Stigma Around Men’s Therapy
Therapy has long been viewed as a valuable resource for those seeking support and guidance in their mental health journey. But…stigma surrounding therapy is still very real. Particularly when it comes to men seeking help. It is important to recognize that therapy is not a sign of weakness. Read that sentence again and this time ask yourself if you believe it.
A Proactive Step Toward A New You
Therapy is a proactive step towards self-improvement and a healthier mindset. Let’s explore the benefits of therapy specifically for men, how it can provide much-needed support, and how it can unlock a happier, more fulfilled life.
The Benefits of Therapy For Men
Therapy offers a safe space for you to navigate your emotions. To address vulnerabilities. To develop, evaluate, and evolve your coping strategies. To decide if they are serving you well in your current life.
By participating in therapy, you can also improve your communication skills, enhance self-awareness, and cultivate healthier relationships. Therapy provides a supportive environment for exploring masculinity, challenging societal norms, and fostering personal growth.
Does Therapy for Men Really Help?
Through targeted interventions and tailored treatment plans, you can effectively manage stress, anxiety, and other mental health concerns. Oftentimes, men don't feel comfortable talking to friends, co-workers, family, and even romantic partners about these things. Embracing therapy as a tool for self-care and emotional well-being can lead to enhanced resilience, a stronger sense of self, and an overall improved quality of life.
Finding the Right Therapist Fit
When seeking therapy, it's essential to find a therapist whom you feel comfortable with and who understands your unique needs. Communication is key and it has to feel like a good fit. The therapist’s theoretical orientation may be another area to educate yourself about. It's important to believe in the type of treatment a therapist can provide. But the relationship between yourself and your therapist is at the core of success in therapy.
Don’t Forget To Admit What Is Or Isn't Working
Don't hesitate to schedule initial consultations with several therapists to see if there is a good fit. Remember, therapy is a collaborative process, so finding a therapist who respects and validates your experiences is crucial for a successful therapeutic journey.
Invest time in finding the right therapist to maximize the benefits of your therapy experience. Don't get stuck thinking the first way you experience therapy represents all therapy or all therapists. It's not all or nothing. There are many styles and personalities and unique perspectives, and there is definitely a good-fit therapist out there for you.
Setting Goals For Therapy
Once you've found a therapist that resonates with you, it's time to get your ducks in a row. That means setting your goals for therapy. This includes clear objectives that you want to achieve during your sessions and could include improving communication skills, managing stress, or addressing specific mental health concerns.
Having defined goals helps both you and your therapist stay focused and measure progress effectively. Don’t worry. You're not solely responsible for reaching these goals! Your therapist will help frame your goals and ensure you are on the path to success.
Feedback Is Instrumental To Success
It's also important to discuss your expectations for therapy, including the frequency of sessions, feedback mechanisms, and the timeline for achieving your goals. The more you give, the more you get. Sharing your needs and preferences ensures a tailored therapeutic approach that caters to your individual journey toward healing and personal growth.
Have A Therapy Routine
Committing to therapy involves integration AND a regular schedule. Consistency is key for making progress in therapy. Set aside a specific time each week for your therapy sessions if you can. Your mental health will thank you later.
Prioritize Your Mental Health
Remember. Actively engage in the process! Completing exercises or reflecting on your experience can really enhance your sessions. Take your therapy into the wild. AKA your real life. Of course, when you are ready. Accountability and personal development are major plusses of therapy for men.
At Some Point, It’s Going To Get Hard
Stay committed to the process and be open to exploring new insights and perspectives. Be willing to go where no man has gone before. Ok, well maybe some men have gone there before. But its new ground for you and the fruit is ripe for picking. As you navigate your therapeutic journey towards increased self-awareness and well-being there will be more difficult fruit to find, palate and digest.
Remember, Therapy Is Not a Straight line
It zigs and it zags. It’s fast-paced and sometimes you have to slow down to a snail's pace to really understand your experience. You may find yourself in a clearing with lots of perspective or deep in the tall grass unable to see the whole picture. Your therapist will guide you to find yourself and to become connected to yourself, in the here and in the now.
Overcoming The Barriers: Seeking Therapy As a Man
Societal expectations and gender norms, addressing these barriers is crucial for embracing the benefits of therapy. Common barriers include stigma surrounding mental health, the pressure to appear strong and self-reliant, and the fear of being judged for seeking help.
Challenge These Misconceptions
Seeking therapy is a courageous step towards self-improvement and should be viewed as a sign of strength, not weakness. Therapy is a tool for your personal growth that can lead to positive outcomes in your life and empower you to navigate challenges with resilience and self-awareness. It will help to prepare you for any storm you may encounter in life AND help you to maximize your sunshiny days.
Embracing the Journey Towards Mental Health and Wellness
I hope if you have made it this far, that you are pumped and ready to take action. I hope that you see the value in seeking therapy. I hope you go out and embrace life for all it has to offer. I hope that you find the lens of clarity AKA perspective that helps you live your best life. That you find presence and purpose in the way you feel, think, and behave. Most of all, I wish you well on your journey.
If you are a man seeking therapy in Colorado, check out our compassionate therapists. We have helped other men just like you and look forward to hearing from you!
How We Can Help
Looking for more information on our therapy services?
If you are looking for general support, or if you would like to talk to someone more about how we can help you, follow these simple steps:
Contact us today for a free 20-minute phone consultation
Or, you can book directly online with the therapist of your choice
Begin your journey towards a calmer, more relaxed life
Other Therapy Services Available at Catalyss Counseling:
Here at Catalyss Counseling, we want to meet all of your counseling needs in the Denver area. Our supportive therapists provide depression counseling, therapy for caregiver stress, grief and loss therapy, stress management counseling and more. We also have specialists in trauma and PTSD, women's issues, pregnancy and postpartum depression or anxiety, pregnancy loss and miscarriage, and birth trauma. For therapists, we can also provide clinical supervision! We look forward to connecting with you to help support your journey today.
Author Biography
Justin Norton is a student intern and a provider for the affordable counseling program at Catalyss Counseling. He works with men, adults who have lost direction in their lives, and burned-out professionals to regain purpose and meaning so they can become who they have always wanted to be. Follow Catalyss Counseling on LinkedIn, Facebook, and Instagram.