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW, CADC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Berwyn, IL 60402
Hello there. Thank you for reading my profile. I've been working in the Lakeview area for over a decade now. I offer counseling aimed at enhancing your natural strengths, introduce new coping abilities, challenge unproductive thoughts, beliefs, and patterns of behavior, as well as providing you the opportunity to try on a new perspective toward your life. I have focused predominately on issues that impact the LGBTQ+ population, as well as variety of communities located in the area.
Hello there. Thank you for reading my profile. I've been working in the Lakeview area for over a decade now. I offer counseling aimed at enhancing your natural strengths, introduce new coping abilities, challenge unproductive thoughts, beliefs, and patterns of behavior, as well as providing you the opportunity to try on a new perspective toward your life. I have focused predominately on issues that impact the LGBTQ+ population, as well as variety of communities located in the area.
![Photo of Cory Grad, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c085b8dd-f497-43c1-bd0c-9144f117baf7/2/320x400.jpeg)
Cory Grad is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Illinois with five years of experience. He has a Bachelor of Arts in English from Loyola University and a Master of Social Work from Aurora University. Cory believes the mind can be a paradise or a prison, depending on the direction we steer it. He feels the meeting between client and therapist is a sacred time in which both parties work collaboratively to help the client heal, learn, and grow. By the time treatment concludes, the client is not “fixed” but rather, returning to the flow of life.
Cory Grad is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Illinois with five years of experience. He has a Bachelor of Arts in English from Loyola University and a Master of Social Work from Aurora University. Cory believes the mind can be a paradise or a prison, depending on the direction we steer it. He feels the meeting between client and therapist is a sacred time in which both parties work collaboratively to help the client heal, learn, and grow. By the time treatment concludes, the client is not “fixed” but rather, returning to the flow of life.
![Photo of Douglas K DeRhodes, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/42b94d0f-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/1/320x400.jpeg)
In keeping with the belief that mental and emotional health is as vital as physical health to overall well being, I am committed to making services available in a convenient and comfortable manner.
I provide individually tailored treatment in a safe and supportive environment that draws and builds upon each person's strengths, resources, wisdom and goals. My style is collaborative, warm and interactive. I enjoy working with a range of clients from children to adults. I specialize in the treatment of anxiety, depression, relationship challenges, healing from trauma, major life transitions, grief & loss, identity development, self-esteem difficulties, coping with medical health issues and illnesses, dual diagnosis (substance abuse and co-occurring psychiatric disorders), mindful living, and cultivating self-compassion.
In keeping with the belief that mental and emotional health is as vital as physical health to overall well being, I am committed to making services available in a convenient and comfortable manner.
I provide individually tailored treatment in a safe and supportive environment that draws and builds upon each person's strengths, resources, wisdom and goals. My style is collaborative, warm and interactive. I enjoy working with a range of clients from children to adults. I specialize in the treatment of anxiety, depression, relationship challenges, healing from trauma, major life transitions, grief & loss, identity development, self-esteem difficulties, coping with medical health issues and illnesses, dual diagnosis (substance abuse and co-occurring psychiatric disorders), mindful living, and cultivating self-compassion.
![Photo of Ken Crossman, MA, PhD(c), LCPC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3c673f6b-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I also specialize in the challenges of parenthood (especially of men becoming fathers) and how "family of origin" issues are transmitted from one generation to the next.
I see adults for both individual and couple's therapy addressing many common areas of concern, including: stress; anxiety; depression; relationship issues; intimacy & communication; self-esteem & identity issues; work & life satisfaction; meaning & purpose; and general unhappiness.
My style is direct and collaborative. I use a flexible approach that is adapted to each individual or couple. My approach is especially effective at getting to the root of issues, sorting through the conflict and confusion, and portraying what the trouble is in a clear new light.
I also specialize in the challenges of parenthood (especially of men becoming fathers) and how "family of origin" issues are transmitted from one generation to the next.
I see adults for both individual and couple's therapy addressing many common areas of concern, including: stress; anxiety; depression; relationship issues; intimacy & communication; self-esteem & identity issues; work & life satisfaction; meaning & purpose; and general unhappiness.
My style is direct and collaborative. I use a flexible approach that is adapted to each individual or couple. My approach is especially effective at getting to the root of issues, sorting through the conflict and confusion, and portraying what the trouble is in a clear new light.
![Photo of Brian Flores - Flores Wellness & Consulting, P.C., PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/45f94f8e-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Flores Wellness & Consulting, P.C.
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Oak Park, IL 60304
I view therapy as the process of investing in your growth as a person, a parent, and a partner. I have worked alongside people who have overcome their pain and suffering by focusing on a plan that centers on their strengths and resources. Our work could include a focus on how to build confidence, increase coping skills, process pain from the past, and learn to tolerate uncertainty about the future. Overall, I truly believe that with support and understanding, you have the ability and resilience to achieve your goals of wellness and health.
I view therapy as the process of investing in your growth as a person, a parent, and a partner. I have worked alongside people who have overcome their pain and suffering by focusing on a plan that centers on their strengths and resources. Our work could include a focus on how to build confidence, increase coping skills, process pain from the past, and learn to tolerate uncertainty about the future. Overall, I truly believe that with support and understanding, you have the ability and resilience to achieve your goals of wellness and health.
![Photo of Brad Carter, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/21cd20e0-744a-4be8-9013-8d930d7b3ac9/2/320x400.jpeg)
*Now accepting new clients.* This practice has been developed to help adults that have experienced some form of trauma, life changing event, or adjustment concern. These experiences don't have to be recent; you just want to address them now to free your mind from the thoughts. Anxiety, depression, and trauma therapy is led through multiple therapy types depending on the client. Through a client/provider collaborative relationship we can choose the best practices to address your concerns in the most time-sensitive way possible. My clients are looking to move past the thoughts they feel have been "hounding" them or holding them back.
*Now accepting new clients.* This practice has been developed to help adults that have experienced some form of trauma, life changing event, or adjustment concern. These experiences don't have to be recent; you just want to address them now to free your mind from the thoughts. Anxiety, depression, and trauma therapy is led through multiple therapy types depending on the client. Through a client/provider collaborative relationship we can choose the best practices to address your concerns in the most time-sensitive way possible. My clients are looking to move past the thoughts they feel have been "hounding" them or holding them back.
![Photo of Dennis R. Verville, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3c9c2961-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
I specialize in the assessment and treatment of behavior problems in children and adolescents, as well as depression and anxiety in individuals of all ages. I also specialize in the treatment of relationship problems and the psychological management of acute and chronic medical disorders, particularly cardiovascular disorders and encopresis. I help people gain insights into their difficulties and teach them skills that will facilitate the resolution of their difficulties. When requested, I confer with attending physicians and, in the case of minors, with their teachers and/or school social workers. I am on the medical staff of Lutheran General Hospital in Park Ridge.
I specialize in the assessment and treatment of behavior problems in children and adolescents, as well as depression and anxiety in individuals of all ages. I also specialize in the treatment of relationship problems and the psychological management of acute and chronic medical disorders, particularly cardiovascular disorders and encopresis. I help people gain insights into their difficulties and teach them skills that will facilitate the resolution of their difficulties. When requested, I confer with attending physicians and, in the case of minors, with their teachers and/or school social workers. I am on the medical staff of Lutheran General Hospital in Park Ridge.
![Photo of Dr. Calvin Young, PhD, LCPC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b02c1c2d-61a2-47b0-91b1-0bcb277c24fd/1/320x400.png)
Patients approach care with me for relationship troubles, couples troubles (all configurations), marriage issues, depression disorders, drugs and alcohol abuse and dependency problems, anger management dynamics, anxiety and panic attacks, grief and loss experiences, trauma, teen and adolescent issues, ADHD and other neurodivergent disorders (Adult, children).
Hello! My name is Dr. Calvin Young, a credentialed provider of telehealth care services. As a provider of telemental health as a Psychotherapist, forensic assessment and Substance Abuse Counseling and Addictions treatment professional, I am also US military veteran. For over two decades I have provided Online Therapy and in-person care, using an integrative approach that combines Psychodynamic, Behavior Therapy, Gestalt, Community Psychology, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Motivational Interviewing, Family Systems approaches, combined with Multicultural Psychotherapy, a Person-centered focus.
Patients approach care with me for relationship troubles, couples troubles (all configurations), marriage issues, depression disorders, drugs and alcohol abuse and dependency problems, anger management dynamics, anxiety and panic attacks, grief and loss experiences, trauma, teen and adolescent issues, ADHD and other neurodivergent disorders (Adult, children).
Hello! My name is Dr. Calvin Young, a credentialed provider of telehealth care services. As a provider of telemental health as a Psychotherapist, forensic assessment and Substance Abuse Counseling and Addictions treatment professional, I am also US military veteran. For over two decades I have provided Online Therapy and in-person care, using an integrative approach that combines Psychodynamic, Behavior Therapy, Gestalt, Community Psychology, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Motivational Interviewing, Family Systems approaches, combined with Multicultural Psychotherapy, a Person-centered focus.
![Photo of Darrick J Williams, LPC, NCC, CMHC, BSW, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d60a71da-45ba-43a4-9fb0-bc9419052252/1/320x400.jpeg)
Darrick J Williams
Pre-Licensed Professional, LPC, NCC, CMHC, BSW
Verified Verified
Forest Park, IL 60130
I've been privileged to serve individuals and the community for over 10 years through case management, advocacy, and clinical mental health counseling. The opportunity to learn through education, professional development and supervision has provided me with a foundation of measurable, ethical and holistic frameworks to serve. My framework starts with my ability to provide therapeutic interventions such as Client-Centered Therapy, Narrative Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Solution Focused Therapy and more!
I've been privileged to serve individuals and the community for over 10 years through case management, advocacy, and clinical mental health counseling. The opportunity to learn through education, professional development and supervision has provided me with a foundation of measurable, ethical and holistic frameworks to serve. My framework starts with my ability to provide therapeutic interventions such as Client-Centered Therapy, Narrative Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Solution Focused Therapy and more!
![Photo of Aaron Melnek, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f1e51a35-9b9f-4be7-8d4f-2e9a02820244/2/320x400.jpeg)
Hu mans are social creatures, which leads us to be affected by relationships in profound ways. However, relationships are highly complex, and can, at times, be difficult to decipher, form, and maintain. My work with clients has been centered around the development of stronger and healthier relationships, and that work begins with creating and managing powerful bonds between therapist and client. I believe every relationship exists on its own terms and with its own nuances, and I strive to help others see the connections in their lives for what they are, instead of what they wish they were.
Hu mans are social creatures, which leads us to be affected by relationships in profound ways. However, relationships are highly complex, and can, at times, be difficult to decipher, form, and maintain. My work with clients has been centered around the development of stronger and healthier relationships, and that work begins with creating and managing powerful bonds between therapist and client. I believe every relationship exists on its own terms and with its own nuances, and I strive to help others see the connections in their lives for what they are, instead of what they wish they were.
![Photo of Peter C Munro, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2cc2d735-0502-4142-84ee-dad29017a0a1/3/320x400.jpeg)
Peter C Munro
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oak Park, IL 60304 (Online Only)
Our time together has enormous potential. I have 20 plus years of experience in this field and can help make your life more pleasant and enjoyable. I will help you understand yourself and work through issues that have been causing you distress.
Our time together has enormous potential. I have 20 plus years of experience in this field and can help make your life more pleasant and enjoyable. I will help you understand yourself and work through issues that have been causing you distress.
![Photo of Ken Aaron Burnstein, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e254f4c7-6334-480b-9903-3fb714d34e33/1/320x400.jpeg)
My background is in music perfor mance, and teaching.
Welcome; I enjoy helping people cope with anxiety, depression, anger management, couple relationships, and life transitions. (divorce, loss, career change, family relationships) I have a directive, practical approach that balances understanding and support with guidance and direction. I believe that in order for therapy to be meaningful, it is important to work together and create an individualized approach which is a unique match for your concerns and style. Many people who have felt little or no progress in therapy before, have made positive changes with my active, engaged approach.
My background is in music perfor mance, and teaching.
Welcome; I enjoy helping people cope with anxiety, depression, anger management, couple relationships, and life transitions. (divorce, loss, career change, family relationships) I have a directive, practical approach that balances understanding and support with guidance and direction. I believe that in order for therapy to be meaningful, it is important to work together and create an individualized approach which is a unique match for your concerns and style. Many people who have felt little or no progress in therapy before, have made positive changes with my active, engaged approach.
See more therapy options for North Riverside
Nearby Male Therapists Searches for North Riverside
- Berwyn
- Brookfield
- Burr Ridge
- Cicero
- Elmwood Park
- Forest Park
- La Grange
- Oak Park
- River Forest
- Westchester
- Western Springs
- Willowbrook
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.