Male Therapists in Orange County, NC

Photo of Vann S Joines - Southeast Institute for Group and Family Therapy, PhD, Psychologist
Southeast Institute for Group and Family Therapy
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chapel Hill, NC 27517  (Online Only)
The Southeast Institute is a nonprofit educational institute offering continuing education (CEUs) workshops and training programs in psychotherapy for mental health professionals as well as direct clinical services. The Southeast Institute has earned respect and recognition for its excellence of training and its continued commitment to developing effective models for individual and social change. Trainees have traveled from nearly every state and more than 10 countries to attend workshops and ongoing training and supervision programs. SEI practitioners offer individual therapy, couples therapy, group therapy, family therapy, redecision therapy, TA, child therapy, energy psychotherapy (AIT), EMDR, and intensive personal growth programs.
The Southeast Institute is a nonprofit educational institute offering continuing education (CEUs) workshops and training programs in psychotherapy for mental health professionals as well as direct clinical services. The Southeast Institute has earned respect and recognition for its excellence of training and its continued commitment to developing effective models for individual and social change. Trainees have traveled from nearly every state and more than 10 countries to attend workshops and ongoing training and supervision programs. SEI practitioners offer individual therapy, couples therapy, group therapy, family therapy, redecision therapy, TA, child therapy, energy psychotherapy (AIT), EMDR, and intensive personal growth programs.
(919) 582-5002 View (919) 582-5002
Photo of Joshua Martin Hillie, MSW, LISW-CP, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Joshua Martin Hillie
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LISW-CP, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Chapel Hill, NC 27516  (Online Only)
I have had the privilege to bear witness to hu manities highest highs and lowest lows.
I am a solutions focused therapist that specializes in working with men. You are meant to live a rich and meaningful life. A life with purpose, meaning, and direction. With kindness, respect, and compassion I will be that ally to help you move towards what is important to you. I seek to help you live out your greatest potential, and help you connect with your whole self. In this journey we’ll explore your fear, grief, anger, wonder, joy, and happiness. Let’s not just settle for functioning in this one precious life you have…let’s thrive in it together. ACT, MBCT, and MI, are my primary therapeutic approaches.
I have had the privilege to bear witness to hu manities highest highs and lowest lows.
I am a solutions focused therapist that specializes in working with men. You are meant to live a rich and meaningful life. A life with purpose, meaning, and direction. With kindness, respect, and compassion I will be that ally to help you move towards what is important to you. I seek to help you live out your greatest potential, and help you connect with your whole self. In this journey we’ll explore your fear, grief, anger, wonder, joy, and happiness. Let’s not just settle for functioning in this one precious life you have…let’s thrive in it together. ACT, MBCT, and MI, are my primary therapeutic approaches.
(843) 919-4041 View (843) 919-4041
Photo of Reiss Powell, LCSW, LCAS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Reiss Powell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCAS
Verified Verified
Chapel Hill, NC 27514
I employ an existential hu manistic approach to life, as I believe that life will always provide us challenges, but how we learn to cope with those challenges makes all the difference in the world.
Thank you for taking the time to read more about me! I recognize that finding the right therapist can be challenging and time consuming. I believe that a strong therapeutic relationship is the most critical part in the healing journey. Whether you're dealing with depression and anxiety, wanting to make a change with substance use, dealing with relationship stress, or facing a difficult life transition-I'd be honored to help you along the way. Everything in life is easier with a little support.
I employ an existential hu manistic approach to life, as I believe that life will always provide us challenges, but how we learn to cope with those challenges makes all the difference in the world.
Thank you for taking the time to read more about me! I recognize that finding the right therapist can be challenging and time consuming. I believe that a strong therapeutic relationship is the most critical part in the healing journey. Whether you're dealing with depression and anxiety, wanting to make a change with substance use, dealing with relationship stress, or facing a difficult life transition-I'd be honored to help you along the way. Everything in life is easier with a little support.
(984) 217-6743 View (984) 217-6743
Photo of Kevin Metz, PsyD, MA, Psychologist
Kevin Metz
Psychologist, PsyD, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chapel Hill, NC 27516
Many folks I work with report they feel honored and respected throughout the process, and it's important to me that people have a sense of guided and supported autonomy within the frame of therapeutic healing.
My approach to psychotherapy is that of a hu manist; that is, successful therapy results in your continued evolution into your true self. My therapeutic style is gentle and engaged, and I respect your intelligence. I strive to provide an atmosphere of care and compassion which allows you to curiously explore what events, past and present are contributing to your challenges. It's important to me to take the time to understand your values and desires so that our work is grounded in how you see yourself.
Many folks I work with report they feel honored and respected throughout the process, and it's important to me that people have a sense of guided and supported autonomy within the frame of therapeutic healing.
My approach to psychotherapy is that of a hu manist; that is, successful therapy results in your continued evolution into your true self. My therapeutic style is gentle and engaged, and I respect your intelligence. I strive to provide an atmosphere of care and compassion which allows you to curiously explore what events, past and present are contributing to your challenges. It's important to me to take the time to understand your values and desires so that our work is grounded in how you see yourself.
(919) 648-4087 View (919) 648-4087
Photo of Joseph Murray, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Joseph Murray
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Carrboro, NC 27510
Waitlist for new clients
MOTIVATE Counseling & Coaching, a mental health & personal improvement practice, helps you get where you want to be. We often view growth & learning positively but stress & discomfort negatively. The reality is they are inherently connected. You are the expert of your life & no one is better able to determine what is best for you than you. Whether past traumas, current stressors, future worries, inability to follow through, or reluctance to take that “next step”…MOTIVATE will help process & develop a healthier understanding of what has occurred in your life, clarify what you want, understand barriers & overcome them.
MOTIVATE Counseling & Coaching, a mental health & personal improvement practice, helps you get where you want to be. We often view growth & learning positively but stress & discomfort negatively. The reality is they are inherently connected. You are the expert of your life & no one is better able to determine what is best for you than you. Whether past traumas, current stressors, future worries, inability to follow through, or reluctance to take that “next step”…MOTIVATE will help process & develop a healthier understanding of what has occurred in your life, clarify what you want, understand barriers & overcome them.
(919) 822-9264 View (919) 822-9264
Photo of Ian Collins - Ellie Mental Health RDU, LSCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ellie Mental Health RDU
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSCSW
Verified Verified
Hillsborough, NC 27278
Welcome to Ellie Mental Health Clinic – Your Sanctuary for Emotional Well-being At Ellie Mental Health Clinic, we are dedicated to providing a nurturing and supportive environment where individuals can explore and address their mental health needs. Our clinic is a beacon of hope and healing for those seeking to overcome challenges such as anxiety, depression, stress, and relationship difficulties.
Welcome to Ellie Mental Health Clinic – Your Sanctuary for Emotional Well-being At Ellie Mental Health Clinic, we are dedicated to providing a nurturing and supportive environment where individuals can explore and address their mental health needs. Our clinic is a beacon of hope and healing for those seeking to overcome challenges such as anxiety, depression, stress, and relationship difficulties.
(984) 358-2230 View (984) 358-2230
Photo of Ronald A Zumstein, MSW, LCSW, CSAT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ronald A Zumstein
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, CSAT
Verified Verified
Chapel Hill, NC 27514  (Online Only)
Issues I have helped couples with include: Premarital Counseling; Commitment Issues; couples on the verge of separation or divorce; Sexual Problems; Affairs; Rebuilding Ro mance; and Emotional and Sexual Intimacy.
Over 20 years of working with individuals and couples, I have developed expertise working with a variety of issues, including: low mood, low motivation, anxiety, creative blocks, feeling "stuck" (in any area of life), relationship issues, work or career issues, anger management, addictions, compulsive behavior, and personal growth. My approach is client-centered and collaborative. Together we will work to clarify your goals, and develop a plan that will help you achieve them as quickly as possible. To help you actualize those goals I utilize a variety of modalities, including mindfulness therapy, interpersonal therapy and psychoeducational approaches.
Issues I have helped couples with include: Premarital Counseling; Commitment Issues; couples on the verge of separation or divorce; Sexual Problems; Affairs; Rebuilding Ro mance; and Emotional and Sexual Intimacy.
Over 20 years of working with individuals and couples, I have developed expertise working with a variety of issues, including: low mood, low motivation, anxiety, creative blocks, feeling "stuck" (in any area of life), relationship issues, work or career issues, anger management, addictions, compulsive behavior, and personal growth. My approach is client-centered and collaborative. Together we will work to clarify your goals, and develop a plan that will help you achieve them as quickly as possible. To help you actualize those goals I utilize a variety of modalities, including mindfulness therapy, interpersonal therapy and psychoeducational approaches.
(919) 283-3480 View (919) 283-3480
Photo of David Shanks - Creating Successful Children - David Shanks, LCSW, LCSW, MBA, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Creating Successful Children - David Shanks, LCSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MBA
Verified Verified
Chapel Hill, NC 27514
BA, Duke University; MSW, UNC Chapel Hill; LCSW, Licensed Clinical Social Worker; MBA, East Carolina University; Neurolinguistic Programming Certification; Executive coaching, Raleigh Consulting Group; Led court ordered men's domestic violence groups; Extensive Travel in Europe, Africa, Central and South America, Russia and Mongolia.
Successful children are happy, socially competent and secure in developing age appropriate skills. They get along with their family, friends, and at school. What all parents want is to successfully launch their children as independent adults. This can be a daunting task in today's world. The time to identify and solve problems in this process is as early as possible. I offer both short-term and long-term interventions for children and the adults in their lives. I also work with adults to help you identify and change stuck patterns of thought and feeling to move ahead in life.
BA, Duke University; MSW, UNC Chapel Hill; LCSW, Licensed Clinical Social Worker; MBA, East Carolina University; Neurolinguistic Programming Certification; Executive coaching, Raleigh Consulting Group; Led court ordered men's domestic violence groups; Extensive Travel in Europe, Africa, Central and South America, Russia and Mongolia.
Successful children are happy, socially competent and secure in developing age appropriate skills. They get along with their family, friends, and at school. What all parents want is to successfully launch their children as independent adults. This can be a daunting task in today's world. The time to identify and solve problems in this process is as early as possible. I offer both short-term and long-term interventions for children and the adults in their lives. I also work with adults to help you identify and change stuck patterns of thought and feeling to move ahead in life.
(919) 585-1087 View (919) 585-1087
Photo of Bradley S Manton, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Bradley S Manton
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Chapel Hill, NC 27514
If you are struggling with relationships and life changing events, if you feel trapped in a never ending feeling of helplessness or anger, I can help you find your path back to a stable and safe place. For almost 20 years, I have guided patients to reflection and introspection, where I have empowered them to use the appropriate tools to manage, control and overcome their depression, their overwhelming feelings of loss or self destruction. Sadly enough, these are all to common life struggles arisen from work stress and/or abuse, life changes such as divorce and separation, or remains of a lost childhood.
If you are struggling with relationships and life changing events, if you feel trapped in a never ending feeling of helplessness or anger, I can help you find your path back to a stable and safe place. For almost 20 years, I have guided patients to reflection and introspection, where I have empowered them to use the appropriate tools to manage, control and overcome their depression, their overwhelming feelings of loss or self destruction. Sadly enough, these are all to common life struggles arisen from work stress and/or abuse, life changes such as divorce and separation, or remains of a lost childhood.
(919) 259-4554 View (919) 259-4554
Photo of Piereangello Cruz, MSW, LCSW, LCAS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Piereangello Cruz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, LCAS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chapel Hill, NC 27516
I believe therapy works best when you are allowed to be hu man.
Reaching out for support can feel daunting and intimidating and I want to help you feel as comfortable as possible throughout the process. I want you to feel comfortable asking questions and not worrying if you are doing something right or wrong or if it's too soon or too late to ask any questions. I strive to be empathetic and understanding of people and how we show up daily—no judgments, no dumb questions...just non-judgmental support because that’s what we all deserve.
I believe therapy works best when you are allowed to be hu man.
Reaching out for support can feel daunting and intimidating and I want to help you feel as comfortable as possible throughout the process. I want you to feel comfortable asking questions and not worrying if you are doing something right or wrong or if it's too soon or too late to ask any questions. I strive to be empathetic and understanding of people and how we show up daily—no judgments, no dumb questions...just non-judgmental support because that’s what we all deserve.
(919) 504-5156 View (919) 504-5156
Photo of David K Donlon, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
David K Donlon
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chapel Hill, NC 27514
I meet with adults for both individual therapy and marital/couple therapy. I see therapy as a way to become more aware of yourself and your interactions with the world; to update anachronistic self-concepts and to develop perspective on the trajectory of your life. When feeling accepted, we can shine a light on some of the darker corners of our lives, express novel thoughts and feelings, and become more fully and more comfortably hu man. For those familiar with the language, my approach can perhaps be characterized as psychodynamically informed hu manistic therapy. Please go to www.daviddonlon.com for more information.
I meet with adults for both individual therapy and marital/couple therapy. I see therapy as a way to become more aware of yourself and your interactions with the world; to update anachronistic self-concepts and to develop perspective on the trajectory of your life. When feeling accepted, we can shine a light on some of the darker corners of our lives, express novel thoughts and feelings, and become more fully and more comfortably hu man. For those familiar with the language, my approach can perhaps be characterized as psychodynamically informed hu manistic therapy. Please go to www.daviddonlon.com for more information.
(919) 429-7447 View (919) 429-7447
Photo of Brice Bradshaw, MS, LCMHC, NCC
Brice Bradshaw
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MS, LCMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
Chapel Hill, NC 27516
What makes our practice unique is that we provide both psychotherapy and medication management, conveniently under 1 roof.
I believe that the clients I work with have an internal desire to be their best selves but that sometimes barriers and obstacles get in the way of that. I have worked with clients in mental health settings that range from children up through geriatric aged individuals. I look forward to helping you to achieve your goals, both in counseling and in life.
What makes our practice unique is that we provide both psychotherapy and medication management, conveniently under 1 roof.
I believe that the clients I work with have an internal desire to be their best selves but that sometimes barriers and obstacles get in the way of that. I have worked with clients in mental health settings that range from children up through geriatric aged individuals. I look forward to helping you to achieve your goals, both in counseling and in life.
(844) 294-8116 x1 View (844) 294-8116 x1
Photo of Daran Edmonds, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Daran Edmonds
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Carrboro, NC 27510
Reset and rediscover yourself and your relationships with therapy. Life can be a struggle, and it's easy to feel aimless and unfulfilled despite achieving what society considers success. But there is hope. By challenging yourself and seeking personal growth, you can transform your life, relationships, and perspective on your world. Therapy can be a powerful tool on this journey, whether you're an individual seeking self-discovery or a couple looking to improve your relationship. If this sounds like you, it's time to make a change.
Reset and rediscover yourself and your relationships with therapy. Life can be a struggle, and it's easy to feel aimless and unfulfilled despite achieving what society considers success. But there is hope. By challenging yourself and seeking personal growth, you can transform your life, relationships, and perspective on your world. Therapy can be a powerful tool on this journey, whether you're an individual seeking self-discovery or a couple looking to improve your relationship. If this sounds like you, it's time to make a change.
(919) 646-6751 View (919) 646-6751
Photo of James Moran, MEd, LCMHCA, Counselor
James Moran
Counselor, MEd, LCMHCA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Carrboro, NC 27510  (Online Only)
When we ignore or deny the things that upset us most, the more power and control we attribute to them. How often do you suppress or push away painful feelings, intrusive thoughts, shame, or chronic suicidality? Rather than avoid what’s causing our pain, fear, and discomfort, it's crucial that we stop and ask ourselves why we’re avoiding the things that make us hu man. When we ignore the physical and cognitive messages our bodies communicate to us, we risk neglecting what our bodies need to heal and thrive, thus denying ourselves the chance to succeed and live a value-driven and purposeful life.
When we ignore or deny the things that upset us most, the more power and control we attribute to them. How often do you suppress or push away painful feelings, intrusive thoughts, shame, or chronic suicidality? Rather than avoid what’s causing our pain, fear, and discomfort, it's crucial that we stop and ask ourselves why we’re avoiding the things that make us hu man. When we ignore the physical and cognitive messages our bodies communicate to us, we risk neglecting what our bodies need to heal and thrive, thus denying ourselves the chance to succeed and live a value-driven and purposeful life.
(919) 343-9227 View (919) 343-9227
Photo of Frank Overton, ThM, NCLCMHC, NCLMFT, Counselor
Frank Overton
Counselor, ThM, NCLCMHC, NCLMFT
Verified Verified
Hillsborough, NC 27278  (Online Only)
Lots of experience in varying situations, a wise, well trained therapist and awake hu man could be helpful in many situations.
Hi Thanks for taking a look at my profile- Reach out if it seems we might be able to work together in a way that would be helpful to you...I'm working only via telehealth which reduces your commute time. My clients tend to be working on being awake and aware of and attuned to and stressed by the complexity of our culture today. I work with issues of alternative sexuality, gender dysphoria, relationships in all forms including relationships that are kink friendly and/or poly. I come from an eclectic training background but use RLT and IFS more often than other modalities.
Lots of experience in varying situations, a wise, well trained therapist and awake hu man could be helpful in many situations.
Hi Thanks for taking a look at my profile- Reach out if it seems we might be able to work together in a way that would be helpful to you...I'm working only via telehealth which reduces your commute time. My clients tend to be working on being awake and aware of and attuned to and stressed by the complexity of our culture today. I work with issues of alternative sexuality, gender dysphoria, relationships in all forms including relationships that are kink friendly and/or poly. I come from an eclectic training background but use RLT and IFS more often than other modalities.
(919) 443-6303 View (919) 443-6303
Photo of David Shoemaker, PsyD, Psychologist
David Shoemaker
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Chapel Hill, NC 27517
In my coaching practice, I specialize in helping high-achieving individuals who want to cultivate creative thinking and maximize their effectiveness, meaning and purpose in life. In my therapy practice, I specialize in treating anxiety, depression, and stress from life transitions. I accept psychotherapy clients who live in North Carolina or California. I accept coaching clients living anywhere around the world, and I offer teletherapy appointments for all of the above. I do not work with children, teens, couples or families in my practice.
In my coaching practice, I specialize in helping high-achieving individuals who want to cultivate creative thinking and maximize their effectiveness, meaning and purpose in life. In my therapy practice, I specialize in treating anxiety, depression, and stress from life transitions. I accept psychotherapy clients who live in North Carolina or California. I accept coaching clients living anywhere around the world, and I offer teletherapy appointments for all of the above. I do not work with children, teens, couples or families in my practice.
(336) 360-5050 View (336) 360-5050
Photo of Joseph Thomas, MA, LCMHCA, LPC, Counselor
Joseph Thomas
Counselor, MA, LCMHCA, LPC
Verified Verified
Chapel Hill, NC 27514
I help men of all ages work through social, ro mantic, family, and career challenges by improving their sense of meaning, knowledge, and self awareness during difficult times. Many of my clients suffer from mental health symptoms (general or social anxiety, depression, anger) that have negative effects on their self esteem and relationships. This creates a feedback loop that feels difficult to break, but is possible to overcome with the right environment, guidance, and an openness to change.
I help men of all ages work through social, ro mantic, family, and career challenges by improving their sense of meaning, knowledge, and self awareness during difficult times. Many of my clients suffer from mental health symptoms (general or social anxiety, depression, anger) that have negative effects on their self esteem and relationships. This creates a feedback loop that feels difficult to break, but is possible to overcome with the right environment, guidance, and an openness to change.
(919) 647-7525 View (919) 647-7525
Photo of Greg Welikson, PhD, Psychologist
Greg Welikson
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chapel Hill, NC 27517  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I specialize in working with men who are experiencing emotional distress.
I feel privileged to help clients become more connected with themselves and others, experience symptom reduction, and develop more satisfying relationships. A caring, understanding, and empathetic therapeutic relationship is the foundation of my work with clients, and I am proud that past clients have expressed feeling safe, cared for, and accepted when working with me. I have extensive experience working with clients who have or are currently experiencing, anxiety, depression, relationship distress, loneliness, trauma, academic or career distress, identity development, and/or difficult life transitions.
I specialize in working with men who are experiencing emotional distress.
I feel privileged to help clients become more connected with themselves and others, experience symptom reduction, and develop more satisfying relationships. A caring, understanding, and empathetic therapeutic relationship is the foundation of my work with clients, and I am proud that past clients have expressed feeling safe, cared for, and accepted when working with me. I have extensive experience working with clients who have or are currently experiencing, anxiety, depression, relationship distress, loneliness, trauma, academic or career distress, identity development, and/or difficult life transitions.
(919) 887-9547 View (919) 887-9547
Photo of Kevin L Weber, MS, LCMHC, LMHC, LCAC, NCC, Counselor
Kevin L Weber
Counselor, MS, LCMHC, LMHC, LCAC, NCC
Verified Verified
Chapel Hill, NC 27514
With my Gott man Level One Couples Training and experience as a Certified Prepare-Enrich Facilitator, I've enjoyed helping many couples with Pre-Marital & Marriage Counseling.
I offer tailor made counseling services, including traditional & psychedelic therapy as well as coaching, to those experiencing life's difficulties. My compassionate and non-judgmental approach is predicated on offering helpful direction towards specific, realistic, client determined goals. I am very comfortable working with individuals or couples of all ages, veterans and business executives. My approaches based on individual client expectations and needs. Each approach is customized and personal. Phone and video and sessions are available for added convenience. I offer a Christian worldview approach upon request.
With my Gott man Level One Couples Training and experience as a Certified Prepare-Enrich Facilitator, I've enjoyed helping many couples with Pre-Marital & Marriage Counseling.
I offer tailor made counseling services, including traditional & psychedelic therapy as well as coaching, to those experiencing life's difficulties. My compassionate and non-judgmental approach is predicated on offering helpful direction towards specific, realistic, client determined goals. I am very comfortable working with individuals or couples of all ages, veterans and business executives. My approaches based on individual client expectations and needs. Each approach is customized and personal. Phone and video and sessions are available for added convenience. I offer a Christian worldview approach upon request.
(336) 234-2722 View (336) 234-2722
Photo of W. Ryan Murdoch, LCMHC, Counselor
W. Ryan Murdoch
Counselor, LCMHC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Chapel Hill, NC 27517
Finding the right help in times of stress, conflict, fear, and emptiness is important, even if it is difficult. Choosing a counselor is about finding someone you feel confident can understand you where you are, and that you trust to help find the path forward. The people I serve value my openness, compassion, curiosity, insight and calm. If you are struggling with trauma, stress, depression, anxiety, relationship difficulties, or feeling worthless, then I would like to help you find the pathways to healing that best work for you.
Finding the right help in times of stress, conflict, fear, and emptiness is important, even if it is difficult. Choosing a counselor is about finding someone you feel confident can understand you where you are, and that you trust to help find the path forward. The people I serve value my openness, compassion, curiosity, insight and calm. If you are struggling with trauma, stress, depression, anxiety, relationship difficulties, or feeling worthless, then I would like to help you find the pathways to healing that best work for you.
(919) 535-4811 x108 View (919) 535-4811 x108

See more therapy options for Orange County

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.