Is therapy different for men and women?

Therapy can be different for men and women insofar as gender plays a role in the challenges an individual faces and the events in life an individual has experienced. Men often face different expectations from their families, friends, and society than women do. In some cases, men might feel most comfortable expressing themselves differently from how women do. Talking about one’s feelings and emotions is a critical part of most therapies, and some men might find it comes more naturally when talking to a male therapist. Ultimately, though, therapeutic treatment should be tailored to the individual’s specific needs.

What is the best therapy type for men?

The effectiveness of any given therapeutic treatment does not relate to the gender of the therapist, although the strength of the bond between client and practitioner is important. Generally, the type of therapy that works best is one that addresses an individual client’s challenges. Popular therapy types include cognitive behavioural therapy, which focuses on identifying dysfunctional thoughts and replacing them with healthier and more realistic ones, dialectical behaviour therapy, which teaches emotion regulation and distress tolerance, and acceptance and commitment therapy, which focuses on emotional acceptance and psychological flexibility.

Why might an individual seek a male therapist?

Clients, particularly men, may look for a male therapist because they may share life experiences that help them connect well and understand each other more immediately. Some men might feel more comfortable talking to a male therapist about gender-specific issues, such as fatherhood or the social pressures around masculinity. Men who have experienced trauma or abuse, sexual or otherwise, may find it more comfortable to talk through their memories of these experiences with a male therapist.

How do I recognise a good therapist to help with male issues?

Many therapists include treating men as an area of expertise. For men who are not used to talking about their feelings, it can be helpful to find someone with previous experience treating men. A major test of whether a therapist is a good match is whether the client is able to build a trusting connection with them and feel safe and comfortable discussing personal matters.