Male Therapists in Springfield, IL

Photo of Dr. John Arroyo, PsyD, MA, Psychologist
Dr. John Arroyo
Psychologist, PsyD, MA
Verified Verified
Springfield, IL 62703
I am a licensed clinical psychologist working out of Springfield, IL. My emphasis is on neuropsychological testing and evaluation for preschool, school aged children, adolescents, and families in helping support 504 and IEP intervention and accommodations. I can assist with developmental and behavioral issues. My background includes hospitals, community mental health centers, and forensic settings. When providing therapy, I have an eclectic approach leaning on Cognitive-Behavioral, Systemic, and Family Dynamic approaches. My areas of clinical focus include diagnostic assessment, therapy with children, and work in forensic settings. I speak, read, and write in Spanish.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist working out of Springfield, IL. My emphasis is on neuropsychological testing and evaluation for preschool, school aged children, adolescents, and families in helping support 504 and IEP intervention and accommodations. I can assist with developmental and behavioral issues. My background includes hospitals, community mental health centers, and forensic settings. When providing therapy, I have an eclectic approach leaning on Cognitive-Behavioral, Systemic, and Family Dynamic approaches. My areas of clinical focus include diagnostic assessment, therapy with children, and work in forensic settings. I speak, read, and write in Spanish.
(217) 745-8044 View (217) 745-8044
Photo of Vincent Flammini, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Vincent Flammini
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Springfield, IL 62704  (Online Only)
Nothing needs to change in the circumstances or particulars of our lives to rest as peace. In fact, the more we attempt to manipulate and alter the particulars of our lives in order to experience peace, the further we will (seem to) move from what we want. What to do? Nothing. Relax. Give up. Release the grip. Resign ourselves to leaving everything alone, letting everything be as it is. We will find that we have always been standing knee-deep in the very peace we have been looking for. What a relief.
Nothing needs to change in the circumstances or particulars of our lives to rest as peace. In fact, the more we attempt to manipulate and alter the particulars of our lives in order to experience peace, the further we will (seem to) move from what we want. What to do? Nothing. Relax. Give up. Release the grip. Resign ourselves to leaving everything alone, letting everything be as it is. We will find that we have always been standing knee-deep in the very peace we have been looking for. What a relief.
(217) 601-8068 View (217) 601-8068
Photo of William Acton, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
William Acton
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Springfield, IL 62711
William Acton is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Illinois. William has always been fascinated by stories. Whether on the big screen, on stage, or on the pages of a novel, he has loved watching the characters progress through challenges and come out changed on the other side. William believes that every person has their own story to tell, and they are in charge of writing the script. His goal as a therapist is to help people comprehend their backstories, but also to empower them to take control of their lives and rewrite their endings.
William Acton is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Illinois. William has always been fascinated by stories. Whether on the big screen, on stage, or on the pages of a novel, he has loved watching the characters progress through challenges and come out changed on the other side. William believes that every person has their own story to tell, and they are in charge of writing the script. His goal as a therapist is to help people comprehend their backstories, but also to empower them to take control of their lives and rewrite their endings.
(217) 996-9139 View (217) 996-9139
Photo of Robert Gomez, NCC, MA, LCPC, Counselor
Robert Gomez
Counselor, NCC, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Springfield, IL 62704  (Online Only)
I identify as a queer person of color and hope to best serve those communities who feel underrepresented in professional fields. Common areas that I work with are trauma, gender identity and expression, career related difficulties, couples/interpersonal relationship issues, and mood/anxiety disorders. I work heavily with the linguistic ways we approach "problems" and through a narrative and solutions focused approach we would work on restoring your sense freedom as you navigate life's difficulties.
I identify as a queer person of color and hope to best serve those communities who feel underrepresented in professional fields. Common areas that I work with are trauma, gender identity and expression, career related difficulties, couples/interpersonal relationship issues, and mood/anxiety disorders. I work heavily with the linguistic ways we approach "problems" and through a narrative and solutions focused approach we would work on restoring your sense freedom as you navigate life's difficulties.
(872) 221-6887 View (872) 221-6887
Photo of Benjamin A Rasche, MA, LCPC, Counselor
Benjamin A Rasche
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Springfield, IL 62704
Anger, anxiety, depression, and relationship problems can be very challenging. When we blow-up, it’s usually on the people we care the most about. When our relationships aren’t good, it can impact nearly everything we do. When anxiety or depression becomes too much, you can feel as though you are lost or constantly overwhelmed. I specialize in helping people who are overcome by anger, struggling with their relationships, drowning in depression, and/or frozen by anxiety. People who reach out to me for support realize they're not living the life they want. They know they’re capable of more and want to fix their situation.
Anger, anxiety, depression, and relationship problems can be very challenging. When we blow-up, it’s usually on the people we care the most about. When our relationships aren’t good, it can impact nearly everything we do. When anxiety or depression becomes too much, you can feel as though you are lost or constantly overwhelmed. I specialize in helping people who are overcome by anger, struggling with their relationships, drowning in depression, and/or frozen by anxiety. People who reach out to me for support realize they're not living the life they want. They know they’re capable of more and want to fix their situation.
(217) 718-5787 View (217) 718-5787
Photo of Tommy Thompson, NCC, CADC, LCPC
Tommy Thompson
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, NCC, CADC, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Springfield, IL 62711
I have training in emotionally focused individual and couples therapy as well as Gott man couples’ therapy.
If you are reading this, you are most likely at a crossroads in your life. To continue moving in the same direction or to take a chance on something else, to lean into a new challenge in your life. This can be scary and does not have to be journeyed alone. My approach is to be there with you while you lean into the new direction of your life, embracing freedom, connection, and building a more meaningful life. I am open to exploring all elements of life with you, from relationships with family, friends, and lovers. How you connect with yourself, the world, your sexuality, dreams, and higher power/philosophy of life.
I have training in emotionally focused individual and couples therapy as well as Gott man couples’ therapy.
If you are reading this, you are most likely at a crossroads in your life. To continue moving in the same direction or to take a chance on something else, to lean into a new challenge in your life. This can be scary and does not have to be journeyed alone. My approach is to be there with you while you lean into the new direction of your life, embracing freedom, connection, and building a more meaningful life. I am open to exploring all elements of life with you, from relationships with family, friends, and lovers. How you connect with yourself, the world, your sexuality, dreams, and higher power/philosophy of life.
(217) 262-1276 View (217) 262-1276
Photo of Jesse Gutierrez, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jesse Gutierrez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Springfield, IL 62703
Jesse has worked extensively with chronic pain, Bipolar, AHDH, men’s issues, cultural ethnic, LGBTQ+ issues, Burnout among healthcare workers, compassion fatigue, substance abuse, relationship concerns.
Jesse Gutierrez is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with 16+ years working with a wide range of clinical experiences in community mental health, Memorial Health Systems, Memorial Medical Center Employee Award of the month, outpatient private practice, Mental Health Centers of Central Illinois Crisis intervention programs, partial hospitalization Memorial Counseling Associates, Consulting, and Clinical Manager of Physicians Services at Vine Street. Jesse provides therapy to individuals struggling with depression, anxiety, PTSD, life changes and transitions, grief, self-esteem, anger management, and stress management.
Jesse has worked extensively with chronic pain, Bipolar, AHDH, men’s issues, cultural ethnic, LGBTQ+ issues, Burnout among healthcare workers, compassion fatigue, substance abuse, relationship concerns.
Jesse Gutierrez is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with 16+ years working with a wide range of clinical experiences in community mental health, Memorial Health Systems, Memorial Medical Center Employee Award of the month, outpatient private practice, Mental Health Centers of Central Illinois Crisis intervention programs, partial hospitalization Memorial Counseling Associates, Consulting, and Clinical Manager of Physicians Services at Vine Street. Jesse provides therapy to individuals struggling with depression, anxiety, PTSD, life changes and transitions, grief, self-esteem, anger management, and stress management.
(217) 269-8542 View (217) 269-8542
Photo of J. 'andrew' Dewey, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
J. 'andrew' Dewey
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Springfield, IL 62711
J. “Andrew” Dewey offers individual, couples, and family therapy to the Springfield area. He is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Illinois with six years of experience, including work within the DCFS. Andrew is a veteran of the United States Army and has a passion for helping other veterans achieve overall wellness. Andrew is SMART (Self- Management and Recovery Training) certified and is actively involved in advocacy for drug and alcohol policies. He hosts group therapy at the Springfield office starting March 2, 2023, every Thursday evening. Andrew holds a Master’s Degree in Clinical Mental Health from the University of Illinois
J. “Andrew” Dewey offers individual, couples, and family therapy to the Springfield area. He is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Illinois with six years of experience, including work within the DCFS. Andrew is a veteran of the United States Army and has a passion for helping other veterans achieve overall wellness. Andrew is SMART (Self- Management and Recovery Training) certified and is actively involved in advocacy for drug and alcohol policies. He hosts group therapy at the Springfield office starting March 2, 2023, every Thursday evening. Andrew holds a Master’s Degree in Clinical Mental Health from the University of Illinois
(217) 906-4149 View (217) 906-4149
Photo of Bill McKenzie, MA, LCPC, Counselor
Bill McKenzie
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
Springfield, IL 62704  (Online Only)
Healing is always close to us, just undiscovered. Greetings - I'm Bill McKenzie, a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Springfield, I have a Master's degree from the University of Illinois at Springfield in Hu man Development Counseling. I'm currently practicing at Springfield Psychological Center in Springfield, Illinois. I believe that therapy lights the steps that lead to inner health and happiness. Think of it as a courageous process of sorting through reflective questions about where and how you're stuck. Therapy above all else means having an objective, supportive partner to navigate life's troubling challenges with.
Healing is always close to us, just undiscovered. Greetings - I'm Bill McKenzie, a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Springfield, I have a Master's degree from the University of Illinois at Springfield in Hu man Development Counseling. I'm currently practicing at Springfield Psychological Center in Springfield, Illinois. I believe that therapy lights the steps that lead to inner health and happiness. Think of it as a courageous process of sorting through reflective questions about where and how you're stuck. Therapy above all else means having an objective, supportive partner to navigate life's troubling challenges with.
(217) 600-2714 View (217) 600-2714
Photo of Marvin Merriweather, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Marvin Merriweather
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Springfield, IL 62703
Waitlist for new clients
My goal is to offer a therapeutic relationship that provides emotional and psychological support necessary to manage stressful life events.
I am Licensed Clinical Social Worker who has spent my entire career working to understand why mental health is just as important as our physical and spiritual health. I enjoy working directly with a wide range of client populations, ages 14 -65+ years old. I am particularly interested in working with clients struggling with post- traumatic stress disorder, anxiety, depression, and societal related stressors. I offer a safe, non-judgmental environment to help client’s process underlying feelings, emotions, and thoughts in order to minimize stress, mobilize coping skills, and access social resources.
My goal is to offer a therapeutic relationship that provides emotional and psychological support necessary to manage stressful life events.
I am Licensed Clinical Social Worker who has spent my entire career working to understand why mental health is just as important as our physical and spiritual health. I enjoy working directly with a wide range of client populations, ages 14 -65+ years old. I am particularly interested in working with clients struggling with post- traumatic stress disorder, anxiety, depression, and societal related stressors. I offer a safe, non-judgmental environment to help client’s process underlying feelings, emotions, and thoughts in order to minimize stress, mobilize coping skills, and access social resources.
(217) 979-5645 View (217) 979-5645
Photo of Alex Simko, Pre-Licensed Professional
Alex Simko
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
Springfield, IL 62702
My desire is to help people cope with issues that limit their ability to live life to the fullest. This includes anxiety, depression, relationship issues and OCD tendencies. My approach to therapy involves building a trusting relationship with my clients and working together to create a plan of care. Throughout the therapy process, I consistently work with my clients to evaluate how their plan of care is progressing and make any adjustments as they are necessary. I am also proud to offer sport psychology to athletes. As a lifelong athlete myself, I understand the importance of a winning mindset.
My desire is to help people cope with issues that limit their ability to live life to the fullest. This includes anxiety, depression, relationship issues and OCD tendencies. My approach to therapy involves building a trusting relationship with my clients and working together to create a plan of care. Throughout the therapy process, I consistently work with my clients to evaluate how their plan of care is progressing and make any adjustments as they are necessary. I am also proud to offer sport psychology to athletes. As a lifelong athlete myself, I understand the importance of a winning mindset.
(217) 965-8319 View (217) 965-8319
Photo of J. Graham Thompson, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
J. Graham Thompson
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Springfield, IL 62703  (Online Only)
I am the only fully Certified Gott man Couples Therapist in Central Illinois. This approach has been proven to be effective by empirical research. You learn skills that restore emotional communication and closeness in couples. Really hearing your partner's reality restores emotional closeness. Stop the day to day negativity as a couple. Gott man therapy targets patterns that may be impeding you in attaining your relationship goals. The therapy teaches concise skills addressing issues where the "rubber hits the ground." I am also a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in Illinois. In addition to couples, I see families, children, and individuals.
I am the only fully Certified Gott man Couples Therapist in Central Illinois. This approach has been proven to be effective by empirical research. You learn skills that restore emotional communication and closeness in couples. Really hearing your partner's reality restores emotional closeness. Stop the day to day negativity as a couple. Gott man therapy targets patterns that may be impeding you in attaining your relationship goals. The therapy teaches concise skills addressing issues where the "rubber hits the ground." I am also a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in Illinois. In addition to couples, I see families, children, and individuals.
(217) 645-6741 View (217) 645-6741
Photo of David Bova, LCPC, LPCC, LPC-MH, NCC
David Bova
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC, LPCC, LPC-MH, NCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Springfield, IL 62711  (Online Only)
David Bova, LCPC, NCC, works with adolescents and adults on a wide variety of issues. He is passionate, enthusiastic, always supportive of patients working through difficult decisions, and gives guidance towards long-term change. He believes that the journey starts with where the patient is at and that there is no such thing as slow progress. David recognizes how developing new skills and philosophies about the self can have profound effects on the rest of one’s life. He believes that therapy should be flexible and emphasizes the therapeutic alliance above all else.
David Bova, LCPC, NCC, works with adolescents and adults on a wide variety of issues. He is passionate, enthusiastic, always supportive of patients working through difficult decisions, and gives guidance towards long-term change. He believes that the journey starts with where the patient is at and that there is no such thing as slow progress. David recognizes how developing new skills and philosophies about the self can have profound effects on the rest of one’s life. He believes that therapy should be flexible and emphasizes the therapeutic alliance above all else.
(217) 708-3540 View (217) 708-3540
Photo of Dr. Matthew Evan Sprong - Empathic Empowerment Counseling, LCPC, LPC, CADC, CLCP, CRC, Counselor
Empathic Empowerment Counseling
Counselor, LCPC, LPC, CADC, CLCP, CRC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Springfield, IL 62701  (Online Only)
My personal mission in counseling is to empower, inspire, and educate clients to overcome barriers to improve their psychological well-being and quality of life. Counseling is a caring and powerful way to help people. It's based on the idea that every person has value and the ability to bounce back from tough times. My company, Empathic Empowerment Counseling, PLLC provides services with the same passion and each counselor was trained by me or Dr. Lucy Parker-Barnes during their graduate education and post-clinical supervision.
My personal mission in counseling is to empower, inspire, and educate clients to overcome barriers to improve their psychological well-being and quality of life. Counseling is a caring and powerful way to help people. It's based on the idea that every person has value and the ability to bounce back from tough times. My company, Empathic Empowerment Counseling, PLLC provides services with the same passion and each counselor was trained by me or Dr. Lucy Parker-Barnes during their graduate education and post-clinical supervision.
(217) 393-8942 View (217) 393-8942
Photo of Dr. Neil C. Headman, PhD, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Dr. Neil C. Headman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW
Verified Verified
Springfield, IL 62704
Head man is one of only two therapists in the Springfield area to have completed the International OCD Foundation's (IOCDF) Behavioral Therapy Training Institute (BTTI) program and the only one to have completed the Advanced BTTI program.
Get help for anxiety, depression, OCD, relationship problems, PTSD, and more. With his advanced expertise and caring approach, Dr. Head man can help. You can experience significant improvement within a few sessions when you actively participate in counseling. Call today to schedule your first appointment with Dr. Head man! (217) 953-4660
Head man is one of only two therapists in the Springfield area to have completed the International OCD Foundation's (IOCDF) Behavioral Therapy Training Institute (BTTI) program and the only one to have completed the Advanced BTTI program.
Get help for anxiety, depression, OCD, relationship problems, PTSD, and more. With his advanced expertise and caring approach, Dr. Head man can help. You can experience significant improvement within a few sessions when you actively participate in counseling. Call today to schedule your first appointment with Dr. Head man! (217) 953-4660
(217) 279-4139 View (217) 279-4139
Photo of Joseph D Cusumano - Joseph D. Cusumano, Ph.D., PhD, LCPC, LCMHC, LPC, NCC, Counselor
Joseph D. Cusumano, Ph.D.
Counselor, PhD, LCPC, LCMHC, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Springfield, IL 62711  (Online Only)
One specialty is providing effective marriage/couples counseling by way of the Gott man Method.
At this stage in my career, ideal clients would be those interested in working with me via the videotherapy platform outside of insurance. I have decided to transition to teletherapy for a variety of reasons, and I have found that it is a highly effective way to work with clients. It gives you a lot of flexibility in terms of when we can meet...days, evenings. $80 for a 45 minute session. My goal is to provide highly affordable, high quality mental health therapy to those I work with. I have a youthful and energetic personality. I am highly interactive during sessions.
One specialty is providing effective marriage/couples counseling by way of the Gott man Method.
At this stage in my career, ideal clients would be those interested in working with me via the videotherapy platform outside of insurance. I have decided to transition to teletherapy for a variety of reasons, and I have found that it is a highly effective way to work with clients. It gives you a lot of flexibility in terms of when we can meet...days, evenings. $80 for a 45 minute session. My goal is to provide highly affordable, high quality mental health therapy to those I work with. I have a youthful and energetic personality. I am highly interactive during sessions.
(217) 335-4675 View (217) 335-4675
Photo of Dr. Oluwatamilore 'tami' Odimayo, PsyD, MA, LCPC, CADC, Counselor
Dr. Oluwatamilore 'tami' Odimayo
Counselor, PsyD, MA, LCPC, CADC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Springfield, IL 62704
Dr. Tamilore Odimayo is the author of the best-selling self-help book, How to be a Mental Health Savage. He is an avid mental health advocate who aims to reduce mental health stigma globally. He focuses on a holistic approach to mental health improvement through intellectual stimulation, relationship restructuring, diet restructuring, and exercise. His extensive experience includes working with acute trauma care and counseling co-occurring disorders (mental health and substance abuse). “Wellness requires a safe space to process what’s needed to achieve a social, physical, spiritual, financial & mental balance."
Dr. Tamilore Odimayo is the author of the best-selling self-help book, How to be a Mental Health Savage. He is an avid mental health advocate who aims to reduce mental health stigma globally. He focuses on a holistic approach to mental health improvement through intellectual stimulation, relationship restructuring, diet restructuring, and exercise. His extensive experience includes working with acute trauma care and counseling co-occurring disorders (mental health and substance abuse). “Wellness requires a safe space to process what’s needed to achieve a social, physical, spiritual, financial & mental balance."
(217) 269-0083 View (217) 269-0083
Photo of Jacob Reid, MA, Pre-Licensed Professional
Jacob Reid
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
Springfield, IL 62704
With a multicultural perspective, I embrace the value of diverse experiences, cultures, and identities. My approach is rooted in cultural sensitivity, empathy, and understanding, creating a safe and welcoming space for individuals from all walks of life. Whether you're navigating life transitions, seeking personal growth, or confronting challenges, I'm committed to walking alongside you on this journey, honoring your unique story and the courage it takes to share it. Let's work together to uncover new possibilities, healing, and transformation.
With a multicultural perspective, I embrace the value of diverse experiences, cultures, and identities. My approach is rooted in cultural sensitivity, empathy, and understanding, creating a safe and welcoming space for individuals from all walks of life. Whether you're navigating life transitions, seeking personal growth, or confronting challenges, I'm committed to walking alongside you on this journey, honoring your unique story and the courage it takes to share it. Let's work together to uncover new possibilities, healing, and transformation.
(217) 279-9823 View (217) 279-9823
Photo of Hiram Kirkendall, LCPC, Counselor
Hiram Kirkendall
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Springfield, IL 62701  (Online Only)
Click website to make an appointment. Hiram is skilled and specializes in working with teens and adults who suffers from substance abuse, trauma, depression , PTSD, anxiety and who are at risk of dropping out of school or ending up in the justice system. Hiram also specializes in working with individuals who need help with anger management. Hiram has 12 years of experience with working with ex-felons and individuals at risk of being the justice system. Hiram uses cognitive behavioral therapy for those individuals who have had a trauma in the lives. He has helped them make positive changes in their lives to get better outcomes.
Click website to make an appointment. Hiram is skilled and specializes in working with teens and adults who suffers from substance abuse, trauma, depression , PTSD, anxiety and who are at risk of dropping out of school or ending up in the justice system. Hiram also specializes in working with individuals who need help with anger management. Hiram has 12 years of experience with working with ex-felons and individuals at risk of being the justice system. Hiram uses cognitive behavioral therapy for those individuals who have had a trauma in the lives. He has helped them make positive changes in their lives to get better outcomes.
(773) 825-6319 View (773) 825-6319
Photo of Kyle Kovski, LCSW, CCTP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kyle Kovski
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CCTP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Springfield, IL 62707  (Online Only)
Throughout career as a LCSW, I have provided guidance and support to individuals looking to explore new goals while overcoming challenges with anxiety, depression, grief/loss, and managing life transitions.
Do you often feel weighed down by feelings of anxiety? Have you been struggling with a much-needed life transition? Are you feeling overwhelmed by grief due to the loss of a beloved member of your life? Do you work in the medical field experiencing burnout from the last few years of being pulled in every direction? It is time for you to focus on your healing, where Emerald Reflections Counseling can help you. Together, we will work on developing the tools you need to start focusing on the cause of your personal difficulties while building meaningful social connections.
Throughout career as a LCSW, I have provided guidance and support to individuals looking to explore new goals while overcoming challenges with anxiety, depression, grief/loss, and managing life transitions.
Do you often feel weighed down by feelings of anxiety? Have you been struggling with a much-needed life transition? Are you feeling overwhelmed by grief due to the loss of a beloved member of your life? Do you work in the medical field experiencing burnout from the last few years of being pulled in every direction? It is time for you to focus on your healing, where Emerald Reflections Counseling can help you. Together, we will work on developing the tools you need to start focusing on the cause of your personal difficulties while building meaningful social connections.
(773) 345-9485 View (773) 345-9485
1

Nearby Male Therapists Searches for Springfield

See More Male Therapists
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.